KANSAS CITY, Missouri — Salvador Pérez hit a two-run homer in the first inning, Cole Ragans held off Toronto until the rain came, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Blue Jays 2-1 on Thursday in a game was stopped after the fifth inning and a long rain delay.
Ragans (1-2) allowed Toronto’s only run, on three hits and three walks, while striking out four.
The streak of Puerto Rican José Berríos (4-1) without receiving a score ended in 22 1/3 innings when Pérez, after Vinnie Pasquatnino’s walk with two outs, deposited the first pitch he faced in the left field bullpen and with which Kansas City went ahead in the first inning.
When the fifth inning ended, the rain got worse and umpire Chris Guccione called for the cover to enter the field. Blue Jays manager John Schneider came out to argue with the umpire and asked for another chance to tie or go ahead. Apparently he convinced Guccione and the workers began to work to prepare the field.
After 10 minutes, Guccione again asked to enter the deck. The field was covered for two hours until the rain stopped, but after 3 hours and 38 minutes of delay they decided to end the game.
For the Blue Jays, the Dominican Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 2-0.
For the Royals, the Venezuelans Maikel García 2-0, Freddy Fermín 2-1.
