Kansas City Royals: Fifth Postseason Picture Update

AL second wild card spot

Minnesota Twins

Overall record (through Sunday): 71-65

Last week: 4-2

This week: At Tampa Bay Rays (Mon.-Wed.); at Kansas City Royals (Thu.-Sun.)

The Twins had a golden opportunity to knock the Kansas City Royals out of the Wild Card race this past weekend and failed to do so. They will feel that was a missed opportunity that can’t be repeated.

This week presents two more chances for Minnesota to virtually eliminate a couple of its playoff challengers. First comes a road trip to Tampa Bay and then a trip to Kansas City with another chance to dent the Royals’ postseason hopes.

Minnesota’s formula hasn’t changed much over the course of this season. The Twins have consistently had an offense that puts up tons of runs, as showcased by 17 runs in a Saturday win over the Kansas City Royals. But this team will only go as far as its pitching will carry it. Ervin Santana, who has easily been the team’s best starter this season, had a solid showing on Sunday afternoon, but his bullpen let him down.

Even still, the Twins are undoubtedly the team to beat in the chase for the second Wild Card spot—and not just because they currently hold the position. We’ll see if they can turn that into a postseason bid.