The Kansas City Royals return to the field this weekend, squaring off with the Tampa Bay Rays following the All-Star Break.

 

The Royals have had plenty to be frustrated about in the first half of the season, from a disappointing 26-65 record, the season-ending shoulder injury to young slugger Vinnie Pasquantino, and the regression of pitcher Brady Singer.

 

First year manager Matt Quatraro says his group needed a chance to step away and reset themselves.

 

The second half of the season will be crucial to follow the development of young prospects, both in the major leagues and minor leagues, to get a glimpse of the future of Royals baseball. Infielder Maikel Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr lead the charge of young big league talent, with top prospects Gavin Cross, Tyler Gentry, Nick Loftin, and Samad Taylor looking to impress as well.

 

Kansas City welcomes the Rays to Kauffman Stadium beginning tonight, with right-hander Alec Marsh facing off with Rays star Tyler Glasnow.