Dairon Blanco showcased his impressive form by hitting his third home run in just two days and igniting a rally with a well-placed bunt single, leading the Kansas City Royals to an 8-1 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday. This win allowed the Royals to complete a clean sweep of the series, having outscored the Reds a staggering 28-3 throughout the three games. Blanco, who had only 64 at-bats prior to this series, significantly contributed to his team’s success.
The 31-year-old Cuban outfielder had a remarkable performance on Saturday, driving in seven runs with two home runs, one of which was a grand slam. On Sunday, he initiated a two-run third inning against Andrew Abbott, who had a ten-game winning streak, with a strategic bunt single. Following his advancement to second base through a stolen base, Blanco scored on a single by Vinnie Pasquantino, while Salvatore Perez added to the score with a sacrifice fly.
Blanco later hit his fourth home run of the season off Abbott, marking the 25th home run surrendered by the pitcher. Pasquantino also had a notable game, driving in three runs to take the team lead with 92 RBIs, surpassing Bobby Witt Jr. Brady Singer, overcoming a recent two-game losing streak, pitched six scoreless innings despite a 45-minute rain delay, allowing only five hits and striking out seven. In the seventh inning, Sam Long faced some challenges but managed to maintain the lead, while the Royals capped off their scoring with four runs in the ninth, including Witt’s single that brought his RBI total to 91.
Kansas City is set to welcome the Los Angeles Angels for a three-game series commencing on Monday at Kauffman Stadium. The Royals will have Seth Lugo (13-7, 3.04 ERA) on the mound, who will be opposed by Carson Fulmer (0-3, 4.22 ERA) from the Angels. Fans can tune in for pregame coverage on SuperStar Country 102.5 & 1530 AM starting at 6:30 p.m., leading up to the first pitch scheduled for 7:10 p.m.
