Rare double play gives Royals winning boost

The first 5-6-4-3 double play since 1995 required near-perfect execution from Kansas City's infielders.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:39am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the various movements and perspectives of the Royals' 5-6-4-3 double play, with sharp, overlapping shapes and planes representing the players' actions.The Royals' infielders executed a rare and complex double play, showcasing their defensive coordination and attention to fundamentals.Kansas City Today

The Kansas City Royals pulled off a rare 5-6-4-3 double play in the bottom of the fourth inning against the Cleveland Guardians, the first time such a play has been seen in over 30 years. The sequence required a diving deflection from the third baseman, quick reactions from the shortstop and second baseman, and a stretch from the first baseman to complete the twin killing. The play helped the Royals secure a 4-2 victory, improving their record to 5-5 on the young season.

Why it matters

Double plays are always momentum-shifting plays, but a 5-6-4-3 double play is an exceptionally rare occurrence in Major League Baseball. The last time it happened was in 1995, making this a historic defensive play that showcased the Royals' infield prowess and helped them secure an important early-season win against a division rival.

The details

In the bottom of the fourth inning, with the Royals leading 4-2, Cleveland's Rhys Hoskins hit a ground ball to Royals third baseman Maikel Garcia. Garcia made a diving stop and deflected the ball to shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who scooped it up and fired to second baseman Jonathan India for the first out. India then quickly turned and threw to first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino, who stretched to complete the 5-6-4-3 double play.

  • The double play occurred in the bottom of the fourth inning on April 6, 2026.
  • The last time a 5-6-4-3 double play was recorded was on August 24, 1995.

The players

Maikel Garcia

The Royals' third baseman who made the diving stop to start the double play.

Bobby Witt Jr.

The Royals' shortstop who scooped up the ball and fired to second base for the first out of the double play.

Jonathan India

The Royals' second baseman who turned the double play by throwing to first base.

Vinnie Pasquantino

The Royals' first baseman who stretched to complete the 5-6-4-3 double play.

Rhys Hoskins

The Cleveland Guardians' baserunner who hit the ground ball that led to the rare double play.

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What they’re saying

“That was one of the most incredible defensive plays I've ever seen. Every guy on the infield made a perfect play to turn that double play.”

— Bobby Witt Jr., Royals Shortstop

What’s next

The Royals and Guardians will continue their three-game series on April 7, with the Royals looking to build on their momentum from the rare double play.

The takeaway

The Royals' ability to execute a 5-6-4-3 double play, a feat that hasn't been accomplished in over 30 years, showcases the team's defensive prowess and attention to fundamental baseball. This play not only helped secure a crucial early-season win, but it also highlighted the Royals' potential to be a scrappy, well-rounded team that can win close games through strong defense.