Francoeur, Royals out-bash Tigers
By Tom Avery
Staff Writer
Jeff Francoeur continued his hot start for the Royals on Saturday by driving in two runs to lead Kansas City to a victory over Detroit.
Francouer had three hits, including a double and a solo home run. He now has three home runs, 11 RBI and is batting .378 on the season.
Starting pitcher Kyle Davies allowed eight hits and just two runs while striking out three for his first victory of the season as the Royals (3-5) knocked off Detroit 6-5 at Comerica Park.
"It was a good win to get us back on the right track," said Royals manager Ned Yost. "Jeff has been huge for us so far this season and he continued that today. I'm glad to have him here."
Billy Butler and Mitch Maier also each had three hits as part of a 15-hit onslaught for Kansas City.
The Tigers had 13 hits and scored five runs, including four in the ninth off of Royals relievers Sean O'Sullivan and Robinson Tejeda. But Tejeda locked down the win with a strikeout of Jhonny Peralta.
The Royals were without closer Joakim Soria who is dealing with shoulder soreness and is day-to-day.
"Not having Joakim is putting extra stress on our bullpen," Yost said. "But I have full confidence that these guys will get the job done."
The Royals return to action to complete the three-game series in Detroit on Sunday. Bruce Chen will make his second start of the year.