The Royals are hopelessly trudging through the rest of the season. Playoff chances are realistically gone, so the only thing they’re playing for is pride and being a spoiler for some other playoff hopeful.
Things got worse for the Royals and Mark Grudzielanek (depending on how he views it). A lower back strain has caused so much pain that the first baseman has opted for surgery that will end the rest of his season. Grudzielanek has been on the disabled list since July 26, and his back hasn’t progressed in that time.