Gamethread 78: Royals at Padres

A chance to take another series on the road

The Royals have bounced back in a major way after an 0-6 homestand. They went down to Texas and swept the Rangers in 3 games, a road sweep against them for the first time since 2003. It was also their first series win in Arlington since 2014.

They promptly traveled out west and took game one in San Diego against a good Padres team. Last night, their four-game winning streak was ended in a 5-1 defeat. However, they have already secured a winning road trip. A win today would mark a great trip and set them up for 6 huge games next week back at the K against the surging Rays and defending champs, the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Seth Lugo was fantastic on Tuesday night in Texas to kick off the road trip, he will try and end the road trip in similar fashion, matching up against his former club. On Tuesday, Lugo went 6 innings, allowed three hits, one walk and one run, while striking out nine.

The Royals got shut down last night by Dylan Cease, who has been solid at home this season for the Padres. They will look to right the ship and take the series and put them at 39-39 heading back home. They have gained ground in the division and wild card picture on this trip.

Here is the lineup behind Seth Lugo today for the Royals.

The Padres come into today’s contest at 41-35. Right hander Randy Vasquez will be getting the start. Vasquez is 3-4 on the season, with an ERA of 3.70, he has struck out 43 batters in 73 innings. He gave up three runs in five innings in his last start against the Dodgers. He started against the Royals in Kansas City last year and won. He went 5 innings, giving up 4 hits and three runs while striking out five. The Padres won that game 7-3. Vinnie Pasquantino homered off Vasquez.

Here is the lineup the Padres will send out in support of Randy Vasquez. Padres superstar outfielder Jackson Merrill will bat second and play centerfield, he was activated from the 7-day concussion IL this afternoon.

Hopefully it’s a happy flight home for the Royals heading into another Monday off day.