Game LII: Royals v. Pirates

Despite Kansas City still reeling from that 11-game losing streak, they are still way ahead of their typical 50-game pace. Since 2010, the Royals have only bested their current 25-26 record through 51 games just twice – both times in 2015 and 2016.

Looking on the dark side? Yes, that is more of a testament to how bad the Royals have been since the turn of the century, excluding the 2013-2015 runs. A 25-26 record is nothing to celebrate, even if it’s successful compared to other Kansas City squads.

On the bright side, though, this team has been more competitive through 50-games than just about every single Royals team since 2000. And that’s including an 11-game losing streak. They’ll have a great opportunity to build upon that success on this homestand, getting five games against the struggling Pirates and a team they just took a series from in the Twins.

Kansas City will finish a four-game season set against the Pirates with two quick games at home after splitting a series in Pittsburgh back in April. Royals starter Mike Minor opened that series as well, getting roughed up a bit, giving up four earned runs in just 4.1 IP in a no-decision.

Kansas City faces Chad Kuhl, who is making his 4th start of the season. He has struggled thus far, giving up 11 earned runs in just 15.2 IP. He has failed to make it out of the 6th inning in his four starts.

Here are your lineups for this evening’s contest: