KANSAS CITY, MO. -- Bob Dutton, the fine beat writer for the Kansas City Star, just reminded me that the Twins swept four games from the Royals on their last trip to Kauffman Stadium.

I'd almost forgotten, but it's true. The Twins had just been through a three-game sweep in Detroit, just like this past weekend, and had sunk 20 games under .500. The Twins used that early June series in Kansas City to begin their climb back into the AL Central race.

Of course, the Twins have since dropped out of that race. They're sitting four games behind the Royals for fourth place.

Update: Justin Morneau has returned home to tend to a family matter. As for his concussion symptoms, he's been having good days and bad days. He wouldn't have played in this two-game series anyway.

Tom Kelly is back in the FSN booth for this series, subbing for Bert Blyleven as Dick Bremer's broadcast partner.

TWINS (59-87)

1. Ben Revere, CF
2. Trevor Plouffe, SS
3. Joe Mauer, 1B
4. Michael Cuddyer, RF
5. Jason Kubel, DH
6. Danny Valencia, 3B
7. Luke Hughes, 2B
8. Joe Benson, LF
9. Drew Butera, C

Starting pitcher: RH Carl Pavano (8-11, 4.52 ERA)

ROYALS (62-86)

1. Alex Gordon, LF
2. Melky Cabrera, CF
3. Billy Butler, DH
4. Eric Hosmer, 1B
5. Jeff Francoeur, RF
6. Mike Moustakas, 3B
7. Johnny Giavotella, 2B
8. Salvador Perez, C
9. Alcides Escobar, SS

Starting pitcher: LH Bruce Chen (10-7, 4.30 ERA)

Kauffman Stadium. First pitch: 7:10 p.m. TV: FSN. Twins Radio Network