March 31 (Game 4): Giolito Cruises in First Start of Season

White Sox (1-2) @ Royals (2-1)

Lucas Giolito v Jorge Lopez

Seeking a series split, the White Sox finally get to play on a sunny day. 

Stream it!: https://www.mlb.com/live-stream-games/2019/03/31

The White Sox strike first, with back-to-back HRs from Jose Abreu and Yonder Alonso off Lopez in the 4th. Giolito walks Whit Merrifield to lead off the game, then retires 18 straight Royals before Alex Gordon finally breaks up Luke's no-hitter in the 7th. This was the kind of satisfying victory that fans of good teams get to enjoy on a regular basis.

Final Score: White Sox 6, Royals 3

Highlights: https://www.mlb.com/gameday/white-sox-vs-royals/2019/03/31/565704#,game_tab=videos,game_state=final,game=565704

Game Notes:

• The White Sox score consecutive runs on walks in the 6th, thrown by two different Royals pitchers (Lopez and Tim Hill)
• This Alonso guy looks like a good signing! I can really see him sticking around for a long time!
• Lucas starts the season with a 8:1 K/BB ratio. That'll play, even if it's against the Royals.
• Kelvin Herrera has now appeared for both teams in this opening series
• WhiteSox MVP: Yonder Alonso. Hard to argue against Giolito in this one (although he was knocked around in the 7th), but 2-3 with a HR and 3 RBI, plus solid 1st base defense gives Alonso the edge.
• If you keep working, kid, somebody you can be a White Sox legend like Yonder Alonso (LVP): Yolmer (yet again, 3x this week). 0-4, 2 Ks. No chances in the infield to take attention from the batting line.