KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Late game heroics propelled the Kansas City Royals to their second straight Cactus League win in Surprise, Az. on Monday.
The Royals defeated the Texas Rangers 7-6 after being down 5-0 in the second inning. Kansas City is now 2-0 overall in Cactus League play. Royals left-handed starter Bruce Chen got lit up early, allowing five runs on seven hits. Rangers lefty starter Derek Holland went three innings and allowed only one run, a home run by Royals shortstop Alcides Escobar.
Kansas City eventually got the bats going. Royals left fielder Alex Gordon hit a two run home run in the fifth inning to make it 6-3. Royals left fielder Derrick Robinson cut further into the Rangers lead with a two run RBI in the sixth. Royals veteran journeyman third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff, a recent invite to spring training, pinch hit for a two run double in the ninth inning to seal a ferocious exhibition comeback win for Kansas City.
The Royals also got it done with pitching and defense. Along with the defense turning three double plays, Kansas City’s pitching staff gave up only one run after Chen’s rough start. Royals lefty Mike Montgomery allowed one run on three hits and a walk, but bounced back for a solid second inning. Texas scored six runs on 11 hits. Kansas City scored seven runs on 13 hits.
On Tuesday, the Royals will play two split squad games. Royals starter Luke Hochevar will make his first start against the San Diego Padres in Surprise, Az. Lefty Will Smith will start against the Cleveland Indians in Goodyear, Az.