Pablo Lopez fuels Twins past Royals

(Photo credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports)
The Minnesota Twins began their defense of their American League Central crown behind a strong start by Pablo Lopez, topping the host Kansas City Royals, 4-1 on Thursday.

After surrendering a leadoff home run to Maikel Garcia, Lopez shut out the Royals while scattering four hits over seven innings, striking out seven. Lopez needed just 84 pitches to complete seven innings.