Final Score: ARI 5 | KC 6

Spring Record: 11-4

Key Highlights

Nelson Velazquez’s three-hit day: Nelly Nukes needed a day like today at the plate. Before today he only had two hits in Spring and both were singles. Against Arizona, however, it seemed like he was locked in getting a double and two more singles while also scoring two runs. He still hasn’t hit a home run quite yet in Spring, but with a performance like today, it won’t be much longer before it happens.

The “Pasquatch” shows his might: Vinnie Pasquantino also had a three-hit day, but was slightly more productive with those hits. He went back-to-back with Salvador Perez drilling a ball over the right field fence and he also added a double and single as well. Add in a couple of runs scored and Vinnie had a good offensive day.

Freddy Fermin provides half the offense: Steady Freddy hasn’t played a ton in Spring early on, he only has seven at-bats, but today he shined. His productive day started in the bottom of the third when he drove in Velazquez and Pasquantino on a single, then he provided an insurance run in the fifth on an RBI double. He ended the day 2 for 3 with three RBIs and a double.

Jake Brentz needed an outing like this: So far in Spring, Brentz has been less than stellar, walking eight hitters and allowing nine earned runs in 3 1/3 innings. Against Arizona, he looked good putting together a clean inning with no walks and no runs given up while also striking out two batters. He might have played himself to AAA Omaha to start the year, but this outing should build some confidence for him.

Potential Injury to a key player: Dairon Blanco left the game with an apparent lower-body injury. He went 1 for 2 in the game. Something to keep an eye on if he misses time as it opens up the fourth outfield spot for someone.

Other Notable Performances

Matt Sauer: 2.0 IP, 1 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 2 K

Chris Stratton: 1.0 IP, 0 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 0 K

Bobby Witt Jr.: 1 for 3, 1 HR, 1 RBI

Salvador Perez: 1 for 3, 1 HR, 1 RBI

Next game for the Royals

Kansas City Royals v. Oakland Athletics – 3/10/24 @ 3:05

Kansas City Probable: Brady Singer, RHP

Oakland Probable: Paul Blackburn, RHP