SURPIRSE, Ariz. -- It is hard for Royals infielder Christian Colon to hide the disappointment.
Colon worked hard in the offseason, training with Alex Gordon in Kansas City, hoping it would lead to him earning a starting job at second base.
That won't happen after manager Ned Yost named Raul Mondesi the starter on Monday.
"It's disappointing," Colon said. "You just have to move on. I've been here before and I need to just be ready to do whatever they ask me to do and be part of the 25-man roster hopefully."
That is the next phase of the decision-making process. With Cheslor Cuthbert already likely on the team as the primary backup to third baseman Mike Moustakas, Colon is now in a battle with Whit Merrifield for a spot on the 25-man roster.
Colon, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2010 Draft, has one advantage: He does not have options, while Merrifield does.

Then again, there are other factors, such as the fact that the Royals may need to clear space on the 40-man roster to make room for right-hander Peter Moylan if he is the final bullpen arm. That could lead to someone getting traded or designated for assignment.
The Royals aren't likely to make a final decision on the 25-man roster until Sunday.
"I'm preparing myself for anything," Colon said. "I know I can be an everyday player. If it's not here it can be somewhere else. But I want to be here. This is the only organization I've known.
"I understand it's tough. These are tough decisions and they have to take the best 25 to Kansas City. It's about winning."
Colon was convinced coming into camp he could be that everyday second baseman.
"You feel like you did enough to get a shot at it," Colon said. "But Mondi came out and played great and you have to respect that."