"Alex Gordon isn't just heading to Class AAA Omaha to regain his hitting form. The Royals also want him to concentrate on learning to play left field while also logging time at first base.

"We're not completely taking third base away from him," manager Trey Hillman said, "but we really want him to work on playing left field. He'll also see some time at first base but, mainly, I think it will be left field."

The Royals optioned Gordon to Omaha after Sunday's 1-0 loss at Tampa Bay. He departed with a .194 average through 12 games following his return from the disabled list after recovering from a broken right thumb.

Plans call for outfield specialist Rusty Kuntz, a special assistant to general manager Dayton Moore, to be in Omaha to ease Gordon's transition to the outfield. Gordon is expected to join the O-Royals in time for Tuesday's game against Oklahoma City.

"The first thing we told Alex is he needs to play," Hillman said. "We just want him to relax and get the weight off his shoulders. He'll play some first, but we want him to concentrate on left field."

Gordon appeared buried on the big-league bench after second baseman Chris Getz returned last Friday from the disabled list. That forced Alberto Callaspo back to third base, which left no spot in the lineup for Gordon."