KC Royals Latest Feel Good Story is Paulo Orlando

The KC Royals organization seems to be full of feel good stories. Thursday afternoon was no different when outfielder, Paulo Orlando, made his MLB debut in left field as they completed the sweep of the Chicago White Sox.

As fans, we hear about the minor leagues as somewhat of a stepping stone into the major leagues. Throughout the years we have heard the big names, such as Eric Hosmer and Mike Moustakas, as they make their way up, confident that they will have the opportunity to be a big league ballplayer. What we don’t hear about as often, are the players who have spent their entire career, sometimes a decade or more, trying to take that extra step into the big leagues with no guarantees.

That was the case with Paulo Orlando, who came into Thursday’s afternoon game with nine years under his belt, all nine being in the minor leagues. Orlando grew up and lived in Brazil until his speed caught the attention of the White Sox organization because of his track experience. He was signed by the White Sox in 2005. In August 2008 he was traded to the Royals organization where he continued to put up productive numbers.

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He has proven to be a very productive minor league player, with a career .275 average in almost 3,800 at bats. His base-running and fielding skills have also kept very consistent over the years. Known for his stolen bases and triples, speed has definitely been his greatest asset.

With Alex Gordon having the day off on Thursday, it was the perfect situation for the Orlando to make his debut in left field. He went 1-3 with a walk and a triple. Orlando was also able to show off his speed with an impressive running catch to end the top of the 7th. Overall, a very successful debut that you can’t help but be happy for.

It was a very emotional day for Orlando and his family who had been waiting a long time for this day to come. When asked what has kept him going and kept him trying so hard after all of these years, he talked about his family. He made reference to the time he has to spend away from them and how difficult that can be. He discussed how he has to try his absolute hardest to make it worth being away so much, hoping it will pay off. I am sure after today it is safe to say that it has definitely paid off.

Orlando will be seeing more playing time in the near future, as the Royals are expected to give Alex Gordon more rest days until he is 100% after undergoing wrist surgery this off-season. The Royals and the fans look forward to seeing what Paulo Orlando will be able to contribute to the team in 2015. So far so good.

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