With Scott Podsednik traded to the Dodgers, it opens up a gap at the top of the Royals’ batting order and in left field.

Podsednik had been the leadoff hitter in 65 games, including nearly all the games since Ned Yost took over as manager on May 14. Yost said he would go day to day when determining his leadoff man.

Willie Bloomquist hit first Thursday in a 6-5, 11-inning loss to the Orioles. Yost said second baseman Chris Getz “when he plays” can bat leadoff. He said Mitch Maier could lead off, and he mentioned that Jason Kendall “has led off before.”

“It’s not earthshaking,” Yost said. “It’s not a big major problem. We don’t have a prototypical leadoff hitter. Some clubs don’t.