The sixth inning decided everything. Baltimore scored five runs in a devastating frame, turning a 3-2 deficit into an 8-3 lead that proved just enough to survive Kansas City's late rally in an 8-6 victory at Kauffman Stadium.
Coby Mayo delivered the decisive blow with a three-run homer to left center that traveled 452 feet, capping Baltimore's explosive sixth inning. Mayo finished 1-for-4 with three RBIs, extending his season totals to two home runs and 10 RBIs despite carrying a .164 average.
The inning began when Taveras singled to right, scoring Alonso to tie the game 3-3. Jackson followed with a two-run single to left, bringing home Basallo and Taveras to give Baltimore a 5-3 lead. Mayo then launched his mammoth homer, scoring Jackson and Cowser to extend the advantage to 8-3.
Chris Bassitt earned the victory despite allowing five runs over 5.1 innings, carrying a 6.75 ERA. Michael Wacha took the loss for Kansas City, surrendering six runs in 5.1 innings. The Royals mounted a furious comeback in the bottom of the sixth, getting a solo homer from Jensen and a two-run shot from Isbel, but fell short of completing the rally.
Baltimore improved to 11-13 while Kansas City fell to 8-16. The Orioles snapped a one-game losing streak, while the Royals had their one-game winning streak ended.