Nine-run first inning lifts Royals to series sweep over Astros

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Royals are now in sole possession of the longest winning streak in Major League Baseball. Kansas City captured its seventh straight win on Thursday afternoon, sweeping the Astros 13-3 at Kauffman Stadium to wrap up a flawless seven-game homestand.

A massive opening frame highlighted Kansas City's second straight series sweep. The Royals scored nine runs and tied a franchise record with 11 hits in just a single inning. Vinnie Pasquantino, Nelson Velazquez, Nick Loftin and Maikel Garcia drove home the first seven runs of the game with singles, and Bobby Witt Jr. finished off that nine-run surge with a two-run home run into the right field bullpen.

Witt Jr. proceeded to record four hits in the game to tie his career-best and blast another home run in the seventh inning to end a five-RBI day at the dish. Thursday marked Witt Jr.'s third multi-homer game of his young career.

Kansas City improved its record to 9-4 this season, which is currently the third-best record in the American League.

Up next - The Royals are hitting the road for a six-game road trip, starting on Friday against the New York Mets. Kansas City's three-game series at Citi Field kicks off on April 12 at 6:10 p.m.