Salvador Perez makes a comeback from injury with a bang, hitting a game-winning home run for the KC Royals.

Chicago’s windy reputation was evident on Wednesday as winds whipped around Guaranteed Rate Field at 20 mph during Game 1 of a doubleheader between the Kansas City Royals and the Chicago White Sox. Despite challenging conditions, Salvador Perez made a triumphant return from a mild groin strain by smashing a go-ahead two-run homer in the eighth inning. This crucial hit propelled the Royals to a 4-2 victory on a day marked by tough battles for both hitting and pitching.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro emphasized the significance of Perez’s home run, praising his performance throughout the game. White Sox starter Jonathan Cannon, making his MLB debut, held the Royals to just one run in five innings, showcasing his talent with three strikeouts. Despite managing seven hits, the Royals’ offense didn’t flourish until the late innings, with Perez’s impressive blast providing a late lead and reliever Brady Singer being spared from a loss.

Singer struggled through five innings, earning a no-decision after allowing two runs. However, the Royals bullpen stepped up, conceding just one hit and striking out three batters in the final four innings to maintain the lead. Hunter Renfroe added an insurance run with a solo homer in the ninth, and reliever James McArthur secured his fourth save as the Royals improved to a 12-6 record.

Returning to the lineup, Perez resumed his usual role behind the plate, batting third in the lineup. Though he finished 1-for-4, Perez’s eighth-inning home run demonstrated his power and impact. Meanwhile, Singer acknowledged his struggles with command but battled through five innings before handing it over to the bullpen.