A three-run first inning propelled the Tampa Bay Rays who held on for a 5-3 win over the Kansas City Royals Wednesday afternoon.
The Rays scored three early runs off Jason Hammel and added a solo home run from C.J. Cron in the third inning. The Rays tallied 10 hits off of Hammel in six innings before the Royals bullpen held the Rays hitless the rest of the way.
Jon Jay led the way for the Royals with three hits. Jorge Soler, Mike Moustakas and Alcides Escobar each drove in a run in the losing effort.
The Royals are now 13-30 and have the day off Thursday before hosting a three-game series with the New York Yankees beginning on Friday.
