Astros boat-race Royals to win series

People actually think the Royals are going to get anything for Jason Hammel at the trade deadline? Ok, people. Ok.

Hammel gave up eight runs in a game-deciding second inning. The Royals lost 11-3.

Here is the second inning of death for the Astros: double, single, out, walk, catcher’s interference (1-0), out, walk (2-0), two-run single (4-0), walk, grand slam (8-0).

The Royals scored three runs: a Lucas Duda (welcome back) home run, a Rosell Herrera single, and an Abraham Almonte sacrifice fly.

There really isn’t much to say here. Hammel was rocked for nine runs in four innings. Gerrit Cole got the win. Hammel took the loss.

The Royals are 23-54. They finish the season 1-5 against the Astros, which feels about right.

Alcides Escobar went 0-for-3. He is hitting .203. He has played 410 games in a row. He continues to play shortstop almost every day while Adalberto Mondesi gets bumped down to second base. This franchise is maddening.

Up next for the Royals: they come back home tomorrow for one game against the Angels. It is a makeup game. Then, they hit the road for games in Milwaukee and Seattle.