The Pirates looked to grab their second straight win on the road in Kansas City on Tuesday, and had the benefit of sending their ace Gerrit Cole to the hill. Cole, who would be making his first start since the break, was looking for his league leading 14th win on the season.
Jason Vargas, a soft throwing LHP for the Royals was making his first start since June 8th, after recovering from injury. He would be tested early in the game. In the second inning, Starling Marte drove a ball down the left field line which bounced off the top of the wall and over the fence.