JACK'S SMACK: Royals need to shape up before All-Star Game

It’s time for the Royals to put the pedal to the medal.

They've got about a month before the All-Star circus comes to town.

It’s a week-long celebration, and it’s more than just bats and balls, and hot dogs and beer.

The festivities will be scattered from Kauffman Stadium to Bartle Hall downtown.

Our city's reputation is on the line.

It’s a week to shine on the national sport stage. And we need that opportunity.

It’s important the Royals show, they've become a competitive organization.

The baseball world doesn't care about our team - and why should it?

This franchise hasn't been any good since Mr. Kauffman died 19 years ago.

But you know what? We've got momentum now after that disastrous start of the season.

The royals are now decent for the first time this season.

They're quietly working their way back to .500.

Do whatever it takes to get to the break-even point.

I remain confident that could happen by the second week of July.

Timing is crucial, and so is the schedule.

A bunch of inter-league games are coming up, and we shouldn't be scared of any these National League teams they play.

Can you imagine the buzz in this town if the Royals are relevant at the All-Star break?

When you've got the likes of Felipe Paulino and Vinnie Mazzaro pitching shutouts in June for crying out loud. That’s reason enough to believe that something good is in the works.

Sure, talent wins out, but it doesn't hurt to catch lightning in a bottle.

I hope I’m not turning soft in my old age, but I do have faith in what Dayton Moore is doing.

My only fear is this absentee owner may come out of hiding in Arkansas, and screw up a good thing we have going over the All-Star break.

It still sticks in my crawl.

David Glass gets our taxpaying dollars to renovate the stadium and then – poof - he disappears, just like that.

Out of sight, out of mind.

Maybe it’s a blessing in disguise.

That’s Jack’s Smack.