The Kansas City Royals struck early and subdued the Baltimore Orioles, securing their first series win of the season with a 4-1 victory Sunday, April 6 at Kauffman Stadium.

Bobby Witt Jr’s triple with one out in the first started the rally for Kansas City, as he was brought home on a sacrifice fly by Vinnie Pasquantino. Orioles starter Cade Povich then gave up singles to Salvador Perez and Mark Canha, both of whom came home on a double by Michael Massey. The Royals added a run in the second when Freddy Fermin singled to left field, bringing home Maikel Garcia. Fermin attempted to stretch it into a double, but was beaten on the throw. KC could have added even more, but Povich was able to get a popout and strikeout to strand two base runners.

Povich allowed four runs on 13 hits but lasted six innings, striking out four in the losing effort. Kris Bubic picked up his second win of the season, going 6.2 innings, allowing his only run with a wild pitch in the seventh. He gave up five hits and a walk while striking out eight. Carlos Estévez secured his second save of the season with a scoreless ninth.

The Royals are now 4-5, a game behind Detroit for first in the AL Central. They welcome Minnesota to The K for a four-game series beginning Monday evening. First pitch is at 6:40 p.m., with pregame from 6 p.m., on KMMO.