The Kansas City Royals lost 11-3 to the Philadelphia Phillies, marking a tough start to their 20-game stretch against playoff-contending teams. Despite hitting three solo home runs, the Royals struggled with runners in scoring positions, going 0-for-11. The Phillies' power was evident as they scored five runs in the eighth inning, with starter Seth Lugo allowing 11 hits over 5 1/3 innings. On the previous night, the Royals secured a 7-4 victory with Salvador Perez and Hunter Renfroe hitting two-run homers in a five-run third inning. Michael Wacha extended his winning streak to seven, while the Phillies' Taijuan Walker continued to struggle, giving up six runs in three innings. The Royals remain competitive in the AL Central, closing in on the division lead.