Luis Robert Jr. Returns with 3 RBIs as White Sox Defeat Royals 7-2
CHICAGO — Luis Robert Jr. made a strong return to the lineup Friday night, driving in three runs to help the Chicago White Sox take down the Kansas City Royals 7-2 at Guaranteed Rate Field.
Robert, back in action after missing time due to adjustments at the plate and a scare earlier in the week when he was struck in the head during batting practice, came through with a go-ahead two-run single in the eighth and an RBI single earlier in the second inning.
Outfielder Mike Tauchman added a solo home run, and the White Sox earned their third win in four games. Chicago, still in last place, also snapped a rough stretch against Kansas City, beating the Royals for just the second time in their last 20 meetings.
Right-hander Davis Martin turned in a solid start, striking out seven over six innings while allowing just two runs.
One of the night’s big moments came courtesy of top prospect Kyle Teel, who made his MLB debut behind the plate. Teel went 1-for-2, drew two walks, and scored a run, showing poise in his first big league appearance.
The eighth inning proved decisive. With the bases loaded and one out, Robert blooped a two-run single to right field off Royals reliever Jonathan Bowlan (1-1). Moments later, Teel crossed home on a wild pitch, and defensive miscues by Kansas City—errors by third baseman Maikel Garcia and pitcher Taylor Clarke—added two more runs for Chicago.
Royals rookies Maikel Garcia and Vinnie Pasquantino provided a brief spark with back-to-back solo home runs in the third, but the offense stalled from there. Jac Caglianone, Kansas City's rookie slugger, continued to struggle, going 0-for-4 to drop to 1-for-17 on the season.
Turning Point:The Royals threatened in the top of the eighth, putting runners on first and second with no outs. But Teel made a heads-up play, fielding a Garcia bunt and getting the lead runner at third. After a fielder’s choice moved Bobby Witt Jr. to third, Salvador Perez fouled out to end the rally.
Stat of the Night:Kansas City had previously dominated the White Sox, sweeping a four-game series in early May and outscoring Chicago 19-4. Despite that run, the White Sox still narrowly lead the all-time series 440-434.
On Deck:The series continues Saturday as Royals right-hander Michael Wacha (3-4, 2.88 ERA) faces off against White Sox righty Adrian Houser (1-1, 1.47 ERA).