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It's been a tough battle, this year. But isn't it always? There is one final showdown to be had in the battle for Grass Creek, this season. Both sides have taken 2 out of 3 in their home field, thus far, and the Royals will defend their home one last time against their most hated foe.
The Mariners, knowing the importance of this fight, have turned to noted traitor Mike Montgomery to lead the way for his team. He shares a lot in common with yesterday's starter: He's a lefty, he pitches for the Mariners, and the last time the Royals faced him he pitched a complete game shutout. The good news for the good guys is that he's been fighting in the reserves most of the season, so he'll probably tire quickly and have to be replaced early. Also, Cheslor Cuthbert, Brett Eibner, and Whit Merrifield (known collectively as The Rookies) showed yesterday that just because you can handle the old Royals doesn't mean you can beat the new.
Ned Yost also knows the importance of Grass Creek, so he finally told Chris Young that he was going to have to sit this one out, or at least wait his turn to join the fight against a home run happy team. Dillon Gee will take over for the giant both on in the field and in our hearts, but he won't be able to fill his massive shoes. Dillon Gee will likely also be on a pitch count, because he hasn't started since the end of May. He's only faced the Mariners once in his career, pitching 3 innings of relief earlier this year and allowing 1 run in a 6-0 loss.
In a game that seems likely to go to the Bullpens early, I like the Royals chances better than the Mariners and their league leading 16 blown saves.
Lineups
Look at your No. 2 hitter. #Royals pic.twitter.com/SCDIE9zTqO
— Jeffrey Flanagan (@FlannyMLB) July 10, 2016
— Bob Dutton (@TNT_Mariners) July 10, 2016
I honestly have no idea where Ned came up with that lineup.