Josh Rojas Leads Royals to Victory with Late Game Heroics in Debut

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — In an impressive debut for the Kansas City Royals, pinch-hitter Josh Rojas delivered a crucial two-run single in the ninth inning, propelling the team to an 8-6 victory over the Minnesota Twins on Thursday night. Rojas, who was called up from Triple-A Omaha earlier in the day, entered the game to pinch hit for Nick Loftin with the bases loaded and one out, making an immediate impact by hitting a single up the middle that put the Royals ahead.

Matt Strahm (2-1) contributed to the win by throwing a scoreless inning of relief, while Alex Lange secured his second save of the season by closing out the game. Michael Massey also showcased his power, hitting his sixth home run of the season for Kansas City.

The loss fell to Taylor Rogers (1-3), who was charged with two runs in the ninth. Kody Clemens was notable for the Twins, hitting two home runs off Royals starter Seth Lugo, with Byron Buxton and Victor Caratini also contributing solo homers.

Justin Lawrence, making his second appearance for Minnesota after being picked up from Pittsburgh, faced a tough situation as he loaded the bases by walking Maikel Garcia before Rojas' decisive hit. The Twins utilized a total of seven pitchers, with Andrew Morris starting in an opener role. Lugo struggled, allowing five runs and six hits over five innings.

A three-run sixth inning for Kansas City featured a two-run double from Carter Jensen, who later scored on a pop fly that was mishandled by Twins shortstop Ryan Kreidler, resulting in an error. The game experienced a delay of 1 hour and 7 minutes due to rain and lightning, occurring in the middle of the sixth with the Royals leading 6-5.

Looking ahead, Kansas City will send RHP Michael Wacha (4-3, 3.23 ERA) to the mound on Friday after a challenging last start, while Minnesota will counter with RHP Zebby Matthews (1-3, 4.63), who faced difficulties in his previous outing.