Footprints in the Snow is FanHouse's look at the paths to be forged by MLB teams this winter as they look ahead to 2009.After finishing 12th in the AL in runs, OBP, and SLG last year, the Royals have already begun to try to upgrade their offense,
acquiring Mike Jacobs from the Marlins for Leo Nunez last week. Jacobs, who hit 32 homers last season, will add power, but that's about all he brings to the table. He walked just 36 times last season, so he'll fit right in with the Royals, who finished dead last in the American League in BB.
It was also a somewhat odd move since they have multiple 1B/DH types already, including Ryan Shealy, Kila Ka'aihue, and Billy Butler. But GM Dayton Moore may plan to move one or more of those guys in trades later this winter.
Who may leave?2B
Mark Grudzielanek (free agent)
What do they need?Kansas City's strengths are the top of their rotation, with
Gil Meche and
Zach Greinke, and the back of their bullpen, with stud closer
Joakim Soria.
Brian Bannister isn't as bad as he was last year (5.76 ERA), but he isn't as good as his '07 performance (3.87 ERA) would indicate either. Bannister and
Kyle Davies aren't bad back-of-the-rotation options, but the Royals could use a guy to slot in ahead of them. Their bullpen was decent last year, and when you're still a couple years away from contention like Kansas City is, you don't really want to be throwing money at free agent relievers.
Fantasy baseball draft season is coming, so you best be prepared by delving through every major player on each team. Fantasy FanHouse is here to help with a quick once-over. 
