The Royals are back at it tonight on the South Side of Chicago versus the White Sox. Entering tonight’s contest, the Royals are 19-24 and tied for third in the American League Central. The Pale Hose, meanwhile, are 21-21 and in second place in the AL Central, just a game-and-a-half behind the inevitable Guardians.
Chicago’s won both games of this current series, taking the opener Tuesday night 6-5 before winning last night’s game, also 6-5. What are the odds of another 6-5 Chicago victory tonight?
I don’t know the answer, that’s why I’m asking.
Last season, the Royals smoked the White Sox in their season series, going 10-3 while outscoring Chicago 61-37.
This season, that has not happened. Instead, through six games, the White Sox have the upper hand, going 4-2, including a four-game split at Kauffman in April, while outscoring the Royals by a single run, 20-19.
It sure would be nice for the Royals to win this evening. 20-24 isn’t great but it’s a lot easier on the eyes than 19-25.
And, yes, it’s somewhat personal: I have yet to write a winning recap for the Royals as they’ve lost every Thursday on which they’ve played in 2026. They are 0-5 on Thursdays. Was it something I said?
Let’s take a look at the lineups.
First, the Royals, who take on lefty Anthony Kay:
Ah, yes, with the lefty on the mound, must sit Carter Jensen and Jac Caglianone while starting (and again batting third!) Lane Thomas.
Let’s check on Thomas’ 2026 splits. As we all know, he was signed to face lefthanders, so by Gawd, he’s going to face lefthanders. How’s he batting against them? .235/.409/.353 with a double, a homer, 10 walks, and seven strikeouts. Those are not the numbers of a) someone signed to hit lefthanders nor b) someone who should be batting third.
Lane Thomas, please make me regret those comments. I’d love to eat my words.
Now, the White Sox, who face fellow southpaw Kris Bubic:
Hey, Randal Grichuk gets the start! Thought about him the other day. When he started for the Cardinals, it looked like he and fellow young outfielder Stphen Piscotty would be stars for St. Louis for years to come. Unfortunately, as happens more often than not in baseball, that didn’t come to fruition for either player.
The White Sox are Grichuk’s seventh team since leaving the Cardinals, which includes, of course, a spell with the Royals last year. He has collected over 200 career home runs and more than 1,000 hits in his 13-year career. Overall, a solid career, despite not reaching stardom.
See you after the ballgame.
