ROYALS SET TO OPT OUT OF RIGHTS AGREEMENT WITH FOX SPORTS?

          Speculation in K.C. has Time Warner's Metro Sports
     "planning on making a run at the Royals" TV rights, which
     are currently owned by Fox Sports Net Midwest (FSM),
     according to Jeffrey Flanagan of the K.C. STAR.  Time Warner
     spokesperson Carol Rothwell: "Yes, we're interested, and
     we're certainly exploring that option."  The rights, which
     were previously bought by Fox Sports Net Rocky Mountain
     (FSR) three years ago in a six-year deal valued at $4.5M a
     year, were "turned ... over" to FSM this year.  Flanagan
     notes that the rights contract "calls for an option year
     (the Royals' option) starting as soon as the regular season
     ends."  Royals VP/Marketing & Communications Mike Levy:
     "We've been very happy with Fox Sports.  But we will examine
     (any offers) carefully."  FSM GM Jack Donovan: "We're
     confident that we will be broadcasting Royals games next
     year" (K.C. STAR, 8/26).