KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) – Cole Ragans struck out 11 batters over six innings as the Kansas City Royals defeated the Los Angeles Angels 12-1 on Saturday night.
Nick Loftin contributed significantly with a career-high four RBIs in the game.
Ragans, who improved his record to 1-4, allowed one run and five hits during his performance. This marked the 15th quality start of the season for the Royals, who entered the day tied for second in the major leagues in that category.
Ragans’ Performance
The left-handed pitcher faced a challenging situation in the second inning with runners on second and third and only one out. However, he managed to secure consecutive strikeouts to escape the inning unscathed. The only run scored against him came from a solo home run hit by Jo Adell in the fourth inning.
Loftin’s Contributions
Loftin showcased his batting prowess with an RBI single, a two-run single, and a bases-loaded walk. Additionally, Salvador Perez contributed to the Royals’ offense with three hits, including a solo home run and an RBI double.
Team Performance
Vinnie Pasquantino drew three walks, one of which occurred with the bases loaded, as the Royals batters collectively earned ten walks throughout the game. Michael Massey also made an impact, hitting an RBI single that ignited a three-run seventh inning, while Carter Jensen added a two-run single during a four-run eighth inning.
Angels’ Struggles
For the Angels, Vaughn Grissom had a notable performance, going 3 for 4 with a double. Mike Trout extended his on-base streak against the Royals to 28 games with a hit in the eighth inning. Walbert Ureña, the Angels’ pitcher, recorded a loss after allowing four runs in 3 2/3 innings, accompanied by three strikeouts and a career-high five walks.
Injury Update
In the eighth inning, Angels catcher Logan O’Hoppe left the game due to left wrist irritation, adding to the team’s challenges during the match.
Upcoming Match
Kansas City secured its first series victory since the opening series of the season. Looking ahead, the Angels are set to face Royals right-hander Seth Lugo in the series finale, marking the first Sunday night game at Kauffman Stadium since 2016.