The Royals franchise has a proud tradition in centerfield, with greats like Amos Otis, Willie Wilson, and Carlos Beltrán patrolling the position over the years. Centerfield in Kauffman Stadium requires being able to cover a spacious outfield and deep alleys. A Royals centerfielder needs great speed of course, but the best have also had a certain grace in movement - a seeming effortlessness in running.
When Dayton Moore took over in 2006, he sought for years for his ballhawk that would patrol centerfield at the K. Joey Gathright, Coco Crisp, Rick Ankiel - all were unable to fit the bill.