Ragans sharp, Erceg shaky in 3-2 loss to Diamondbacks

Michael Massey enjoys a 3-for-3 day

Cole Ragans had a second consecutive sharp outing, but Lucas Erceg gave up three runs in an inning of work in a 3-2 loss to the Diamondbacks on Tuesday.

The Royals got some offense going in the opening frame against right-hander Merrill Kelly with singles from Maikel Garcia and Michael Massey. But Garcia was caught stealing second, while Massey was picked off, ending the threat.

Meanwhile Ragans was on his game, retiring 11 of the first 12 hitters he faced. In the fourth the Diamondbacks managed to loaded the bases on him, and it appeared he walked Adrian del Castillo to force in a run. But Ragans challenged and the call was overturned for a strikeout, ending the inning. Ragans would exit after four shutout innings with five strikeouts and one walk.

Erceg came in the fourth and gave up a leadoff double to Diamondbacks top prospect Jordan Lawlar. Erceg misplayed a bunt attempt by Geraldo Perdomo, throwing errantly to allow Lawlar to score. RBI Singles by Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Josh Naylor would make it 3-0 Diamondbacks.

The Royals finally got in the board in the sixth off Brandon Pfaadt. Massey singled home Kyle Isbel, part of a 3-for-3 day. The Royals plated another run when Drew Waters led off the eighth with a triple, then scored on a Luca Tresh ground out. But in the ninth Peyton Wilson was the third Royals runner caught stealing, and Kevin Ginkel closed out the game.

Steven Cruz and Evan Sisk each pitched scoreless frames. Taylor Clarke kept Arizona off the board, but pitched around trouble with two walks and a hit. Nick Loftin kept up his hot spring going 1-for-3, and Luke Maile added a double.

The Royals tavel to play the Mariners tomorrow at 3:10 CT.