While the current Royals team is in a much better position than the team of 2010 in the win-loss column, there are still several similarities regarding the players. Over a decade ago when that last glorious wave of prospects was on the rise and waiting to come up, most of the big-league roster was secured by what we will call placeholders. First base, shortstop, third base, left field, and the catching position were all held by players who either wouldn’t be the answer long term or would have to switch positions very soon. These positions from 2010 were taken up by the following players (in case you haven’t blocked them from your memory):
First Base: Billy Butler (127 games)
Shortstop: Yuniesky Betancourt (151 games)
Third Base: Alberto Callaspo (76 games) and Wilson Betemit (53 games)
Left Field: Scott Podsednik (92 games) and Alex Gordon (55 games)
Catcher: Jason Kendall (118 games) and Brayan Pena (47 games)
One of my favorite players ever, Billy Butler, was moved off his 2010 position to make room for young prospect Eric Hosmer.