Spring training continues on in Surprise, Arizona for the World Champion Kansas City Royals.

At 11-14 in the Cactus League standings, KC has seen some ups and downs during its spring training schedule as Ned Yost continues to eyeball his opening day roster.

Over the past several games, the Royals have begun to shape the roster with the players likely to make the final list, and led by its core group of players, are looking to fine-tune things before the New York Mets come to Kauffman Stadium for the season opener and a rematch of the World Series.

While you can’t put too much emphasis on spring training wins and losses, you most certainly can get a feel for how certain players look, particularly pitchers. Control has been an issue for the newly acquired Ian Kennedy has struggled with his command at times, which could be a concern for KC as the real schedule creeps closer and closer.

From the other side of the plate, the Royals haven’t been quite the offensive power many expected them to be. Frequent split-squads and changes in roster to get younger players reps, plays a major role in the batting numbers, but strikeouts have been a problem in multiple games, including 11 strikeouts agains the Dodgers. Chris Young and the Royals got the win, but for a team which rarely strikes out, 11 is frighteningly high number.

Still, when the season starts, you can guarantee Yost and his team will be ready to roll in defense of their championship, especially with the Mets and their vaunted pitching staff looking for a little early season revenge.

Royals open the season in gold

When the 2016 season kicks off, the Kansas City Royals will be wearing specially designed gold-themed uniforms.

Having gone on sale at the Royals team store for fans, the hats will have the ‘KC’, the World Series Championship patch, and the Major League Baseball logo all in gold.

The jerseys–the usual home whites–will feature ‘ROYALS’ on the front, as well as the player number on the back, in gold as well.

The gold series, as they are calling it, is in recognition of the 2015 season.

Tim Collins needs second Tommy John surgery

Pitcher Tim Collins, who has not pitched since the 2014 World Series, received the news that grafting in his elbow has failed and he will require a second surgery to repair his throwing arm.

A second surgery means he will once again miss the season and aim to get back for the 2017 campaign.

Opening Day is right around the corner and your Kansas City Royals are ready to defend their title. Tickets For Less has opening day seats available in a variety of options. With zero hidden service fees, what you see is what you get on all ticket purchases. Secure your spot in Kauffman Stadium and watch the unveiling of the World Championship flag and other celebrations of the tremendous accomplishments from last season. Get your tickets today!