Disaster

Jeremy Affeldt was tough on himself after this 8-7 loss. Justifiably so. His error, and his lack of ability to throw strikes, cost the Royals the game today. I still haven't heard why MacDougal wasn't brought into the game with the bases loaded in the ninth with one out. The speculation was that he was hurt. I sure hope that is the case because giving Shawn Camp the ball in a situation like that makes no sense whatsoever otherwise.

Beyond Affeldt's poor performance, something else really bugged me about this game—watching J.P. Howell's mannerisms in the dugout after he was removed from the game. No doubt about it, he pitched a great game—good enough to get a W in Yankee Stadium. But the fact is, he did need to come out after 6 innings. He'd thrown 91 pitches already and he put the fate of the game into the hands of the bullpen—and they've been excellent of late.

But what bothered me was Howell's clear agitation that he might not get credited with a win. He looked highly upset when Affeldt loaded the bases. And after Camp gave up the lead, Howell left the railing at the top of the steps and went to sit down—looking even more upset. Finally, after the Royals blew the game, Howell appeared to be the last Royal to leave the dugout.

Here's the deal, J.P. A real teammate might be irritated at blown lead, but unless the loss was due to a lack of hustle or by someone who didn't have his head in the game, then you at least give the appearance of supporting your teammates—especially those who are struggling. And a good teammate certainly doesn't sulk simply because he didn't get a W next to his name.

This one is going to hurt for a long while. And unfortunately, Baird hasn't left enough veterans on this team to demand that these guys stick together as a team. Instead, we have a bunch of young guys who seem more concerned about their stats and ultimately their next big contract than they do with making this a good team.

Not exactly a recipe for success.