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Game LVII: Royals v. Astros

A duel of lefty aces

By Ryan Heffernon
Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

So, last night was a lot of fun. The Royals comeback 9-7 win yesterday evening was arguably the most thrilling game of the season, bringing back flashbacks of another, more notable comeback against the Houston Astros.

Alex Gordon hit his first home run of the season. Whit Merrifield doubled twice in his second game as the leadoff hitter, including a game-tying three-run double in the 7th. And of course, the Mike Moustakas walk-off home run in the 9th, to top of a 4-for-5 night for the Balboni-chasing third baseman.

The Royals went into the bottom half of the 4th down six runs, with a loss putting them back to nine games under .500. Instead, they are seven games under and seemingly still gasping for air.

They will look to keep some sort of momentum going tonight, but will be faced with the challenge of hitting Dallas Keuchel, who enters the contest with a Major League low 1.67 ERA. Luckily, the Royals also have a left-handed ace on their side, with Jason Vargas taking his turn on the bump with the second lowest ERA in baseball on his side at 2.08.

Keuchel, who struggled in 2016, has roared back in 2017, which included his April 8th no-decision against the Royals, where he gave up just one run on two hits over his seven innings of work.

Vargas, meanwhile, is coming off of his complete game shutout since 2014 last week against Cleveland.

Lineups!

Also, say hello to a new friendly face in Ramon Torres!

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