Michael Wacha pitched six innings, giving up just one run on two hits. Salvador Perez drove in two runs for the Kansas City Royals, who secured a 4-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday night. The game also featured a remarkable defensive play from Kyle Isbel in the ninth inning.
After Chris Stratton allowed a run in the eighth inning, Royals closer James McArthur entered the game. He managed to escape a tight spot with runners on second and third by getting a fly out and a pop foul.
In the ninth inning, McArthur faced some pressure again, starting with a leadoff single by Ben Rortvedt. After striking out Yandy Diaz, McArthur faced Taylor Walls, who hit a deep shot to center field. Isbel made an impressive leaping catch against the wall, managing to hold onto the ball as he hit the ground.
McArthur then induced a ground ball from Isaac Paredes to end the game and earn his 15th save of the season.
Reflecting on his catch, Isbel remarked, “I was surprised I hung onto it. The wall is pretty hard out there. I knew there would be a collision, but it was a crucial moment in the game.”
Offensively for the Royals, Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino also contributed with RBI hits, helping Kansas City secure their league-leading 31st home victory of the season.
Wacha, who previously played for the Rays in 2021, walked three batters and struck out eight in his solid outing. The only run he allowed came on a home run by Isaac Paredes in the first inning, extending his streak to eight consecutive starts with two earned runs or fewer.
Rays manager Kevin Cash praised Wacha’s performance, noting his ability to mix speeds effectively and disrupt timing, saying, “He’s been throwing the ball well all season. We couldn’t get anything going against him.” Ryan Pepiot took the loss for Tampa Bay, allowing two runs on four hits over four innings, with three strikeouts.
