The Royals lost to the Red Sox on Sunday 8-4, capping a week in which they went 2-5. Kansas City had a very good bullpen due to keeping them out of the game as much as possible, as they pitch about 31% of the Royals innings this season. This week, however, they pitched 23 of 61 innings, nearly 38%. Twice this week starters failed to get out of the third inning, and two other times they did not get out of the sixth. While the Royals did a great job of conserving the relievers, the starters may now be wearing down. In the end, Kansas City may wish the season was 20 games shorter.

It also goes to show that teams having down years can still be dangerous. The Red Sox can still play like winners once in a while.

Correction: Royals lost to the Red Sox.