Dairon Blanco hit his third home run in two days and sparked a rally with a bunt single as the Kansas City Royals defeated the Cincinnati Reds 8-1 on Sunday, completing a series sweep.
Blanco, an outfielder, had only 64 at-bats before the series but helped the Royals outscore the Reds 28-3.
“He had a down day today with just one homer,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro joked. “I’m so happy for him. Despite not getting much playing time, he’s always ready. He has the physical ability. We give him consistent at-bats, and he’s always prepared.”
The 31-year-old from Cuba drove in seven runs on Saturday with two home runs, including a grand slam. On Sunday, he led off a two-run third inning against 10-game winner Andrew Abbott with a bunt single.
Blanco stole second base and scored on Vinnie Pasquantino’s single. Salvatore Perez also contributed with a sacrifice fly.
On a team with All-Star Bobby Witt Jr. among three players with over 80 RBIs, Blanco shone as the series star.
“I’m extremely happy. I always prepare myself,” Blanco said through an interpreter. “I stick with my routine. We have great players in this clubhouse. Everybody has a role. This series I had mine.”
Blanco hit his fourth home run of the season off Abbott (10-10), who has now allowed 25 home runs this season.
Pasquantino drove in three runs, taking the team lead with 92 RBIs, surpassing Witt.
Brady Singer (9-8) ended a two-game losing streak by pitching six scoreless innings after a 45-minute rain delay. He allowed five hits, a walk, and a hit batter, while striking out seven.
“You have to start with Brady on that one,” Quatraro said. “He stayed focused during the rain delay and the threat of another one. He kept pounding the zone and set the tone for the game.”
Singer is familiar with dealing with rain delays.
