Royals on First Win Streak of the Season May 10, 1998
by Jack Frodd
MONTREAL (AP)--Tartabull waved, as the crowd of 34,500 was lifted to it's
feet and the fireworks exploded. Tartabull's 2-run home run in the 4th
inning proved to be deciding factor in the 3-2 win over the defending World
Series Champions. Tartabull hasn't always been a class act, but here in
Montreal he's showing his critics otherwise. Danny isn't yet out of his
slump (his batting average is a sore .139, and the home run was his first
of the season), but he has won over the fans of Montreal.
Meanwhile, Kirk Rueter and Randy Johnson, so far the most consistent
starters in the rotation, lead the Royals to their first winning streak
with consecutive wins over the Hartford Whalers.
But his Saturday's game was not as close--Johnson let up only 1 run in 8
near-perfect innings and the Royals exploded for 9 runs, including 4 home
runs. Hal Morris drove in a season-high 4 batters and hit 2 homers over
the left field wall. More surprising was Spike Owen's contribution--he
belted a sure-fire 2-run home run in the fifth inning. Bobby Bonilla
provided the other home run, a two-run shot in the 4th inning.
Grace Continues Quest for Win
Grace has been the hardest working pitcher on the Royals staff. Before
Saturday, he lead the team in innings pitched, and continues to lead the
team with a 1.50 ERA, but he for all that he has yet to get a win.
"I'm very excited about starting today," said Mike Grace. "Sure, I'm
nervous, but I'm also giddy with excitement. The team right now is on an
emotional high and hopefully I'll be able to share that confidence.
Spike Owen Saves the Team Again
At 37 years of age and his career almost over, Spike Owen would have never
expected to get as much playing time as this in Montreal. After Roberto
Alomar was shipped to Deadwood, Owen took over the starting position at
shortstop. Then only 4 days later, Spike Owen is platooning with Curtis
Goodwin at second base.
"As long as the team keeps giving me chances, I will provide them with any
support I can give them," quoted Spike Owen.
Rusty is a Little Rusty
Leftfielder Rusty Greer has been having trouble at the plate. This batting
average has been droping consistently, but it may be due to the nagging
soreness in his toe that doesn't seem to go away. Since he fractured his
toe almost three weeks ago, Rusty Greer has been slow on the base paths.
The fracture was supposed to heal almost a week ago, but the swelling
continues to show, and it still bothers the Royals' leadoff hitter.
Royals' manager Gary Carter has repeatedly considered taking Greer out of
the lineup, but Rusty has refused to be taken out of the lineup.
"It hasn't been affecting my swing or my stance, but I'll tell you it kills
every time I start my run to first because I have to put my weight on my
right foot. But the Royals need me as a leadoff hitter, especially when
wins are at a premium for us now."
