Roberto Hernandez loses seventh decision

Rays starter Roberto Hernandez was more economical than he was effective Sunday at home against the Royals. Hernandez needed just 88 pitches to go 5 2/3 innings, but the four runs he gave up were enough to suffer the loss.

Hernandez fell to 4-7 on the season as he gave up the four runs on nine hits and a walk over 5 2/3 innings. He struck out two batters and was hurt by Jeff Francoeur's solo homer in the fifth inning. His ERA is now at 5.02.

Hernandez has alternated wins and losses in his last five outings, going 2-3 over that span. That means he's in line for a win his next time out Friday at the New York Yankees.