Wed Jul 16 02:20:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the text:

**Royals Avoid Sweep with Loftin’s Clutch Hit Against Mets**

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Nick Loftin delivered another game-winning hit, driving in Tyler Tolbert in the bottom of the ninth inning to secure a 3-2 victory for the Kansas City Royals over the New York Mets on Sunday. The win allowed the Royals to avoid a three-game sweep at home heading into the All-Star break.

Tolbert, who entered the game for defensive purposes, singled off Mets reliever Sean Manaea and then stole second, setting the stage for Loftin’s heroics. Manaea, making his season debut after recovering from injuries, had been impressive before Tolbert’s single.

Royals rookie Noah Cameron delivered a stellar performance on the mound, pitching 6 2/3 scoreless innings with a career-high eight strikeouts. The Royals held a 2-0 lead, thanks to a second-inning double by John Rave, until the ninth.

The Mets rallied in the top of the ninth against Royals closer Carlos Estévez, tying the game with an RBI triple by Jeff McNeil and a sacrifice fly by Jared Young.

Clay Holmes started for the Mets, allowing two runs over five innings. However, the Mets struggled with runners in scoring position, going 1-for-7 and stranding eight runners on base.

Both teams now head into the All-Star break, with David Peterson, Edwin Diaz, Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso representing the Mets in Atlanta. The Royals will be represented by Maikel Garcia, Carlos Estévez, Bobby Witt Jr. and Kris Bubic.

Read More