The Royals spent a few minutes in first place just over a week ago but have retreated back to their mediocre ways. First baseman Eric Hosmer has been one of the culprits, as he was batting .188 over his past 41 games heading into Friday, with a .507 OPS.
• • •
Justin Masterson, who was expected to lead the Indians rotation, is 2-4 with a 6.94 ERA in his past nine starts. After another poor start on Tuesday, the Indians revealed that Masterson has a sore right knee and will miss his scheduled start at Seattle on Sunday.
• • •
Detroit's J.D. Martinez finally had an 0-fer, going hitless in five at-bats Thursday. But he entered the game with a 14-game hitting streak in which he hit .411 with six home runs and 17 RBI. The Tigers now believe they have four starting-caliber outfielders. And to think Houston released this guy.
• • •
What started during the series with the Twins last week ended Thursday when the White Sox shook up their bullpen. Veteran Scott Downs was designated for assignment after failing in a lefty specialist role. He was replaced with minor leaguer Eric Surkamp.
