New York (28-32) at Kansas City (22-36)
Currently: - Game info: 3:15 pm EDT Sat Jun 12, 2004
- TV: FOX
Chris George was once considered one of the Kansas City Royals’ top pitching prospects. Injury and inconsistency have changed that perception a bit.
George will get another chance to prove he belongs in the big leagues when the left-hander faces the struggling New York Mets in the middle game of an interleague series at Kaufmann Stadium.
The 24-year-old southpaw has pitched well in two starts since his June 1 call-up to replace struggling Brian Anderson in the rotation, posting a 3.75 ERA.
But his 2003 season caused concern regarding whether George could handle pitching in the majors. He went 9-6 with a 7.11 ERA in 18 starts last year, allowing 22 homers in 93 innings.
His strong start for Triple-A Omaha—1-3 with a 2.32 ERA—got him another chance at a spot in the rotation, one he hopes to capitalize on.
“You have to have a positive attitude; a positive outlook,” George said. “I think this game is a lot about attitude. You are forced to deal with failure a lot of time.”
The Royals’ 7-5 win over the Mets in the series opener was bittersweet, as Kansas City’s general manager Allard Baird disclosed he had contacted major league clubs to tell them he was willing to listen to offers for any of his players, including star center fielder Carlos Beltran.
“Right now I just have to think about Carlos is still part of this organization. It’s disappointing, sure,” Royals manager Tony Pena said. “But when things have to be done, they have to be done.”
Leiter will try to help the Mets avert a season-high fifth straight loss. Leiter has had to settle for a 2-2 record this year despite a 1.98 ERA. He pitched two-hit ball for 5 2-3 scoreless innings in a 5-2 win over Florida on Sunday, the Mets’ last win.
Team Comparison
| Team | Record | Standings | Away/Home | Streak | L10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | 71-91 | 4th East | Away 33-48 | Won 1 | 5-5 |
| Kansas City | 58-104 | 5th Central | Home 33-47 | Lost 1 | 2-8 |
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