Royals Report: Paulo Orlando Mashes In 4-1 Win Over White Sox

2) Joakim Soria Didn’t Give Up Any Runs, But…

Soria needed an absolutely fantastic play to escape the seventh inning without damage. Certainly every Kansas City Royals pitcher will get some help from this defense at one time or another, but Soria isn’t making anyone feel really good about the idea that he’s done with his early-season struggle.

More from Kings of Kauffman

• KC Royals Roster Moves: 3 players added, 1 re-signed
• KC Royals News: Awards, a new coach, and more
• Why the KC Royals could reunite with this old friend
• 3 outfielders the KC Royals should consider protecting
• Should the KC Royals call this championship exec?

With Danny Duffy and Dillon Gee on strict pitch counts due to opening the season in the bullpen, Joakim Soria looks like he’s back in the saddle for the seventh inning job as the opening act for the KC Royals three-headed bullpen monster.

Soria gave up a single, walk, and then a screaming line drive to Todd Frazier that might have plugged the gap for extra bases without Escobar’s terrific double-play. One run would certainly have scored, and Soria would have been facing switch hitter Melky Cabrera with the tying runs on base.

So, Soria’s numbers are looking much better with an ERA now under 4 (3.98). But he still seems vulnerable.

This isn’t exactly what general manager Dayton Moore had in mind when he paid $27 million to Joakim Soria this winter (over three years). Let’s hope Soria can find himself soon.

Next: The Slump