KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — For years, the Royals have called up players in September to get a good look at what they hoped would be their future.

This year, they’re calling up players for help in winning a pennant.

Guys such as speedster Terrance Gore, power hitter Carlos Peguero and left-hander Brandon Finnegan are giving Royals manager Ned Yost the pieces he hopes will be able to help Kansas City to an AL Central title and its first postseason appearance since 1985.

The Royals were off Thursday. They have a 1 1/2-game lead over Detroit in the AL Central as they prepare for a crucial trip through the wild card-contending Yankees and a three-game set against the Tigers.