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Surprise Today
By the People, for the People
D-Backs Defeat Royals 11-5 in Spring Training Matchup
Merrill Kelly makes Spring Training debut, Jorge Barrosa sparks offense in uneven but victorious performance
Mar. 14, 2026 at 5:06am
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The Arizona Diamondbacks responded to a previous loss against the Rockies with a powerful offensive showing, defeating the Kansas City Royals 11-5 in a Spring Training matchup in Surprise, Arizona. Merrill Kelly made his Spring Training debut, throwing 36 pitches with a mix of fastballs and offspeed stuff, though he gave up six hits and two runs in 1.2 innings. The D-Backs' offense was led by Jorge Barrosa, who reached base three times, and home runs from Jansel Luis and AJ Vukovich.
Why it matters
The D-Backs' victory helps them bounce back from a previous loss and provides positive momentum heading into their next Spring Training game against the Giants. Merrill Kelly's outing, while uneven, is an important step in his preparation for the regular season as he works to overcome back soreness. The strong offensive performances from young players like Barrosa, Luis, and Vukovich are also encouraging signs for the D-Backs' depth and future.
The details
Merrill Kelly made his Spring Training debut, throwing 36 pitches with a slight emphasis on his fastball compared to his usual usage. He gave up six hits and two runs in 1.2 innings, though he also recorded three whiffs on his changeup. At the plate, Jorge Barrosa reached base three times, while Jansel Luis and AJ Vukovich each hit home runs to power the D-Backs' offense.
- The D-Backs' victory came on March 14, 2026.
- Merrill Kelly's Spring Training debut was his first outing of the 2026 preseason.
The players
Merrill Kelly
A starting pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks who is working to overcome back soreness and prepare for the 2026 regular season.
Jorge Barrosa
An outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks who reached base three times and sparked the team's offense in the victory.
Jansel Luis
A 21-year-old prospect in the Arizona Diamondbacks' system who hit his first home run of Spring Training.
AJ Vukovich
A young hitter in the Arizona Diamondbacks' organization who continued his strong offensive performance this Spring Training with his third home run.
Ben McLaughlin
A minor league prospect in the Arizona Diamondbacks' system who had a strong 2025 season and has carried that over to an impressive start in Spring Training 2026.
What they’re saying
“Hopefully the D-Backs can continue the positive momentum as they take on the Giants tomorrow with Opening Day starter Zac Gallen on the bump opposite Adrian Houser.”
— Ben Seigel, Author
What’s next
The Arizona Diamondbacks will face the San Francisco Giants on March 15, 2026, with Zac Gallen starting for the D-Backs.
The takeaway
The D-Backs' victory over the Royals provides a much-needed bounce-back performance after a previous loss, with encouraging signs from both the pitching staff and the offense. As the team continues to prepare for the regular season, these types of uneven but ultimately successful Spring Training outings will be crucial in building momentum and confidence.
