After duel, Volquez hard-luck loser vs. Price

KANSAS CITY -- In his first start since serving a five-game suspension, Royals right-hander Edinson Volquez was solid again.

It just so happened he went up against Detroit's David Price, who was even better. Vargas threw six strong innings, but in a 2-1 loss to the Tigers on Saturday.

Volquez gave up a run in the third when the Tigers got runners on first and second with no outs. Ian Kinsler hit what looked like a double-play grounder to Royals second baseman Omar Infante. But Anthony Gose slid hard at shortstop Christian Colon, forcing an errant throw and allowing a run to score.

Video: DET@KC: Tigers plate first run on throwing error

Volquez came back and got the next two hitters. For the night, Volquez gave up five hits and two runs, walked three and struck out four.

"I thought he threw the ball great," Royals manager Ned Yost said. "If we turn the double play, they don't score the first run."

For the most part, Volquez was pleased.

"I'll take it," Volquez said. "But the biggest thing for us is wins. [Price] was better than me. We all know what he can do. He's not a surprise. He competes and throws a lot of strikes."

Sometimes, Volquez suggested, you just tip your cap.

"It was a good game for them," he said. "We come back tomorrow and work harder."