Byron

Gettis

The Royals are calling it a “developmental move”. Whatever you call it, Gettis will have to solve Class AAA pitching before he returns to the majors.

Worth a shot. Gettis, who hit .302/.377/.473 for Double-A Wichita, lost much of his power in a disappointing 2004 season. He’s only turning 25 in March, so he has a chance to bounce back. If they can get him through waivers in March, the Tigers figure to start him off in Triple-A next season.

Gettis is hitting .390/.466/.468 in 21 games. The former Royals prospect is expected to compete for a spot on the Detroit bench next spring. He’ll probably begin the year in Triple-A.

He’s not hitting for any power, though. Gettis has just three extra-base hits -- all doubles -- in 59 at-bats.

After spending parts of three seasons at Single-A Wilmington, Gettis emerged as a quality outfield prospect at Double-A Wichita last season, batting .302 with an 850 OPS. He’ll spend 2004 at Triple-A Omaha. Vasquez, a right-handed relief prospect, has a better chance of making an impact in Kansas City next year.

The Royals opened up a place on the 40-man roster by shifting Benito Santiago to the 60-day DL.

The moves clears a spot for Ruben Mateo. Gettis hit .179 with eight walks in 39 at-bats during his time with the Royals.

The Royals didn’t want to have to free up another 40-man roster spot in order to call up Dee Brown, so Gettis is the choice here even though he was hitting .246/.364/.373. He’ll split time with Brandon Berger until Juan Gonzalez returns. Don’t expect him to have any fantasy value.