In a commanding performance at Globe Life Field, MacKenzie Gore led the Texas Rangers to a 9-1 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night. Gore, who has been exceptional at home this season, pitched 6 1/3 shutout innings, allowing only four hits and one walk. This victory improves his record to 3-0 at home with a 2.08 ERA, contrasting with his 1-4 road record and 5.81 ERA.

The Rangers’ offense was bolstered by home runs from Brandon Nimmo, Nicky Lopez, and Joc Pederson. Nimmo hit a two-run homer in the fifth inning off Royals pitcher Stephen Kolek, who had recently come off a career shutout. Lopez, a recent addition to the Rangers and former Royal, hit his first home run for Texas in the sixth inning, marking his first hit after joining the team. Pederson added a solo shot in the eighth inning.

The Rangers capitalized on two throwing errors by the Royals in the first inning, scoring four two-out runs, including a two-run single by Ezequiel Duran. This offensive surge provided a solid cushion for Gore’s dominant pitching performance.

For the Royals, Vinnie Pasqantino broke their 23-inning scoreless streak with an RBI single in the ninth inning. However, it was too little, too late as the Royals suffered their fourth consecutive loss, falling to a season-worst 13 games under .500.

Looking ahead, the series continues on Saturday with Royals RHP Seth Lugo facing Rangers RHP Kumar Rocker. The Royals will aim to improve their record against left-handed starters, which currently stands at a league-worst 2-13.

Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.