Game 43 - Kansas City at Houston For All the Marbles

James Shields' head might well explode if the Royals don't give him at least three runs tonight. Three stupid runs is not much to ask for, by the way.

The mightily challenged Royals' offense will be faced with Jordan Lyles, of whom big things have been expected, but very little has yet to be delivered. Just 22 years old, Lyles has given up 291 hits in 254 major league innings. Through four 2013 starts, Lyles' strikeout rate is up, but so is his walk rate. In some respects, Lyles has been unlucky in that opponents have a .355 BABIP against him. Like the Royals own Kelvin Herrera, maybe it is bad luck and due for some statistical correction, or maybe he is just throwing crappy pitches. Let's hope for the latter with respect to the Houston right-hander.

Score early, score big. I'm talking to you Billy, Eric and Mike. Alex, go about your business.