Royals drop finale to Indians, 2-1

The Royals lost on Sunday afternoon to the Indians, 2-1.

They finished the season 58-104.

Cleveland scored a run in the first and the third innings, both coming from Francisco Lindor. He walked and zoomed around the bases, scoring on an error in the first, and then he hit a solo home run in the third. He finishes his year with 38 home runs. Bubba Starling finishes his season with a hurt finger.

The Royals got their lone run in the fifth inning on a single by Meibrys Viloria. They had a few chances to win it in the eighth and ninth, but they faltered.

Because fate is perfect, Alcides Escobar made the last out with the tying run on base. I believe it is the 660th time in his career that he has done that. He got a nice standing ovation right before he hit into a weak little comebacker. Please, Lord almighty, let us be rid of Alcides Escobar forever. It’s over. It’s finally, finally over.

Whit Merrifield had a hit to extend his hit streak to 20 games. He also stole a base. His final slash is 304/367/438. He finished with 192 hits and 45 stolen bases, which both led the American League.

The future is bright (I think?) for the Royals. They’ll add some bullpen help and shore up what could be a decent pitching staff next year. I definitely agree with the people who say that it’s the best that they’ve ever felt about a team following a 100-loss season.

The playoffs start Tuesday. Before that, we get two Game 162s tomorrow. It’s a good time for the sport.

Thank you to all of those who read my writing this year. It’s been a blast to cover this team, and the future will be fun. See you next year!