Unsubstantiated Conjecture – Day One

As the assembled power-broker’s break after a full day of sitting around, meeting with the media, and deducing the best evening drink deals in greater Indianapolis, we bring you some Royals’-oriented rumors …

- Milton Bradley to be reunited with his buddy, Ryan Lefebvre?  Unfortunately, for all those who enjoy “Awkward Moments in Interview History,” no such trade seems on the horizon.  The morning dartboard in Indy yielded the possibility of Gil Meche’s final two years being exchanged for Bradley’s final two years.  The afternoon dartboard came up with the Cubs denying that any discussions had occurred.

- Meche’s name also ended up in connection to the Mets.  Presumably, the names Steve Jeltz, Felix Fermin, and Marty Cordova, will come up at some point this week when beat writer’s have exhausted all other possibilities.  No word on who the Royals would be saddled with if New York agreed to take Meche’s deal off the books over the next two years.

- On a related (and, much more concrete note), Dayton Moore was quoted over the weekend by the KC Star saying that, yes, the team is looking to trim some payroll.  Nothing drastic – just a dip from about $71-million to about $65-million.  Publicly, the team says the move will allow them “wiggle room” for in-season moves.  Like what?  Flying first-class instead of coach from Minneapolis to Oakland?  Waffle-cut french fries instead of Ore Ida crinkle fries on the postgame spread?  A 15th- alternate jersey to be worn on Saturday afternoon games when the temperature is below-87 and the Royals have Willie Bloomquist batting 8th?  When this team makes a legit, in-season move, I’ll … um … let you know.

- Kansas City is in the running for a Cuban pitcher!!  No, not the really good one.  Reports say that the franchise has an agreement in principle with left-hander Noel Arguelles that would pay him $7-million.  Former KC journo, Jeff Passan had this scouting report – “Arguelles’ fastball reached 94 mph when he threw for the Cuban national team.  Also armed with a strong changeup and above average curveball, he must improve his control to truly capitalize on his potential.”  Gosh, I think I read the same thing about Miguel Ascencio at one point …

Paperwork is still said to be an issue.  This could drag on for another month.  Man, things are really going badly in Cuba.  Now, even Western Non-Power’s are taking advantage of the small isle.  Finally, the Royals “big market” the little guy!