MJ Melendez delivered a crucial hit in the eighth inning, breaking the tie and leading the Kansas City Royals to a 2-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Friday night. With one out, Melendez hit a well-placed single to left field, allowing pinch-runner Dairon Blanco to score. This hit proved to be the difference-maker in the game.
Pitcher Chris Stratton played a significant role in securing the win for the Royals. He pitched a scoreless eighth inning, earning him the victory. In the ninth inning, the White Sox threatened with a double by Luis Robert Jr., but James McArthur, who entered the game as a reliever, induced a double-play grounder to secure his first save of the season.
The Royals took an early lead in the first inning thanks to Salvador PĂ©rez’s RBI double. PĂ©rez had an impressive performance, contributing three hits throughout the game. Alongside Melendez and Bobby Witt Jr., PĂ©rez ranks among the American League leaders in slugging, home runs, and OPS. The Royals’ starting pitchers have been exceptional this season, leading the majors with seven quality starts. On the other hand, the White Sox have struggled in close games, losing four out of the five one-run games they have played so far.
Michael Wacha will be on the mound tonight for the second game of the four-game series against the White Sox at Kauffman Stadium. On the other side, Chris Flexen will be starting for Chicago. The game is scheduled to begin at 6:10 p.m., and the pregame coverage will start at 5:30 p.m. on the Royals Radio Network, broadcasting on Classic Hits 106.7 FM, 102.5 FM, and 1530 AM KQNK.
