Nick Loftin hit a sacrifice fly to win the game for the Kansas City Royals against the San Diego Padres, with Nelson Velázquez contributing two RBIs. Loftin’s fly came after Velázquez hit a game-tying triple in the ninth inning. Velázquez ended the series with four RBIs.
“It’s a big win after a tough weekend against a good team,” Loftin said. “We needed this win before our next important series. In my last at-bat, I just wanted to get a good pitch, and thankfully I did.”
Although the Padres won the series, the Royals avoided being swept and broke a three-game losing streak. Pitcher Cole Ragans had a solid performance, allowing one run in six innings with six strikeouts. Will Klein earned his first career win with a scoreless ninth inning.
“It felt great. I felt in control today,” Ragans commented. “Just sticking to the plan and executing it was key. Our hitters came through in the late innings, which was awesome to see.”
Vinnie Pasquantino’s sacrifice fly gave the Royals an early lead, while Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado drove in runs for the Padres. Luis Arraez tied the game with an RBI single.
San Diego manager Mike Shildt acknowledged the Royals’ strong performance, stating, “That’s a good team. They did a great job, and credit to them for Friday’s comeback.”
