The Kansas City Royals shutout the Minnesota Twins 5-0 behind a strong start from Cole Ragans.

Ragans went six shutout innings, giving up only four hits and a walk while striking out seven. Ragans ranks second in the American League with 204 strikeouts on the season.

Tommy Pham got the Royals on the board in the third with an RBI double. Michael Massey hit a solo homer an inning later to increase the lead. Kansas City would break it open with a two-run single from Hunter Renfroe.

The Kansas City bullpen was spotless in the final three innings, securing the win for the Royals.

Kansas City improves to 77-65, holding a half game lead over the Twins for the second wild card spot. The Royals sit 4.5 games back of Cleveland for the AL Central.

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The Royals continue their series with the Twins today. First pitch begins at 6:15 p.m.