Orioles SP Shane Baz hasn’t been sharp, but when he has been, it’s been away from Camden Yards. That checks with the last couple years; he’s nearly two runs better. That would be good here in KC vs. a struggling Royals lineup. Meanwhile, the O’s can get to Kris Bubic, who’s given up 4-5 runs in his last two starts not vs. the White Sox, and a bullpen that has a 6.53 ERA the last two weeks.
It's not easy backing a Royals team that only has 7 wins in their first 23 games, but I think we've got a good spot to lean on a Royals First Five. As usual, I'm leaning on the pitching matchup with Kris Bubic over Shane Baz. Bubic hasn't been great to start the season, but his metrics are far more favorable than Baz. The Royal bats have been quiet, but they do fare better against righties and Baz allows enough baserunners that I think we get a Royals First Five winner.
Taveras is absent from the lineup for Monday's game in Tampa Bay.
Cowser is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Rays, Jake Rill of MLB.com reports.
Beavers is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Rays, Jake Rill of MLB.com reports.
The Royals reinstated Pasquantino (wrist) from the 10-day injured list Monday.
The Royals reinstated Garcia (hand) from the 10-day injured list Monday.
Triple-A Norfolk placed Trimble on the 7-day injured list Friday due to right hamstring discomfort, Andy Kostka of TheBanner.com reports.
The Royals outrighted Morgan to Triple-A Omaha on Sunday.
Massey went 3-for-4 with a solo home run in Sunday's 3-0 win over the Angels.
Cameron (7-8) earned the win Sunday, allowing a hit and a walk over nine scoreless innings against the Angels. He struck out eight.
Witt went 1-for-5 with a solo home run in Sunday's 3-0 win over the Angels.
