For at least one soggy-yet-satisfying night at the ballpark the formula the Royals pledged themselves to this offseason checked all the desired boxes.
Defense, the growth of a young and talented pitcher and speed were all crucial elements to the 5-3 season-opening win in front of 31,675 at a rain-soaked Kauffman Stadium on Thursday.
Adalberto Mondesi clubbed a pair of triples for the Royals, Whit Merrifield had one hit, stole two bases and scored two runs, and Alex Gordon collected an RBI and scored twice.
The game began after a delay, as a heavy rain deluge fell on Kauffman Stadium.