KC Royals Lose to Twins 5-3

Jul 4, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals relief pitcher Joe Blanton (49) delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Minnesota Twins at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Happy birthday America! Your heartland hometown Royals (45-33) valiantly battled the Minnesota Twins (43-38) in Kansas City on the 4th of July, but came up short in a 5-3 loss.

Royals starting pitcher Joe Blanton (2-2 / 3.74) wobbled badly right out of the gate, giving up three runs in the first inning, including a two-run shot by Joe Mauer. He settled down for a few innings before giving up another run in the fifth. All told, Joe gave up four runs on nine hits — four for extra bases — and no walks in five innings.

The Royals offense sprang to life in the fifth when CF Lorenzo Cain (.309/.365/.467)  — who is playing out of his mind — served up a soft bases-loaded liner to left, scoring two. Then Kendrys Morales beat out a potential double-play grounder to drive in Mike Moustakas from 3B. But that would prove to be the end of Royals scoring (I struck out too), and an end to the joy. At least until the fireworks and heavy alcohol consumption kicks in full bore.

The Royals would generate nine hits and four walks on the night, but only one extra base hit – a double by (who else) Lorenzo Cain. Runs are hard to come by lately.

Royals reliever Brandon Finnegan gave up one run in relief, but three of his bullpen mates (Kelvin Herrera, Franklin Morales, and Jason Frasor) each made scoreless appearances.

Redemption can come quickly with a win on Sunday. Let’s go Royals!