After an emotional home opener against the Yankees that also went 13 innings, the Royals enjoyed an off day. The team took batting practice at Royals Stadium but otherwise had a chance to relax and enjoy their 4-0 start.

One player participating in batting practice was outfielder Tom Poquette, who had been on the disabled list since March 30. Poquette had contracted a viral infection in his chest. The resulting chest pains had doctors concerned about his heart, but tests concluded he would be OK with rest and medicine. After taking BP for a second straight day, Poquette told reporters he felt fine and would be ready to resume his role in left field when eligible to return. To this point in the young season, left field had been the weak spot in the Royals’ lineup, with Pete LaCock and Joe Zdeb hitting .181 and .142, respectively.

Today’s birthdays: Mike Macfarlane (1964), D.J. Carrasco (1977), Burch Smith (1990), Gabe Speier (1995)