Gordon getting close to rejoining the Royals

Alex-Gordon,-Kansas-City-Royals

Alex Gordon makes diving catch on a ball hit by Baltimore Orioles' Steve Pearce for an out during Game 1 of the American League baseball championship series. (Charlie Riedel/AP)

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Kansas City manager Ned Yost says left fielder Alex Gordon is "getting close" to rejoining the AL Central-leading Royals after missing almost two months with a strained left groin.

"He’s up to about 90 per cent running speed, has no issues with his leg," Yost said before Saturday night’s game against Tampa Bay.

Gordon has been out since July 9. He hit .279 with 11 homers and 39 RBIs in 78 games before the injury. He is currently on a minor league rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha.

"This is kind of a one-shot deal," Yost said. "He comes back and hurts it, he’s done. So we want to make sure that he’s in great shape, healthy and ready to go when he gets back."

Kansas City opens a nine-game homestand Tuesday night against Detroit.

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