Royals break franchise record with seven home runs against Orioles

On May 4, 2025, in Baltimore, the Kansas City Royals showcased an unexpected display of power, hitting a franchise-record seven home runs in their 11-6 victory over the Baltimore Orioles. Traditionally known for their small-ball approach, the Royals received significant contributions from Maikel Garcia, who hit two home runs on the day, marking his first career multihomer game. Other Royals players who joined the home run parade included Jonathan India, Luke Maile, Bobby Witt Jr., Vinnie Pasquantino, and Michael Massey, with Massey hitting the record-setting seventh home run in the ninth inning. The match was a dramatic back-and-forth battle that saw the Orioles also connect for four home runs, with Jackson Holliday recording two in his first career multihomer game. Baltimore's Kyle Gibson struggled on the mound, giving up three runs and five hits in four innings, while Royals pitcher Michael Lorenzen allowed a career-high four home runs but was eventually relieved in the fifth inning. Despite these challenges, the Royals pulled ahead in the eighth inning, following back-to-back home runs from Witt and Pasquantino against Yennier Cano, who had not allowed a run in his previous 12 outings this season. This victory marked a significant achievement for Kansas City, as it secured their first regular-season series win in Baltimore since 2014 and the first time they won the season series against the Orioles since 2018. Entering this game, the Royals had hit a major league-low 18 home runs in their first 34 games of the season, demonstrating a stark contrast from their typical run production style. The wind conditions and short fences at Camden Yards played a favorable role in the game, encouraging a more offensive approach from the Royals, which culminated in this historic performance. Kansas City’s strategic shift away from small-ball tactics proved fruitful in a game that many players and coaches described as satisfying. The significance of this achievement was felt throughout the Royals' dugout, as they displayed the kind of power that had been lacking in their early-season games. With this victory, the Royals hope to build momentum as they continue their season against the Chicago White Sox in the upcoming games.