Gamethread 83: Dodgers vs Royals

Potential to end up on the wrong side of franchise history

The Royals dropped their 6th straight contest last night 5-4 to the Dodgers. They had 18 base runners but were unable to drive any of them in after the 2nd inning. They loaded the bases with one out in the bottom of the 9th, but a first pitch 4-6-3 game ended double play from Jac Caglianone, left the Royals stunned and disappointed.

The Royals also tied a franchise record last night after losing their 11th straight home game. It has happened twice in franchise history. They haven’t won a home game yet this month. The Royals have two more chances to win a home game this month, with back-to-back afternoon games. They have lost 19 of their last 22 home games.

Seth Lugo, who has consistently been popping up in trade rumors lately, is coming off back-to-back phenomenal starts on the last road trip in Texas and San Diego. Lugo will look to lead the Royals to their first home win this month and snap a 6-game losing skid. The Royals are 4.5 games out of a Wild Card spot currently and 12.5 games out of first place in the division, they are 38-44 on the season.

Bobby Witt Jr. will get the half day off as the designated hitter. Maikel Garcia slides to shortstop and Nick Loftin will be at third base. Here is the rest of the Royals lineup and defensive positions.

The Dodgers are winners in 11 of their last 13 games. They are winning the NL West division currently with a 52-31 record. Shohei Ohtani will be their opener today, and bat leadoff. He will become the designated hitter after he departs as a pitcher, a rule that was made specifically for him. That’s not to say if some other two-way player came along, they couldn’t do that as well, but for now, it’s only for Ohtani, as he’s the only one to utilize it.

Here is the rest of the Dodgers lineup.

Hopefully the Royals can get one in the win column today, they are in desperate need of it. First pitch is at 3:10 p.m. central time.