Jayhawks Tour Kansas City Royals' Camp in Surprise, Ariz.

March 15, 2009

SURPRISE, Ariz. –

Prior to their 3-2 win Saturday, members of the Kansas baseball team were given the opportunity to visit spring training camp with the Kansas City Royals. The Jayhawks are playing a three-game series with No. 4 Arizona State this weekend at Surprise Stadium – the spring training home of the Royals.

The Jayhawks arrived at the complex around 9:30 a.m., and were greeted by Royals’ manager Trey Hillman, who addressed the team after his morning media session. KU players were also able to talk to Kansas City legends Frank White, Kevin Seitzer and George Brett.

Brett addressed the team for about 10 minutes, providing a few laughs and explaining some of the finer points of hitting in the clutch.

The Jayhawks were then brought over to the main practice field to watch the Royals take batting practice. Kansas City catcher John Buck came over to talk to the team and was given a KU hat, which he wore through the rest of the work out.

KU concluded its morning by touring the Royals’ locker room and offices at the Surprise Stadium complex.

“It was a great experience,” senior relief pitcher Paul Smyth said of the morning with the Royals. “Being able to watch the big team work out was something not many people get to do. Every one there, from the players to the staff, treated us first class.”

“My favorite parts were talking with George Brett, and watching (Royals’ catcher) John Buck take BP in our pinwheel hat while he bet dinner with (former ASU standout) Willie Bloomquist on our game last night. Hope dinner was good.”

The day was arranged by Kansas City Royals Vice President of Communications, and KU alum, Mike Swanson.