Martinez’ Four RBI Sink Royals

Edgar Martinez leads the American League in runs batted in, and he displayed his knack to the Royals, driving in four runs in a 5-3 Seattle win. Martinez homered in the first off Kansas City starter Miguel Batista, who dropped to 2-6. The Royals trailed 5-1, before Johnny Damon homered in the 7th to make it 5-3, but that is as close as Kansas City could get. General manager Herk Robinson says he is tabling negotiations with Damon on a long-term contract, because Robinson doesn’t want contract talks to become a distraction. Damon is eligible for arbitration after this season, and becomes a free agent after next. The team is considering offering him a multi-year deal. The Royals host the Mariners again tonight, with Brett Laxton making his debut on the mound for Kansas City. He was acquired from Oakland this spring for Jeremy Giambi. Laxton was 3-4 with a 5.00 ERA at Triple-A Omaha. Gil Meche starts for Seattle.