Kansas City’s excitement levels headed into today’s Opening Day festivities were as high as they had been since 2017. The roster featured several newcomers, including much-needed help in the starting rotation and bullpen, as well as the return of Vinnie Pasquantino.
Facing a Twins team favored to win a weak AL Central, though, we got a little taste of what we all knew. Minnesota might not be the strongest division favorite, but they are were a division winner last season for a reason. Despite a leadoff homer from Maikel Garcia and an Opening Day record nine strikeouts from Cole Ragans, Kansas City’s offense struggled against Twins starter Jorge Lopez, falling 2-1 on a beautiful Thursday afternoon.