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Royals' Jose Guillen Says Stephen Strasburg Lives Up To The Hype

The Royals on Wednesday got their first shot at phenom Stephen Strasburg. As you know by now, the story of the day was actually Brian Bannister, who pitched seven innings of shutout ball as opposed to Strasburg's one earned run.

Royals outfielder Jose Guillen said on Wednesday: He's as good as advertised.

"His fastball, his slider, his changeup -- every pitch is unbelievable," Guillen said. "He's really special. Now I realize everything the people have been talking about him."

Royals manager Ned Yost previously said he wanted to see Strasburg's command that goes with the speed.

"[Nationals right-hander] Livan Hernandez showed us what you can do if you command an 83-mph fastball," Yost said. "You can compete. Now if you can control a 97-98-mph fastball, you dominate. With his breaking ball and his changeup, that kid has a chance to dominate."