Hours after learning about his father's death, Edinson Volquez was already thinking about his next start.
The Kansas City Royals right-hander tossed six innings in the opener of the World Series not knowing his father, Daniel, had passed away earlier in the day from a heart condition. Volquez has since departed for the Dominican Republic to mourn with his family, but plans on being in New York for a potential Game 5.
"(Volquez) and I were texting 'til 2:30 this morning and he assured me he's going to be ready for Game 5," Royals pitching coach Dave Eiland said Wednesday.
Royals manager Ned Yost also confirmed the news during a press conference prior to Game 2.
It's been an incredibly emotional year for Royals players off the field. Third baseman Mike Moustakas lost his mother to cancer and righty Chris Young's father died from complications of having multiple myeloma, a cancer of blood plasma.
Related: Moustakas, Young grieve with Volquez after father's death
Volquez, who is enjoying newfound velocity in October, is 1-2 with a 4.37 ERA and 1.28 WHIP in four postseason starts.
The Royals lead the best-of-seven series 1-0 heading into action Wednesday night at Kauffman Stadium.
