I heard a rumor that the Royals were trying to get A-Rod. Is that a possibility without losing Mark Teahen?
-- James G., Kansas City, Mo.
"He's a very special player," Royals general manager Dayton Moore said of Alex Rodriguez. But Moore also noted that the Yankees star has a no-trade clause and carries a huge contract.
"What the Yankees would want for him, I'm not sure," Moore said.
What he does know, it'd be plenty and the Royals are not inclined to mortgage their future for one superstar.
The best answer might be this: "I've talked to [Yankees GM] Brian Cashman two or three times since they were eliminated and it's never been discussed," Moore said.
As far as Teahen goes, the Royals are not likely to deal off a guy who has just emerged as a probable No. 3 or 4 force in their lineup.
I know most fans would find this absurd, but what about trading Teahen for some pitching since we have Alex Gordon coming up through the system?
-- Eric S., Tucson, Ariz.
"For us to be a winner, we need power bats in our order," Moore said.
He doubts that any team will trade a No. 1 or 2 pitcher for Teahen or even A-Rod. That's how valuable top pitchers have become.
Any chance that Luke Hudson could be moved to the bullpen as a closer? I see the next coming of Jeff Montgomery.
-- Dan W., Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Very doubtful. Starting pitching is the top priority, and Hudson was one of the Royals' best last season. Joe Nelson finished 2006 as the closer and did unexpectedly well. The Royals have discussed the possibility with Zack Greinke, and he's willing. However, if Greinke or anybody else is needed to solidify the rotation, that would be their first call. Don't forget the Royals still have high hopes for Ambiorix Burgos, who's only 22, as a closer. By the way, there's only one Jeff Montgomery.
Third baseman Mark Teahen showed the potential to be a force in the Royals lineup in 2006. (Ed Zurga/AP)
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What can be expected this winter?
What can be expected this winter?
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