CLEVELAND — The race is on.
With 20 games remaining, the Guardians (72-70) entered Sept. 8 2.5 games out of the final Wild Card spot, currently held by the Seattle Mariners (75-68). The Texas Rangers (74-70) and Kansas City Royals (73-70) are both in the mix as well, creating a tight, four-team race.
It makes the Guardians-Royals four-game series that begins Sept. 8 crucial for both teams. It’s possible only one makes it out of the series alive in the Wild Card race.
The term “must-win” is an over-used term in sports, but for two teams on the outside looking in, this series represents a crucial stretch in the season.
Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. is not in Monday’s starting lineup for the Royals.
Follow along here for live score updates, analysis and highlights from the Sept. 8 Guardians-Royals game.
Below is some pregame information.
Guardians lineup vs Royals
Steven Kwan, LFDaniel Schneemann, CFJose Ramirez, 3BKyle Manzardo, DHNolan Jones, RFBo Naylor, CGabriel Arias, SSC.J. Kayfus, 1BBrayan Rocchio, 2B
Guardians schedule, upcoming games
The Guardians begin a key four-game series at Progressive Field against the Royals Sept. 8. The Chicago White Sox then come to Cleveland for weekend series. After a day off, the Guardians then go on the road to face the Detroit Tigers.
How can I watch, stream or listen to the Guardians vs Royals game?
The game on Sept. 8 can be viewed locally on AT&T U-verse (channel 1736), COX (channel 80), DIRECTV Satellite and Streaming (channel 662), FuboTV and Spectrum (channel 1306). It can also be streamed via MLB’s direct-to-consumer streaming subscription (CLEGuardians.TV). And it’ll be available on the radio via WTAM 1100, WMMS 100.7 and WARF 1350.