Lugo strikes out 10, Royals win series against Guardians

Kansas City Royals pitcher Seth Lugo throws a ball to a Cleveland Guardians batter during the first inning of a baseball game in Kansas City, Missouri, Sunday, June 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)

KANSAS CITY, Missouri – It appears the Kansas City Royals have found their mojo again after an impressive 6-2 victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Sunday afternoon.

Seth Lugo (11-2) continued his outstanding season, going six innings, allowing just four hits, one walk, zero runs and ten strikeouts to secure the win.

His name is firmly at the top of the Cy Young candidates list, and today he cemented his position even further. Lugo currently leads the MLB in wins (11) and ERA (2.17).

The Royals got on the scoreboard in the 1st inning after a groundout by Salvador caught Bobby Witt Jr. for a 1-0 lead. Perez was initially ruled out at first base, but the decision was overturned after an appeal by the Royals, preventing a double play and keeping the inning alive.

In the 5th inning, Bobby Witt Jr. hit an RBI triple that scored two runs and gave the Royals a 3-0 lead. Witt is second in the MLB with nine triples.

Vinnie Pasquantino continued his solid play after scoring a run with an RBI single in his very next at-bat. He has hit an RBI in seven straight games.

Salvador Perez hit his 14th home run in the 7th inning, giving the Royals a 6-0 lead.

This was a terrific series for the Royals, who proved they are contenders after winning three of four games against the Guardians, who are at the top of the AL Central and American League.

The Royals are currently 47-39 and currently occupy the third wild card spot.

They will continue their home stretch with a three-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays starting tomorrow at 7:10 p.m. Zack Littell (2-5) will be on the mound facing Brady Singer (4-4).