We all knew that KC Royals shortstop Alcides Escobar would show up late to spring training. What we did not know until now was that veteran Miguel Tejada would also be late. Apparently, he was at the airport Thursday in the Dominican Republic and was so sick he could not get on the plane. He has been excused until he feels better. He has been excused, but the later he gets to Surprise, the less time he has to impress the coaching staff. Tejada will be leaving to join the DR in the WBC.

UPDATE: Both have arrived!

On to other Royals news…

Manager Ned Yost announced the starting pitchers for the first three spring training games (all against Texas) beginning February 22nd. Lefty Will Smith will get the opening game, followed by righties Guillermo Moscoso and Luis Mendoza. Yost said that because of the longer spring training, he will go with the younger guys the first five or six games. Wade Davis most likely will be the first “normal” starter to throw (probably on the fifth day).

Another Royal who probably will not pitch in the beginning is lefty Everett Teaford, who is experiencing shoulder soreness. This is a big blow to him considering all of the competition for about three spots on the pitching staff.

Check out pictures from the first full workout by the Kansas City Star’s John Sleezer.

I mentioned in yesterday’s notes that Star reporter Bob Dutton is doing a daily Q & A. Well, they are hoping to get questions answered from Royals players and first up is catcher Salvador Perez. Send your questions via Twitter to @Royals_Report with the hashtag #Perez. He hopes to have the questions and answers posted on Monday. Dutton’s Q & A for today ranges from new Royal Elliott Johnson to whether or not Will Smith can make the team (and if Billy Butler has gained weight).