Bobby Witt Jr.'s Double Lifts Royals Over Blue Jays After Costly Error

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Royals defeated the Toronto Blue Jays 3-2 on Monday night at Kauffman Stadium, thanks in large part to a go-ahead, two-run double by Bobby Witt Jr. in the fifth inning following a costly error by Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

With the game tied 1-1 in the bottom of the fifth, Guerrero misplayed a routine throw from third baseman Isiah Kiner-Falefa, allowing Michael Massey to score the tying run. Three pitches later, Witt laced a double to left field, scoring two runs to give the Royals a 3-1 lead they would not relinquish.

Royals starter Michael Wacha allowed two runs over 5 1/3 innings but was victimized by some bad luck. Blue Jays starter Kevin Gausman took the loss despite a solid outing, giving up three unearned runs and striking out six over 6 2/3 innings.

The Royals' bullpen shut down the Blue Jays the rest of the way. Chris Stratton, John Schreiber, and James McArthur combined for 3 2/3 scoreless innings, with McArthur earning his fifth save of the season. "The bullpen was fantastic tonight," said Royals manager Matt Quatraro. "They put up 4 2/3 scoreless against a really good team. That was huge for us."

The Blue Jays had a chance to tie the game in the top of the ninth when Cavan Biggio appeared to beat out an infield single with a runner on first. However, the call was overturned upon video review, ending the game and securing the win for the Royals.

Why this matters: The victory was an important one for the Royals, who had lost three straight games coming into the series. It also highlighted the impact that defensive miscues can have on the outcome of a game, as Guerrero's error proved to be the turning point. For the Blue Jays, the loss was a tough one as they had a chance to win with Gausman pitching well.

The series continues on Tuesday night, with Alec Marsh scheduled to start for the Royals against Yariel Rodríguez for the Blue Jays. The Royals will look to build on the momentum from Monday's win, while the Blue Jays aim to bounce back and even the series.

Key Takeaways

• Royals defeat Blue Jays 3-2 thanks to Witt Jr.'s go-ahead 2-run double
• Guerrero Jr.'s error allowed Royals to score tying run in 5th inning
• Royals' bullpen pitched 4.2 scoreless innings to secure the win
• Gausman took the loss despite a solid outing for the Blue Jays
• Series continues with Marsh vs. Rodríguez matchup on Tuesday night