KANSAS CITY -- It's not often the home crowd applauds after a strikeout, but that's exactly what happened on Monday night. As Whit Merrifield walked back to the dugout, Royals fans recognized him for a 19-game hitting streak, which ended after going 0-for-5 in a 7-3 loss to the Astros.
The career-high streak was the longest in the Major Leagues this season by two games. Merrifield batted .409 (27-for-66) during the stretch. However, the end of his run came in Merrifield's first game occupying the leadoff spot.
"Quickest way to end a 19-game streak is to move him into the leadoff spot," manager Ned Yost said.