KANSAS CITY, Mo. — — Freddy Fermin had fouled off a couple of bunt attempts earlier in the week, yet Royals manager Matt Quatraro had no qualms about calling for another one with the backup catcher at the plate and a chance to beat the White Sox on Thursday.
This time, Fermin’s bunt was fair.
Nick Pratto immediately dashed home from third base, and that allowed Kansas City to escape with a 4-3 victory over Chicago and its first home series win of the season.
Scott Barlow (1-2) pitched a perfect ninth inning to earn the win.
The Royals head out on a nine-game trip but have not announced a starting pitcher for Friday night’s opener of a three-game series in Milwaukee at 7:10.