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Guardians squeeze out unsightly win over Royals in AL Central race

Cleveland secured a wild 12-9 victory to open their final regular-season series at Kauffman Stadium, overcoming three blown leads thanks to a five-run ninth inning fueled by six walks. Manager Stephen Vogt's club sits at 84-76, maintaining a one-game edge over Chicago in the American League Central race after punching their postseason ticket a day prior.

Gavin Williams struggled on the mound by lasting just 3 1/3 innings and giving up four runs, while Hunter Gaddis surrendered a game-tying homer in the eighth. Nevertheless, late patience at the plate against Kansas City pitchers including Nate Pearson and Nolan Hoffman proved decisive, with late walks drawn by José Ramírez, Chase DeLauter, and Petey Halpin helping push the visitors ahead.

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