The Kansas City Royals achieved their first series sweep of the season by defeating the Minnesota Twins with a 2-1 victory. The Royals showcased their determination and hard work in the game, proving their manager Matt Quatraro’s words true. Quatraro had previously motivated his team, stating that nobody can stop them from winning three straight until August. With this impressive win against the current AL Central leader, the Royals proved their capabilities.
Left-hander Ryan Yarbrough delivered an outstanding performance, pitching seven innings, his longest outing of the season. Yarbrough displayed great control, throwing 56 of 78 pitches for strikes, and allowed only one run despite facing seven hits. His return from the 60-day injured list has been remarkable, as he has excelled on the mound since his comeback from taking a line drive to the face on May 7. In July, Yarbrough has showcased his talent with a 2.19 earned-run average and 15 strikeouts to just two walks.
Freddy Fermin contributed to the victory with his sixth home run of the season, providing the Royals with a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the second. He showcased his power by driving a two-strike splitter from Kenta Maeda 420 feet out to left field. However, the Twins’ Matt Wallner responded in the top of the third with a solo home run off a Yarbrough curveball, tying the game.
The Royals quickly regained the lead in the bottom of the third when Maikel Garcia’s double to left brought home Nicky Lopez, who had previously singled. Garcia’s hit, with an exit velocity of 105.5 mph, secured the decisive run for the Royals.
Pitchers Dylan Coleman and Carlos Hernandez stepped up in the eighth and ninth innings, respectively. Coleman pitched a scoreless eighth, striking out two, while Hernandez closed out the game with his first career save.
The Royals improved their season record to 32-75 as they celebrated the win in front of 13,752 fans at Kauffman Stadium. Nicky Lopez, who made his first career start at first base, not only defended flawlessly but also contributed to the victory by scoring the decisive run.
Looking ahead, the Royals will face the New York Mets in a three-game series starting at 7:10 p.m. on Tuesday. Righty Zack Grienke is set to start for the Royals, while lefty Jose Quintana will take the mound for the Mets.
The Kansas City Royals’ sweep of the Minnesota Twins signifies a significant milestone for the team, as they continue to demonstrate their resilience and dedication. With their sights set on future victories, the Royals aim to build on their recent success and continue their pursuit of excellence throughout the season.
