Kansas City Royals All Time 25 Man Roster

Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

First Base – Mike Sweeney

Mike Sweeney actually may not have been the best first baseman in Kansas City Royals history, as that honor belongs to John Mayberry. This does not change the fact that Sweeney is among the best players in Royals history, and a player worthy of this spot in the lineup.

Sweeney was an excellent all around player before his back issues began to take their toll. A .299/.369/.492 hitter with 197 home runs and 297 doubles in Kansas City, Sweeney ranks in the top five all time in Royals history in home runs, doubles, RBI, walks and OPS. He made five All-Star Games in six years, not because the Royals needed a token representative, but due to his own merit.

Originally a catcher, Sweeney spent his first three seasons behind the plate before converting to first base. Despite having only four games of minor league experience at first, Sweeney developed into an adequate defensive player. He may never have conjured up images of Eric Hosmer, but Sweeney certainly did not embarrass himself at first.

Mike Sweeney was a solid all around player for the Kansas City Royals, and could arguably be considered the second best hitter in team history. His production and ability to drive the ball would look pretty good in the middle of the Royals all time lineup.

Next: A true defensive wizard