Royal Arrival

Hot off their 9-1 victory over the Baltimore Orioles, the Kansas City Royals have announced they are calling up former first round pick Eric Hosmer.  He is set to replace Kila Ka’aihue as the team’s first baseman.

The third overall pick in the 2008 draft, Hosmer has moved quickly through the Royal’s system.  Entering the year ranked as the number 8 overall prospect by Baseball America, Hosmer has destroyed AAA pitching.  He is hitting at a clip of .439 and reaching base over 50% of the time.

Currently sitting at 17-14 after today’s victory, the Royals decided now is the time to bring up their stud prospect and make a change at first.  Kila Ka’aihue has struggled so far this season, his average dipping below .200 after going 0-4 today.  This is the 27 year olds third stint with the Royals, compiling a .216 average in 87 major league at bats.

While this move may seem like a no-brainer, the issue of team control becomes a factor.  MLB.com reported the Royals hoped to get Hosmer around 250 ABs at AAA, but the first baseman only managed 118 before today’s call up.  This early May promotion could put Hosmer in line for Super Two status.  The Royals hope the move pays off and Hosmer can help continue their push in the AL Central.