Royals move to first place with win over Guardians
Get off the tracks!
Despite a lengthy rain delay in the bottom of the fifth inning, the Royals didn’t lose steam in a 6-1 win over the Guardians. The win not only puts them in first place, but clinches the season series against Cleveland.
Things got off to a quick start for Kansas City. Following a scoreless first, Paul DeJong woke up the offense with a two-run blast to the opposite field. It was DeJong’s 23rd long ball of the season.
Pauly D power! pic.twitter.com/AIWhERNPYz
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) August 27, 2024
Unfortunately, the Royals suffered a blow to their rotation in the bottom of the second. Michael Lorenzen, who had been nails since coming over from Texas, injured himself when covering first base on a fielder’s choice. An awkward stretch led to a hamstring strain and an exit from the game with two outs in the second. However, Kansas City’s bullpen had quite the performance.
With a combination of Carlos Hernandez, James McArthur, John Schreiber, Sam Long and Chris Stratton, the Royals bullpen tossed 7 1⁄3 innings of one-run ball. On top of that, the offense continued to provide a cushion.
Following the delay in the fifth inning, Kansas City’s bats got a spark. Facing old friend Scott Barlow, the Royals rallied for three runs in the top of the seventh inning to extend their lead to 5-1.
We love a late night round of ribbies. pic.twitter.com/tQOl0UGRLd
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) August 28, 2024
Unlike Kansas City, Cleveland didn’t manage a single base runner when play resumed. Royals pitchers retired all 15 batters they faced. Freddy Fermin tacked on a run in the eighth and Stratton shut it down in the ninth.
Freddy adds some runs and the #Royals have a 6-1 lead in the ninth.
— Bally Sports Kansas City (@BallySportsKC) August 28, 2024
: Bally Sports | : Bally Sports app pic.twitter.com/XfMdub30xH
The Royals, 75-58, will go for a four-game sweep tomorrow. Michael Wacha will duel with Tanner Bibee. First pitch is set for 12:10 p.m. CT