Final Score: Royals 6 । Diamondbacks 0
Overall Record 13-7
Key Highlights
Pitching Throws a Shutout
Headlined by Michael Wacha, the staff threw a shutout while allowing four hits, five walks, and striking out 11. Wacha is the only pitcher who threw today who looks to be guaranteed an Opening Day roster spot. With that in mind, it will be interesting to see who starts to get a lion’s share of the innings moving forward. Look for some arms to get sent to minor league camp soon with a lot of younger guys getting quality innings now. The staff threw 62% strikes on 150 total pitches.
Nick Pratto
We get to say his name again! 2-4 with two singles isn’t entirely something to write home about. It is worth noting, however, that Pratto came into camp with something to prove. He continues to make a case for the Opening Day roster. If he keeps up this pace for 2 more weeks he may be looking at an Opening Day start. He’s on top of the list of names to watch for the remainder of camp.
MJ Melendez
Continuing with some opening day pushes, Melendez also keeps impressing. 1-3 with a triple, 2 RBI and a walk. He’s got five walks so far this spring with only four strikeouts! He’s getting on base and seems to be focused on a more general hitting approach. Worth taking a look to see if this season brings a little less natural pop but more contact.
Nate Eaton
Rounding out our unsung heroes of March is a guy who’s been with the team before. After a demotion, a lot of expectations seemed to slip with Eaton. So far in Spring Training, he has managed to quietly piece together four extra-base hits in 22 at-bats. It’s a small sample size, obviously, but a similar amount of at-bats as other guys opening eyes so far. Notching two RBI against the D-Backs, he did so on a double, keeping his OPS above 1.000. Eaton did have a great spring in 2023 as well, so potentially another hot start to no avail.
*If you told me this recap was written in 2021, I would not only believe you but think all three of these guys would be on the opening day roster…. unfortunately.
Next Up For The Royals
Split Squad!!!!
Team 1: 3:05 CST KC Royals vs. CIN Reds (Bally Sports Broadcast)
Royals – Alec Marsh Reds – Nick Lodolo
Team 2: 3:05 CST KC Royals vs CLE Guardians
Royals – Brady Singer Guardians – Tyler Beede
Photo Credit: Matt Thomas, Getty Images
