Speedy OF quickly rises to top

Reds outfielder Billy Hamilton, 23, made it to the top of Cincinnati’s lineup after only 13 steals in the majors.

Hamilton will get a chance to play center field and bat leadoff this season, taking over ShinSoo Choo’s spot. He is doing it after spending only one season at Class AAA with mixed results as a hitter.

Hamilton made a tantalizing big league debut in September. He had 13 steals in 14 attempts, used primarily as a pinch-runner. Hamilton set a professional record by stealing 155 bases in the minors in 2012.

Royals

Kansas City agreed to terms with seven players not yet eligible for arbitration on major league contracts, including third basemen Mike Moustakas and Danny Valencia.

Dodgers

Hall of Famer Sandy Koufax was hit by a foul ball off the bat of Andre Ethier in batting practice. Koufax, 78, was standing in the bullpen down the third base line when he was hit. He was struck on the forehead, but told reporters as he walked off the field that he was fine. Koufax is in camp in Arizona as a special adviser to the chairman of the Dodgers.

Blue Jays

Toronto claimed righthanded pitcher Liam Hendriks off waivers from the Baltimore Orioles. Minor league infielder Brent Morel was designated for assignment.