CHICAGO — Michael Massey hit a clutch two-run single in the ninth inning, and Kyle Isbel followed with the go-ahead RBI single, as the Kansas City Royals staged a stunning 5-4 comeback victory over the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday night.
The Royals, who trailed 4-0, began their rally in the eighth inning with a two-run single by Maikel Garcia. After being held to just one hit through seven innings by White Sox starter Martín Pérez, Kansas City’s offense exploded for eight hits over the final two frames.
In the top of the ninth, facing a 4-2 deficit, the Royals loaded the bases with one out against reliever Grant Taylor. Tyler Alexander entered the game and Massey delivered the game-tying two-run single. Following a hit-by-pitch to Adam Frazier, Isbel came through with the go-ahead single, securing the dramatic win.
Sam Long (2-3) earned the win with a scoreless eighth inning, and Carlos Estévez secured his 35th save of the season by closing out the game. The victory improved the Royals’ record to 68-65, keeping them in the wild-card race.
For the White Sox, who now have an AL-worst record of 48-84, Colson Montgomery hit a home run for the fourth consecutive game, and rookie Kyle Teel contributed three hits and an RBI. Jordan Leasure (two runs in the eighth) and Grant Taylor (three runs in the ninth) were charged with the loss.
Looking ahead, the series continues on Wednesday with the White Sox’s Aaron Civale (3-8, 5.02 ERA) facing off against the Royals’ Ryan Bergert (1-1, 2.79). Pregame coverage begins at 6:00 p.m. on Superstar Country 102.5 FM & 1530 AM KQNK, with first pitch from Rate Field in Chicago set for 6:40 p.m.
