:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60628455/usa-today-9275680.0.0.0.jpg)
The Royals are in a three-way tie for second place right now, but they can move ahead of at least one of those teams this weekend by defeating the Cleveland Indians. The Indians are coming off a sweep of the Tigers, outscoring Detroit 20-7. However, just before that they dropped five of six to the Twins and Phillies.
Danny Salazar goes for the Indians tonight with his blazing fastball. The Royals have handled him well in his career, beating him five times in nine starts, with Salazar posting a 4.64 ERA over that time. Eric Hosmer, in particular, has handled him well, going 8-for-20 with two home runs and four doubles.
Yordano Ventura throws fire for the Royals tonight. He is coming off his worst performance of the season against the Mariners, but has otherwise pitched well aside from some command issues. He goes into this game leading the league in walks, with some uncharacteristic wild bouts this season. Yordano has a career 2.62 ERA in seven starts against Cleveland.
Mike Moustakas was originally in the starting lineup, but is a late scratch due to his thumb.
Lineup change in Cleveland. Moose's hand still sore. pic.twitter.com/pJMXC7gjAy
— Mike Swanson (@Swanee54) May 6, 2016
We look to make it four in a row tonight as the Royals come into town!
— #VoteTribe (@Indians) May 6, 2016
PREVIEW: https://t.co/JjfFT4Oncf pic.twitter.com/VIemr9a2po