A Few Thoughts on ST Opener

We are just one game in and obviously I don't plan on writing after every game this season, but considering today was the first game in months I felt compelled to jot down a few thoughts. Keep in mind that these thoughts are after one game of Cactus League play.

• In the top of the first, Johnny Giavotella drew a one out walk getting on board for Eric Hosmer and then Billy Butler. It is critical that Johnny Giavotella produces in the two hole in order for this team to be the surprise of the American League. Last year Melky Cabrera raked in the position and if Johnny Giavotella doesn't hit there is no one to fill the hole in the order. Giavotella went 1-2 today with a walk and two runs scored.

• After Giavotella's walk Billy Butler put a charge into a ball, grabbing his first home run of the Spring. For a long time Royals fans have heard that the power will develop, here's to hoping that the second half of 2011 was a sign of things to come.

• In the bottom of the first Josh Hamilton got a hold of a ball. At the time I was listening  on radio and from the sound of Denny Matthews' voice I thought it was extra bases for sure. Instead Cain ran the ball down. Watching Cain play center is one of the things I am looking most forward to entering 2012.

• Luis Mendoza got four ground out to one air out in his two inning stint. In fact, the only hit he did allow was a infield single to Nelson Cruz. Grounders are the key to Mendoza's success, so that'll be one thing to keep an eye on in the box scores this Spring.

• Speaking of ground ball pitchers, Nate Adcock was impressive during his two innings of work as well. Adcock got four ground outs, and two strike outs in his two perfect innings.

• Mazzaro wasn't dominate during his two innings, but he did pound the zone and not allow a runner to cross the plate.

• I loved Kelvin Herrera's 9th. He didn't throw quite as many strikes as I would've liked but he did post a 1,2,3 inning with two Ks. Against Luis Hernandez, Herrera threw all fastballs between 96 and 97 miles per hour.

• Other performances of note: Lorenzo Cain (2-2), Mike Moustakas (2-3), and Alex Gordon (1-3). You can see the whole box score here.