Royals Defeat Giants 3-1 in Pitchers’ Duel: Bubic Outduels Ray on May 19
Kris Bubic led the Royals to a 3-1 win over the Giants in a tense pitchers’ duel on May 19. Vinnie Pasquantino’s clutch homer and late-inning heroics secured Kansas City’s victory.
On May 19, 2025, the Kansas City Royals secured a 3-1 victory over the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park, marking the Giants’ first loss in a game started by Robbie Ray this season.
Pitching Showdown: Bubic vs. Ray:
Kris Bubic delivered a stellar performance for the Royals, pitching seven shutout innings with five strikeouts and three walks. Bubic has now allowed only one run over 25 1/3 innings in his four starts this month, lowering his ERA to 1.47.
Robbie Ray matched Bubic’s dominance, also pitching seven scoreless innings, allowing six hits and one walk while striking out seven. Despite his efforts, Ray received his first loss of the season, bringing his record to 6-1.
Late-Inning Drama:
The game remained scoreless until the eighth inning. Jonathan India hit a one-out double off Giants reliever Tyler Rogers, setting the stage for Vinnie Pasquantino’s two-run homer, his eighth of the season, giving the Royals a 2-0 lead.
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In the bottom of the eighth, the Giants responded with an RBI double by Jung Hoo Lee, narrowing the deficit to 2-1. However, Royals reliever John Schreiber managed to strand the tying and go-ahead runs, preserving the lead.
Kyle Isbel added an insurance run for the Royals in the ninth with a two-out RBI single. Carlos Estevez closed the game, earning his 14th save of the season, despite allowing a one-out single.
Offensive Highlights:
- Royals: Pasquantino, Maikel Garcia, Isbel, and Mark Canha each contributed two hits. Pasquantino’s home run was pivotal in breaking the deadlock.
- Giants: Jung Hoo Lee’s RBI double was the team’s sole run. The Giants were held to two hits through the first seven innings.
Looking Ahead:
The Royals’ victory improved their record, marking their third win in the past nine games. The Giants, who had swept the Athletics in their previous series, will look to bounce back in the next game of the series.