In the first game of the season’s second half, the Royals worked on one of their nagging issues. But the bigger one lingers. The Royals were better offensively than they’ve been in recent weeks. But the losing continues as the Dodgers opened a three-game series with a 5-4 victory. That’s six straight losses for the Royals, and 11 consecutive at Kauffman Stadium to match a club record. They haven’t won at home since May 31. This one came in heart-stopping fashion. The Royals loaded the bases with one out in the ninth inning, but Jac Caglianone bounced into a 4-6-3 double play on first pitch he saw from Tanner Scott to end the game played before 35,187. Big crowds are expected all weekend.

Shohei Ohtani was his usual spectacular self in his first visit to The K in Dodger blue. He greeted starter Noah Cameron with a home run into the fountains to lead off the game, delivered a game-tying RBI triple in the fifth inning and scored on Mookie Betts’ single. Oh, and he’s scheduled to start on the mound for LA in Saturday’s game.

The Royals’ offensive output felt like a barrage for a team that had been shut out in its previous two games, while ranking last in baseball in average runs scored (3.25). Kyle Isbel delivered two doubles, Maikel Garcia an RBI double and Salvador Perez an RBI single. Bobby Witt Jr. had the team’s biggest knock, a two-run homer in the second inning off Dustin May that gave the Royals a 4-3 lead, their first advantage since Sunday’s loss at the San Diego Padres. Witt’s 428-foot blast into the seats was the Royals’ first at home since June 11 against the Yankees. But it wasn’t enough. The Royals left 11 on base and made a baserunning error in the sixth inning when pinch runner Tyler Tolbert was picked off.

It added up to the Royals’ 18th loss in their last 21 home games after starting the year 16-5 at Kauffman.

Up next, the series continues on Saturday at 3:10 p.m. with Seth Lugo facing Ohtani. The game will be broadcast on the FanDuel Sports Network.

Meanwhile, the Dodgers continue to find ways to win despite not playing their best. Dustin May gave up a run in the first inning, but the bullpen closed out the game with five scoreless innings, securing their 52nd win of the season. Mookie Betts and Max Muncy contributed key hits, including a two-run homer and an RBI single. The Dodgers now hold the best record in MLB, moving ahead despite a few imperfections.

In other news, the Dodgers’ record in interleague play stands at 12-7 this season and 115-56 since 2020, the best in Major League Baseball. This series marks the start of nine consecutive games against American League opponents.

In summary, the Royals are enduring a tough stretch at home, but fans remain hopeful as the season progresses. The Dodgers keep their winning ways afloat through resilience and timely performances, proving that sometimes, winning can be just enough.

**Will the Royals finally breakthrough their home streak, or will the Dodgers maintain their dominance? Stay tuned for more updates on these teams’ journeys through the season.**