Royals' Ventura throws career-high 11 Ks in win over Jones-less Orioles
Yordano Ventura has an arm capable of dominating an opposing team's lineup, and he demonstrated that Thursday against the Baltimore Orioles.
The flame thrower struck out a career-high 11 hitters over six innings of work in a 5-3 victory, showcasing the electric stuff he became known for during the Royals' playoff run last season.
Ventura's strikeouts vs. the Orioles
| Inning | Player |
|---|---|
| 1st | Gerardo Parra |
| 1st | Chris Davis |
| 1st | Matt Wieters |
| 2nd | Steve Pearce |
| 2nd | Ryan Flaherty |
| 3rd | Manny Machado |
| 3rd | Matt Wieters |
| 4th | Jonathan Schoop |
| 4th | Ryan Flaherty |
| 6th | Chris Davis |
| 6th | Matt Wieters |
Ventura mowed down an Orioles lineup that was without star center fielder Adam Jones, who left the game after slamming into the wall in the first inning.
It was the first time Ventura hit the double-digit strikeout marker this season.
After finishing last season in the top 20 in the American League in strikeouts, the Royals youngster hasn't been able to replicate the same consistency in 2015.
"There's a lot of work that has been put in to get better," Ventura told reporters. "I've been getting help from Dave (Eiland) and the guys in here. There's been a lot of work put into this, and I feel like this was one of my better outings, especially the breaking ball."
Ventura has had an up-and-down season, and was even demoted earlier in the year, posting a 4.64 ERA and 1.30 WHIP prior to the contest.