SURPRISE, Ariz. _ The Kansas City Royals pitchers and catchers reported to spring training on Tuesday, though the club didn't hold any formal on-field workout, and pitchers were told they didn't have to be at the facility.
Veteran left-hander Danny Duffy will report late to camp because of the recent death of his grandmother. He's not expected to arrive until Friday.
Wednesday's first workout for battery mates marks the start of a rapid plunge into baseball season _ even for those still shaking off a Super Bowl hangover.
The first full-squad workout takes place in less than a week (Monday) and Cactus League play begins in a week and a half (Friday, Feb. 21).
The club didn't make any high-priced, high-profile splashes in the free-agent market this winter, but this year's camp will not lack position battles, position changes, question marks and new faces.
Here are a few of the most important things to track during camp as the Royals prepare for their regular season opener against the White Sox on March 26 in Chicago.
