Twins vs. Royals: Can KC Capitalize on Home Stand Momentum?

The Kansas City Royals are looking to finish their extended homestand on a high note as they open a three-game series against the Minnesota Twins tonight. After a mixed bag of results against the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Angels, the Royals are eager to gain ground in the American League wild-card race.

Kansas City (71-69) currently sits two games out of the final wild-card spot. Despite a recent slump, including losing two of three to both the Tigers and Angels, the Royals managed a comeback 4-3 victory on Thursday, powered by four solo home runs, to avoid a sweep by the Angels. Closer Carlos Estevez, who recorded his career-high 37th save, emphasized the need to "turn the page and keep attacking."

While the Royals have struggled to consistently score runs, totaling only 14 runs in their last six games with eight home runs, they remain optimistic that Thursday's win can spark a positive turnaround. Star player Bobby Witt Jr., who delivered a tiebreaking homer in the eighth inning on Thursday, expressed confidence in the team's potential for a strong run: "It's a new day, a new opportunity. We're in a good stretch here, gonna be playing some good ball."

Witt himself is looking to break out of a mini-slump, going just 2-for-13 in his last four games after an impressive 18-game hitting streak. Veteran Salvador Perez is also seeking to regain his form, batting .125 in his past nine games, although he did contribute with his 297th career home run on Thursday.

The Royals will rely on Michael Wacha (8-11, 3.52 ERA) as their starting pitcher for Friday's game. Wacha is looking to bounce back after a tough outing against the Tigers on Sunday, where he was knocked out in the fifth inning after giving up four runs. Prior to that game, he had a strong stretch, going 4-1 with a 2.45 ERA in his previous eight starts.

Can the Royals build on their momentum and capitalize on their home-field advantage against the Twins? Tune in to find out!