With spring training right around the corner the Kansas City Royals took some time out of off-season preparation to make an appearance in Joplin as part of the yearly Royals Caravan. Providing an opportunity for fans in the surrounding area to meet some players of the team they know and love.

Fans came out in droves for the chance to meet a player from the team of their choice with people arriving early as the crowd gathered at Academy off Rangeline. As the hour grew nearer the line wrapped around the workout equipment of the sporting good store with patrons laying waiting for the chance to add some value to their memorabilia.

In attendance were second baseman Johnny Giavotella, relief pitcher Donnie Joseph, Royals all-time saves leader Jeff Montgomery, and play-by-play announce Rex Hudler.

A colorful group of Royals that had a chance to sign a few autographs and talk to some of the fans before heading off to Arizona and the daily grind of spring.

Still with the monotony of the spring right around the bend the Royals have a lot to be excited about. Following a year where the team finished over the .500 mark for the first time since 2003 and sporting a few new faces that the people that matter most really believe will make the difference.

“This Aoki guy we got to play right field and leadoff,” said Hudler, “he is probably the difference maker … This is the year where Dayton Moore and the Kansas City Royals have pushed their chips in and it is time to win.”

Another player new to the roster this season is second baseman Omar Infante. A key addition to a team in need of a solid hitter at a position that has been a black hole for years on the roster.

Still with the addition of a veteran that will certainly be inserted directly into a starting role comes yet another roadblock for a player looking to solidify his position in the majors. That player for the Royals is Giavotella, a guy who has seen time in the majors over the last three years but has been unable to keep himself at the elite level.

But, like anything in life, making a childhood dream a reality is a battle of attrition.

“Every season is motivation to go out and prove people wrong, to go out and be in the big leagues as long as I can,” said Giavotella. “I’ll have a chance to play with Omar in spring training … I’ll pick his brain, develop from it and be a better player.”

With the new additions and the solid core group returning from last year the Royals and their fans have a lot to be excited about this year. Facts that the players brought to Joplin in the caravan were more than willing to express.

“I think we have plenty of talent,” said Joseph, “with the guys coming back I don’t see why there is not another playoff push and hopefully into the postseason.”