Royals Fall to Twins

Fresh off a dramatic walk-off win over the Angels, the Royals fell flat on their faces last night. Kansas City got embarrassed by the Twins, 8-2, as starting pitcher Sean O'Sullivan continued to struggle.

I'm not sure if it is possible for anyone to pitch as poorly as Sullivan has recently. He gave up five home runs in less than three innings of work last night, and he has struggled all season long. It is time for Kansas City to explore other options and to cut ties with Sullivan. He has proven he doesn't have what it takes to make it in the big leagues, and Kansas City has plenty of prospects ready for a shot.

The lone bright spot for Kansas City was Jeff Francoeur, who had a big day at the plate. Francoeur hit two doubles and a triple, and was responsible for batting in both of the Royals' runs. Francoeur now leads the team with 32 RBI, and continues to be a pleasant surprise for the team. Joakim Soria, in his first appearance since losing his closer role, retired all six batters he faced.

Kansas City will face the Twins again tonight at 7:10 PM. Carl Pavano, who has struggled this season, will get the start for Minnesota. Danny Duffy will get the start for the Royals, as he continues to search for his first major league victory.

Royals Wrap Up Series Vs. Rangers Today

The Royals wrap up a wild series with the Rangers today at 2:05. Today's game will serve as a rubber match, as Kansas City won the first game before getting blasted by Texas yesterday. Danny Duffy will take the mound for the Royals, seeking his first major league victory.

The series got off to an explosive start, as Kansas City rallied to take the first game 12-7 in 14 innings. The win snapped a six game losing streak, and was done in dramatic fashion. Alex Gordon unloaded a home run into the upper deck in the ninth inning to send the game to extras, before the Royals exploded in the 14th inning for five runs to seal the game. Melky Cabrera and Eric Hosmer hit back to back home runs to seal the victory for Kansas City, and Blake Wood picked up the win.

The Royals couldn't keep the momentum going last night, as Sean O'Sullivan got shelled in an embarrassing 10-1 loss. The loss had to be disheartening for Kansas City, coming off the heels of a big victory that could turn things around. Today's game provides the Royals with an opportunity to win a series, something it hasn't done in weeks.

Royals Fall to A's

The Royals' offense was flying high, and fireworks Friday at the K seemed like a good omen that Kansas City's bats would remain hot. However, Gio Gonzalez had other ideas. The young lefty baffled the Royals all night, and Kansas City fell to Oakland 3-2.

Kansas City wasted a great effort from Sean O'Sullivan, who only gave up three runs in eight innings of work. O'Sullivan gave up all of his runs in the deciding fifth inning, but otherwise was just as good as Gonzalez.

Eric Hosmer made his much anticipated debut to mixed results. He drew two walks and stole a base early, but ended up striking out in his final two plate appearances. Hosmer, who led the minor leagues in hitting, likely needs some time to adjust to major league pitching - and he should eventually provide Kansas City's offense with a boost.

The loss dropped Kansas City to 17-15 on the season, and the Royals currently sit alone in second place in the AL Central - five games behind the surprising Cleveland Indians.