Injuries and changes

Game Date: September 2, 2009
Kansas City @ Oakland
A’s 10, Royals 4 / Box Score
WP: Cahill (8-12), LP: Bannister (7-12)
KC Home Runs: Jacobs (17)
Royals Record: 51-82 / Record in September 1-1

The nightmare season is almost over. One month to go. But it could be a long one.

Brian Bannister says he hasn’t been right since his start in Tampa on August 2. He left the game this afternoon in the second inning with soreness in his back and shoulder and from the way he’s talking, he might benefit from some time on the DL. I’d much rather see him do that then keep trying to fight through this and end up with a serious injury.

Jose Guillen, who just returned from an injury, left the game in the sixth inning with soreness in his right hamstring. All the more reason to give Mitch Maier more playing time. What’s it going to hurt?

Yasuhiko Yabuta gave up five earned runs in one inning. Doesn’t really matter in the big scheme of things. Presumably, there’s no chance the Royals will resign him next season.

In fact, several changes look to be in store for next season. According to an article by Bob Dutton, there’s a good chance that neither John Buck nor Miguel Olivo will be with Kansas City and the jury is still out regarding Brayan Pena. So, Dayton Moore will have to go catcher shopping this off season. There isn’t much in Omaha. Coco Crisp probably won’t be back—or if he is, it’ll be for less money. And hopefully most of the bullpen will be released.

The Royals are off tomorrow. That’s probably not a bad thing.