The Royals ran into another hot pitcher today, that pitched another complete game, 3 hit, 1 run event here in Kansas City. This has to be getting on the short nerves of the club, and management, as this is the second time in less than a week that the Royals have fallen to a complete game low hit outing from the opposition.
Hochevar pitched a good game, all things considered, but still gave up to many runs in order to pick a win. It was the 3rd inning that did him in. He gave up a 3-run shot to Markakis, that would end up being the difference.
As it was the last time the club met a hot pitcher, it was the bottom of the lineup that did what little damage that could be done against Cabrera. That is another reason for concern. The power and OBP for this team is lacking. When the bats are there, or patience is shown at the plate, the Royals do very well at moving guys around the bases, but without base runners there is not a whole lot that can be done.
This division is looking a little weak, and wouldn’t take but a 3 or 4 game win streak to bring this team right in the mix for the lead in the Central. However, their record falls to another game behind .500 at 15-19. This is a long 4 game series, and taking the rest would help their cause tremendously.