Merrifield will start at second base and bat sixth in the order Monday against the Rays, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

EDGE Analysis

In an effort to shake up the lineup after the Royals were limited to one hit in Sunday's loss to the Indians, manager Ned Yost has decided to drop Merrifield five spots in the order. Given the lack of appealing alternatives at the top of the lineup, it's not out of the question for Merrifield to eventually reclaim leadoff duties, but he may have to offer more production at the plate in subsequent contests before moving up. Merrifield is batting .143/.196/.214 over his last 11 games.