By MATT PIKE
In the very first game of Spring Training for the Kansas City Royals, some competition was on display as Stephen Kolek impressed in his start, Michael Massey hit a two run home run, and the Royals beat the Texas Rangers 7-3.
Massey, whose in competition with Jonathan India for the job at second base, extended the lead in the second inning with a two run home run that scored Jac Caglianone, two batters after Salvador Perez led off the inning with a no doubt home run. Kansas City led the Rangers 3-1 after two innings of action.
Kolek got the first start of spring, only pitching two innings, but gave up just three hits and walked one, allowing the one run while striking out three. Kolek is competing with Ryan Bergert, as well as Noah Cameron, to try to be the fifth person in the Royals rotation, unless a trade happens during Spring Training that might open up another spot. After injuries derailed his season last year, Kris Bubic could also be competing for his rotation spot, leaving a possible two spots open.
Another competition comes in the bullpen. Several non-roster invitees took the mound following Kolek, all pitching one inning, including Jose Cuas, who struck out one in a scoreless and hitless frame. Eric Cerentola and Helcris Olivárez also gave up no hits in their one inning of action from the bullpen.
Kansas City will take on the San Diego Padres on Saturday in Spring Training action. Bergert is slated to start the game, taking on his former team. Bergert was acquired from the Padres last season in the trade that sent Freddy Fermin to San Diego. First pitch is at 2:05.
Neither the Saturday or Sunday Spring Training games will be carried on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) due to Missouri basketball, with the Tigers men taking on Arkansas on Saturday, and the Missouri women facing LSU on Sunday. The next Royals Spring Training game on KFEQ will be aired on Monday February 23rd.
You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.