MLB Standings Watch: Boston Red Sox are rolling

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Jul 5, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals pitcher

Wade Davis

(17) delivers a pitch against the Minnesota Twins during the eighth inning at Kauffman Stadium. The Royals won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports

Rising
(American League team gaining momentum)

Kansas City Royals: Their lead in the Central division took a slight hit when they dropped two out of three games to the Minnesota Twins last week, but the Royals recovered by winning three straight to extend their lead in the division back to 4.5 games.

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The fan voting results didn’t end up being quite as preposterous as once feared, but the Royals still ended up with four starters and a total of six All-Stars. They will have a chance to make it seven by voting in Moustakas for the final spot, which would make Royals players account for about 20 percent of the roster.

We all know how most of those players made the roster, but let’s talk about the two that weren’t voted in by the fans. The players selected Wade Davis, who has surrendered only 1 earned run in 37.0 innings for an insane 0.24 ERA, while striking out 41 batters. As the manager of the reigning AL Champions, Ned Yost was able to add another one of his guys from the bullpen. Kelvin Herrera is having a fine season, posting a 2.14 ERA and striking out 36 batters in 33.2 innings. There are other pitchers that are more deserving of an All-Star spot, but considering Kansas City has the best bullpen in the majors it’s fair for Yost to reward one of his most trusted relievers.

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