Craig Kimbrel matched Billy Wagner’s career record with his 422nd save, while Anthony Santander achieved a milestone with his first-ever three-double game in the major leagues. The Baltimore Orioles capitalized on a seven-run second inning to secure a 9-7 victory over the Kansas City Royals. Despite the Royals’ efforts to overcome a 7-0 deficit, Salvador Perez’s five RBIs and a game-ending flyout by Colton Cowser fell short.
Kimbrel showcased his dominance by pitching a flawless ninth inning, earning his fifth save in six opportunities this season. With this achievement, he now trails John Franco by two saves on the career list and Kenley Jansen by three. Santander’s exceptional defensive skills were on display as well, as he sprinted in to make a diving catch on Bobby Witt Jr’s hit in the ninth inning.
Corbin Burnes delivered an impressive performance for the Orioles, pitching shutout ball until Perez’s three-run homer in the sixth inning. Perez’s home run marked his sixth of the season. Burnes recorded four strikeouts, allowing only four hits in 5 2/3 innings. Perez continued to contribute to the Royals’ offense with a two-run single in the seventh inning.
Kansas City’s Cole Ragans struggled on the mound, allowing seven runs and nine hits in just 1 2/3 innings, making it the team’s shortest start of the season. Baltimore’s offense was firing on all cylinders, matching their season high with 15 hits, including eight with two strikes. Every Orioles starter managed to record a hit. Unfortunately, left fielder Austin Hays had to leave the game after six innings due to calf tightness. The Orioles’ early offensive surge, highlighted by Ramón Urías’ RBI double and James McCann’s single, along with contributions from Adley Rutschman, Ryan Mouncastle, Santander, and Jordan Westburg, propelled them to victory.
The Kansas City Royals are aiming to secure victory in the 3-game series today, with Seth Lugo (3-0, 1.05 ERA) taking the mound for KC. The Orioles, on the other hand, will have Cole Irvin (0-1, 6.75 ERA) as their starting pitcher. Tune in to Classic Hits KQNK 106.7 FM, 102.5 FM & 1530 AM for pregame coverage, starting at 12:30 p.m., and catch the first pitch at 1:10 p.m. live from Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City.
