That question will continue to be on the frontburner over the next several weeks as the Royals head down the stretch without veteran Mark Grudzielanek. The 38-year-old, who will be a free agent after this season, is expected to be sidelined four to six weeks because of a right ankle injury -- leaving Kansas City in evaluation mode as it ponders the second-base situation for 2009.

Esteban German got the start at second Saturday, and manager Trey Hillman has the option of moving Mike Aviles to second and using Tony Pena Jr. at shortstop. Also in the second-base picture is Jason Smith and possibly Alberto Callaspo, who has been on the disabled list since June 28 but is working out.

If Grudzielanek can't return, it would mean more opportunities for the other second-base candidates to showcase themselves.

"We don't know if [Grudzielanek] is going to be back or not," Hillman said. "He's got a tear in that ligament, and it's all going to be dependent on how it reacts in the next couple of weeks."

Grudzielanek has gone home to Southern California, where he's allowing the healing process to run its course.

"He's working with the rehab center in San Diego, but there's not a whole lot he can do right now," Hillman said. "I can't tell you when to expect him back or if he will be back. [A return] would be dangerous if there's not some pretty quick healing."