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Royals day in camp
The Royals unleashed a 15-hit attack Thursday night and beat the Milwaukee Brewers 11-3 at Surprise Stadium.
John Buck drove in three runs, while David DeJesus, Alex Gordon and Damon Hollins each contributed two hits to a balanced attack.
Right-hander Brett Tomko made his fourth spring start and allowed two earned runs and five hits in four innings. He struck out three and walked one.
“My intention is to be that guy (in the rotation),” he said. “That’s their decision, but I’ve got five pitches right now and feel I’ve got command of all of them.”
Hideo Nomo worked two impressive innings in his first outing since learning he is no longer a rotation candidate. He retired six straight hitters, including three on strikeouts.
“He did a real nice job,” manager Trey Hillman said. “The thing that’s so intriguing is he’s commanding his fastball. He’s up to 88 (mph), and he’s working at 86.”
ARMS RACE
Hillman indicated the Royals could decide on their No. 4 and No. 5 starters by Monday. Club officials are planning a series of meetings over the next few days.
The current favorites are John Bale at No. 4 and Tomko at No. 5, but either or both could still shift to the bullpen. The other rotation candidates are Luke Hochevar, Kyle Davies and Jorge De La Rosa.
REGULAR GUYS
Outfielder Joey Gathright left the game in the ninth inning as a precaution because of tightness in his hamstring.
“It’s not a pull,” Hillman said, “but I didn’t like the way he was moving around. I just wanted to get him out of there.”
MOVES AND DEALS
Reports in Cincinnati indicate the Reds expect to get minor-league pitcher Blake Johnson as the player to be determined in return for right-hander Brad Salmon. The Royals obtained Salmon on Wednesday.
INJURY UPDATES
Plans call for second baseman Mark Grudzielanek and catcher Miguel Olivo to test their recovery from muscle strains today in a minor-league game.
.Outfielder Jose Guillen went one for three with an RBI single in returning to the lineup after missing six games because of the flu.