DETROIT — Eric Hosmer’s annual second-half surge is in full swing.
The Kansas City Royals’ cleanup hitter has not slowed down since his 14-game hitting streak was snapped in Toronto on Sunday. He had back-to-back two-hit games against Detroit, then added another hit with three walks Thursday. He is batting .436 with 18 runs scored, four doubles, two triples, three homers and 13 RBIs in 21 games since the All-Star break.
“The weather starts to heat up and it’s the second time through, so you start to see a lot of (pitchers) again,” said Hosmer, who is batting .320 overall with 11 home runs and 58 RBIs. “You get a good feel on how teams are going to try to attack you and what the book on you is. As a hitter, you have your plan. You go up there and I think everyone just tries to be as consistent as they can with their plan and basically stick to it. You stay consistent with your work and just hope the ball falls for you or you hit it hard and find a gap.”
Even though Hosmer had a solid first half, his hot streak was predictable. He’s a career .269 hitter in the first half of seasons, compared to a .303 average in the second half.
The 25-year-old first baseman is enjoying the finest season of his career, ranking in the top 10 in the American League in average, hits (126), multi-hit games (37) and on-base percentage (.379). Hosmer says he’s still maturing as a hitter.
“You continue to learn this game every day,” he said. “You just kind of find your routine, what works for you and how you prepare for each and every game. It’s just a matter of coming here and getting your routine down and staying confident at the plate.”
Having lineup stability around him has made it easier to settle into a groove, with Lorenzo Cain batting in the No. 3 spot and Kendrys Morales offering him protection behind him.
“All the guys hitting in front of me have been doing a great job of setting the table,” Hosmer said. “At the same time, you’ve got a guy that’s right at the top of the RBI lead in the American League (behind him). So, it’s a good spot to be in.”
A steady stream of line drive hits isn’t the only thing Hosmer offers. He’s aiming for his third consecutive Gold Glove.
“He brings a lot of things to the team,” Royals manager Ned Yost said. “He’s our No. 4 hitter, he’s been very consistent all year long in the middle of that lineup. He brings great leadership inside that locker room and Gold Glove defense at first base. He’s just one of the premier players on this team.”