Kansas City Royals Clinch Their First Division Title in 30 Years

The Kansas City Royals became the first major league team this season to clinch a division title after beating the Seattle Mariners 10-4 in Kansas City on September 24th. The defending American League champions made the post season as a Wild Card last year, but this is the Royals’ first division crown since 1985.

Last season, Kansas City came out of nowhere after years of mediocrity. This season they didn’t sneak up on anybody and have been a dominant team for most of the season, proving that last year was no fluke or one shot deal. The victory over Seattle improved Kansas City’s record to a league best 89-63 and the Royals hold a two game lead over Toronto for the top seed in the A.L. playoffs. This could be crucial for the Royals pursuit of another American League championship, as they are 50-28 at home (Toronto’s home record is the same) but only 39-35 on the road. The World Series also opens in the American League city.