Shohei Ohtani struck out a career-high 13 over eight dominant innings of two-hit ball, and the AL MVP also reached base three times in Los Angeles’ 5-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday. Ohtani (6-4) retired 16 straight Royals and 23 of the final 24 batters he faced. While matching the longest start of his major league career, he allowed just one baserunner over his final seven innings — on a walk that was quickly erased by a double play.
Daniel Lynch (3-7) gave up three hits and five walks on a career-high 104 pitches.
C Salvador Perez sat out after reinjuring his left thumb on a swing Tuesday night, but Mike Matheny said the team is still determining the seriousness of the injury after an MRI exam.
Zack Greinke is expected to come off the injured list Friday to start when Kansas City opens a three-game weekend series at home against Oakland. Greinke (0-4, 5.05 ERA) went on the IL three weeks ago with a strained forearm. 7:10 Friday at Kauffman Stadium.