And just like that, the prospect of winning 40 games doesn't look so impossible. Buoyed by a second straight good start from Jeremy Affeldt, the Royals cruised to a 5-1 victory before 12,194 at the K. Still, Affeldt labored through his 5 and a third, racking up 94 pitches along the way to a 2BB, 4H, 6K day, leaving the game still in doubt when he gave way to the 'pen.
But why would anyone have doubts? Elmer Dessens continued the Month of His Life with 2.1 scoreless innings, before passing the baton to Sisco and Burgos for the last 4 outs. In the past two games the Royal bully has thrown 9 innings of astonding baseball: 6 hits allowed, 0 walks and 4 Ks all towards only one earned run.
And people think Cleveland's a 100 win team? I don't see it. Too many easy outs in the lineup, especially when Wedge gives Hafner the day off.
Royal Pride
The Royals are now only a game behind the Pirates in the all-important Worst Team standings thanks to the Buccos 4 game losing streak.
The Royals get a day off tomorrow to celebrate, before welcoming the punchless Twins to town. During one of the AL Central roundtables I proclaimed the Twins "done", so its now up to the Royals to make my prediction look good.
One last thing: Jim Hendry, think how could Doug Mientkiewicz would look in a Cubs uni? Have you noticed his recent hot streak? He's pushed his OPS over .660, and he's recently agreed to give up the 2004 World Series ball. Sounds like someone you need in Chicago.