The KC Royals snuck in the signing of veteran infielder Miguel Tejada to a supposed minor league deal on the final night of 2012. Many just shrugged it off as a veteran signing to give some depth during spring training and possibly during the season if there were an injury at the big league level.

Then came the news that the signing was actually a big league deal of $1.1 million (with $400,000 in incentives) once the Royals cleared room for him on the full 40-man roster. Tejada and his agent announced that the Royals guaranteed him a roster spot for next season.

So the soon-to-be 39 year old has-been is going to take the spot of a younger player with much more upside (and most likely skills)? And he’s considering himself a utility fielder and second baseman. When did he play second base (besides right now in winter ball)?

I wanted the Royals to give Irving Falu a chance as the utility fielder, since he has done nothing but hit at the minor league level and he hit in his brief Major League debut. All he needs is a chance and the Royals seem to not want to give him, or any of their younger players a chance (at least one’s that are not considered “prospects”).

Once it all sunk in, the backlash began. You can read the following articles to read all of the sarcasm:

Royals Sign Miguel Tejada, Furthering Argument That All Is Good In Kansas City Front Office Royals Review

Miguel Tejada Signs Minor League Contract Kings of Kauffman

Royals reportedly guarantee Miguel Tejada big-league job Bucs Dugout

Or you could just search Miguel Tejada on Twitter and find lots:

But it wasn’t all backlash or sarcasm. Apparently MLB.com writer Richard Justice thinks the signing will be a good one.

*Besides the signing of Tejada and veteran outfielder Endy Chavez on New Year’s Eve, the Royals also signed Chad Tracy to a minor league deal. This Chad Tracy is the son of former Colorado manager Jim Tracy. Last season, he hit 12 homeruns in 133 games for Triple-A Colorado Springs.