Royals Look to Bounce Back After Dropping Series Opener in Houston

The Royals stumbled out of the gate last night, falling 4-2 to the Astros in a game where they couldn't generate enough offense to keep pace. Houston's bats did just enough damage while their pitching staff kept Kansas City's lineup in check when it mattered most. Now the Royals face the unenviable task of trying to salvage something from this road series against a Houston squad that's playing with plenty of confidence at home.

Kansas City's offense went quiet at the worst possible time yesterday, managing just two runs despite having opportunities to chip away. That's been the story too often on this trip—leaving runners stranded and failing to capitalize when the game's on the line. Meanwhile, the Astros looked comfortable, methodical, and more than happy to take care of business in front of their crowd.

The Royals need to find some urgency here. Houston isn't invincible, but they're not going to hand anything over either. If Kansas City can't string together better at-bats and get their starter to give them length, this series could get away from them in a hurry. The Astros have momentum, the home crowd, and the upper hand. The Royals better show up ready to scrap.