Josh Rojas powers Royals past Guardians 8-3 as Kansas City wins 12th in 13 games

On Saturday, the Kansas City Royals secured an 8-3 victory over the Cleveland Guardians, marking their 12th win in just 13 games. Josh Rojas led the charge with a stellar performance, hitting for the cycle for the second time in his career. In his first game, Rojas contributed four RBIs, including a two-run single in the sixth inning that extended Kansas City's lead to 6-2, followed by a two-run homer in the eighth inning. This wasn't Rojas' first four-RBI game; he achieved the same feat against Arizona in 2022.

Cleveland's Angel Martínez also had a notable game, connecting for two hits, including a two-run homer, and drove in three runs. The Guardians, however, have struggled recently, dropping their last two games following a seven-game winning streak. Anthony Gose contributed 1 scoreless inning, while five Royals relievers combined to allow just one run and two hits over 5 2/3 innings.

Kansas City took an early lead with a four-run sixth inning, as their first five batters reached base. Salvador Perez delivered a crucial double to left-center off Colin Holderman, driving in Bobby Witt Jr. with the decisive run. After Jo Adell opened the second inning with a walk, Martínez responded with a powerful drive into the left field bleachers, courtesy of a low changeup from Royals starter Daniel Lynch.

The Royals tied the game in the fifth inning when the first three batters reached base, with Nick Loftin and Tyler Tolbert contributing to the tally.

Daniel Lynch made his fifth start since being shifted from the bullpen to Kansas City's rotation, allowing two runs over 3 1/3 innings. Foster Griffin, making his fifth start since being acquired at the trade deadline, pitched five innings, allowing two runs. As for the upcoming series, Kansas City will send left-hander Seth Lugo (6-7, 4.61 ERA) to the mound for the series finale, while Cleveland will be represented by lefty Parker Messick (10-8, 2.50 ERA).