Kepler is out of the lineup Monday against the Royals, MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger reports.

EDGE Analysis

Kepler struck out five times in seven at-bats during Sunday's 12-inning loss to the White Sox, so Twins manager Paul Molitor will give the youngster the afternoon off to clear his head. The outfielder had struck out just four times in his preceding five games, so Sunday's performance shouldn't concern fantasy owners too much. Logan Schafer will replace Kepler in right field in Monday's series opener.