Wacha, Marsh, Ragans, and Lugo slated to face the Cleveland Baseball Team. Our starting pitching has the edge, but most (all?) other aspects favor Cleveland. As pivotal a series can be in June.
Originally Posted by : 3. Series Preview: Guardians @ Royals
A series between division rivals that could impact the AL playoff picture begins this evening when the Guardians head to Kauffman Stadium for a four-game set against the Royals. Both clubs have emerged as surprise contenders in the first half and spent much of the season vying for the AL Central lead. That dynamic has shifted in recent weeks, however, as Kansas City has struggled to a 9-14 record in the month of June to fall behind the Twins in the standings. The Guardians have seen their success continue with a 13-8 record.
That leaves the Royals tied with the Red Sox for the final AL Wild Card spot, while Cleveland still holds a comfortable eight-game lead in the division. A big series for Kansas City could reinforce their spot in the AL postseason picture while significantly chipping away at their deficit in the Central. Victory for the Guardians could see them pad their lead further while potentially pushing the Royals out a playoff spot headed into the second half. Tonight’s game, which is scheduled for 7:10pm local time, will pit Guardians righty Ben Lively (3.03 ERA) against Royals veteran Michael Wacha (4.07 ERA). The rest of the series will see the Royals send right-hander Alec Marsh (4.40 ERA), lefty Cole Ragans (3.03 ERA), and righty Seth Lugo (2.29 ERA) to the mound opposite Guardians hurlers Triston McKenzie (4.66 ERA), Tanner Bibee (3.50 ERA), and Logan Allen (5.72 ERA), respectively.
This will go a long ways to telling how we measure up, and the last few games haven't been too positive. Hoping for the best...sweep would be beautiful, 3 of 4 would work, hell even a split while not as effective would probably go a long ways to remaining in the playoff hunt.
I mean if the Royals have any shot at the division this is a series they need to win. I think that’s probably too lofty a goal for this team so I’m focusing on WC potential. To that end, a split would be fine. To not lose series to teams with a better record than you have is huge when going for a playoff spot. Now I hope we win 4 of 4 here but just trying to keep a reality based perspective [Reply]