The Royals are prepared to spend more to fortify the team's starting rotation for 2013.

"What I've always said is when we get to the point where we're competitive," owner David Glass said, "we'll do what we have to do to improve our position. Yes, we'll do what we need to do. We are committed to improving our starting pitching.

"Exactly how we're going to do it, or what is going to be available, I don't have any idea right now. But we'll have a plan in place (going into the offseason). We know we need to improve this team for next year. This starting pitching is going to get better."

The Royals were 70-82 entering Monday night's game in Detroit, 11 games out of first place in the American League Central Division.