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The Boston Red Sox edged the Kansas City Royals 4–3 on May 20 at Kauffman Stadium in a low-scoring affair that fell well short of the Vegas total of one run. Boston's pitching staff dominated, allowing just 8 hits and 3 earned runs while striking out 8 batters with a 3.68 ERA, though the Red Sox managed only 11 hits and 1 home run offensively. Kansas City's bats struggled throughout, recording just 8 hits with a .696 OPS and striking out 8 times, though the Royals' pitching staff posted 10 strikeouts to keep the game competitive. Despite the home team's defensive miscue—one error that may have contributed to the deficit—Boston's superior pitching efficiency and ability to manufacture runs without power proved decisive. The Red Sox's pitching advantage and lower ERA suggest they are better positioned for sustained success down the stretch, while Kansas City's anemic offensive output (.237 batting average, .382 slugging) will need immediate correction to remain competitive in the division.