The Royals have set rosters for their two short-season rookie ball teams in Idaho Falls, Idaho, which began play last weekend, and Burlington, North Carolina, which begins play tonight. The Idaho Falls Chukars play in the Pioneer League, an advanced rookie league, and are managed by Justin Gemoll, assisted by former Royals pitcher Jeff Suppan and former Royals hitting coach Andre David.
The Chukars lineup is headlined by shortstop Ricky Aracena, an 18-year old the Royals signed for $850,000 in 2014 out of the Dominican Republic. Also on the roster is Colombian catcher Meibrys Viloria, who the Royals signed for $460,000 in 2015.