In an epic showdown, the Royals once again demonstrated their resilience.
On Saturday, the Royals managed to extend their winning streak to eight games by clinching a 7-4 victory against the Rays in an intense 11-inning game at Tropicana Field. This victory marked their first series win at the venue since 2017.
Designated hitter Nelson Velázquez, the hero of the day, expressed, “It’s going great for us. We never give up. The moment or the situation, it doesn’t matter. We just keep doing what we need to do to win the game.”
The Royals, on their longest winning streak since 2017, have scored seven or more runs in six consecutive games, setting a new club record.
Royals manager Matt Quatraro commented, “Nothing was really easy today. Both teams were scratching and clawing. We could have possibly done some things earlier to close it out a little bit sooner. But that’s a good team on the other side and they know how to win. They’ve done a lot of winning over the years. I commend our guys for hanging in there.”
The game was a rollercoaster ride with both teams employing a total of 14 pitchers. In the 11th inning, Velázquez sealed the deal with an RBI double off the left-center-field wall, securing the winning run against Rays reliever Richard Lovelady with automatic runner Freddy Fermin at second base.
Adam Frazier followed up with an RBI single after hitting a hard liner that eluded shortstop José Caballero’s glove, while Maikel Garcia added another run with an RBI single, extending his hitting streak to 12 games.
Closing the game, Royals reliever Nick Anderson forced Richie Palacios to fly out to center, securing the win.
Frazier highlighted the team effort, saying, “Good teams play hard and each guy picks the other one up. That’s a recipe for success and that’s what we’re doing. We’re fighting for each other and putting good at-bats together. Pitching has given us a chance in pretty much every game this year. There’s a lot of energy in this clubhouse right now.”
Despite almost clinching the win in the 10th inning when Vinnie Pasquantino hit a sac fly, the game took a turn when the Rays, trailing by a run, tied it with Jonny DeLuca’s two-out RBI double off closer James McArthur.
Reflecting on the pivotal play, Quatraro said, “[McArthur’s slider to DeLuca] looked like it was right on the corner from the replay. You’ve got to give [DeLuca] credit. He swung and missed at the one before and made an adjustment.”
The Royals took an early lead with Velázquez’s homer in the second inning and Bobby Witt Jr.’s run in the third. Despite challenges, including Isbel’s injury early in the game, the team held its ground and secured the victory.
Pitcher Brady Singer put up a strong performance, allowing just one unearned run over five innings and striking out three on 90 pitches, showcasing the team’s resilience and determination.
