Kansas City Royals second baseman/outfielder Whit Merrifield is starting in right field and is hitting leadoff on Thursday against Texas Rangers left-hander Taylor Hearn. Merrifield went 3-for-4 with his first home run of the season on Wednesday, so he has earned a trip back to the leadoff spot for the first time since April 26. Bobby Witt Jr., who had hit leadoff the previous four games, has been dropped down to fifth in the batting order. Merrifield is still hitting only .161/.198/.214 ...