Burch Smith Struggles in Opener Role During Tigers Loss

Burch Smith surrendered two runs in just 1/3 of an inning as the opener in the Detroit Tigers' 5-1 loss to the Kansas City Royals on Saturday. The performance contributed to the Tigers' fifth consecutive defeat, leaving the team in danger of a road sweep. Smith's brief outing was part of a difficult night for the Detroit pitching staff and offense, as AJ Hinch's squad looks to rebound in Sunday's series finale.