The Royals lost to the Twins 8-1 in Minnesota, taking two of four at the Metrodome. But, they may have lost more than the game. Starting pitcher Kevin Appier left the game with tightness in his elbow after two innings of work. He’ll be examined tomorrow. Graeme Lloyd replaced Appier to start the third inning and proceeded to give up three runs. Matthew LeCroy and Jacque Jones drove in runs with singles while Corey Koskie had a sacrifice fly RBI. That made it 4-1 Twins. The Royals had a tough time getting their bat on the ball, striking out 14 times on Sunday. Desi Relaford’s second-inning homer was their only tally of the day. Kansas City trails Chicago by one game. The Twins are a game and a half back.
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