Despite a series that kept Sox fans on their toes and, at times, clenching their fists, the White Sox managed to take two of three from the Royals after a 5-2 win in ten innings this afternoon. For the second game of the weekend, the Sox win via a walk-off bomb, this courtesy of Luis Robert.
Dane Dunning was outstanding, as he did not allow a single hit through five innings of work. The bullpen, on the other hand, was the biggest issue today and this weekend. The Royals scored 14 of their 16 runs off of relievers, but the South Side bats picked them up in the late innings. With the victory, the White Sox are 21-13, tied with the Indians for first place in the American League central.
W: Matt Foster (3-0) | L: Tyler Zuber (1-2)
Notable Performances
Dane Dunning: 5.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 7 K, 1 BB
In a battle of rookie arms, Dane Dunning was outstanding. In just his second career start, Dunning did not allow a single hit and struck out seven. With the Luis Robert walk-off stealing the spotlight, it’s important to remember how impressive Dunning was this afternoon.
Nick Madrigal: 3-for-4, RBI, SB
In his second game back from a dislocated shoulder, rookie Nick Madrigal delivered yet again. For the second straight game, he drove in a run, and utilized small ball to get on base with three singles. In addition, he made a heads-up steal in the ninth, the first stolen base of his career.
James McCann: 1-for-4, RBI, R, walk
James McCann’s importance to this team is invaluable. He was solid offensively, but I was more impressed with his play behind the plate. In less than a week’s span, he has caught a no hitter, and helped Dunning to not allow a hit through five. That’s 15 straight innings of no hit catching. He also made one of the plays of the game, where he caught Mondesi attempting to steal third in the tenth.
Luis Robert: 1-for-4, HR, 3 RBI, run
The hero was Luis Robert. His walk-off homer, number nine for Robert on the year, propelled the Sox into a tie for first place as they got the win today. Robert has proven that the moment isn’t too big for him.
Moment of the Game
For the second time in three games, the “Moment of the Game” comes from a walk-off home run. Today’s is Luis Robert’s game-winner in the tenth. WAKANDA FOREVER!
Player of the Game
Taking home the honors are, you guessed it, Luis Robert. He drove in the go-ahead run in the 7th, after a lengthy at-bat, where he fought off a lot of tough pitches. His composure at the plate and ability to work the count was phenomenal tonight, and it helped the White Sox squeak out a hard-earned victory.
Looking Ahead
The White Sox will head up to Minnesota for arguably the most important series so far this season. Tomorrow night will feature the first of three between the Sox and Twins, as Giolito gets his first start since his no-no. The Twins have listed Rich Hill as their projected starter. First pitch is set for 7:10 pm CDT, on NBC Sports Chicago, and the MyTeams app.
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