KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Royals have invited 23 non-roster players to spring training, including former fifth overall draft pick Bubba Starling and promising youngsters Miguel Almonte and Raul Mondesi.
Starling, who grew up near Kansas City, has struggled in the minor leagues but will get a taste of big league camp. Almonte, a right-hander, and Mondesi, an infielder, are non-drafted free agents who have become two of the club's top prospects.
Other notable players headed to camp are infielder Hunter Dozier, the eighth overall draft pick in 2013; pitcher Sean Manea, the 34th overall choice the same year; and outfielder Brett Eibner, a second-round choice in 2010.
Pitchers and catchers report to Surprise, Arizona, for the start of spring training on Feb. 19. The Royals' first full-squad workout is scheduled for Feb. 25.
Pitchers (10)
Scott Alexander (L)
Miguel Almonte
Buddy Baumann (L)
Christian Binford
Brian Broderick
Casey Coleman
Chris Dwyer (L)
Ryan Madson
Sean Manaea (L)
Joe Paterson (L)
Catchers (3)
J.C. Boscan
Cameron Gallagher
Parker Morin
Infielders (7)
Hunter Dozier
Matt Fields
Ryan Jackson
Whit Merrifield
Raul Mondesi
Gabriel Noriega
Ryan Roberts
Outfielders (3)
Brett Eibner
Moises Sierra
Bubba Starling
