The Royals were a good bullpen away from sweeping the mediocre-yet-somehow contending Indians, yet had to get a terrific start from Master Chen today to avoid the sweep in Cleveland. After a drama-filled first, Chen did what Chen does, throwing seven innings, allowing just two walks, five singles, and allowing only the one first inning run.

The two teams combined for seventeen singles and no extra-base hits. The kids playing in the Little League World Series put these hitters to shame. The Royals also continued their stupid aggressive baserunning when Frenchy was pretty much picked off first, only to have Melky break for home, running into an out. Those Go-Go Royals were clearly in Justin Masterson's head all day, as they rocked him for two runs with ten left on base.

Gordon and Butler each had three hits a piece. One more hit from Butler and we'll get to see our top three hitters in the lineup all hitting over .300. It is nice to have a legitimate - even quite good - top of the lineup to trot out there. It sure beats these halcyon days.

Mike Moustakas continued his hitting streak to eleven. Through 260 career plate appearances, his line is .232/.287/.292. Through his first 260 plate appearance, George Brett was hitting .224/.263/.286. Kevin Seitzer is the new Charlie Lau.

A story in the Star today indicates the Royals will be willing to deal prospects for established pitchers this winter, although it downplayed the possibility of any high priced free agents. So who ya got?