Royals vs Rangers Preview: Underdogs Look to Shock

Kansas City's slumping hard right now. They're 22-35 and just lost four straight. The bats have gone quiet when the team needs them most. But look closer and you'll find hope in their lineup. Bobby Witt Jr. still sparkles at shortstop like a franchise cornerstone. Maikel Garcia swings with confidence. Salvador Perez, the veteran catcher, brings power and experience. These stars have to wake up Saturday night in Arlington. If Kansas City's bats come alive, they can steal one on the road.

Dallas just won their last game and they're charging forward. The Rangers sit at 26-31 but they're 13-13 at home. That's dangerous territory for Kansas City. Brandon Nimmo is blazing hot, hitting .364 with four RBIs. Jake Burger brings serious power from third base. MacKenzie Gore takes the mound as their starter and earned his first All-Star selection this season. The Rangers want to stack wins at Globe Life Field. Saturday's matchup has all the makings of a tight battle.

Stephen Kolek takes the ball for Kansas City. He'll face off against MacKenzie Gore, who brings his All-Star credentials to the mound. Both teams have shuffled their rotations due to injuries. The Royals lost Cole Ragans to an elbow issue and Kris Bubic needs more rest. Texas is missing Corey Seager and dealing with bullpen problems too. When starting pitching is this shaky, whoever throws strikes and limits damage wins the night. Expect a low-scoring game where smart pitching beats raw power.