Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

@@@

PITCHING MATCHUPS

08/24: RHP Brad Keller (7-8, 4.31) vs RHP Jake Thompson (4-8, 7.01)
08/25: LHP Danny Duffy (4-8, 4.58) vs LHP Matt Boyd (7-6, 2.80)
08/26: RHP Jose De Leon (9-4, 3.38) vs RHP Domingo German (6-3, 3.07)

GAME RECAPS

Monday, August 24th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Kansas City (66-59) 6, Detroit (58-67) 4
Winner: Brad Keller (8-8) Loser: James Pazos (1-4) Save: Richard Lovelady (23)
HR-KC: Salvador Perez (22) HR-DET: None

ROYALS TOP TIGERS LATE

Kansas City starter Brad Keller pitched effectively against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. The right-hander led his team to a 6-4 victory, striking out five over eight strong innings to pick up the win for Kansas City. He now sports a record of 8-8. Richard Lovelady converted his 23rd save in 25 tries with a scoreless ninth.

Kansas City used the clutch hitting of Salvador Perez, drilling a two-run home run in the top of the eighth inning to put the Royals ahead for good. It was his only hit out of four at-bats, but it was a big one.

"We'll pop the top on a cold one and get back to work tomorrow," Keller said.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Kansas City (66-59) 6, Detroit (58-67) 4
LA Angels (79-47) 12, Boston (57-69) 5
Texas (57-71) 7, Oakland (49-77) 1
Cleveland (67-59) 5, Tampa Bay (80-45) 6
Chi. Sox (56-68) 4, Seattle (61-65) 5

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
San Francisco (59-65) @ Philadelphia (56-67) -- PPD
Cincinnati (45-81) 2, Chi. Cubs (80-46) 10
NY Mets (63-62) 4, Washington (73-51) 6
Pittsburgh (73-51) 1, Miami (50-75) 3

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Nationals place RHP Max Scherzer on injured list; could miss up to eight months
Dodgers activate RHP Ross Stripling from injured list; send to Triple-A for rehab
Pirates 1B Josh Bell returns from rehab assignment in minors

Tuesday, August 25th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Kansas City (66-60) 0, Detroit (59-67) 3
Winner: Matt Boyd (8-6) Loser: Danny Duffy (4-9) Save: Bryan Garcia (2)
HR-KC: None HR-DET: Christin Stewart (30)

BOYD DOMINANT AS ROYALS SHUT OUT

Detroit Tigers starter Matt Boyd turned in an exceptional performance against the Kansas City Royals at Comerica Park, resulting in a Detroit win, 3-0. The win lifts Detroit's record to 59-67.

Boyd, who dominated for Detroit, earned the victory to move to 8-6. He was in control the whole game, scattering 3 hits over eight and one-third innings, while striking out an even ten. Kansas City batters could never bunch up enough hits to produce a rally, collecting only three hits the entire contest.

"I got in a good groove," said Boyd. "I was getting some swings and misses."

Danny Duffy fell to 4-9 with the loss, but pitched well. He allowed just two earned runs over six innings, walking none with four strikeouts.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Kansas City (66-60) 0, Detroit (59-67) 3
San Diego (66-60) 5, Toronto (54-74) 9
LA Angels (79-48) 2, Boston (58-69) 3
Texas (58-71) 9, Oakland (49-78) 6
Cleveland (68-59) 6, Tampa Bay (80-46) 3
Chi. Sox (57-68) 4, Seattle (61-66) 1
Baltimore (46-81) 5, Houston (85-41) 10

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
San Francisco (59-66) 0, Philadelphia (57-67) 9 (G1)
San Francisco (60-66) 7, Philadelphia (57-68) 6 (G2)
St. Louis (49-77) 3, Atlanta (73-52) 2
NY Yankees (69-59) 4, Milwaukee (66-61) 3 (Final/13)
Cincinnati (45-82) 7, Chi. Cubs (81-46) 8
Colorado (51-73) 3, Arizona (62-66) 8
Minnesota (69-57) 5, LA Dodgers (66-59) 11
NY Mets (64-62) 4, Washington (73-52) 2
Pittsburgh (73-52) 5, Miami (51-75) 9

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Indians activate 1B Carlos Santana from injured list
Cubs activate RHP Kyle Hendricks from injured list
Giants place IF Donovan Solano (labrum) on 60-day IL

Wednesday, August 26th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Kansas City (67-60) 4, Detroit (59-68) 2
Winner: Connor Sadzeck (1-0) Loser: Devan Watts (3-3) Save: Bryan Brickhouse (3)
HR-KC: None HR-DET: Jeimer Candelario (13)

ROYALS COME OUT ON TOP IN PITCHER'S DUEL

Kansas City starter Jose De Leon had a strong outing against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Even though he didn't factor into the decision, the right-hander was a big part of his team's 4-2 win, striking out nine over six innings. Reliever Connor Sadzeck picked up the win, bumping his record to 1-0. Devan Watts was collared with the loss. Facing all righties, Bryan Brickhouse got the save, his third in four tries.

De Leon battled another one of the AL's bright young right-handers, Domingo German; to a near stalemate, as he allowed just one run over five as he returns from an elbow ailment.

As it was two games ago, the eighth inning came up big for the Royals. Down 2-1 heading into that frame, the Royals pushed across three runs, including the go-ahead single from Nicky Lopez. Maikel Franco added another run to make it 4-2, albeit in an odd way, by driving in a run following a dropped third strike attempt. The ball got away from catcher Pedro Severino, and that allowed Daniel Murphy to score from third base.

It could have been a different outcome for Kansas City, had it not been for Maikel Franco, the 28-year old third baseman. Franco contributed a run-scoring strikeout in the top of the eighth inning to put Kansas City up, 3-2.

"Anything I can do to help the team win," said Franco. "Even if it means making an out, you know?" The Royals go to 67-60, putting them third in the American League Central Division, merely a game out of the division lead.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
LA Angels (79-48) @ Boston (58-69) -- PPD
Kansas City (67-60) 4, Detroit (59-68) 2
San Diego (66-61) 0, Toronto (55-74) 6
Texas (59-71) 2, Oakland (49-79) 0
Cleveland (69-59) 6, Tampa Bay (80-47) 5
Chi. Sox (57-69) 4, Seattle (62-66) 7
Baltimore (46-82) 3, Houston (86-41) 7

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
San Francisco (60-67) 1, Philadelphia (58-68) 4
St. Louis (49-78) 2, Atlanta (74-52) 3
NY Yankees (69-60) 1, Milwaukee (67-61) 3
Cincinnati (45-83) 3, Chi. Cubs (82-46) 4
Colorado (51-74) 0, Arizona (63-66) 10
Minnesota (69-58) 3, LA Dodgers (67-59) 4 (Final/12)
NY Mets (64-63) 4, Washington (74-52) 6
Pittsburgh (74-52) 7, Miami (51-76) 2

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Nationals activate 1B Edwin Encarnacion from injured list; sent to Triple-A for rehab
Padres place RHP Luis Perdomo (elbow) on 60-day IL; could miss five to six months

[MajorSupreme]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

Been a silent follower of your Royals, definitely a big fan of your detail. Hopefully, you can keep up the late-season push.

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

@@@

PITCHING MATCHUPS

08/27: RHP Michael Wacha (1-2, 6.08) vs RHP Brady Singer (0-0, 0.00)
08/28: LHP A.J. Puk (7-8, 5.08) vs RHP Jake Junis (12-8, 3.68)
08/29: LHP Jesus Luzardo (5-4, 4.74) vs RHP Brad Keller (8-8, 4.32)
08/30: LHP Sean Manaea (6-12, 5.91) vs LHP Danny Duffy (4-9, 4.49)

GAME RECAPS

Thursday, August 27th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Oakland (49-80) 1, Kansas City (68-60) 2
Winner: Brady Singer (1-0) Loser: Michael Wacha (1-3) Save: Richard Lovelady (24)
HR-OAK: Franklin Barreto (20) HR-KC: None

SINGER SHINES IN DEBUT; ROYALS WALK AWAY WITH VICTORY

Making his MLB debut in front of a near-sellout crowd, Brady Singer dazzled them with six innings of one-run ball, allowing just one hit (a homerun), two walks, and five strikeouts as the Royals edged out a 2-1 victory over the A's to begin the final series of August.

Kansas City had nine hits, but were only able to string together enough hits to get a pair of runs, one each in the first and fifth frames. Daniel Murphy went 3-for-3 with a walk and an RBI, while Hunter Dozier and Adalberto Mondesi each collected a pair of hits.

Franklin Barreto accounted for all the offense from the A's, as he hit a solo homerun against Singer to lead off the sixth, and then doubled off Heath Fillmyer to lead off the eighth. Only catcher Chris Herrmann and first baseman Matt Olson managed to reach base, but only via the free pass.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Oakland (49-80) 1, Kansas City (68-60) 2
Baltimore (46-83) 4, Houston (87-41) 5 (Final/12)
Boston (58-70) 1, Tampa Bay (81-47) 8
Chi. Sox (57-70) 1, Seattle (63-66) 9

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
San Francisco (61-67) 4, Philadelphia (58-69) 3
Cincinnati (45-84) 3, Washington (75-52) 9
St. Louis (49-79) 6, Atlanta (75-52) 7
NY Yankees (70-60) 3, Milwaukee (67-62) 2
Colorado (52-74) 4, Arizona (63-67) 2
Minnesota (69-59) 1, LA Dodgers (68-59) 3

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Oakland claims RHP Dinelson Lamet off waivers from San Diego

Friday, August 28th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Oakland (50-80) 6, Kansas City (68-61) 2
Winner: A.J. Puk (8-8) Loser: Jake Junis (12-9) Save: Caleb Thielbar (3)
HR-OAK: Matt Olson (33) HR-KC: Meibrys Viloria (4)

MARTINI SHAKEN, NOR STIRRED

The Oakland Athletics relied on the hitting of right fielder Nick Martini to stop the Kansas City Royals, 6-2.

Meibrys Viloria went 2-for-4 with a two-run homerun, his fourth of the season. Salvador Perez also banged out a pair of doubles as part of a 2-for-4 day.

For the game, Martini went 3-for-3 with a double, two singles, and a walk. He drove in two runs and scored once. A.J. Puk got credit for the win, improving to 8-8. He allowed two runs on five hits in six innings of work.

Caleb Thielbar was credited with the save. He has now successfully converted 3-of-4 save opportunities.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Oakland (50-80) 6, Kansas City (68-61) 2
Texas (59-72) 0, Seattle (64-66) 3
Boston (58-71) 1, Tampa Bay (82-47) 11
Chi. Sox (58-70) 7, Detroit (59-69) 2
Cleveland (70-59) 4, Minnesota (69-60) 3
NY Yankees (71-60) 5, LA Angels (79-49) 2

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Cincinnati (45-85) 4, Washington (76-52) 3
Toronto (56-74) 2, Pittsburgh (74-53) 0
Miami (51-77) 4, Philadelphia (59-69) 5
Chi. Cubs (82-47) 0, NY Mets (65-63) 6
San Francisco (62-67) 5, Atlanta (75-53) 3
Baltimore (46-84) 9, Milwaukee (68-62) 14
San Diego (67-61) 9, Colorado (52-75) 4
Arizona (64-67) 7, LA Dodgers (68-60) 3

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
San Diego LHP Matt Strahm (elbow) to miss nine to ten months
Tampa Bay activates RHP Charlie Morton from 15-day IL
Giants claim RHP Esmil Rogers off waivers from the Cubs

Saturday, August 29th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Oakland (51-80) 9, Kansas City (68-62) 3
Winner: Jesus Luzardo (6-4) Loser: Brad Keller (8-9) Save: Dinelson Lamet (1)
HR-OAK: None HR-KC: Maikel Franco (8)

ROYALS DROP CONSECUTIVE HOME GAMES

Oakland rode a decent outing from starter Jesus Luzardo to victory over the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. The final score was 9-3. Dinelson Lamet was credited with the save. It is his first save since coming over from the Padres via waivers. Oakland, at 51-80, sits in last place in the American League West Division.

The Athletics picked up the win with a combination of good hitting and good pitching; scoring nine runs (five in the sixth), and holding the Royals to three runs, all in the sixth. Jesus Luzardo capped off the month of August with another brilliant performance, allowing three runs over six innings. He's 4-1 in the month, racking up twenty-nine strikeouts over thirty-six innings, posting a 2.21 ERA in that stretch.

"I'm proud of the boys for pulling through," said Athletics manager Bob Melvin. "The wins don't come easy for this team, but everyone's got an extra jump in their step after a game like this."

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Oakland (51-80) 9, Kansas City (68-62) 3
Texas (60-72) 3, Seattle (64-67) 2
Boston (58-72) 2, Tampa Bay (83-47) 9
Chi. Sox (58-71) 0, Detroit (60-69) 7
Cleveland (70-60) 4, Minnesota (70-60) 16
NY Yankees (71-61) 4, LA Angels (80-49) 9
St. Louis (50-79) 12, Houston (87-42) 6

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Chi. Cubs (82-47) @ NY Mets (65-63) -- PPD (Rain)
Cincinnati (45-86) 5, Washington (77-52) 8
Toronto (57-74) 9, Pittsburgh (74-54) 4
Miami (51-78) 3, Philadelphia (60-69) 10
San Francisco (62-68) 0, Atlanta (76-53) 8
Baltimore (47-84) 3, Milwaukee (68-63) 1
San Diego (68-61) 7, Colorado (52-76) 6
Arizona (65-67) 4, LA Dodgers (68-61) 0

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Diamondbacks activate OF Oscar Mercado from rehab assignment

Sunday, August 30th, 2020 - First pitch, 1:05 CST
Oakland (51-81) 5, Kansas City (69-62) 7
Winner: Danny Duffy (5-9) Loser: Sean Manaea (6-13) Save: Richard Lovelady (25)
HR-OAK: Matt Chapman (26), Shed Long (4) HR-KC: Salvador Perez (23)

SALVY SLAM PROPELS VICTORY

Kansas City left-hander Danny Duffy made an effective start against the Oakland Athletics at Kauffman Stadium, leading his team to a 7-5 win. After today's action, Kansas City sits at 69-62, while Oakland falls to thirty games below .500 at 51-81. Duffy got the victory by striking out seven over five-and-one-third innings.

The Royals grabbed the lead in the bottom of the third. With two out, Salvador Perez hit a grand slam home run off Sean Manaea, putting Kansas City in front, 7-0. For Perez, it was his 23rd home run of the season, giving him the second-most on the squad behind team leader Jorge Soler.

"I'm just looking for a good pitch that I can hit well," said Perez. "And not try to do too much."

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Oakland (51-81) 5, Kansas City (69-62) 7
Texas (60-73) 1, Seattle (65-67) 3
Boston (58-73) 0, Tampa Bay (84-47) 3
Chi. Sox (59-71) 4, Detroit (60-70) 2
Cleveland (71-60) 11, Minnesota (70-61) 4
NY Yankees (71-62) 3, LA Angels (81-49) 4 (Final/10)
St. Louis (50-80) 1, Houston (88-42) 3

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Chi. Cubs (82-48) 2, NY Mets (66-63) 5 (G1)
Chi. Cubs (82-49) 2, NY Mets (67-63) 4 (G2)
Cincinnati (46-86) 8, Washington (77-53) 5
Toronto (57-75) 2, Pittsburgh (75-54) 3 (Final/10)
Miami (52-78) 3, Philadelphia (60-70) 1
San Francisco (62-69) 8, Atlanta (77-53) 9
Baltimore (47-85) 1, Milwaukee (69-63) 3
San Diego (68-62) 4, Colorado (53-76) 5
Arizona (65-68) 0, LA Dodgers (69-61) 1

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Dodgers place RHP Dennis Santana (elbow) on 60-day IL
Nationals activate RHP Joe Ross from 15-day IL[/FONT]

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

Been a silent follower of your Royals, definitely a big fan of your detail. Hopefully, you can keep up the late-season push.

Appreciated!

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

@@@

PITCHING MATCHUPS

09/01: LHP Matt Boyd (8-6, 2.66) vs RHP Jose De Leon (9-4, 3.37)
09/02: RHP Domingo German (6-3, 3.00) vs RHP Jake Junis (12-9, 3.88)
09/03: RHP Sandy Baez (4-15, 6.58) vs RHP Brad Keller (8-9, 4.49)

GAME RECAPS

Tuesday, September 1st, 2020 - First pitch, 7:15 CST
Detroit (60-71) 1, Kansas City (70-62) 2
Winner: Bryan Brickhouse (4-1) Loser: Kevin Ginkel (2-2) Save: None
HR-DET: None HR-KC: Bubba Starling (6)

ROYALS WALK OFF DETROIT WITH BUBBA BOMB

Playing in his first game since August 14th after an injured list stint, Bubba Starling went 3-for-4, including a walk-off two-run homerun, as the Royals eclipsed the Tigers by a 2-1 count. Matt Boyd dazzled Kansas City as he has wont to do in his career, allowing no runs and fanning five over seven-plus innings of work.

He battled with Jose De Leon, who left with a 1-0 deficit after seven and two-thirds innings, his second-longest outing of the season. He fanned seven while scattering three hits and a walk. Bryan Brickhouse got the victory, allowing just one hit in one and one-third innings of work.

Starling also singled twice, while Nicky Lopez, Daniel Murphy, and Jorge Soler all collected one hit. Murphy hit a one-out double against Detroit closer Kevin Ginkel in the ninth, himself recently coming off the disabled list, allowing Starling to come to the plate two hitters later.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Detroit (60-71) 1, Kansas City (70-62) 2
Arizona (65-69) 2, NY Yankees (72-62) 7
Houston (89-43) 7, Cleveland (72-61) 10
Oakland (52-81) 4, Texas (60-74) 3
Minnesota (70-62) 1, Chi. Sox (60-71) 3
Baltimore (48-86) 6, LA Angels (82-50) 4 (Final/11)
Boston (59-73) 5, Seattle (65-68) 3

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Toronto (58-75) 10, Cincinnati (46-87) 8
Milwaukee (70-64) 9, Pittsburgh (76-55) 7
Washington (77-55) 2, NY Mets (69-63) 5
Chi. Cubs (82-51) 3, St. Louis (52-80) 5
Miami (53-79) 3, Colorado (54-77) 5
Tampa Bay (84-48) 4, San Francisco (63-69) 6
Atlanta (77-54) 4, LA Dodgers (70-61) 5
Philadelphia (61-71) 3, San Diego (69-63) 1

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Reds C Tucker Barnhart activated from injured list
Blue Jays activate IF Lourdes Gurriel off 60-day injured list; send to Triple-A for rehab

Wednesday, September 2nd, 2020 - First pitch, 7:15 CST
Detroit (61-71) 3, Kansas City (70-63) 2
Winner: Bryan Garcia (1-0) Loser: Bryan Brickhouse (4-2) Save: Kevin Ginkel (21)
HR-DET: Francisco Cervelli (3) HR-KC: None

TIGERS NIP THE ROYALS

Francisco Cervelli's solo shot with one out in the seventh inning proved to be the difference in the contest, as the Royals fell to the Tigers by a 3-2 count. Jake Junis struck out nine in six innings of work, allowing two runs (both unearned), thanks to a Whit Merrifield error in right field in the very first inning.

Merrifield did have a good day at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a run scored, a steal, and a walk. Hunter Dozier also collected a pair of hits, including a double. Murphy drove in both Royals' runs with a two-run single in the fifth.

Brady Singer made his first relief appearance, going one and one-third innings in relief of Bryan Brickhouse, who left with a finger issue after just two hitters. He fanned two with just one hit allowed.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Detroit (61-71) 3, Kansas City (70-63) 2
Arizona (65-70) 2, NY Yankees (73-62) 8
Houston (89-44) 3, Cleveland (73-61) 10
Oakland (52-82) 2, Texas (61-74) 8
Minnesota (71-62) 4, Chi. Sox (60-72) 3
Baltimore (48-87) 2, LA Angels (83-50) 7 (Final/11)
Boston (59-74) 4, Seattle (66-68) 7

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Toronto (59-75) 1, Cincinnati (46-88) 0
Milwaukee (70-65) 1, Pittsburgh (77-55) 7
Washington (78-55) 5, NY Mets (69-64) 4
Miami (54-79) 8, Colorado (54-78) 2
Tampa Bay (85-48) 12, San Francisco (63-70) 7
Atlanta (77-55) 2, LA Dodgers (71-61) 3
Philadelphia (62-71) 5, San Diego (69-64) 1

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Mets place C Devin Mesoraco (hamstring) on 15-day IL; could miss rest of season
Cubs activate LHP Jon Lester from minors rehab assignment
Astros activate OF George Springer from minors rehab assignment
Braves place OF Dylan Cozens (finger) on 15-day IL; will have surgery

Thursday, September 3rd, 2020 - First pitch, 7:15 CST
Detroit (61-72) 1, Kansas City (71-63) 7
Winner: Brad Keller (9-9) Loser: Sandy Baez (4-16) Save: None
HR-DET: None HR-KC: Jorge Soler 2 (33)

SOLER POWERS ROYALS VICTORY

Jorge Soler drilled a pair of homeruns, driving in five of the Royals' seven runs as they raced away to a 7-1 victory over the Tigers, winning two of three from their division foes. Brad Keller evened his record at nine wins and losses apiece, allowing just one hit and three walks over seven innings, fanning four.

Soler's two homeruns give him the AL lead again with thirty-three, after falling behind the last several weeks. His five RBI is also a season high, and pushed him over the 100-RBI mark (102).

Daniel Murphy collected three hits for the Royals; all singles, scoring twice. Hunter Dozier and Adalberto Mondesi each had two hits, including a double each.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Detroit (61-72) 1, Kansas City (71-63) 7
LA Angels (83-51) 0, Oakland (53-82) 4
Houston (90-44) 11, Cleveland (73-62) 10
Minnesota (71-63) 5, Chi. Sox (61-72) 6
Boston (59-75) 2, Seattle (67-68) 5

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Philadelphia (63-71) 14, Cincinnati (46-89) 0
Pittsburgh (77-56) 5, St. Louis (53-80) 6 (Final/11)
Milwaukee (70-66) 2, Chi. Cubs (83-51) 5
Miami (54-80) 1, Colorado (55-78) 15
Atlanta (77-56) 3, LA Dodgers (72-61) 5

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Giants activate 3B Evan Longoria from the 15-day IL; sent to Triple-A for rehab
Oakland places RHP James Kaprelian (forearm) on 15-day IL, retro to 09/02/2020
Orioles activate C Chance Sisco from the 15-day IL

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

@@@

PITCHING MATCHUPS

09/04: LHP Danny Duffy (5-9, 4.43) vs RHP Bryan Mitchell (4-12, 4.65)
09/05: LHP Luiz Gohara (6-6, 5.19) vs RHP Luke Weaver (17-5, 2.86)
09/06: RHP Jose De Leon (9-4, 3.24) vs RHP Corbin Martin (0-3, 8.65)

GAME RECAPS

Friday, September 4th, 2020 - First pitch, 8:15 CST
Kansas City (72-63) 6, Arizona (65-71) 4
Winner: Heath Fillmyer (3-2) Loser: Bryan Mitchell (4-13) Save: Richard Lovelady (26)
HR-KC: None HR-ARI: Marcus Wilson (6)

ROYALS PREVAIL BEHIND VALERA

The Arizona Diamondbacks got a sterling performance from third baseman Eduardo Escobar, but the Royals still prevailed, 6-4. Escobar was named the player of the game in a losing cause. He went 3 for 4 with 2 doubles and a walk, while adding 2 RBI and scoring once. Kansas City reliever Heath Fillmyer was the winner. His record is now 3-2. Bryan Mitchell took the loss. The Diamondbacks, at 65-71, have lost 4 in a row.

It could have been a different outcome for Kansas City, had it not been for Breyvic Valera, the 28-year old second baseman. Valera contributed a run-scoring walk in the top of the sixth inning to put Kansas City up, 4-2.

"If we play like this, we can win a lot of games," Valera told the Kansas City Star.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Seattle (67-69) 4, NY Yankees (74-62) 7 (Final/10)
Houston (91-44) 6, Baltimore (48-88) 2
Tampa Bay (85-49) 1, Cleveland (74-62) 2
Minnesota (72-63) 6, Boston (59-76) 2
Toronto (59-76) 1, Texas (62-74) 5
Detroit (61-73) 3, Chi. Sox (62-72) 5
LA Angels (83-52) 2, Oakland (54-82) 7

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Miami (54-81) 2, Washington (79-55) 9
Philadelphia (64-71) 6, Cincinnati (46-90) 5
NY Mets (69-65) 2, Atlanta (78-56) 4
Pittsburgh (78-56) 5, St. Louis (53-81) 2
LA Dodgers (72-62) 2, San Diego (70-64) 4
Colorado (55-79) 0, San Francisco (64-70) 1
Kansas City (72-63) 6, Arizona (65-71) 4
Milwaukee (70-67) 3, Chi. Cubs (84-51) 5

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Rockies OF Charlie Blackmon (ankle) placed on 15-day IL; could miss one to two weeks

Saturday, September 5th, 2020 - First pitch, 8:15 CST
Kansas City (72-64) 6, Arizona (66-71) 4
Winner: Luke Weaver (18-5) Loser: Luiz Gohara (6-7) Save: Jared Miller (7)
HR: None

DREAM WEAVER PUTS THE ROYALS BATS TO SLEEP

The Arizona Diamondbacks got a magnificent performance from pitcher Luke Weaver, who muffled the Kansas City offense en route to a tight 2-0 Diamondbacks win at Chase Field. Jared Miller converted his 7th save in 10 tries. The Diamondbacks now have a mark of 66-71.

Kansas City had little success against Weaver and his changeup. Weaver tossed 101 pitches over 6.1 innings for the Diamondbacks.

"We put together a nice win," Weaver said.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Seattle (67-70) 5, NY Yankees (75-62) 8
Houston (92-44) 7, Baltimore (48-89) 3
Tampa Bay (85-50) 2, Cleveland (75-62) 4
Minnesota (72-64) 5, Boston (60-76) 6 (Final/12)
Toronto (60-76) 5, Texas (62-75) 4
Detroit (62-73) 3, Chi. Sox (62-73) 2 (Final/14)
LA Angels (84-52) 7, Oakland (54-83) 5

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Miami (54-82) 3, Washington (80-55) 6
Philadelphia (64-72) 4, Cincinnati (47-90) 5
NY Mets (70-65) 6, Atlanta (78-57) 1
Pittsburgh (78-57) 2, St. Louis (54-81) 9
LA Dodgers (72-63) 1, San Diego (71-64) 10
Colorado (55-80) 1, San Francisco (65-70) 2
Kansas City (72-64) 0, Arizona (66-71) 2
Milwaukee (70-68) 1, Chi. Cubs (85-51) 4

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Athletics activate RHP Daulton Jefferies from the 60-day IL; sent to Triple-A for rehab

Sunday, September 6th, 2020 - First pitch, 1:15 CST
Kansas City (73-64) 11, Arizona (66-72) 0
Winner: Jose De Leon (10-4) Loser: Corbin Martin (0-4) Save: None
HR-KC: Alex Gordon (7), Hunter Dozier (17), Jorge Soler (35) HR-ARI: None

HOMERUNS POWER ROYALS WIN

The Kansas City Royals bested the Arizona Diamondbacks, 11-0, at Chase Field. Hunter Dozier was named player of the game. He went 2 for 4 with 2 home runs and a walk. He scored 3 times and drove in 3.

Jose De Leon picked up the win with 6.2 innings of work. He allowed no earned runs on 10 hits, while walking 2 and striking out 7. On the season, he is now 10-4. The Royals saw their win-loss record go to 73-64. At the same time, the Diamondbacks fell to 66-72.

In the top of the first, Dozier pounced on a 1-1 fastball from Corbin Martin and hit a 2-run home run. It put Kansas City on top, 2-0.

"If we play like this, we can win a lot of games," Dozier told the Kansas City Star.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Seattle (67-71) 4, NY Yankees (76-62) 5
Houston (92-45) 1, Baltimore (49-89) 6
Tampa Bay (85-51) 1, Cleveland (76-62) 7
Minnesota (72-65) 4, Boston (61-76) 9
Toronto (61-76) 13, Texas (62-76) 3
Detroit (62-74) 1, Chi. Sox (63-73) 3
LA Angels (85-52) 7, Oakland (54-84) 4

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Miami (54-83) 2, Washington (81-55) 8
Philadelphia (65-72) 7, Cincinnati (47-91) 6
NY Mets (70-66) 1, Atlanta (79-57) 3
Pittsburgh (79-57) 5, St. Louis (54-82) 1
LA Dodgers (72-64) 1, San Diego (72-64) 8
Colorado (56-80) 6, San Francisco (65-71) 3
Kansas City (73-64) 11, Arizona (66-72) 0
Milwaukee (70-69) 0, Chi. Cubs (86-51) 6

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Blue Jays activate IF Lourdes Gurriel from rehab assignment
Angels activate LHP Sean Doolittle from rehab stint

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

@@@

PITCHING MATCHUPS

09/07: RHP Jake Junis (12-9, 3.73) vs RHP Jose Berrios (11-7, 3.13)
09/08: RHP Brad Keller (9-9, 4.31) vs RHP Kyle Gibson (5-6, 3.89)
09/09: LHP Luiz Gohara (6-7, 4.95) vs RHP Jake Odorizzi (14-8, 4.48)
09/10: LHP Danny Duffy (5-9, 4.40) vs RHP Julio Teheran (5-6, 4.69)

GAME RECAPS

Monday, September 7th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:15 CST
Kansas City (74-64) 5, Minnesota (72-66) 2
Winner: Jake Junis (13-9) Loser: Jose Berrios (11-8) Save: Richard Lovelady (27)
HR-KC: Alex Gordon (7), Jorge Soler (35), Hunter Dozier (17) HR-MIN: None

JUNIS SHINES AS ROYALS TAKE OPENER

Kansas City and Minnesota put this game in the books despite some rain.

The Minnesota Twins went down to defeat to Jake Junis and his Kansas City teammates. The final score was 5-2 in favor of the Royals. Junis, the winner, moves to 13-9. He threw 6.1 innings of 3-hit ball, while fanning 5 and giving up 3 walks.

Kansas City used the bat of Hunter Dozier to get the win. The third baseman hammered a 3-run home run in the top of the fifth inning to put the Royals ahead, 4-0. It was his lone hit in 3 at-bats, but it did its damage.

"We cashed in when we had the chance," said Kansas City manager Mike Matheny.

The Royals bumped their record to 74-64 with this latest triumph.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Oakland (54-85) 6, Baltimore (50-89) 7 (Final/10)
Tampa Bay (85-52) 3, Boston (62-76) 5
Kansas City (74-64) 5, Minnesota (72-66) 2
Detroit (62-75) 3, Chi. Sox (64-73) 5

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Pittsburgh (80-57) 5, Chi. Cubs (86-52) 4
St. Louis (54-83) 0, Washington (82-55) 5
San Diego (73-64) 3, Miami (54-84) 2
Seattle (68-71) 10, NY Mets (70-67) 4
LA Angels (86-52) 8, Atlanta (79-58) 2
Cincinnati (48-91) 6, Milwaukee (70-70) 5
NY Yankees (77-62) 10, Arizona (66-73) 4
LA Dodgers (73-64) 1, San Francisco (65-72) 0 (Final/12)

[b]MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Rockies IF Trevor Story activated from injured list

Tuesday, September 8th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:15 CST
Kansas City (74-65) 6, Minnesota (73-66) 13
Winner: Jhoan Duran (1-0) Loser: Heath Fillmyer (3-3) Save: None
HR-KC: Daniel Murphy (13), Jorge Soler (36) HR-MIN: Mitch Garver (21), Byron Buxton (16), Eddie Rosario (20), Marwin Gonzalez (8)

A TWIN KILLING

The Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals, 13-6, at Target Field. Minnesota first baseman Marwin Gonzalez earned player of the game honors with an outstanding performance. He was 3 for 5 with a home run and a double, while scoring 3 runs and driving in 4. The Twins bumped their record to 73-66 with this latest triumph.

The Twins got a big at-bat from second baseman Asdrubal Cabrera. For the game, Cabrera went 1-2 with 2 walks. He scored 2 runs. In the bottom of the fifth, with the bases loaded, he stroked a run-scoring single. His 33rd hit of the season gave Minnesota a 6-5 lead.

"It was offense that won us the game," said Twins manager Rocco Baldelli.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Oakland (54-86) 3, Baltimore (51-89) 5
Tampa Bay (85-53) 6, Boston (63-76) 8
Kansas City (74-65) 6, Minnesota (73-66) 13
Detroit (62-76) 0, Toronto (62-76) 11
Chi. Sox (64-74) 6, Cleveland (77-62) 7
Texas (62-77) 5, Houston (93-45) 6

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Colorado (57-80) 3, Philadelphia (65-73) 1 (Final/10)
Pittsburgh (81-57) 2, Chi. Cubs (86-53) 1
St. Louis (55-83) 5, Washington (82-56) 1
San Diego (73-65) 0, Miami (55-84) 5
Seattle (69-71) 4, NY Mets (70-68) 1
LA Angels (87-52) 2, Atlanta (79-59) 0
Cincinnati (49-91) 9, Milwaukee (70-71) 1
NY Yankees (78-62) 5, Arizona (66-74) 1
LA Dodgers (74-64) 5, San Francisco (65-73) 2

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Astros activate RHP Roberto Osuna from injured list
Giants place RHP Jamie Callahan (ankle) on 15-day IL; could miss rest of season

Wednesday, September 9th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:15 CST
Kansas City (74-66) 3, Minnesota (74-66) 10
Winner: Lewis Thorpe (2-0) Loser: Tanner Roark (6-9) Save: None
HR-KC: Daniel Murphy (14) HR-MIN: Ehire Adrianza (11)

TWINS WIN BY A TOUCHDOWN -- AGAIN

Minnesota played host to Kansas City at the friendly confines of Target Field.

The Minnesota Twins defeated the Kansas City Royals, 10-3, in American League action at Target Field, with Minnesota third baseman Ehire Adrianza named player of the game. Minnesota reliever Lewis Thorpe picked up the win, upping his record to 2-0. Tanner Roark absorbed the loss.

With Minnesota leading 3-1 in the bottom of the first, Adrianza hit a cutter from Tanner Roark for a grand slam home run. It was his 11th home run of the season and put the Twins ahead, 7-1. Roark was making his first start since coming off the disabled list, allowing seven runs (one earned) in one inning of work, striking out three before being pulled with what was termed as a groin injury.

In postgame comments to the Minnesota Gazette, Adrianza said, "If the effort is there, the wins will come."

The Twins bumped their record to 74-66 with this latest triumph.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Oakland (55-86) 7, Baltimore (51-90) 2
Tampa Bay (85-54) 1, Boston (64-76) 2
Kansas City (74-66) 3, Minnesota (74-66) 10
Detroit (62-77) 4, Toronto (63-76) 5 (Final/18)
Chi. Sox (64-75) 1, Cleveland (78-62) 6
Texas (62-78) 3, Houston (94-45) 4 (Final/10)

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Colorado (57-80) @ Philadelphia (65-73) -- PPD (Rain)
Pittsburgh (81-58) 2, Chi. Cubs (87-53) 10
St. Louis (56-83) 8, Washington (82-57) 7
San Diego (73-66) 2, Miami (56-84) 7
Cincinnati (49-92) 0, Milwaukee (71-71) 1 (Final/10)
LA Dodgers (75-64) 10, San Francisco (65-74) 8

[b]MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Royals activate RHP Tanner Roark; add RHP Brad Keller (ankle) to 15-day IL
Giants 3B Evan Longoria activated from rehab assignment

Thursday, September 10, 2020 - First pitch, 1:15 CST
Kansas City (74-67) 3, Minnesota (75-66) 5
Winner: Julio Teheran (6-6) Loser: Danny Duffy (5-10) Save: Andrew Vasquez (33)
HR-KC: None HR-MIN: Jonathan Schoop (8), Mitch Garver (22)

ROAD WOES REAR UGLY HEAD

Minnesota starter Julio Teheran pitched effectively against the Kansas City Royals at Target Field. The right-hander led his team to a 5-3 win. In 5 innings, Teheran surrendered 7 hits, while striking out 7 and walking 5. He allowed 3 runs. Andrew Vasquez was credited with the save. He has now successfully converted 33 of 35 save opportunities.

Jorge Polanco had a key at-bat with two out in the bottom of the second for Minnesota. With the bases loaded and the Twins leading 3-2, he drew a walk, driving in 1 run.

"I just tried to attack the bottom of the zone," Teheran said.

Minnesota has 3 straight wins, Kansas City 3 straight losses.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Oakland (55-87) 3, Tampa Bay (86-54) 10
Kansas City (74-67) 3, Minnesota (75-66) 5
Detroit (62-78) 1, Toronto (64-76) 6
Chi. Sox (64-76) 4, Cleveland (79-62) 5
LA Angels (87-53) 3, Seattle (70-71) 4
Texas (62-79) 6, Houston (95-45) 11
NY Yankees (78-63) 7, Boston (65-76) 9

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Colorado (57-81) 3, Philadelphia (66-73) 4 (G1)
Colorado (57-82) 8, Philadelphia (67-73) 9 (G2, Final/11)
Atlanta (79-60) 6, NY Mets (71-68) 13
San Francisco (65-75) 0, Arizona (67-74) 6
St. Louis (56-84) 5, Washington (83-57) 8
San Diego (74-66) 5, Miami (56-85) 1

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
White Sox place RHP Lucas Giolito (elbow) to miss rest of season

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

2021 PAYROLL OUTLOOK
Team has decisions to make on options
09/112020
By artoodeetoo

Right now, if the Royals' options were all exercised (incl. player/team options); and if projected player arbitration numbers ended up coming true, the team's payroll will come in at just shy of $105MM for next season (this includes set-in-stone salary figures & pre-arb bumps). The chances of that figure happening in that scenario are next to nil, so we're here to break down what potentially could be the team's payroll breakdown, and what options could, or could not, be accepted for next season. We'll start with that $105MM figure, and subtract any declined options/declined extensions to give a summary at the end.

MUTUAL OPTIONS

The Royals have four mutual options to decide on -- outfielder Alex Gordon ($10.25MM), first baseman Daniel Murphy ($12MM), and pitchers Tanner Roark ($6.5MM) and Jake Diekman ($5.25MM). With Hunter Dozier likely to get the bulk of the playing time at first base in 2021, Murphy's $12MM option is not likely to be exercised by either side since there is no buyout. However, Alex Gordon's buyout is $1.25MM, plus a likely plate appearance bonus that will drive that figure to $1.75MM, so he'd be silly to not take it. Gordon has already stipulated that this will be his final season, and that the option was more of a symbolic gesture than a strategic one.

It's also increasingly unlikely that the Royals will exercise the options for either Roark or Diekman, although Diekman's 2.14 ERA in fifty-nine innings has been one of the better overall seasons in the AL this year, which may lead to the Royals exercising the option with a lack of potential left-handers on the open market this winter. A Nebraska native, Diekman has enjoyed his time in Kansas City, but I can't see him ever coming back to Kansas City if his mutual option is denied again.

Roark has battled injuries on-and-off this season; and with a dearth of pitching on the open market this offseason, could likely land a better front-loaded deal in the 3/$27MM range, rather than the paltry $6.5MM he'd get in 2021 with KC. Prediction: The Royals exercise none of these options, saving roughly $30MM when you factor in buyouts (Gordon, Diekman, Roark). This takes the overall investment for 2021 down to $75MM.

TEAM/PLAYER OPTIONS ONLY

Right-hander Chris Flexen, who signed a one-year deal with a team option for next year during the offseason, is the only team option pending. His buyout is a paltry $275K (with a $1.54MM salary hit), so it's hard to see him getting retained, especially when you throw in that he's been hurt all season and hasn't had any opportunity to show that he's healthy. That said, if the Royals make an out-of-left-field move, such as a trade to free up roster space and/or payroll, he might have a chance to impress in the spring. The former top prospect is still only twenty-six, and has reportedly looked good in bullpen sessions in recent weeks. Prediction: Royals pay the $275K and move on without any real chance to evaluate him in a Royals uniform. That said, he didn't take a 40-man spot, and only cost the team roughly $825K over the season for a lottery ticket. Total salaries now $73.5MM.

FREE AGENTS TO BE

There's only one, with Jorge Soler still not under contract for next year. The team and Soler's camp are still reportedly far apart, with nine figures over five or six years being floated. Kansas City would much prefer a shorter deal with a similar AAV, with Buster Olney of ESPN reporting several weeks ago that the Royals had offered a 4/$72MM deal, which would be a club record contract. Soler's 2020 backslide can't go unnoticed here, as his OPS has dropped seventy points from last season, with no drop in BABIP; a concerning sign.

He's also walking the same amount with more strikeouts, a 5% jump in whiffs from a year ago. He's still clubbing a ton of homeruns, and he's on pace for more RBI than 2019, but his swing-and-miss rate is going to be difficult to overlook. Prediction: I think in the end, the Royals get it done with him, right up to the filing deadline. They'll extend the qualifying offer to cover their butts (and get the draft comp in the event he signs elsewhere), but I think he comes back to Kansas City on a three-year deal for something between $52-$56MM, with a salary hit of $16MM in 2021 to push the 2021 payroll nearly back to $90MM. Can't see a full-time DH getting the long-term albatross after J.D. Martinez and Miguel Cabrera's faceplants in the final years of his Red Sox deal.

ARBITRATION CASES

Jake Junis: $4.25MM
Adalberto Mondesi: $4.8MM (???)
Brad Keller: $3.75MM
Tim Hill: $850K
Robert Stephenson: $1.8MM
Maikel Franco: $1M

Obviously, the projected arb figure for Mondesi jumps out at you, as I expect that to be close to $10M in the end. This is a guy who has fulfilled every bit of his immense promise this season, putting up MVP-type numbers and almost single-handedly bringing back the stolen base. The other figures seem to be more in line with what I would expect, with the exception of Hill, who I thought might be projected in the $1.3-$1.5MM range.

Unfortunately, with the emergence of Kelvin Gutierrez as a real possibility at third base, it's incredibly likely that Franco is a non-tender candidate. It's also possible that the Royals non-tender Hill, as one or two-out guys may be on the decline after the three-hitter minimum was installed prior to this season. He has been solid against LHB (.221 BA), but battered against RHB to the tune of a .980 OPS. There was scuttle that the Yankees, amongst other teams, were interested in Hill prior to this season, so he may be a trade candidate yet again this offseason.

Prediction: Only Franco is non-tendered, and the other five all come back. The $4.8MM projection for Mondesi is absurd, but if the Royals can't come to an agreement with Soler, look for extension talks to heat up between Mondesi and the Royals (in fact, they already SHOULD be heating up). Let's say Mondesi signs a $10MM tender for next season and all other values stay the same, that will add roughly another $20MM to the payroll.

OTHER POSSIBILITIES

$15.5MM, $13MM, and $6.8MM -- those are the 2021 salary hits for Danny Duffy, Salvador Perez, and Whit Merrifield, in that order, with Duffy and Perez holding deals that expire after next year. Those three will make up about a third of the total payroll for next year, which is not an insignificant amount. However, the Royals could choose to do one of several things -- one, they could trade one or more of them, which is certainly possible. Merrifield in particular has been the subject of trade talks the past two seasons, but injuries have derailed his 2020 year, which could bring his value down. Duffy has also been the subject of some discussions, but with pitchers, eating salary is the biggest roadblock.

Secondly, one or more could sign an extension and then defer salary. This has been done before. Ryan Dempster deferred $3MM of his 2012 salary over the 2013, 2014, and 2015 seasons, taking $1MM extra in each of those seasons to free up space for the Cubs to sign Xavier Nady that year ('12). Catcher and fan favorite Perez would like to sign an extension, but it is unlikely that he'll be the full-time catcher going forward with youngsters Meibrys Viloria and MJ Melendez potentially playing more visible roles. He's played a handful of games as the DH and in the field at first base this season as the team transitions him away from behind the plate in the coming years; much like the Twins did with Joe Mauer.

Prediction: I think Duffy and Perez will be back for sure, but Merrifield finally gets shipped out for a disappointing return despite a ridiculously team-friendly contract. Nicky Lopez has really come into his own as a better overall player than Merrifield, despite a lack of homerun power. Merrifield is miscast as an outfielder, especially in center and right. Kansas City has a glut of young outfielders in the upper minors, most notably top prospect Khalil Lee, who hit twenty-six homeruns and stole thirty-four bases for Omaha this past season. Merrifield's $6.8MM comes off the books, puttng the Royals at nearly $104MM, just shy of where we started.

OVERALL

So, we're almost back to where we started. First-year owner John Sherman has said that they are not likely to add any impact free agents in the first year or two of his tenure as the owner, as the team will still have one more year of Duffy and Perez. However, the new local television deal that kicks in beginning in 2021 is expected to bring in an additional $25-$30MM of revenue per year, which would be huge for the team's bottom line and ability to improve the club going forward. I would also expect the average ticket price to inch back up after a one-year drop.

Another thing that could change that in a hurry is a deep playoff run that brings in even more revenue, but the Indians are beginning to pull away in the division, and on balance the Yankees are a much better team than either the Royals or Twins right now (in terms of the second wildcard), so aside from cheap veterans, the Royals aren't going to be huge players in the open market. Still, attendance is up over 40% over last year (revenues up nearly 35%), and the team is on track to welcome over two million fans through the gates this season also, the most since the 2016 season.

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

@@@

PITCHING MATCHUPS

09/11: RHP Jhoulys Chacin (5-13, 6.32) vs LHP Luiz Gohara (6-7, 4.95)
09/12: RHP Rick Porcello (8-16, 5.71) vs RHP Jose De Leon (10-4, 3.08)
09/13: LHP Brock Burke (0-2, 4.37) vs RHP Jake Junis (13-9, 3.60)

GAME RECAPS

Friday, September 11th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Texas (62-80) 2, Kansas City (75-67) 6
Winner: Luiz Gohara (7-7) Loser: Jhoulys Chacin (5-14) Save: None
HR-TEX: None HR-KC: Whit Merrifield (7), Adalberto Mondesi (23)

ROYALS ROLL THE RANGERS BEHIND MONDESI'S BIG DAY

Adalberto Mondesi continues to put together an MVP resume, going 3-for-4 with three runs scored, a homerun, and a pair of stolen bases as the Royals defeated the Rangers 6-2 to snap a three-game losing streak, and kick off a six-game, seven-day homestand.

Texas has lost six straight, losing two to the Blue Jays, swept at Houston, and then tonight's defeat at the hands of the Royals.

Mondesi's two steals give him seventy-one for the season, which is the third-highest total in team history, and the most since Willie Wilson's seventy-nine in 1980. Wilson also had eighty-three steals in 1979, and owns four of the top six single-season steals totals in team annals.

Whit Merrifield went 2-for-5 with a leadoff homerun in the bottom of the first, and also notched a stolen base to give him twenty-seven for the season. Luiz Gohara picked up the win, allowing just two earned runs and five hits over six-and-one-third, fanning seven with no walks.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Minnesota (75-66) @ Detroit (62-78) -- PPD (Rain)
Texas (62-80) 2, Kansas City (75-67) 6
NY Yankees (78-64) 3, Boston (66-76) 7
Oakland (55-88) 1, Tampa Bay (87-54) 8
Baltimore (52-90) 4, Toronto (64-77) 3 (Final/12)
Chi. Sox (64-77) 9, Houston (96-45) 15
LA Angels (88-53) 13, Seattle (70-72) 3

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Cincinnati (49-93) 2, Pittsburgh (82-58) 6
Washington (83-58) 0, Philadelphia (68-73) 2
Chi. Cubs (88-53) 6, Miami (56-86) 4
Atlanta (80-60) 2, NY Mets (71-69) 0
St. Louis (56-85) 3, Milwaukee (72-71) 4
Cleveland (80-62) 14, Colorado (57-83) 4
San Francisco (66-75) 5, Arizona (67-75) 1
San Diego (75-66) 3, LA Dodgers (75-65) 1 (Final/17)

[b]MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Dodgers activate LHP Julio Urias from 15-day injured list
Cubs place P/OF Michael Lorenzen (ankle) on 15-day IL

Saturday, September 12th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Texas (62-81) 1, Kansas City (76-67) 3
Winner: Jose De Leon (11-4) Loser: Rick Porcello (8-17) Save: Richard Lovelady (28)
HR-TEX: Jose Trevino (3) HR-KC: None

DEALING DE LEON DOWNS THE RANGERS

The Kansas City Royals picked up a win at Kauffman Stadium, knocking off the Texas Rangers, 3-1. On the mound for Kansas City was right-hander Jose De Leon, who played a pivotal role in the victory. Texas's current losing streak is now seven games, while the Royals have won six of their last nine home contests.

De Leon, the winner, is now 11-4 after putting the clamps on the Texas offense. In eight innings of work, he gave up just one earned run on five hits, while collecting nine K's with just one walk.

"I tell our guys all the time, 'Every pitch is the right pitch if you put it in the right place, you believe in it and have conviction,'" Kansas City manager Mike Matheny said.

Jake Junis will look to add to his career-high wins total tomorrow afternoon against young lefty Brock Burke, who gave up four runs in four innings with six strikeouts the last time he faced the Royals, which was in Arlington last month.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Minnesota (76-66) 4, Detroit (62-79) 2 (G1)
Minnesota (76-67) 3, Detroit (63-79) 9 (G2)
Texas (62-81) 1, Kansas City (76-67) 3
NY Yankees (78-65) 4, Boston (67-76) 5
Oakland (55-89) 1, Tampa Bay (88-54) 5
Baltimore (52-91) 4, Toronto (65-77) 6
Chi. Sox (64-78) 1, Houston (97-45) 5
LA Angels (88-54) 5, Seattle (71-72) 6

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Cincinnati (49-94) 3, Pittsburgh (83-58) 4
Washington (83-59) 0, Philadelphia (69-73) 4
Chi. Cubs (88-54) 2, Miami (57-86) 3 (Final/10)
Atlanta (80-61) 2, NY Mets (72-69) 3
St. Louis (57-85) 8, Milwaukee (72-72) 5
Cleveland (81-62) 10, Colorado (57-84) 5
San Francisco (67-75) 4, Arizona (67-76) 2 (Final/10)
San Diego (75-67) 2, LA Dodgers (76-65) 3

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Indians RHP Shane Bieber set to return from 60-day IL
Rockies place LHP Cole Hamels (rotator cuff) on 60-day IL

Sunday, September 13th, 2020 - First pitch, 1:05 CST
Texas (62-82) 5, Kansas City (77-67) 6
Winner: Jake Diekman (3-0) Loser: Ariel Jurado (0-1) Save: Richard Lovelady (29)
HR-TEX: Tim Fedorowicz (4) HR-KC: Breyvic Valera (3)

KOMEBACK KIDS AT KAUFFMAN

Texas got a terrific game from catcher Tim Federowicz. It wasn't enough, though, to prevent the team from falling to Kansas City, 6-5. Federowicz was the player of the game despite being on the losing side.

He went 3-for-3 with a home run, a double, and a walk. He drove in 2 runs and scored once. Texas now has a 8-game losing streak.

The Rangers were up 5-0 after five-and-one-half innings, but two in the sixth, and four in the seventh put the Royals back in front for good.

Jorge Soler, who finished 3rd in the AL in RBI with 113 last year, aided the Kansas City cause with a run-scoring single in the bottom of the seventh. For the game, the designated hitter was 2-for-5 with two base hits and an RBI.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Minnesota (77-67) 6, Detroit (63-80) 1
Texas (62-82) 5, Kansas City (77-67) 6
NY Yankees (79-65) 10, Boston (67-77) 5
Oakland (56-89) 3, Tampa Bay (88-55) 1
Baltimore (53-91) 5, Toronto (65-78) 6
Chi. Sox (64-79) 5, Houston (98-45) 8
LA Angels (88-55) 0, Seattle (72-72) 2

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Cincinnati (49-95) 4, Pittsburgh (84-58) 7
Washington (83-60) 6, Philadelphia (70-73) 11
Chi. Cubs (88-55) 3, Miami (58-86) 7
Atlanta (80-62) 4, NY Mets (73-69) 6
St. Louis (57-86) 0, Milwaukee (73-72) 6
Cleveland (82-62) 24, Colorado (57-85) 2
San Francisco (68-75) 8, Arizona (67-77) 2
San Diego (76-67) 8, LA Dodgers (76-66) 4

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Nationals place OF Victor Robles (concussions) on 60-day IL
Marlins activate IF Ben Zobrist; designate OF Jarrod Dyson for assignment

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

MLB STATS & STANDINGS UPDATE

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

@@@

PITCHING MATCHUPS

09/15: RHP Danny Salazar (9-12, 4.23) vs RHP Tanner Roark (6-9, 4.61)
09/16: RHP Mike Clevinger (9-6, 5.20) vs LHP Danny Duffy (5-10, 4.70)
09/17: RHP Carlos Carrasco (8-11, 3.75) vs LHP Luiz Gohara (7-7, 4.82)

GAME RECAPS

Tuesday, September 15th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Cleveland (82-63) 4, Kansas City (78-67) 14
Winner: Heath Fillmyer (4-3) Loser: Danny Salazar (9-13) Save: None
HR-CLE: Franmil Reyes (42) HR-KC: Brett Phillips 2 (22)

PHILLIPS POWERS ROYALS SERIES-OPENING WIN

The Kansas City Royals handed the Cleveland Indians a loss at Kauffman Stadium. The final score was 14-4, with Brett Phillips being named player of the game for Kansas City. In going 3-for-4, he homered twice and singled, driving in five runs and walking twice. The second-place Royals have won four straight, and closed to within four games of the Indians in the division race.

Alex Gordon and Daniel Murphy each had big offensive games for the victors, with Gordon collecting a season-high four hits, and Murphy's three hits backing up Phillips' efforts. Gordon and Jorge Soler each drove in a pair, with Nicky Lopez going 2-for-5 with a double that cleared the bases in the Royals' seven-run third inning offensive explosion.

Heath Fillmyer moved to 4-3 on the season, going two and two-third innings in relief of Tanner Roark, who couldn't get out of the fifth inning after four and two-third innings and ninety-three pitches. Rookie right-hander Brady Singer finished the game, allowing one run in one and two-third.

"We'll pop the top on a cold one and get back to work tomorrow," Phillips said.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Cleveland (82-63) 4, Kansas City (78-67) 14
Toronto (66-79) 2, NY Yankees (80-65) 4
Milwaukee (73-73) 5, Tampa Bay (89-55) 7
San Francisco (68-76) 1, Detroit (64-80) 6
Minnesota (78-68) 3, Texas (63-83) 1
Baltimore (54-92) 4, Chi. Sox (64-80) 3
Miami (58-87) 1, LA Angels (90-55) 5
Boston (68-78) 15, Oakland (56-90) 11
Houston (100-45) 4, Seattle (72-74) 3

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Philadelphia (71-74) 1, St. Louis (58-87) 4
NY Mets (73-71) 2, Colorado (59-85) 6
Washington (84-60) 7, Cincinnati (49-96) 6
Chi. Cubs (88-57) 5, LA Dodgers (78-66) 6
Arizona (69-77) 5, San Diego (76-69) 1
Atlanta (82-62) 3, Pittsburgh (84-60) 0

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Cardinals place RHP Miles Mikolas (shoulder) on 60-day IL
Rockies LHP Kyle Freeland activated from rehab assignment

Wednesday, September 16th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Cleveland (83-63) 5, Kansas City (78-68) 2
Winner: James Karinchak (4-1) Loser: Danny Duffy (5-11) Save: Brad Hand (39)
HR-CLE: Curt Casali (2) HR-KC: Brett Phillips 2 (24)

PHILLIPS SHINES AGAIN; ROYALS FALL

The Kansas City Royals got a superb performance from center fielder Brett Phillips. Still, it wasn't enough to beat Cleveland as the Indians won the game, 5-2. In spite of the loss, Phillips was named the player of the game. He was 2-for-3 with a pair of solo home runs and a walk, following up his two-HR game last night with another two-HR game.

Right-hander James Karinchak picked up the win in relief, improving his record to 4-1. Danny Duffy took the loss to fall to 5-11, with just two wins in his last seven decisions over the past six weeks. Cleveland is now 83-63, 4½ games up in the American League Central Division over second-place Minnesota, with the Royals nipping at the Twins' heels, just a half-game back.

Cleveland relied on the hitting of Curt Casali to pick up the win, as the veteran catcher singled and homered in four at-bats, driving in three runs. Alex Gordon followed up his four-hit game last night, with a three-hit game against the Indians, all three hits being singles.

"Our guys are never satisfied," said Cleveland manager Terry Francona. "We're up in the division, but we're not letting up at this point."

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Cleveland (83-63) 5, Kansas City (78-68) 2
Toronto (67-79) 6, NY Yankees (80-66) 2
Milwaukee (74-73) 2, Tampa Bay (89-56) 1 (Final/10)
San Francisco (69-76) 4, Detroit (64-81) 1
Minnesota (79-68) 16, Texas (63-84) 0
Baltimore (55-92) 6, Chi. Sox (64-81) 3
Miami (59-87) 6, LA Angels (90-56) 5
Boston (68-79) 3, Oakland (57-90) 9
Houston (101-45) 4, Seattle (72-75) 0

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Philadelphia (71-75) 1, St. Louis (59-87) 2
NY Mets (73-72) 5, Colorado (60-85) 8
Washington (85-60) 2, Cincinnati (49-97) 0
Chi. Cubs (88-58) 2, LA Dodgers (79-66) 4
Arizona (70-77) 5, San Diego (76-70) 3
Atlanta (83-62) 12, Pittsburgh (84-61) 7

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Nationals claim veteran OF Jarrod Dyson off waivers from Miami

Thursday, September 17th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Cleveland (84-63) 12, Kansas City (78-69) 0
Winner: Carlos Carrasco (9-11) Loser: Luiz Gohara (7-8) Save: None
HR-CLE: Derek Dietrich (16), Jose Ramirez (22) HR-KC: None

TRIBE BLOWS THE ROYALS AWAY

Cleveland starter Carlos Carrasco pitched very effectively against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. The right-hander led his team to a 12-0 win, pitching seven and two-third shutout innings, scattering three hits. Cleveland is now 84-63, five games up in the American League Central Division over the Twins; and six up over the fading Royals, whose best hope for the playoffs remains the wildcard.

Kansas City was in the game into the late innings; but a bullpen implosion allowed the game to get away from them, as Robert Stephenson and Josh Staumont each allowed five earned runs in their short outings. Staumont was making his first appearance since early May, and the rust showed -- he allowed six baserunners (one hit, three walks, two hit batsmen), and five earned runs, ballooning his ERA to 10.15. He recorded just one out before Kyle Zimmer got the final two outs in clean fashion.

Luiz Gohara continued his late-season run, allowing just two earned over six and two-third innings with seven strikeouts and three walks. Over his last three starts, he's allowed just five earned over nineteen innings, fanning twenty-two with just three walks as he vies for a starting role in 2021.

The last road trip of the season begins tomorrow night, as they'll face the Angels for three in Anaheim to kick off an eleven-day, nine-game trip that ends on the south side of Chicago, with a three-game stop in Detroit sandwiched in between those two series. Unfortunately for the Royals, they'll get the three best pitchers that the Angels have -- right-handers Jeff Samardzija, Sonny Gray, and Gerrit Cole.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Cleveland (84-63) 12, Kansas City (78-69) 0
Toronto (67-80) 1, NY Yankees (81-66) 3
Milwaukee (74-74) 2, Tampa Bay (90-56) 8
San Francisco (70-76) 4, Detroit (64-82) 3 (Final/10)
Baltimore (55-93) 3, Chi. Sox (65-81) 7
Miami (59-88) 1, LA Angels (91-56) 2 (Final/11)
Boston (69-79) 8, Oakland (57-91) 6
Houston (102-45) 4, Seattle (72-76) 2

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Philadelphia (71-76) 2, St. Louis (60-87) 3 (Final/10)
NY Mets (73-73) 3, Colorado (61-85) 7
Washington (85-61) 1, Cincinnati (50-97) 4
Chi. Cubs (88-59) 0, LA Dodgers (80-66) 1 (Final/11)
Arizona (70-78) 8, San Diego (77-70) 9
Atlanta (83-63) 0, Pittsburgh (85-61) 7

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Royals activate RHP Josh Staumont from 60-day IL; designate LHP Foster Griffin for assignment

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

@@@

PITCHING MATCHUPS

09/18: RHP Jose De Leon (11-4, 2.97) vs RHP Jeff Samardzija (12-8, 4.03)
09/19: RHP Jake Junis (13-9, 3.73) vs RHP Sonny Gray (11-7, 2.68)
09/20: RHP Tanner Roark (6-9, 4.59) vs RHP Gerrit Cole (19-6, 2.95)

GAME RECAPS

Friday, September 18th, 2020 - First pitch, 9:05 CST
Kansas City (79-69) 5, LA Angels (91-57) 3
Winner: Jose De Leon (12-4) Loser: Jeff Samardzija (12-9) Save: Richard Lovelady (30)
HR-KC: Nicky Lopez (3), Hunter Dozier (18) HR-LAA: Anthony Rendon (27)

ROYALS WIN IN COMEBACK FASHION

With second baseman Nicky Lopez leading the charge, the Kansas City Royals defeated the Los Angeles Angels, 5-3, at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Lopez, who is tied for 10th in the AL in triples with 6, went 2-3 with a home run and a walk. He scored 2 runs and drove in 3.

Jose De Leon got the win, improving to 12-4. He worked 6 innings, giving up 3 runs on 5 hits, while striking out 1 and walking 2. Richard Lovelady notched his 30th save in 32 chances.

Kansas City took a 5-3 lead on Lopez's 3rd home run of the season. The 2-run home run, which he hit off Jeff Samardzija in the top of the sixth, propelled Kansas City to the win.

"We're all about heart and hustle on this team. That's what wins ballgames," Lopez told the Kansas City Gazette.

The Royals bumped their record to 79-69 with this latest triumph.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Kansas City (79-69) 5, LA Angels (91-57) 3
Tampa Bay (90-57) 7, Chi. Sox (66-81) 8
Baltimore (55-94) 3, NY Yankees (82-66) 5
Seattle (73-76) 7, Cleveland (84-64) 3
Boston (69-80) 5, Texas (64-84) 6
Detroit (65-82) 6, Minnesota (79-69) 0
Houston (102-46) 1, Oakland (58-91) 3

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
NY Mets (73-73) @ Washington (85-61) -- PPD (Rain)
Arizona (70-79) 4, San Francisco (71-76) 6
Milwaukee (74-75) 4, LA Dodgers (81-66) 5
Miami (60-88) 3, Chi. Cubs (88-60) 1
Pittsburgh (85-62) 2, Cincinnati (51-97) 6
Philadelphia (71-77) 5, Atlanta (84-63) 6 (Final/10)
Colorado (61-86) 2, St. Louis (61-87) 8

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Dodgers OF A.J. Pollock (ankle) to miss one to two weeks; placed on 15-day IL
Phillies place OF Andrew McCutchen (back) to miss rest of season, placed on 15-day IL
Braves OF Christian Pache has surgery on elbow; to miss rest of season

Saturday, September 19th, 2020 - First pitch, 9:05 CST
Kansas City (80-69) 3, LA Angels (91-58) 1
Winner: Connor Sadzeck (2-0) Loser: Hansel Robles (2-5) Save: Richard Lovelady (31)
HR-KC: Jorge Soler (37) HR-LAA: None

LATE HOMERUN SEALS IT

Kansas City overcame a superlative game from Sonny Gray to beat Los Angeles, 3-1. Jorge Soler hit a three-run homerun in the eighth against Hansel Robles to complete the comeback.

Gray took player of the game honors in a losing cause. He threw 7 innings of shutout ball. The Royals now own a record of 80-69.

The Angels wasted a real gem from Gray, who struck out 10 and held the Royals without an earned run over 7 innings.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Kansas City (80-69) 3, LA Angels (91-58) 1
Tampa Bay (91-57) 6, Chi. Sox (66-82) 1
Baltimore (55-95) 3, NY Yankees (83-66) 4 (Final/12)
Seattle (73-77) 3, Cleveland (85-64) 4
Boston (69-81) 1, Texas (65-84) 6
Detroit (65-83) 4, Minnesota (80-69) 7
Houston (103-46) 7, Oakland (58-92) 4

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Colorado (61-86) @ St. Louis (61-87) -- PPD (Rain)
NY Mets (73-74) 2, Washington (86-61) 4 (G1)
NY Mets (74-74) 8, Washington (86-62) 4 (G2)
Arizona (71-79) 8, San Francisco (71-77) 3
Milwaukee (74-76) 0, LA Dodgers (82-66) 2
Toronto (68-80) 11, San Diego (77-71) 9
Miami (61-88) 2, Chi. Cubs (88-61) 1
Pittsburgh (85-63) 3, Cincinnati (52-97) 6
Philadelphia (72-77) 7, Atlanta (84-64) 2

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Yankees place RHP Deivi Garcia (knee) on 60-day IL with torn meniscus

Sunday, September 20th, 2020 - First pitch, 3:05 CST
Kansas City (80-70) 2, LA Angels (92-58) 6
Winner: Gerrit Cole (20-6) Loser: Tanner Roark (6-10) Save: None
HR-KC: Jorge Soler (38) HR-LAA: Mike Trout (29), Shohei Ohtani (15)

ROYALS DROP SERIES FINALE

Los Angeles beat Kansas City on the strength of starter Gerrit Cole's fine effort. The right-hander led his team to a 6-2 win. The Angels have an impressive 92-58 record.

Los Angeles right fielder Shohei Ohtani changed the complexion of the game in the bottom of the sixth inning. That's when he belted a 2-run home run off Tanner Roark. His 15th home run of the season put Los Angeles in front, 2-1.

"I got in a good groove," said Cole. "I was getting some swings and misses." Cole became the first pitcher in the league to reach the 20-win mark with the victory.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Boston (69-81) @ Texas (65-84) -- PPD (Rain)
Kansas City (80-70) 2, LA Angels (92-58) 6
Tampa Bay (91-58) 2, Chi. Sox (67-82) 4
Baltimore (55-96) 4, NY Yankees (84-66) 6
Seattle (74-77) 10, Cleveland (85-65) 8
Detroit (66-83) 3, Minnesota (80-70) 1
Houston (104-46) 10, Oakland (58-93) 3

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Colorado (61-87) 0, St. Louis (62-87) 2 (G1)
Colorado (61-88) 4, St. Louis (63-87) 5 (G2)
NY Mets (74-75) 3, Washington (87-62) 4
Arizona (72-79) 5, San Francisco (71-78) 4
Milwaukee (74-77) 0, LA Dodgers (83-66) 3
Toronto (69-80) 7, San Diego (77-72) 0
Miami (61-89) 1, Chi. Cubs (89-61) 9
Pittsburgh (86-63) 7, Cincinnati (52-98) 6
Philadelphia (72-78) 7, Atlanta (85-64) 9

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Tampa Bay places IF Daniel Robertson (knee) on 15-day IL; will miss one to two weeks

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

@@@

PITCHING MATCHUPS

09/21: LHP Danny Duffy (5-11, 4.84) vs RHP Jake Thompson (4-11, 6.70)
09/22: LHP Luiz Gohara (7-8, 4.68) vs LHP Matt Boyd (8-7, 2.57)
09/23: RHP Jose De Leon (12-4, 3.03) vs RHP Domingo German (7-3, 2.82)

GAME RECAPS

Monday, September 21st, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Kansas City (80-71) 5, Detroit (67-83) 8
Winner: Jake Thompson (5-11) Loser: Danny Duffy (5-12) Save: Kevin Ginkel (23)
HR-KC: Daniel Murphy (15), Brett Phillips (25) HR-LAA: Hanley Ramirez (9), Francisco Cervelli (5), Jeimer Candelario (14)

TIGERS TAKE FIRST GAME

The Detroit Tigers topped the Kansas City Royals by the score of 8-5, with the largest share of the credit going to first baseman Hanley Ramirez. Ramirez was 2-4 with a home run and a double. He scored 2 runs and drove in 3 for the Tigers. Kevin Ginkel was credited with the save. He has now successfully converted 23 of 27 save opportunities. The last-place Tigers now have a win-loss record of 67-83.

Ramirez contributed a big hit, a 3-run home run, for Detroit in the bottom of the third. With his team trailing 4-2, Ramirez took a fastball from Danny Duffy and stroked the home run to left. His 9th home run of the season allowed the Tigers to leap in front, 5-4.

"I was able to barrel up some pitches," said Ramirez.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Kansas City (80-71) 5, Detroit (67-83) 8
Boston (70-81) 7, Texas (65-85) 0
Tampa Bay (91-59) 2, Chi. Sox (68-82) 5
Cleveland (85-66) 4, Houston (105-46) 7

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
San Francisco (72-78) 5, Washington (87-63) 2
LA Dodgers (84-66) 5, Cincinnati (52-99) 1
Miami (62-89) 3, Atlanta (85-65) 1
Pittsburgh (87-63) 5, NY Mets (74-76) 4
Colorado (61-89) 1, Chi. Cubs (90-61)

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Giants place 3B Evan Longoria (knee) placed on 15-day IL

Tuesday, September 22nd, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Kansas City (80-72) 1, Detroit (68-83) 15
Winner: Matt Boyd (9-7) Loser: Luiz Gohara (7-9) Save: Matt Manning (1)
HR-KC: Maikel Franco (9) HR-LAA: Willi Castro 2 (3)

SECOND INNING DOOMS K.C.

Willi Castro knocked in 4 runs to help Detroit beat Kansas City, 15-1. The shortstop collected 1 single, 1 double, and 2 home runs. Matt Manning converted his 1st save in 1 tries. Detroit now has a 3-game win streak.

The Tigers picked up the win with a combination of good hitting and good pitching.

Said Kansas City manager Mike Matheny: "We got our rear ends kicked."

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Texas (66-85) 5, Baltimore (55-97) 3
St. Louis (64-87) 4, Toronto (69-81) 3
NY Yankees (84-67) 0, Tampa Bay (92-59) 2
Kansas City (80-72) 1, Detroit (68-83) 15
Chi. Sox (69-82) 8, Minnesota (80-71) 4
Oakland (59-93) 7, Seattle (74-78) 2
Cleveland (85-67) 6, Houston (106-46) 7

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
LA Angels (92-58) @ Philadelphia (72-78) -- PPD (Rain)
Pittsburgh (87-64) 1, NY Mets (75-76) 6
San Francisco (72-79) 3, Washington (88-63) 4
LA Dodgers (84-67) 4, Cincinnati (53-99) 5
Miami (62-90) 4, Atlanta (86-65) 5
Colorado (61-90) 2, Chi. Cubs (91-61) 4
Boston (70-82) 3, Milwaukee (75-77) 6
San Diego (78-72) 10, Arizona (72-80) 0

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Dodgers LHP Julio Urias (elbow) to miss rest of season, and entire 2021 season after TJ surgery
Rays OF Austin Meadows to miss rest of season (and postseason) after broken kneecap
Twins sign IF Ehire Adrianza to four-year, $23M extension through 2024

Wednesday, September 23rd, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Kansas City (80-73) 3, Detroit (69-83) 4 (Final/10)
Winner: Kevin Ginkel (3-2) Loser: Josh Staumont (1-2) Save: None
HR-KC: Bubba Starling (7) HR-LAA: Miguel Cabrera (6), Kevin Pillar (16)

ROYALS SWEPT IN WALK-OFF

The Detroit Tigers faced a tough opponent in Kansas City pitcher Jose De Leon, but did just enough to pull out the victory at Comerica Park by a final score of 4-3. De Leon went 8 innings and allowed 3 earned runs. The winner was Kevin Ginkel in relief. His record improves to 3-2. Josh Staumont took the loss. The Royals, at 80-73, have lost 4 in a row.

Miguel Cabrera, who led the AL in slugging percentage with .636 in 2013, chipped in for Detroit with a solo home run in the bottom of the tenth. For the game, the designated hitter had 2 hits in 5 at-bats with 1 home run, 1 single, 2 runs scored, and 1 RBI.

"Exhilarating win," said Cabrera.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Texas (67-85) 8, Baltimore (55-98) 2
St. Louis (64-88) 4, Toronto (70-81) 5
NY Yankees (84-68) 4, Tampa Bay (93-59) 7
Kansas City (80-73) 3, Detroit (69-83) 4 (Final/10)
Chi. Sox (69-83) 4, Minnesota (81-71) 6
Oakland (60-93) 3, Seattle (74-79) 2 (Final/12)
Cleveland (85-68) 2, Houston (107-46) 4

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
LA Angels (93-58) 1, Philadelphia (72-79) 0 (G1)
LA Angels (94-58) 4, Philadelphia (72-80) 2 (G2, Final/13)
Pittsburgh (88-64) 4, NY Mets (75-77) 2
San Francisco (72-80) 2, Washington (89-63) 7
LA Dodgers (85-67) 9, Cincinnati (53-100) 5 (Final/12)
Miami (63-90) 2, Atlanta (86-66) 1
Colorado (61-91) 3, Chi. Cubs (92-61) 4
Boston (70-83) 5, Milwaukee (76-77) 7
San Diego (79-72) 8, Arizona (72-81) 2

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Cincinnati places OF Phil Ervin (ankle) on 15-day IL; will miss one to two weeks
Oakland activates RHP James Kaprelian from 15-day IL

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

@@@

PITCHING MATCHUPS

09/25: RHP Jake Junis (13-9, 3.68) vs RHP Michael Kopech (6-9, 4.26)
09/26: LHP Danny Duffy (5-12, 5.10) vs LHP Carlos Rodon (5-14, 4.84)
09/27: RHP Tanner Roark (6-10, 4.58) vs RHP Matt Foster (4-12, 4.27)

GAME RECAPS

Friday, September 25th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Kansas City (81-73) 3, Chi. Sox (69-85) 2
Winner: Jake Junis (14-9) Loser: J.T. Brubaker (0-2) Save: Richard Lovelady (32)
HR-KC: None HR-CHW: Tim Anderson (14)

TIGERS TAKE FIRST GAME

Kansas City Royals starter Jake Junis turned in an exceptional performance against the Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field, resulting in a Kansas City win, 3-2. The third-place Royals raised their record to 81-73.

Had Brett Phillips not delivered a key base hit in the top of the seventh, the outcome might have been different. Instead, with two down and a runner on 2nd, Phillips hit a run-scoring single. That made the score 2-1, in favor of the Royals.

"I'm just looking for a good pitch that I can hit well," said Phillips. "And not try to do too much."

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
NY Yankees (85-69) 3, Baltimore (57-98) 7
Kansas City (81-73) 3, Chi. Sox (69-85) 2
LA Angels (96-58) 7, Tampa Bay (93-61) 6
Cleveland (86-69) 4, Detroit (70-84) 5
Toronto (71-82) 6, Boston (70-84) 2
San Diego (81-72) 4, Minnesota (82-72) 0
Oakland (61-93) 5, Houston (107-47) 3 (Final/10)
Texas (67-87) 3, Seattle (75-79) 5

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Chi. Cubs (92-62) 4, Pittsburgh (90-64) 5 (Final/12)
Philadelphia (72-82) 0, NY Mets (76-78) 1 (Final/10)
Washington (89-65) 10, Atlanta (88-66) 11 (Final/11)
LA Dodgers (85-68) 0, Miami (64-90) 2
Cincinnati (54-100) 4, Milwaukee (76-78) 1
San Francisco (73-80) 9, Colorado (61-92) 8 (Final/10)
St. Louis (66-88) 7, Arizona (72-83) 4

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Rays place RHP Peter Fairbanks (back) on 15-day IL; retro to 09/24/2020
Rangers place LHP Joe Palumbo (tricep) on 15-day IL; retro to 09/24/2020

Saturday, September 26th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Kansas City (82-73) 6, Chi. Sox (69-86) 2
Winner: Danny Duffy (6-12) Loser: Carlos Rodon (5-15) Save: Richard Lovelady (33)
HR-KC: Maikel Franco (10), Bubba Starling (8) HR-CHW: Alcides Escobar (1)

DUFFY DOMINATES AS ROYALS WIN SECOND STRAIGHT

The Kansas City Royals got a stellar performance from pitcher Danny Duffy, who handcuffed the Chicago offense en route to a 6-2 win at Guaranteed Rate Field. Richard Lovelady was credited with the save. He has now successfully converted 33 of 35 save opportunities. The last-place White Sox have lost 4 consecutive games.

Kansas City relied on the hitting of Maikel Franco to pick up the win. The third baseman clubbed a 2-run home run in the top of the fourth inning to put the Royals on top, 4-0. For the game, Franco had 1 home run and 1 single in 4 at-bats.

"We cashed in when we had the chance," said Kansas City manager Mike Matheny.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
NY Yankees (86-69) 4, Baltimore (57-99) 3
Kansas City (82-73) 6, Chi. Sox (69-86) 2
LA Angels (96-59) 2, Tampa Bay (94-61) 6
Cleveland (86-70) 2, Detroit (71-84) 7
Toronto (71-83) 3, Boston (71-84) 12
San Diego (82-72) 10, Minnesota (82-73) 4
Oakland (61-94) 11, Houston (108-47) 13 (Final/12)
Texas (68-87) 5, Seattle (75-80) 2

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Chi. Cubs (92-63) 1, Pittsburgh (91-64) 2
Philadelphia (73-82) 8, NY Mets (76-79) 2
Washington (90-65) 7, Atlanta (88-67) 5 (Final/11)
LA Dodgers (85-69) 4, Miami (65-90) 5
Cincinnati (54-101) 3, Milwaukee (77-78) 10
San Francisco (74-80) 6, Colorado (61-93) 3
St. Louis (66-89) 3, Arizona (73-83) 4

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Braves RHP Mike Soroka to return to Atlanta rotation; will be playoff-eligible

Sunday, September 27th, 2020 - First pitch, 1:05 CST
Kansas City (83-73) 3, Chi. Sox (69-86) 2
Winner: Tanner Roark (7-10) Loser: Matt Foster (4-13) Save: Bryan Brickhouse (4)
HR-KC: None HR-CHW: Brian Dozier (17)

ROYALS HANG ON LATE FOR SWEEP

The Kansas City Royals topped the Chicago White Sox, 3-2, in American League action at Guaranteed Rate Field. The player of the game was Kansas City pitcher and Wilmington, Illinois native Tanner Roark. Kansas City has now won 3 in a row.

Kansas City used the timely hitting of Daniel Murphy to seize the win. The first baseman stroked a 2-run single in the top of the fifth inning to put the Royals on top, 3-0. It was his only hit in 4 at-bats, but it was a game-changer.

"Baseball is about momentum," said Roark, "and we feel we've got it in our favor after that win."

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
NY Yankees (86-70) 1, Baltimore (58-99) 2
Kansas City (83-73) 3, Chi. Sox (69-87) 2
LA Angels (97-59) 6, Tampa Bay (94-62) 3
Cleveland (86-71) 4, Detroit (72-84) 6
Toronto (72-83) 6, Boston (71-85) 2
San Diego (82-73) 3, Minnesota (83-73) 5
Oakland (61-95) 2, Houston (109-47) 9 (Final/12)
Texas (69-87) 5, Seattle (75-81) 3

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Chi. Cubs (93-63) 9, Pittsburgh (91-65) 4
Philadelphia (74-82) 4, NY Mets (76-80) 3 (Final/11)
Washington (91-65) 6, Atlanta (88-68) 2 (Final/11)
LA Dodgers (86-69) 20, Miami (65-91) 3
Cincinnati (54-102) 5, Milwaukee (78-78) 7
San Francisco (75-80) 9, Colorado (61-94) 1
St. Louis (66-90) 3, Arizona (74-83) 6

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Oakland RHP James Kaprelian re-injures forearm; shut down for rest of season
Giants CF Starling Marte (ankle) placed on 15-day IL
Cardinals claim LHP Fernando Abad off waivers from Boston

[artoodeetoo]

Re: Royal Rebuild [OOTP 19]

@@@

PITCHING MATCHUPS

09/29: LHP Wade Miley (9-9, 4.51) vs RHP Jose De Leon (12-4, 3.05)
09/30: RHP Julio Teheran (7-6, 4.77) vs RHP Jake Junis (14-9, 3.64)
10/01: RHP Jake Odorizzi (14-11, 4.62) vs RHP Brad Keller (9-9, 4.35)

GAME RECAPS

Tuesday, September 29th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Minnesota (83-74) 2, Kansas City (84-73) 3
Winner: Jose De Leon (13-4) Loser: Gabriel Moya (0-1) Save: Richard Lovelady (34)
HR-MIN None HR-CHW: Nicky Lopez (4)

DE LEON, ROYALS CONTINUE TO CLOSE GAP

In a low-scoring clash between Kansas City and Minnesota, pitcher Jose De Leon was the difference-maker. The right-hander earned player of the game honors for Kansas City in the 3-2 win, striking out nine over seven innings. The winning streak has now reached four games for Kansas City, coming on the heels of a four-game losing streak last week.

Nicky Lopez went 2-for-5 in the contest, including a homerun to lead off the bottom of the first inning. It's his first career leadoff homerun, and also doubled and drove in the go-ahead run in the Royals' two-run seventh.

Hunter Dozier aided the Kansas City cause with a run-scoring walk later on in the bottom of the seventh. It was the only time he reached base, but it gave the Royals enough cushion to withstand a Twins rally in the eighth.

"Feels good to get the job done," Dozier said after the game.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Tampa Bay (94-64) 5, NY Yankees (88-70) 6
Minnesota (83-74) 2, Kansas City (84-73) 3
Baltimore (58-100) 0, Boston (73-85) 3
Arizona (74-84) 7, Cleveland (87-71) 11
Houston (110-47) 6, Texas (69-88) 1
Detroit (72-85) 0, Chi. Sox (70-87) 4
Seattle (75-82) 2, LA Angels (98-59) 6
Toronto (73-84) 10, Oakland (61-96) 4

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Milwaukee (78-79) 5, Pittsburgh (92-65) 10
Atlanta (88-69) 0, Philadelphia (75-82) 1
NY Mets (77-80) 6, Miami (65-92) 4
Cincinnati (55-102) 4, St. Louis (66-91) 1
Washington (91-67) 1, Chi. Cubs (95-63) 3
San Diego (83-74) 1, San Francisco (76-81) 2
Colorado (61-96) 2, LA Dodgers (88-69) 5

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Indians OF Derek Dietrich agrees to four-year, $40MM extension
Cincinnati IF Nick Senzel activated from 15-day IL
Seattle RHP Chaz Roe activated from 15-day IL

Saturday, September 30th, 2020 - First pitch, 7:05 CST
Kansas City (82-73) 6, Chi. Sox (69-86) 2
Winner: Danny Duffy (6-12) Loser: Carlos Rodon (5-15) Save: Richard Lovelady (33)
HR-KC: Maikel Franco (10), Bubba Starling (8) HR-CHW: Alcides Escobar (1)

ROYALS MAKE IT FIVE STRAIGHT; EYE DIVISION LEAD

The Kansas City Royals topped the Minnesota Twins, 8-6, in American League action at Kauffman Stadium. The player of the game was Kansas City pitcher Luiz Gohara, who pitched six and one-third innings in relief of starter Jake Junis, who laid a rare egg with six earned runs in less than two innings. Kansas City has run its win streak to five in a row as they continue their late season push for the postseason.

Had Daniel Murphy not delivered a key base hit in the bottom of the eighth, the outcome might have been different. Instead, with two down and a runner on third base, Murphy hit a run-scoring single. That made the score 7-6, in favor of the Royals, and they didn't look back.

"We're stringing together some nice wins," said Kansas City manager Mike Matheny. "We're coming together at the right time."

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Tampa Bay (94-65) 9, NY Yankees (89-70) 10
Minnesota (83-75) 6, Kansas City (85-73) 8
Baltimore (59-100) 8, Boston (73-86) 2
Arizona (75-84) 2, Cleveland (87-72) 1
Houston (110-48) 1, Texas (70-88) 1
Detroit (72-86) 5, Chi. Sox (71-87) 11
Seattle (75-83) 3, LA Angels (99-59) 7
Toronto (73-85) 3, Oakland (62-96) 5

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Milwaukee (79-79) 6, Pittsburgh (92-66) 4
Atlanta (89-69) 11, Philadelphia (75-83) 8
NY Mets (78-80) 7, Miami (65-93) 1
Cincinnati (55-103) 3, St. Louis (67-91) 5
Washington (92-67) 6, Chi. Cubs (95-64) 4
San Diego (84-74) 3, San Francisco (76-82) 1
Colorado (62-96) 5, LA Dodgers (88-70) 4

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Mariners place RHP Justin Dunn (torn rotator cuff) on 60-day IL, could miss 2021 season

Sunday, October 1st, 2020 - First pitch, 1:05 CST
Kansas City (83-73) 3, Chi. Sox (69-86) 2
Winner: Tanner Roark (7-10) Loser: Matt Foster (4-13) Save: Bryan Brickhouse (4)
HR-KC: None HR-CHW: Brian Dozier (17)

ROYALS ELIMINATE TWINS FROM CONTENTION AGAIN

Despite a fine performance by third baseman Ehire Adrianza, the Minnesota Twins suffered a 7-3 loss to the Kansas City Royals. Adrianza went 2 for 3 with a double, while adding 2 RBI and scoring once. Kansas City reliever Connor Sadzeck picked up the win, bumping his record to 3-0. Kyle Gibson was collared with the loss. This win makes it 6 in a row for Kansas City, as they eliminated the Twins from playoff contention for the second year in a row.

Jorge Soler, who is tied for 2nd in the AL in RBI with 120, chipped in for Kansas City with a 2-run home run in the bottom of the fifth. For the game, the designated hitter had 2 hits in 5 at-bats with 1 home run, 1 single, 1 run scored, and 2 RBI.

"We're obviously playing with a lot of confidence," said Kansas City manager Mike Matheny. "The story is still yet to be written."

A week ago, most thought the Royals would be better off trying for the wildcard; but the Indians have lost eight of their last ten, enabling the Royals and Twins back into the divisional race in recent days.

AMERICAN LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Minnesota (83-76) 3, Kansas City (86-73) 7
Houston (110-49) 5, LA Angels (100-59) 11
Detroit (73-86) 3, Chi. Sox (71-88) 2 (Final/10)
Seattle (75-84) 1, Texas (71-88) 12
Toronto (73-86) 4, Oakland (63-96) 8

NATIONAL LEAGUE SCOREBOARD
Milwaukee (80-79) 3, Pittsburgh (92-67) 1
Atlanta (89-70) 1, Philadelphia (76-83) 6
NY Mets (79-80) 7, Miami (65-94) 0
Cincinnati (55-104) 0, St. Louis (68-91) 4
San Diego (85-74) 7, San Francisco (76-83) 1
Colorado (62-97) 2, LA Dodgers (89-70) 7

MAJOR NEWS/TRANSACTIONS
Houston places RHP Collin McHugh (forearm) on 15-day IL; status for playoffs in doubt