Cardinals Strike Back

Game Date: June 13, 2007
Cardinals 7, Royals 3 / Box Score
WP: Wainwright (5-5), LP: Perez (3-7)
Royal Home Runs: Gordon (4)
Royals Record: 25-41

Odalis Perez is probably sympathizing with Brad Thompson this morning. Two nights ago, Thompson was hit hard by the Royals in the early innings. Last night, it was Perez's turn.

In the second inning, Perez gave up five runs on five hits and the Royals never recovered. In fact, Adam Wainwright took a no hitter into the sixth inning, but even after Esteban German broke it up, the Royals managed little offense until Alex Gordon took Tyler Johnson deep, and I do mean deep, in the ninth inning--a three run shot.

Odalis Perez has kept the Royals in a lot of games this year, but his rising ERA (6.19) and WHIP (1.67) have to be a concern. And you have to wonder what will happen when Luke Hudson returns. Scott Elarton isn't pitching well right now, but over the long haul, I'd chose Elarton over Perez. Meche, Bannister, and De La Rosa are secure.

Unfortunately, the injuries are starting to pile up for KC. Mark Grudzielanek left the game two days ago with a sore back. He's day to day. Sweeney fell down on his way to first last night and injured his back. He's listed as day to day, but how can you not hear the word "back" in the same sentence as "Sweeney" without cringing? Brandon Duckworth injured his ribs on the left side of his body last night. He's supposed to have an MRI today, but he's DL bound.

Tonight, the Royals will try to win their second straight series at home. Scott Elarton (2-2, 7.34) goes up against Kip Wells (2-10, 6.33). Elarton is 4-3 in his career against the Cardinals with a 4.30 ERA. Wells is 3-2 against the Royals with an 8.75 ERA.