Royals first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz hasn’t been in the lineup since July 25. He’s been out nursing a sore lower back, but did participate in batting practice before Monday’s game.
Manager Buddy Bell isn’t expecting Mientkiewicz to be in the lineup any time soon. Kansas City acquired another first baseman Ryan Shealy in trade with the Rockies. Mike Sweeney, who also plays first base when not the designated hitter, returned from the disabled earlier this month.