Detroit carried only Tyler Holton as a lefty option during the recent series against the Houston Astros, whose lineup is right-handed heavy. Two other southpaws, Brant Hurter and Bailey Horn, were optioned to Toledo earlier this month and won’t be eligible to return until September.

The Royals lost to the Texas Rangers on Wednesday to remain 2.5 games back in the wild card race, but Vinnie Pasquantino put together a solid offensive performance.

A team hanging by the thread of its pitching staff has woven together a monthlong offensive powerhouse.

Check-it: "Republican Kansas State Senate President Ty Masterson says he thinks there's a good chance both the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals move to his side of the state line. "His comments come a week and a half after multiple sources confirmed a deal had been reached for a Royals affiliate to take ownership of the old Sprint headquarters,

All-Star Casey Mize will look to extend his August winning streak to four as the Detroit Tigers open a three-game home series against the Kansas City Royals on Friday.

Fans will have multiple opportunities this week to see if the Royals can make up ground in the race when the team plays host to the Nationals and White Sox. As usual, the Royals’ six games this week are on FanDuel Sports Kansas City and Sunday’s game also will be simulcast on two local stations in Kansas City.