Houchvar has won three of his last four starts. In his most recent outing, he limited Detroit to four hits and three walks, while striking out five over six innings of a 2-0 victory Wednesday.
Lester gave up two runs and five hits over 6 innings in his last start in Baltimore. The Sox lost and Lester took his 6th ND of the season. Despite earning just one decision (a win over the Rays) in his last 7 starts, Lester has pitched well, allowing 3 runs or less in his last four outings.The Red Sox have won three straight after losing 4 straight to the Twins and Orioles. During that time the Royals swept the Tigers and took 2 of 3 from the Marlins over the weekend.
That said, the Royals are dead last in the AL with just 165 runs scored, while the Red Sox lead the way with 239. The Sox also lead the majors with a .295 BA, while the Royals are hitting .264... But but pitching staffs are in the middle of the pack with 4.27 (Royals) and 4.21 (Red Sox) team ERAs.
Guys to Watch
Manny is batting .334 with 37 homers and 112 RBIs in 113 games against the Royals... He's also riding a five game hitting steak, but that streak is full of one hit games and just two extra base hits.
Julio Lugo is batting .349 with 15 doubles, 2 homers and 21 RBI against the Royals... Alex Cora is batting jus .100 in 30 at-bats, so expect Lugo to be in there tonight.
Jose Gullien is batting .500 (19-38) in his last 10 games. During that span he has had 7 multi-hit games and 2 three-hit games, as well as 2 ding dongs and 15 RBI.
2B Mark Grudzielanek has also been hot for the Royals. He leads the team with a .331 BA and was 5-8 in the last two games against the Marlins. He also kills lefties - batting .371 against southpaws this year and .321 in 2007.
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