May 6, 2023

By Fred Liggett
sports.lstribune08@gmail.com

On Tuesday, May 2 the Kansas City Royals returned home from a 10 game road trip to begin a season long 10 game homestand. When the Royals took the field on Tuesday night they began the second month of the 2023 MLB season. Since opening day the Royals and all of Major League Baseball has been playing the game under new rules.

Now a full month into the season players and managers are adjusting well to the changes made in the off season. For long time Royals fans they are having to make the same adjustment as they attend games this season. Jeff Robinson of Raytown isn’t sold yet on the changes so far saying “see how it goes.” Robinson adds “hate to see a game called on an infraction.”

Season ticket holder Ann Thompson of Kansas City, Missouri is sold on the new pace of play and larger bases now in effect. Ann states, “I like it, they are playing baseball.” If MLB decides to keep the changes around for a while Ann is okay with it “absolutely, keep things the same.” Ann really likes the quicker weeknight games saying “get home a little earlier.”

The home stand began this week with the Royals hosting the Baltimore Orioles for a three game set. Tuesday night’s first game started off well thanks to a three run first inning putting the Royals up 3-0. However a five run fourth by the visitors helped Baltimore take a lead en route a 11-7 win. Wednesday night the Royals benefitted by a strong start from starting pitcher Zack Grienke recorded their first shutout on the season in taking a 6-0 win.

After the Orioles left town on Thursday it’s the Oakland A’s in town for a three game series. The home stand ends next week with the Royals playing division rival Chicago White Sox in a four game set.

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