The Royals started this game with two runs in the first thanks to an errant throw home by first baseman Steve Pearce. Baltimore cut the deficit in half thanks to a Ryan Flaherty's solo home run in the top of the third, but good pitching and defense by both sides kept the score at 2-1 for the rest of the game.
Kansas City has now swept their way through the first three rounds of the playoffs and have reached the World Series for the first time since they won it in 1985.
Turning Point: Baltimore was looking to tie the game in the top of 5th, and looked like they had a great chance to do just that when J.J. Hardy tattooed a ball to left field to lead off the inning. Unfortunately for them, Alex Gordon was ready and made an outstanding catch, stopping an Orioles rally before it began and giving the Royals momentum back.
Key Stat: The game's only error is what essentially won the game for Kansas City. With runners on 2nd and 3rd in the bottom of the 1st inning, Eric Hosmer hit a grounder to Orioles first baseman Steve Pearce. Pearce decided to throw the ball home instead of stepping on first for the easy out, and the throw got away from catcher Caleb Joseph, allowing two runs to score.
Kansas City MVP: The Royals pitching staff was amazing today, allowing only four hits to the Orioles. They pitched with the lead for the whole game, and did a great job of forcing ground balls and making everyone else's job easier.
Baltimore MVP: Flaherty provided Baltimore's only run of the game, so he gets the nod for this award. His homer gave the O's a chance, but they were unable to do anything with it.
What’s Next? The Kansas City Royals are going to the World Series for the first time since 1985, and will face either the San Francisco Giants or the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday. Baltimore is now eliminated, and will try to defend their AL East crown next season.
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