TYLER SKAGGS was tagged with the loss Sunday when the Angels lost 5-1 to the Kansas City Royals (Angels photo).

Like Sisyphus – that guy from Greek mythology condemned to forever unsuccessfully pushing a rock to the top of a hill – the Los Angeles Angels again were unable to claw back to .500.

On Sunday in Anaheim, the Halos lost 5-1 to the Kansas City Royals, dropping their record to 22-24. The Orange County team did manage to hang on to second place in the American League West, leading the Texas Rangers by the narrowest of winning percentages: .478 to .477. The team’s spot is precarious; the Halos are in second but just one-half game out of last place as well in the crowded ALW.

The loss also dropped the Angels back to 3.5 games out in the AL Wild Card chase.

The Angels trailed 3-0 before scoring their only run. In the bottom of the fourth, Kevan Smith doubled in Kole Calhoun for a score.

Tyler Skaggs (4-4) had a disappointing start, lasting 5.2 innings and giving up three earned runs. He struck out seven and walked two. At bat, the Halos were also unimpressive with just six hits, two each by Mike Trout and Tommy LaStella.

The Angels will be back in action Monday in Anaheim to start a series with the Minnesota Twins. Felix Pena (2-1) will start the pitching for the home team.