Royals vs Nationals Preview: Underrated Arms Lead Week 64

The Royals' pitching crew is ready to battle in Washington. Cole Ragans leads the rotation with serious power to strike batters out. Seth Lugo brings another strong arm near the top of the staff. Michael Wacha adds veteran experience and stability to every start. Carlos Estévez anchors the bullpen as one of baseball's most reliable closers, posting 42 saves last season. These arms keep Kansas City competitive in close games. Mitch Spence takes the mound Monday, looking to continue the momentum from the Royals' recent win streak.

The Nationals are building their rotation around youth and potential. Zach Littell, Cade Cavalli, and Josiah Gray all show flashes of strong ability but are still working to establish consistent major league success. Foster Griffin and Miles Mikolas help round out the starting lineup. Clayton Beeter takes on closer duties, bringing strong stuff as the former Yankees prospect. Andrew Alvarez starts Monday for Washington. The Nationals' pitching focus is development. If these young arms progress, they could become the foundation for Washington's next competitive team.

The Royals sit at 29-43 overall with one win in their streak. They're 17-21 at home and need to steal wins on the road. Kansas City faces serious injury trouble. Cole Ragans had testing pushed back after his elbow felt worse. Vinnie Pasquantino needs 4-to-6 weeks after hand surgery. Kyle Isbel's plantar fascia tear sidelines him long-term. Despite these setbacks, the Royals refuse to quit. The Nationals are 37-35 and rolling with two straight wins. They're 14-21 at home. Washington has won six of their last ten games. This matchup pits Kansas City's battle-tested rotation against young Nationals arms learning fast.