Nelson Velázquez propelled Kansas City into the lead with a three-run home run during the seventh inning, while Michael Wacha delivered a strong performance over six innings to secure the Royals’ 4-2 victory against the Seattle Mariners on Tuesday night. Velázquez’s third homer of the season came at the expense of Seattle starter Logan Gilbert, who had only allowed three hits in six scoreless innings before the pivotal seventh inning.
Gilbert’s outing took a turn for the worse in the seventh when Bobby Witt, Jr. drew a walk and advanced to second on a groundout by Vinnie Pasquantino. A fielding error by Josh Rojas on the play prevented a potential double play. Salvador Perez was intentionally walked, setting the stage for Velázquez’s game-changing home run to left field. This marked Velázquez’s first homer since April 4, adding to the Royals’ offensive surge.
Kansas City extended their lead in the eighth inning with an RBI single from Maikel Garcia off Mariners reliever Trent Thornton. Despite Luke Raley and Mitch Haniger hitting solo home runs for Seattle, the Royals’ pitching staff, led by Wacha and closer James McArthur, held off the Mariners’ offense. The victory halted Seattle’s seven-game winning streak against Kansas City. The upcoming matchup will feature Bryan Woo starting for the Mariners and Alec Marsh taking the mound for the Royals, making his second start since returning from the injured list. First pitch is scheduled for 3:10 p.m. from T-Mobile Park in Seattle. Our next broadcast on Classic Hits KQNK 106.7 FM, 102.5 FM & 1530 AM will be Friday as the Royals host the Athletics at Kauffman Stadium.
