Kansas City Royals fans understand that spring training is more about preparation than results, but let's be honest-a win always feels better. On Sunday, the Royals were on the brink of their second loss in three Cactus League games against a split-squad Milwaukee Brewers team.
Down 1-0 entering the seventh inning, the Royals' offense had been quieted by a series of Brewers pitchers. That changed when utilityman Peyton Wilson tied the game with a bases-loaded sacrifice fly. Then, shortstop Dustin Dickerson stepped up and turned the tide.
Dustin Dickerson Shines in Royals' Cactus League Win Over Brewers
Dickerson made his limited opportunities count, finishing with two extra-base hits, two runs, and four RBIs. His performance was capped by a clutch two-out home run in the ninth inning, giving Kansas City some breathing room in a 7-3 victory.
Known more for his defensive prowess than his power, Dickerson's homer was his first of the spring, transforming a tense game into a celebratory one for the Royals.
With Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia soon heading to the World Baseball Classic, Royals fans will see more of Dickerson as spring progresses. Last season, he got a taste of Triple-A, but he primarily showcased his skills with Double-A Northwest Arkansas, making highlight-reel defensive plays and swiping 21 bases in 111 games.
Dickerson's homer made him the first non-debuting Royal to go deep this spring. Team captain Salvador Perez started his spring with a solo shot on Friday, followed by a two-run blast from utilityman Michael Massey.
Though Dickerson had a limited role in big league camp last year, he made an impression in his nine plate appearances across eight games.
The competition is stiff. The Royals have added non-roster depth like Kevin Newman and Connor Kaiser, and with multiple shortstop options already on the 40-man roster, Dickerson faces a crowded path. However, his defensive skills and potential make him a valuable asset in Double-A, where he can continue to build his case as a reliable organizational piece.
While Sunday's heroics don't secure a spot, they certainly make an impact. It's rare for a bench player to seize the spotlight in such a way, but Dickerson did just that, and it matters.