Royals aim for Wild Card in weak American League as homestand begins

The Kansas City Royals start a pivotal six-game homestand today against the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers. The American League's struggles this season provide a glimmer of hope for the Royals, who are currently 5.5 games behind the final Wild Card spot held by the Texas Rangers. With no AL teams on pace for 100 wins, teams with subpar records may still contend for the playoffs. Analysts suggest the Royals might need around 82 wins to secure a postseason berth. Success in this homestand could significantly close the gap in the Wild Card race.

• 4:00 PMYahoo Sports — The American League is terrible, so do the Royals have a realistic shot at the Wild Card?