Game 145: Kansas City @ Minnesota

Game Date: September 11, 2008 
Royals 3, Twins 2 / Box Score
WP: Ramirez (3-2), LP: Guerrier (6-8), SV: Soria (36) 
Royal Home Runs: None
Royals Record: 62-83

Well, I didn't see that one coming. The Duckworth vs. Liriano match up hardly seemed to be in our favor on paper. And in reality, it wasn't in our favor on the field either. They both gave up two runs, but Liriano pitched eight innings while Duckworth lasted just five.

Both teams scored both of their runs early. The Royals scored their first run in the second inning. Miguel Olivo led off the inning with a double; Ryan Shealy flied out to center, moving Olivo to third; and Esteban German doubled in Olivo. Then in the third Mike Aviles tripled with out out and Jose Guillen drove him in with a double.

The Royals' bullpen was outstanding. Ron Mahay pitched 1.2 innings without giving up a run. John Bale pitched 1.1 innings without any giving up any hits or runs. Ramon Ramirez struck out two and didn't allow any runs in the inning he pitched. And Joakim Soria got the save.

The Royals took the lead in the top of the tenth. Mark Teahen singled with one out. Alberto Callaspo followed him with a single. And David DeJesus singled in Teahen.

Hopefully the Royals enjoy this win because they face Cliff Lee (21-2, 2.28 ERA) again tomorrow. Gil Meche (11-10, 3.96) will take the mound for the Royals. Meche is 4-7 in his career against the Twins with a 4.91 ERA in 95.1 IP. Lee is 11-4 against the Royals with a 4.49 ERA in 108.1 IP.