KISSIMMEE, FLA. ? While assuring Kansas City that the Royals are in no danger of contraction, baseball commissioner Bud Selig warned that improvements to Kauffman Stadium “have to be addressed.”

In an informal meeting with reporters Saturday, Selig stopped short of saying that a proposed $125 million in stadium improvements are necessary for owner David Glass to keep the franchise in Kansas City.

“I’m going to let David make that observation,” Selig said. “But there is no question that the stadium issue has to be addressed for Kansas City to keep up with Detroit and the clubs in their own division.

“I’m sure it will all be worked out. But they are going to have to be worked out. If your stadium does not produce enough revenue, you’re at an immediate disadvantage.”

As for contraction, Selig said there is, “no truth  absolutely none” to occasional reports that the Royals are on a short list.

Major League Baseball tried to eliminate the Minnesota Twins and Montreal Expos this year but gave up after running into legal roadblocks.

“There hasn’t been any discussion about Kansas City relative to contraction at all,” Selig said. “Frankly, I have read a little bit here and there. It’s just not true.”

The Royals, with declining revenues and dwindling attendance, are usually listed among small-market clubs whose future could be cloudy without revenue-sharing and other innovations to close the financial gap with richer clubs.

“Mr. Glass and I have never had any conversation on (contracting the Royals),” Selig said. “When I listed the candidates we have widely discussed, I can assure you Kansas City was not one of them. It is a very solid franchise with very good ownership.”