Royals Extend Winning Streak with Extra-Inning Victory Over Rays

Nelson Velazquez comes through once more as Kansas City extends their win streak eight.

© Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports

On Saturday, The Royals, who have been on a winning streak since May 15, secured a 7-4 victory at Tropicana Field, marking their eighth consecutive win — their longest streak of the season.

Outfielder Kyle Isbel left in the seventh inning after being struck in the face by a pitch from reliever Garrett Cleavinger while swinging. Despite the injury, Isbel remained on his feet and walked off the field with a trainer holding a towel to his face. The team announced that Isbel sustained facial lacerations and will undergo additional tests.

In the 11th inning, Royals designated hitter Nelson Velázquez faced Rays reliever Richard Lovelady with a runner on second base. Velázquez saw three pitches before drilling a double off the wall in center, driving in the go-ahead run.

Neither starting pitcher earned a decision. Royals starter Brady Singer gave up two runs in his outing, while Rays veteran Aaron Civale matched him by allowing two runs of his own. Royals right-hander Nick Anderson earned his first save of the season by slamming the door in the bottom of the 11th to secure the victory.

"That was a battle," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said postgame. "I commend our guys for hanging in there. Nothing was really easy today."

With the win, Kansas City improved to 34-19 and will aim for a third consecutive sweep on Sunday. Right-hander Michael Wacha (4-4, 4.35 ERA) will face off against Rays right-hander Taj Bradley (1-2, 4.00 ERA) as Sunday's probably starters.