KANSAS CITY – Maikel Garcia’s solo home run in the seventh inning ignited the energy at Kauffman Stadium and helped the Royals secure a 4-3 victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Saturday.
Garcia, who was not in the Royals’ starting lineup for Opening Day, proved his value as a catalyst for the team. With the Royals down a run, Garcia turned on an inside sweeper from Guardians reliever Paul Sewald, sending the ball 405 feet and straight into the left-field foul pole.
The Royals’ offense had struggled against Guardians starter Gavin Williams, but Garcia’s home run sparked a rally. Following the home run, Cavan Biggio singled, Dairon Blanco stole his second base in as many days, and Bobby Witt Jr. hit a go-ahead RBI double.
The Royals’ bullpen also played a crucial role in the win. Daniel Lynch IV pitched two perfect innings, Lucas Erceg handled a scoreless eighth, and Carlos Estévez earned his first save as a Royal.
The Royals will host the Guardians to conclude the 3-game series Sunday. Pregame coverage on SuperStar Country 102.5 & 1530 AM begins at 12:30 PM.
