The Royals survived another bad outing by the bullpen, but Jerry Spradlin didn’t. Kansas City built an 8-0 lead on the Twins and led 8-2 when starter Mac Suzuki left after seven innings. Minnesota scored two runs in the 8th against Andy Larkin, and three runs in the 9th against Jerry Spradlin. Ricky Bottalico gave up two more hits before finally getting the final out in an 8-7 Royals win. After the game, the Royals released Spradlin, and called up minor leaguer Scott Mullen. Manager Tony Muser says Spradlin wouldn’t have returned next year, and they wanted to look at Mullen. Mike Sweeney drove in 3 runs, giving him 121 on the year. The Royals play in Tampa Bay tonight.
