The KC Royals made the big splash of acquiring James Shields and Wade Davis from the TB Rays to sure up their sub-par rotation.

So say these two make the Royals rotation a formidable five-some. What about the offense?

DH Billy Butler did his thing in 2012, but added some power. Shortstop Alcides Escobar had a career year and left fielder Alex Gordon rebounded from an awful start to hit .294 and lead the league in doubles. Catcher Salvador Perez returned from injury to hit .301.

However, there are so many question marks on offense.

Which Eric Hosmer will show up in 2013? Can Mike Moustakas limit the cold spells? Who will replace Jeff Francoeur in right field if he continues to struggle at the plate? Will anyone stay healthy in centerfield?

And what about second base?

It seems to always be a revolving door at second base for the Royals. Chris Getz may be good defensively, but I’m not sure he is an everyday player. Johnny Giavotella hits in the minors, but has yet to translate that to the big leagues. Christian Colon is playing second base almost exclusively in winter ball and could be the answer in the future. Irving Falu hit in his brief 2012 callup and is currently hitting in winter ball.

But if the Royals want to truly compete in 2013 and are REALLY going for it, why not sign a former batting champ to hit in one of the first two spots in the order? Sure, Freddy Sanchez has spent more time over the last few years in the doctor’s office than on the field, but when healthy, he is a .300 hitter.

Sanchez will come cheap, as he wants to prove he is healthy and will most likely jump at a one year deal. If they sign him, Sanchez will help fill out manager Ned Yost’s lineup card and help the younger hitters around him. He’s also a pretty good defender (just four errors over 109 games in 2010).

Oh and he has two World Series rings (2010 and 2012 with the SF Giants).

If things don’t work out, the Royals can always trade him at the trading deadline to a contender or release him altogether.

I really think the Royals could use his leadership, his winning attitude, and his abilities (when healthy). Sanchez is a low risk, high reward player that could push the Royals into the playoffs.