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Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Cole Ragans didn’t get the win on Thursday against the Minnesota Twins, but he still etched his name in the franchise record books.
Ragans was magnificent against the Twins, striking out nine through six innings to pass Danny Duffy (2017) and Wally Bunker (1970) for the most K’s on Opening Day in Royals history.
The prize of the Aroldis Chapman trade with the Texas Rangers, Ragans allowed two earned runs off five hits and had some command issues but looked strong against the Twins overall.
The stud left-hander responded to early adversity. After giving up a solo shot to third baseman Royce Lewis and walking shortstop Carlos Correa in the first inning, Ragans struck out four straight batters, including the side in the top of the second.
Thursday’s start was encouraging for Ragans, who has had two Tommy John surgeries on his road to the Majors. Like anyone would, the 26-year-old had doubts if he would ever return to the mound. As he stated before making the Opening Day start for the Royals, though, all that hard work has paid off.
“Through all the TJ’s and stuff, yeah, there were moments where I was like, ‘Is it all worth it? Going through it?'” Ragans said via Bally Sports Kansas City. “Now, looking back, obviously, very worth it. Worth every second of it.”
After all the ups and downs, Ragans is on pace to be the ace of the Royals staff. Armed with a versatile arsenal, including a fastball that tops out at 101 mph, he might also be one of the best budding young pitchers in the game.
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