Royals Turn Rare 5-6-4-3 Double Play Not Seen in 27 Years

Kansas City's infielders showcase exceptional coordination and talent in historic defensive gem

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:29pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball double play, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in the Royals' and Guardians' team colors, conveying the dynamic and coordinated nature of the rare defensive play.The Royals' historic 5-6-4-3 double play showcases the team's exceptional infield coordination and individual talent.Kansas City Today

The Kansas City Royals made headlines with a rare defensive play, a 5-6-4-3 double play, during their 4-2 win over the Cleveland Guardians on Monday night. This unique double play, which hadn't been seen in the MLB since 1995, highlighted the Royals' exceptional infield coordination and individual talent.

Why it matters

The Royals' successful execution of this rare double play showcases the importance of teamwork and individual skill in baseball. It demonstrates the team's rigorous pregame preparation and the guidance of their infield coach, underscoring the beauty and unpredictability of the sport.

The details

The Royals' infielders, India, Pasquantino, Garcia, and Witt, had to anticipate and react swiftly to turn this 5-6-4-3 double play, which requires precise timing and positioning. The last time such a play was recorded was on August 24, 1995, when the San Francisco Giants turned it in Montreal.

  • The Royals executed the rare 5-6-4-3 double play during their 4-2 win over the Cleveland Guardians on Monday night.
  • The last time a 5-6-4-3 double play was recorded in the MLB was on August 24, 1995, when the San Francisco Giants turned it in Montreal.

The players

India

A member of the Royals' infield who contributed to the historic double play.

Pasquantino

A Royals infielder who was part of the team's exceptional coordination in executing the rare double play.

Garcia

A Royals infielder who showcased his talent and anticipation in the historic defensive play.

Witt

A Royals infielder who demonstrated his individual skill and teamwork in turning the rare 5-6-4-3 double play.

Jose Alguacil

The Royals' infield coach, whose guidance and preparation helped the team execute the historic defensive gem.

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What they’re saying

“This rare occurrence highlights the importance of teamwork and individual skill in baseball, as the Royals' infielders demonstrated their ability to work together under pressure.”

— Kareem Mueller, Sports Writer

“The Royals' success in this play is a testament to their rigorous pregame preparation and the guidance of their infield coach, Jose Alguacil.”

— Kareem Mueller, Sports Writer

What’s next

The Royals will look to build on their impressive defensive performance as they continue their season, hoping to showcase more of their team's exceptional coordination and individual talent.

The takeaway

The Royals' execution of the rare 5-6-4-3 double play serves as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and exceptional skills of their infielders, as well as the guidance of their coaching staff. This historic moment highlights the beauty and unpredictability of baseball, where moments of brilliance can occur even against long odds.