Seattle’s Justin Smoak hit a three-run home run and rookie pitcher James Paxton improved to 3-0, striking out ten in seven innings, as the Royals’ chances for a postseason appearance are in big trouble following their 4-0 loss.
With just five games remaining, time is running out. The Royals three opponents fighting for a wild-card spot, Tampa Bay, Texas and Cleveland, all won Tuesday. The Royals, down four games in the loss column to Cleveland, basically need to win every game and hope that both the Indians and the Rangers collapse. Â The Royals finish at Seattle Wednesday night, then conclude the season in Chicago.
Losing pitcher Bruce Chen summed up the Royals’ attitude. “We’re not quitting. We’re not giving up,” Chen said. “As long as we got a chance, we’re going to give it everything we can. Today was big game for us unfortunately. But that’s not going to stop us tomorrow.”
