Royals Report: The Offensive Magic Is Gone

5) Ian Kennedy Imploded The Third Time Through The Order

Ian Kennedy had allowed a mere one run through five innings and was locked in a pitching duel with Indians starter Josh Tomlin. 

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Then the roof caved in when he allowed four runs in the sixth inning while facing the Indians hitters for the third time on Saturday. Mike Napoli began the collapse with a one-out solo shot to put the Indians up 2-0.

Kennedy appeared to recover when he induced the second out of the inning from third baseman Jose Ramirez, but he gave up back to back doubles to Lonnie Chisenhall and Rajai Davis to put the Indians ahead 3-0. At this point it was clear that Davis would last no more than six innings, except Ned Yost attempted to get that last out from him.

The decision cost the KC Royals big time. Tyler Naquin followed Rajai Davis’ double with a home run to put the Indians ahead 5-1. Yes, Kennedy got out of the inning and “saved” the bullpen. But did getting another two outs really help when the team woke up on Sunday wallowing in another losing streak?

Down 2-0 the game was still winnable if Yost decided to use his prime relievers rather than getting stuck with “B” squad in Scott Alexander and Chien-Ming Wang. Instead, the Kansas City Royals lost 7-1 and look poised to fall back into a week of lousy play.

Next: James Shields