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Royals’ Pitcher Passed Kidney Stone During ALCS

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Kansas City Royals pitcher James Shields is happy about two things: his team is going to the 2014 World Series, and his painful kidney stone passing.

Shields was in “excruciating pain” throughout the American League Championship Series. He went in for a CT Scan, but by then the team’s medical staff determined that the stone had already passed, according to the Kansas City Star.

In the long run, Shields’ 11 day break may be helpful for the Royals in the upcoming World Series. “I probably could have used the extra day (of rest), but I just told them ‘Whenever you need me, I’m ready to go,’” said Shields.

When discussing his regular season, Shields said, “I haven’t pitched the way that I’ve wanted to. There’s no doubt about it. I feel like I could pitch better. But that said, I’ve felt really good. My bullpen sessions have been really good. I feel as good as I can feel right now.”

That positivity will be helpful for the Royals in tonight’s opening game against the San Francisco Giants, premiering on Fox at 7 p.m.