Morning Marquee: Series shifts to NL park; Gold Glove finalists announced

Game three of the World Series moves to AT&T Park in San Francisco, in theory giving the advantage to the Giants. The Kansas City Royals’ skipper Ned Yost will need to adapt to being without the DH, which will likely relegate Billy Butler to pinch-hit duties. However, the size of the park, coupled with the Royals speed in the field; as well as the likelihood of the bullpen playing a larger factor, it could be a wash for advantage.

The top three finalist for the Gold Glove award were announced, and the Royals faith in their defense was affirmed. First baseman Eric Hosmer, shortstop Alcides Escobar, left fielder Alex Gordon, and catcher Salvador Perez were all among the finalists. Oddly, Lorenzo Cain was not a finalists, but has become a household name for his defense over the course of this year’s playoffs.

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The Atlanta Braves have named longtime front office executive John Hart as President, Baseball Operations. Hart was named interim GM last season after longtime GM Frank Wren was fired. His resume includes time with the Cleveland Indians, Texas Rangers, and spent time as an analyst on the MLB Network.

The Chicago Cubs Anthony Rizzo picked up another accolade after a great 2014 campaign, being named to the Sporting News All-Star team. He and the crosstown White Sox first baseman Jose Abreu locked up the first base position for the two teams.

Also in Chicago, owner Tom Ricketts is in discussion to possibly purchase some of the surrounding rooftops at Wrigley Field. The move could help prevent further court battles with the surrounding owners after the expansion project of Wrigley got the stamp of approval.

Here’s the headlines from yesterday:

‘Royals face new lineup decisions in San Francisco’ – Kings of Kauffman

‘Gold Glove Awards finalists revealed’ – MLB.com

‘Atlanta Braves name John Hart President, Baseball Operations’ – Call to the Pen

‘Report: Tom Ricketts in talks to buy several rooftop buildings’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Rizzo named to Sporting News All-Star Team’ – Cubbies Crib