KANSAS CITY, Mo. — — Cole Ragans scattered four hits in six scoreless innings as the Kansas City Royals defeated the Minnesota Twins 5-0 on Friday night and traded places with the Twins in the AL Central and wild card standings.
The Royals now hold a half-game lead for second place in the division and the second wild card spot.
Michael Massey had three hits, including a home run, for the Royals.
Ragans (11-9) won for the first time since a 4-1 victory in Minneapolis on August 14, the Royals’ lone win in Minnesota this season.
Zebby Matthews (1-3) took the loss. He allowed four runs on nine hits in five innings.
The Twins will start RHP Bailey Ober (12-6, 3.95 ERA) against Royals RHP Alec Marsh (7-8, 4.70 ERA) Saturday at 6:15.