Anaheim, CA—– Dairon Blanco showcased his hitting skills with three hits, including a crucial two-run homer in the third inning, propelling the Kansas City Royals to a convincing 10-4 triumph over the Los Angeles Angels on Thursday evening.
Royals skipper Matt Quatraro lauded Blanco’s readiness whenever he’s in the lineup, noting his versatility as both a pinch runner and a starter, where Blanco has shone with five hits in seven starts this season.
Vinnie Pasquantino contributed significantly with a two-run homer of his own in the third inning and went on to drive in three runs for the Royals. His stellar performance adds to a recent trend, boasting nine RBIs in his last five games.
Maikel Garcia joined the offensive onslaught with three hits, including a pivotal two-run double in the sixth inning.
Michael Wacha, ending a winless streak of over a month, delivered a solid performance on the mound for the Royals. Despite encountering trouble in the seventh inning, Wacha’s six innings were characterized by mastery, allowing only two hits before the Angels rallied late.
Although the Angels managed to load the bases in the seventh, Wacha’s solid start was reinforced by a crucial double play initiated by reliever Daniel Lynch IV, stifling the Angels’ momentum.
On the flip side, Angels starter Reid Detmers faced challenges early on, conceding six runs and seven hits in five innings of work. Detmers, enduring a rough patch, has now surrendered at least four runs in four consecutive starts after a promising start to the season.
Manager Ron Washington acknowledged Detmers’ struggles, emphasizing the Royals’ ability to capitalize on opportunities despite the Angels’ pitching efforts.
In terms of injuries, the Angels had to contend with the absence of infielders Brandon Drury and
Luis Rengifo, both placed on the 10-day injured list due to hamstring and viral infection issues, respectively.
Looking ahead, the Kansas City Royals anticipate the return of right-handed pitcher Alec Marsh from the 15-day injured list. Marsh, boasting a 3-0 record and a solid 2.70 ERA, is poised to bolster the team’s pitching rotation. On the other side, the Los Angeles Angels will rely on right-handed pitcher Griffin Canning, who holds a 1-4 record with a 6.69 ERA, to lead their pitching efforts in the upcoming matchup.
