Final Score: SF 12 | KC 9
Overall Spring Record: 11-6
Key Highlights
Nick Pratto: Pratto has been a man on a mission. He continued his impressive spring with another hit and RBI, going 1 for 3. He is going to make it hard for the Royals’ staff to keep him off the opening-day roster.
Regression from starting pitchers: It was not a great day for Angel Zerpa. He was pulled in the third inning after finishing with the following line: 2.2 IP, 4 H, 4 ER, 2 BB, 2 K. After an impressive first half of spring training from Royals’ starting pitchers, the past three games have been rough. In 7.2 innings pitched, Wacha, Singer, and Zerpa have combined to give up 13 runs. Hopefully, Cole Ragans can buck the trend starting tomorrow.
Adam Frazier: It has taken a while, but Frazier’s bat seems to be coming around. He finished the day 2 for 4 with a double, single, and 2 RBIs. The better the bench options are for the Royals, the more it is going to push the starters to perform well. Hopefully, Frazier and Hampson can improve in the second half of the spring, and Pratto and Loftin can continue their hot start.
Isbel/Waters: Kyle Isbel and Drew Waters continue to hit the ball well, both ending with a single and a double today. They are each making a compelling case to be the opening-day centerfielder, but the Royals staff seems to be leaning toward Isbel getting the opportunity to start the season. It would not be surprising to see Waters get the opportunity if Isbel gets off to a slow start with the bat.
OTHER NOTABLE PERFORMANCES
Bobby Witt Jr: 2 for 3, 2B, RBI
Tucker Bradley: 1 for 2, HR
Anthony Veneziano: 2.1 IP, 4 H, 6 ER, 2 BB, 2 K
Sam Long: 1.1 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 4 K
SUMMARY OF THE NEXT GAME
Kansas City Royals vs. Colorado Rockies – 3/12/24 @ 3:10 CT
Kansas City Probable: Cole Ragans, LHP
Colorado Probable: Cal Quantrill, RHP
