The Royals open a huge series this week against the Guardians, who are still clinging to a 3.5 games lead over the Royals and Twins. The Royals will host both the Guardians and Twins this week, so the standings could look very different by next Monday.
The Royals will be without manager Matt Quatraro today, who is attending a personal matter. Bench coach Paul Hoover skippers the club. Michael Wacha gets the start - he has a 2.90 ERA since the All-Star break. For the first time this year, Bobby Witt Jr. will not start at shortstop.
Here's how we're opening up the homestand with Michael Wacha taking the mound.