KANSAS CITY -- José Abreu credited the Royals' "desire to win" and their "hunger to win games and to be good" as important traits setting them apart during three years of dominance while Abreu has been part of the White Sox.
When asked if the White Sox had that same desire to win following Kansas City's 8-3 victory at Kauffman Stadium Monday, one of the White Sox leaders provided a one-word answer that didn't need further explanation from interpreter Billy Russo.
"No," said Abreu, shaking his head.
He then was asked how the Sox could develop that desire.
"I think it begins with me," said Abreu, who, while not pointing any fingers, also did not give anyone a free pass -- including himself.
Abreu's comments likely come from the frustration of an 18-39 record over the last three years against the Royals, who are the two-time defending American League champs and defending World Series champs. Monday's loss gave the Royals three wins in four games during the final competition between the two teams and dropped the White Sox to 2-8 this season at Kauffman.
It was the seventh straight series win for the Royals over the White Sox, dating back to a three-game White Sox sweep at Kauffman Stadium from Sept. 4-6, 2015. The 14 losses against the Royals represent the White Sox highest total in a single season to Kansas City.
"They've been really tough swinging the bats," said White Sox manager Robin Ventura.. "They're always going to have pitching and that bullpen's going to have big arms in the back. Offensively, they got to us."
Chicago's struggles vs. its division rivals could result in significant offseason changes, as already mentioned in broad strokes by general manager Rick Hahn. The White Sox need to be better in the AL Central overall, with an 18-36 ledger against the Royals, Indians and Tigers this season, and a 4-21 mark on the road when facing those three.
"In my three years I have in this league, they always have been a very competitive team, a very tough team," added Abreu of the Royals. "It's tough playing against them because you have to play perfect. They have all the ingredients to be a successful team, and everybody has seen that. They won the World Series last year."