Royals Turn Rare 5-6-4-3 Double Play Not Seen Since 1995

The last time a 5-6-4-3 double play was turned in MLB was in 1995 between the Giants and Expos.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:39am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the Royals' 5-6-4-3 double play, with the players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes in the team's colors, capturing the dynamic movement and energy of the play.The Royals' intricate 5-6-4-3 double play showcases the team's defensive prowess and quick reactions on the field.Cleveland Today

In the bottom of the fourth inning of Monday's game against the Guardians, the Royals turned an incredibly rare 5-6-4-3 double play. The last time this type of double play was recorded in MLB was on August 24, 1995, when the Giants turned it against the Expos. None of the Royals infielders who completed the play on Monday were even born yet when the previous 5-6-4-3 double play occurred.

Why it matters

Double plays are exciting plays in baseball, and a 5-6-4-3 double play is an exceptionally rare occurrence. The fact that the Royals were able to execute this complex defensive maneuver highlights the team's strong infield defense and quick reactions.

The details

With Guardians runner Kyle Manzardo on first base, Rhys Hoskins hit a low liner that Royals third baseman Maikel Garcia couldn't initially field cleanly. However, shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. was there to scoop up the ball and fire it to second baseman Jonathan India, who then threw to first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino to complete the 5-6-4-3 double play.

  • The 5-6-4-3 double play occurred in the bottom of the fourth inning on Monday, April 7, 2026.
  • The previous 5-6-4-3 double play in MLB happened on August 24, 1995 between the Giants and Expos.

The players

Bobby Witt Jr.

The 25-year-old shortstop for the Royals who fielded the ball and threw to second base to start the double play.

Jonathan India

The 29-year-old second baseman for the Royals who received the throw from Witt and threw to first to complete the double play.

Vinnie Pasquantino

The 28-year-old first baseman for the Royals who received the throw from India to finish the 5-6-4-3 double play.

Maikel Garcia

The 26-year-old third baseman for the Royals who initially couldn't field the ball cleanly but was backed up by his teammates to turn the rare double play.

Michael Wacha

The Royals starting pitcher who was on the mound when his infielders turned the impressive double play.

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What they’re saying

“You play this game long enough, some crazy things happen.”

— Bobby Witt Jr., Royals Shortstop

“We've got some absolute studs out there playing defense. It was another night where they were showcasing it. It's fun being on that mound knowing we got those guys behind us.”

— Michael Wacha, Royals Starting Pitcher

“I know Bobby's always behind me.”

— Maikel Garcia, Royals Third Baseman

What’s next

The Royals will look to continue their strong defensive play as they continue their series against the Guardians on Tuesday night.

The takeaway

The Royals' ability to execute a rare 5-6-4-3 double play, something that hasn't been seen in MLB since 1995, showcases the team's impressive infield defense and quick reactions. This play highlights the Royals' commitment to fundamentals and their potential to make highlight-reel defensive plays throughout the season.