Royals Defeat Orioles 1-0 in Wild Card Opener

In the first game of the American League Wild Card Series, the Kansas City Royals edged out the Baltimore Orioles 1-0, putting them one win away from advancing to the Division Series. Cole Ragans delivered a stellar performance, pitching six shutout innings with eight strikeouts, while Corbin Burnes, despite a strong outing lasting eight innings and allowing only one run, was credited with the loss. The game's only run came in the sixth inning when Bobby Witt Jr. drove in Maikel Garcia, who had reached base on a walk and advanced through a series of strategic plays. The Orioles struggled offensively, stranding multiple runners in scoring positions, a recurring issue throughout their second half of the season. This loss marks a continuation of Baltimore's postseason struggles, as they seek their first playoff win since 2014. Game Two of the series is set for October 2, where the Orioles aim to extend their playoff hopes.