CINCINNATI (AP) — Dairon Blanco hit his third home run in two days and started a rally with a bunt single as the Kansas City Royals beat the Cincinnati Reds 8-1 on Sunday to complete a series sweep. Blanco, an outfielder, had just 64 at-bats coming into the series, before helping the Royals outscore the Reds 26-3. “He had a down day today with just one homer,” Royals manager Matt Quatrao joked.
“I'm so happy for him. The lack of playing time, the ability to be ready to go. He has physical ability.
We know that. We give him consistent at-bats but he's always ready.” The 31-year-old from Cuba drove in seven runs on Saturday with two home runs, including a grand slam.
On Sunday, he started a two-run third inning against 10-game winner Andrew Abbott with a bunt single. Blanco stole second and scored on Vinnie Pasquantino's single. Salvatore Perez added a sacrifice fly.
On a team with All-Star Bobby Witt Jr. among three players with over 80 RBIs, Blanco emerged as the star of the series. “I'm extremely happy.
I always prepare myself,” Blanco said through an interpreter. “I stick with my routine. We have great players in this clubhouse.
Everybody has a role. This series I had mine.” Blanco hit his fourth home run of the season off Abbott (10-10).
It was the 25th home run allowed by Abbott. Pasquantino drove in three runs to take the team lead over Witt with 92. Brady Singer (9-8) snapped a two-game losing streak, overcoming a 45-minute rain delay to pitch six scor.