Michael Wacha pitched seven innings without allowing any runs, Bobby Witt Jr. hit a home run and drove in two runs, and the Kansas City Royals defeated the Chicago White Sox 7-1 on Friday night.
Witt connected with Chris Flexen’s inside fastball in the first inning, sending it over the left field bullpen for his 17th home run of the season.
“I was just focusing on being ready for the fastball,” Witt explained. “When I’m prepared, good things usually happen.”
Royals manager Matt Quatraro was pleased with Witt’s performance. “It was great to see him turn on that inside fastball and get us and himself going,” he commented.
In the third inning, Witt contributed another RBI with his second hit of the game, helping the Royals to a 2-0 lead. Since June 24, Witt has recorded hits in 17 of his last 19 games, batting an impressive .403 with 12 extra-base hits.
Wacha (7-6) managed to escape potential scoring situations in the first and third innings with inning-ending double plays.
“Those double plays were crucial in getting out of those tough spots,” Wacha noted. “It took a bit to find my rhythm after the All-Star break, but regaining command of my pitches was key.”
Wacha struck out seven batters while allowing only four hits and one walk. He has now won six of his last ten starts, consistently limiting opponents to three earned runs or fewer.
“I felt like I executed my pitches well when needed,” Wacha added. “Overall, I’m pleased with the outcome.”
The White Sox struggled to generate offense against Wacha’s effective pitching.
“Wacha was tough tonight, especially with his changeup working well,” White Sox manager Pedro Grifol acknowledged.
Michael Massey’s two-out, two-run single was pivotal in the Royals’ five-run fifth inning, sealing their victory. Kansas City has now won five of their last seven games.
“Massey’s hit made a significant difference,” Quatraro praised. “But it was really about the team’s collective quality at-bats throughout the game.”
