Michael Wacha Shines as Kansas City Royals Defeat Athletics 4-2 Behind Strong Pitching on September 27, 2025

Sunday, September 28th, 2025

Kansas City Royals Defeat Athletics 4-2 Behind Michael Wacha's Gem

Michael Wacha delivered six scoreless innings to secure his 10th win of the season as the Kansas City Royals topped the Athletics 4-2 on Saturday night. Wacha (10-13) allowed only two hits and three walks while tallying five strikeouts, claiming his first victory in more than three weeks. This marks the fourth consecutive season, and the sixth time in his 13-year career, that Wacha has won at least 10 games in a season.

Offensive Highlights for the Royals

Vinnie Pasquantino provided a crucial two-run double, while Mike Yastrzemski reached base three times and crossed the plate twice, helping the Royals (81-80) earn their first win over the Athletics (76-85) in five matchups this year.

Kansas City Bullpen Locks in the Win

John Schreiber, Angel Zerpa, and Jonathan Bowlan each retired two batters in relief for Kansas City. Closer Carlos Estévez pitched a clean ninth inning, recording his major league-leading 42nd save of the season.

Athletics' Effort Falls Short

Shea Langeliers led the Athletics with three hits and an RBI. Manager Mark Kotsay was ejected in the ninth inning following a dispute over balls and strikes.

How the Scoring Happened

Michael Massey led off the fifth inning with a single and reached third on a one-out hit by Yastrzemski. After Bobby Witt Jr. flied out, Pasquantino delivered a two-run double to left field, as the ball dropped between Athletics shortstop Jacob Wilson and sliding left fielder Tyler Soderstrom.

Pitching Summary

Athletics starting pitcher Luis Morales (4-3) allowed three runs (two earned) on five hits while striking out five over 4 2/3 innings of work.

Key Stat

Michael Wacha pitched with runners on base in four of his six innings, but only one Athletics baserunner advanced as far as third base.

Key Moment

Vinnie Pasquantino stayed alive by fouling off three consecutive two-strike fastballs from Morales before collecting his two-out, two-run double in the fifth.

Up Next

Royals left-hander Cole Ragans (3-3, 5.02 ERA) is set to start the season finale on Sunday, while the Athletics have yet to announce their starting pitcher.

In summary

Michael Wacha's dominant performance led the Kansas City Royals to a 4-2 victory over the Athletics, marking his 10th win of the season. Key offensive contributions from Vinnie Pasquantino and Mike Yastrzemski propelled the Royals to their first win over the Athletics in 2025. Solid bullpen work and a league-leading save from Carlos Estévez helped Kansas City hold on, while Shea Langeliers' strong night at the plate was not enough for Oakland. The teams face off in the season finale on Sunday, with the Royals looking to close out the series on a high note.

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