James Shields takes ball for Royals as interleague series with Colorado begins

The Royals have played a ferocious brand of baseball in the second half, with eight consecutive series victories. They have a chance for another little sweep this week against the lowly Rockies.

Here are the matchups for these two nights at Coors Field:

Tuesday, 7:40 p.m.: James Shields (11-6, 3.29 ERA) vs. Tyler Matzek (2-8, 5.50 ERA).

Wednesday, 7:40 p.m.: Danny Duffy (8-10, 2.60 ERA) vs. Jorge De La Rosa (12-8, 4.32 ERA).

FROM THE STAR

The 2014 Royals in a nutshell: Salvador Perez tweaks his knee. His replacement, Erik Kratz, promptly booms a pair of homers in yet another victory.

Billy Butler sounds optimistic about the club’s chances going forward.

Here is a recap of Monday’s chat.

THE ROYALS’ PLAYOFF PERCENTAGE (ACCORDING TO BASEBALL PROSPECTUS)

75 percent.

HERE IS SOME ROCK MUSIC

“Australia” by The Shins.

To reach Andy McCullough, call 816-234-4370 or send email to rmccullough@kcstar.com. Follow him on Twitter: @McCulloughStar.