In less than three weeks, the Royals will break north with the 26 players they will open the season with against the Rangers on April 1. Unlike most years, the starting lineup is pretty much set going into camp. Salvador Pérez will catch, free agent Carlos Santana is at first, Nicky Lopez brings his defense to second, Adalberto Mondesi will flash his leather at short and Hunter Dozier is back at third. The outfield will feature Andrew Benintendi in left, Michael Taylor in center, and Whit Merriifeld in right. Jorge Soler will serve as the DH. Barring an injury, or something really surprising with Bobby Witt, Jr.
Spring training battles: The bench
