The Royals are looking to capitalise on their opening win. After going 2-2 in their first four games on the road, they have an opportunity to take at least one of the next two and end their road trip 3-3. A win would guarantee that record and give them a shot at gaining ground by sweeping the Mariners.
Lugo’s Mound Opportunity
Seth Lugo will be on the mound. Last time out, he allowed 6 runs in the first 2 innings. However, he managed to pitch 4.1 more innings, allowing only one additional run. He faced the Mariners last year, striking out 7 and allowing 1 run on 8 baserunners over 6 innings. This earned him a victory and gave the Royals a 4-game split in Seattle.
A similar performance could be meaningful for a Royals offense. The offense appears to have found some of its mojo in the last couple of weeks.
Hancock’s Challenge on the Mound
The Royals offense faces Emerson Hancock. Hancock has a 2.86 ERA in 34.2 innings across 6 starts. He seems to have finally figured himself out in the early-going of this season at age 27.
Hancock has allowed 7 home runs this season. While he’s been good at putting his four-seamer and sinker in the strike zone, all of his other pitches are often outside the zone. Only his four-seamer gets any whiffs.
Batting Order Remains Consistent
The Royals will use an identical batting order to last night’s. This is the first time since April 20 and 21 against the Orioles that they have done this. They’re 1-0 using this batting order.
The Royals have used 23 different lineups in their 33 games to start the year. The Mariners will reorganise with a righty on the mound.
Luke Raley and Dominic Canzone will be in for Connor Joe and Mit.