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Top Handicapper 
Royals Aim to Soar vs. Dodgers in Opener of Road Trip
The Kansas City Royals, fresh off a dramatic win, are hitting the road for a nine-game, three-city trip starting with a crucial three-game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. They’re pumped and ready to keep the momentum going, aiming for some vital road victories.
Royals’ Dramatic Victory Over the Yankees
The Royals pulled off an electrifying 4-3 win against the New York Yankees in their last game. Kyle Isbel scored the game-winning run on Maikel Garcia’s clutch two-out, two-run double in the ninth inning, preventing a Yankees’ sweep and snapping a potential five-game losing streak for Kansas City. Isbel’s dive into home plate was the epitome of the Royals’ never-say-die spirit.
Manager Matt Quatraro’s Praise and Ejection
Royals manager Matt Quatraro, who was ejected in the sixth inning for disputing a play at second base, couldn’t stop praising his team’s grit. “I never get tired of bragging about the way they go about it,” Quatraro said. “The way they hustle, the way they never quit. It’s inspiring to me to come to work every day and be around these guys.”
Challenges Ahead for the Royals
Starting their road trip with a record that’s 10 games over .500, the Royals still have some hurdles to jump, especially with their 6-11 record since their eight-game winning streak last month. Lefty Cole Ragans (4-4, 3.08 ERA) is set to pitch against the Dodgers. Ragans, facing the Dodgers for the first time, has been stellar lately with a 2-1 record and a 1.20 ERA over his last five starts.
Dodgers’ Perspective and Recent Form
The Dodgers will be countering with right-hander Gavin Stone (7-2, 2.93 ERA), who’s having a breakout season. Stone, also facing the Royals for the first time, has been on fire with a 5-1 record and a 1.90 ERA since May. His recent victories include strong performances against both New York teams.
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Dodgers’ Offensive Struggles
Despite a season-high 15-run explosion against the Rangers, the Dodgers have hit a rough patch offensively, scoring just three runs in back-to-back losses to Texas. Manager Dave Roberts pointed out the team’s missed chances, saying, “We hit some balls hard, there were some bad outs in there, but I just felt like we had a chance to build some innings and we just couldn’t do that.”
Key Players to Watch
Dodgers rookie Andy Pages found his groove on Thursday with a home run, bringing his season total to seven. Pages had previously been thrown out at home plate, costing the Dodgers a game against the Rangers. The Dodgers’ lineup, featuring stars like Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith, will need to step up to overcome their offensive inconsistencies.
Freeman has been on fire lately, batting .368 since the start of June after a rough patch in late May. His comeback will be crucial for the Dodgers as they look to find their rhythm again.
Conclusion
The series opener between the Royals and Dodgers is set to be a thrilling showdown, with both teams eager for a win. The Royals are looking to build on their recent success, while the Dodgers aim to break free from their offensive struggles. With key players and strategic pitching matchups, this game promises plenty of excitement for baseball fans.
