MINNEAPOLIS (AP) James Shields was sharp for 7 1-3 innings, Alex Gordon had three RBIs, and the Kansas City Royals scored five runs in the eighth inning to beat the Minnesota Twins 6-1 on Tuesday.
Shields the key part in the deal that sent top prospect Wil Myers to Tampa Bay in the offseason struck out seven and notched his American-League best 22nd quality start.
Shields (9-8) only allowed one hit through seven innings before running into trouble and leaving in the eighth inning.
Kevin Correia struck out a season-high seven over seven shutout innings, but ended up with a no-decision. Brian Dozier had the Twins’ RBI.
Seven consecutive Royals hitters reached base in a five-run eighth that broke open a scoreless game and handed reliever Jared Burton (2-8) his third loss to Kansas City this season.
The Royals will go for the series victory on Wednesday night against the Twins at 7:10pm at Target Field. Pregame starts at 6:30 on NewsRadio 1350 KMAN from the Royals Radio Network.
Danny Duffy will be recalled from Triple-A Omaha on Wednesday to replace Wade Davis in Kansas City’s starting rotation.
Duffy has allowed four runs over his last 22 innings in Omaha while recovering from elbow surgery. The lefty made two starts for the Royals this month, allowing two runs over 9 2-3 innings.
Davis has allowed 11 runs in his last two starts and will move to the bullpen. Since coming to Kansas City in the trade that sent top prospect Wil Myers to Tampa Bay, Davis is 6-10 with a 5.67 ERA.
