Royals Dominate Reds with Historic Performance from Blanco

CINCINNATI (AP) — In a commanding display of offensive prowess, Dairon Blanco led the Kansas City Royals to a resounding 13-1 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Saturday night. Blanco, who hit two home runs including his first career grand slam, drove in an impressive seven runs, overshadowing a strong pitching performance from Royals' Michael Wacha. Wacha improved his record to 10-6, allowing only four hits and striking out nine over six shutout innings. Blanco's explosive night began with a two-run homer on the first pitch he faced from Reds starter Nick Lodolo in the second inning. He followed that with a grand slam in the third, clearing the bases and contributing to a seven-run inning that put the Royals ahead 10-0. Lodolo struggled significantly, lasting just 2 1/3 innings while surrendering eight runs and eight hits, leading to his team's early deficit. Bobby Witt Jr. continued his hitting streak, extending it to six games, while Jeimer Candelario provided a brief highlight for the Reds with a solo homer in the seventh inning, marking his 20th of the season. The Reds also faced a setback as right-hander Hunter Greene was placed on the 15-day injured list due to right elbow soreness, with an MRI scheduled in the coming days. Looking ahead, the series finale will feature Reds lefty Andrew Abbott (10-9, 3.59 ERA) against Royals right-hander Brady Singer (8-8, 3.32), as both teams aim to shift momentum in this three-game series.