Final Score: BAL 4 | BAL 6
Overall Record: 1-3
Winning/Losing Pitcher
- W: Craig Kimbrel (1-0 | 9.00 ERA)
- L: Nick Anderson (0-1 | 13.50 ERA)
Royals Player(s) of the Game
Bobby Witt Jr.
2-5, Solo HR, 1B, R, RBI, SB, 1K
Bobby Witt Jr. showcased his offensive prowess in the game tonight. His standout moment came when he smashed a fastball for his second home run of the season, launching the ball at an impressive 440 feet with an exit velocity of 110 miles per hour. This display of power highlighted Witt’s ability to drive the ball deep into the outfield. Additionally, his stolen base demonstrated his speed on the basepaths, contributing to his well-rounded performance in the game. Despite one strikeout, Witt’s contributions at the plate played a significant role in the team’s offensive efforts. But in the end, it was not enough to pin down the dominant Orioles team.
Michael Wacha
5.0 IP, 3 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 1 BB, 5 K, 1 HR, 5.40 ERA
Michael Wacha’s performance in the game was relatively solid, despite encountering challenges in the fourth inning, where he surrendered the lead due to extra-base hits by Rutschman and Mountcastle. Overall, Wacha held his own, pitching five innings while allowing three hits, three runs (all earned), and issuing just one walk. His five strikeouts showcased his ability to generate outs effectively, but a single home run contributed to his 5.40 ERA for the game. Despite the setback, Wacha’s performance was characterized by moments of effectiveness and control on the mound.
Key Highlights
The first game of a 3-game series between the Royals and the Baltimore Orioles showcased a thrilling back-and-forth affair at Camden Yards. The Royals jumped out to an early 3-0 lead in the third inning, propelled by home runs from Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez. However, the Orioles battled back, scratching out three runs against Royals starter Michael Wacha to level the score.
Tension mounted as both teams traded blows, and the game ultimately came down to the wire. In the end, it was Orioles second baseman Jordan Westburg who delivered the decisive blow, launching a walk-off two-run homer to secure a dramatic 6-4 victory for Baltimore.
Royals manager Matt Quatraro praised the competitiveness of the game, acknowledging the excitement of tying the score against formidable closer Craig Kimbrel but ultimately expressing disappointment at the heartbreaking loss. Despite the defeat, Quatraro recognized the strength of the Orioles’ lineup and expressed determination as the Royals looked to bounce back in game two of the series.
Summary of the Next Game
In the upcoming game between the Kansas City Royals and the Baltimore Orioles, excitement brews as Alec Marsh makes his season debut start for the Royals, facing off against Cole Irvin of the Orioles. With the first pitch scheduled for 5:35 pm CST, fans eagerly anticipate Marsh’s performance on the mound as he looks to make an impact in his inaugural outing of the season. Meanwhile, facing formidable opposition in Irvin, the Orioles aim to continue their winning momentum from the previous game. As both teams prepare to battle it out once again, anticipation is high for another thrilling contest at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. One may hope that the Royals take the second game of this three-game series.