After an incredibly quick Cactus League opener yesterday, the Royals decided to give fans their money’s worth today, earning a come-from-behind win against the Dodgers in nearly twice as much time.
You might be disappointed to hear about the Royals’ pitchers walking six and giving up three home runs, but they did strike out 13, so it wasn’t all bad. Meanwhile, Dodgers pitchers walked twelve. It was just as bonkers as you might expect from an early spring game. Rather than summarize the game, let’s just highlight the notable performances, shall we?
John Schreiber made his spring debut and struck out one in a scoreless inning in the third.
Andrew Hoffman – who had an ERA over six when pitching in Omaha last season – pitched two scoreless innings against Dodgers reserves and struck out three.
Jacob Wallace earned the save with a scoreless ninth, walking one and striking out two.
Tyler Gentry continues to make a push for a roster spot, after belting a three-run home run to give the Royals the lead yesterday whacked two singles, and scored twice.
Gavin Cross, also striving for an unlikely roster spot, went 1-for-2 with a walk, two runs scored, and an RBI.
John Rave, yet another minor league outfielder, also had a pair of hits, but one of his was a two-run triple in the top of the ninth to give the team a lead.
How about one more outfielder? Joey Wiemer had two walks in four plate appearances.
Maikel Garcia also had an RBI triple from the lead-off spot
Results were not good for Melendez in his first game action with the new swing, he struck out twice, though he also walked once.
Cavan Biggio hit a double and scored the Royals’ first run in the second inning. He also walked.
Cam Devanney hit a single, walked once, and scored a run.
Royals runners combined for nine stolen bases on the day. Melendez, Nick Pratto, Drew Waters, Gentry, and Devanney each had one. Catcher Omar Hernandez and Cross each had a pair.
Lots and lots of fantasy baseball numbers, but relatively few players on either side are guys who are likely to break camp with their club once Spring Training ends, so probably don’t read too much into it.
The Royals will play again tomorrow at 2:05 central. Kris Bubic will get the start as the Royals host the White Sox.
