The Royals’ offensive struggles continued as they were held to four hits, all singles, by two Chicago pitchers in a 2-0 loss to the White Sox at Comiskey Park.

Since scoring seven runs in three consecutive games on April 22, 23, and 25, Kansas City had scored 17 runs in the ensuing eight games. This was their third shutout in that span, as well.

Chicago starter Rich Wortham walked three and struck out two while allowing three hits over seven innings. He was helped by two double plays, including one which squashed the Royals’ only scoring opportunity of the game. That came in the fifth inning. With one out, John Wathan and Willie Aikens singled. Dave Chalk walked to load the bases. Bob Detherage hit a line drive up the middle, but White Sox second baseman Jim Morrison made a leaping catch and stepped on second for an unassisted double play that ended the inning. The Royals managed only three baserunners the rest of the way.

The lack of offense made Royals starter Larry Gura a hard-luck loser. Gura was trying for his third straight shutout and fourth of the season. And he actually pitched well in this one, limiting the White Sox to seven hits and two walks over 7 ⅔ innings.

Chicago scored in the second inning, as Chet Lemon doubled with one out and came home on a Wayne Nordhagen single. They added an insurance run in the eighth on a Bruce Kimm single, sacrifice bunt, and Junior Moore single.

The loss dropped the Royals to 11-11 on the season. They were in fourth place in the AL West, three games behind Oakland.

George Brett watch: Still held out of the lineup because of a bruised heel, Brett made his first appearance since April 29 when he pinch-hit and grounded out in the eighth inning. Season stats: .255/.359/.527

Box score and play-by-play: https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/CHA/CHA198005060.shtml

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