It was an odd scene in the Royals' clubhouse, some 3 1/2 hours before Saturday’s first pitch.
Music was blaring, but no players were present, so a team attendant turned off the iPad that provided the thumping beat. At this time before a game, players are typically checking their phones, looking at the day's game plan or chatting among themselves before the start of batting practice.
But on Saturday, they were all on the field doing drills at Kauffman Stadium. Pitchers’ fielding practice, which is a staple at spring training, was in full swing. Later, pitchers worked on their pickoff moves.