Chris

Clapinski

Clapinski, who hit .312/.390/.488 for Triple-A Buffalo last season, is a better player than at least 10-15 guys who win utility roles every year, but at age 33, he’s running out of chances. Whether he’ll have a chance of making the Royals will be determined by what else the team does this winter.

The Royals were hopeful Clapinski would win a utility job last spring, but he needed Tommy John surgery in March. He’s 34 now and he hasn’t played in the majors since 2000, but the Royals will give him another opportunity. He’s a better player than several utilitymen who have had substantial careers.

Another lousy break for a player who has experienced several in his career. Clapinski is better than several infielders who have bench jobs every year, but he has just 105 major league at-bats, the last coming in 2000. He turns 34 in August, so there’s a good chance he’ll never have another opportunity like the one the Royals were giving him.

''I’m not optimistic,’' GM Allard Baird said. Clapinski was expected to make the Royals as a utilityman, but now his spot might go to Denny Hocking. Donald Murphy is another option, although he’d only be used until the team could find a more permanent option.

Clapinski, 32, hit .319 with 11 HR and 62 RBI in 307 AB between the Triple-A clubs of the Dodgers and Reds last season. There are worst infielders holding down bench spots in the majors, and believe it or not, not all of them play for Pittsburgh.

Clapinski, 32, hit .319 with 11 HR and 62 RBI in 307 AB between the Triple-A clubs of the Dodgers and Reds last season. Although he wouldn’t be a bad option as a 25th man, the Indians figure to just stash him away in Triple-A.

Esteban German entered camp as the heavy favorite to act as the Royals’ extra infielder, but both Joe McEwing and Clapinski have outperformed him so far. Considering the position they’re in, the Royals still figure to carry the younger player. Clapinski could head to Triple-A Omaha to await an opportunity.

Clapinski was behind both Esteban German and Joe McEwing for a utility role. Gordon, who hit .350/.447/.425 in 40 AB, will play third base for Double-A Wichita.