Bale, Tomko get starting spots in Royals moves

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An 11-man staff will include a six-man bullpen that, by adding Ramirez, appears set. Other locks or near-locks are Joakim Soria, Ron Mahay, Yasuhiko Yabuta, Jimmy Gobble and Nuñez.

“Barring injuries,” Hillman said, “you can probably figure it out. There are not going to be any major surprises, but I’m hesitant to start listing names because we’ve still got a couple of games left.”

Such a unit would force Joel Peralta and Neal Musser, who both have options, to the minors. Veteran Hideo Nomo, in camp on a minor-league contract, is battling a strained groin.

The Royals will add a seventh reliever once their roster returns to 25 players.

Time finally ran out on De La Rosa, who displayed his careerlong inconsistency this spring by allowing 13 runs and 18 hits in 12 1/3 innings. He was 8-12 with a 5.82 ERA last season in 26 games, including 23 starts.

“I love the stuff,” Hillman said. “I’d just like to see more consistency from it. We see other guys more able to repeat their deliveries. More strikes is the bottom line.”

De La Rosa is out of options, which means he must clear waivers to be sent to the minors. He also has the option of becoming a free agent, rather than accept a minor-league assignment, if he clears waivers.

“It’s disappointing,” he said, “but I know I didn’t pitch real well.”

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To reach Bob Dutton, Royals reporter for The Star, call 816-234-4352 or send email to bdutton@kcstar.com.