Ragans again sharp, but Royals lose 2-1 on some questionable umpiring

Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty ImagesThe Royals managed just three hits in a pitcher’s duel, but it was some questionable ball/strike calls that led to four Chris Stratton walks in a 2-1 loss to the Mets Sunday afternoon.

After a pre-game ceremony honoring Mets great Dwight Gooden, starter José Buttó pitched like Doc, mowing down Royals hitters over six shutout innings. He allowed just two hits, while striking out nine. He was most effective with his changeup, which he threw 16 times, getting 11 swings and 6 whiffs.

But Cole Ragans matched him with goose eggs. He allowed a single to Brandon Nimmo, the first batter he faced, before retiring the next nine hitters in a row. He faced some trouble in…