Royals spring training 2013: Miguel Tejada on quest for roster spot

SURPRISE, Ariz. - After a brief illness, Miguel Tejada showed up in Royals camp on day two refreshed and ready to begin his quest for a roster spot.

"I feel like my body is 20 years old," he said.

Actually, Tejada is 38 years old and two years removed from his last Major League game. Still, Ned Yost and company decided to issue him a non-roster invite to spring training after a solid showing in Winter Ball.

"Great reports. Swung the bat real well. Bat speed was there. Played adequate at all the infield positions," Yost said.

The Royals view Tejada as a utility infielder off the bench. The former MVP said he's willing to accept that role.

"I came here to help in any way ... I'm going to be ready every day," Tejada said.

In his prime, Tejada was belting 30 home runs as a shortstop. That power is mostly gone, and it remains to be seen if he can still play short. However, the Royals like the idea of a veteran presence on this young roster.

"I'm not the same player. In my heart, the energy for playing baseball is still the same."