Guardians struggles continue as Royals gain ground

​​The Guardians are in danger of the clock striking midnight on their Cinderella season.

Driving the news: After a 6-1 loss last night, Cleveland (75-58) has fallen into a tie with the Kansas City Royals for first place in the American League Central.

Why it matters: If the Guardians fall out of first place, they'll lose their first-round bye in the playoffs and have to play in a Wild Card Series.

By the numbers: Cleveland entered the All-Star break in July with the best record in the AL at 58-37 and a four-and-a-half-game lead in the division.

• Since then, the Guardians have gone 17-21, while the Royals have gone 23-13 during the same period.

State of play: Cleveland's offense was one of the league's best during the first half.

• Yes, but: The offense has dropped to the middle of the pack in total runs and home runs and is second-to-last in team batting average during the second half of the season.

What they're saying: "We're still in a good place," manager Stephen Vogt told reporters after a doubleheader loss to the Royals on Monday.

• "Obviously, we need to play better. Obviously, we need to be more consistent. We know that, and we've shown signs all throughout the year that we can do it."

What's next: The Pittsburgh Pirates come to town for three games starting Friday.

• The Guardians then travel to Kansas City for three more games against the Royals, who have a 5-2 record against Cleveland this season.