Stephen Kolek Dominates With Complete Game Shutout

Stephen Kolek delivered a dominant performance for the Kansas City Royals, pitching a complete game shutout in a 5-0 victory over the Seattle Mariners. Kolek (3-0) allowed only four hits and one walk while striking out two over nine innings. Not originally in the Opening Day plans, his performance is considered the best pitching start of the 2026 season thus far and was instrumental in ending the Royals' four-game losing streak.