"Calming presence in clubhouse" - J.T Realmuto highlights Phillies pitcher's significance after career-high 7 RBI performance against Royals

After the Philadelphia Phillies' 11-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Saturday, catcher J.T. Realmuto talked about starting pitcher Ranger Suarez's return to the team.

Saturday's outing at Kauffman Stadium was Suarez's first appearance on the mound since July 22. The Venezuelan showed no signs of rust, striking out six and only allowing one run in five innings of work.

"He kinda stepped in and looked like he didn't really miss a beat. Command of the strike zone great, got ahead of guys, was able to throw swing-and-miss pitches when we needed it," Realmuto told NBC Sports Philadelphia (11:27).

"He's a calming presence in this clubhouse when we know he's on the mound, we know we're gonna get a good chance to win the game. He threw the ball great for us today."

Suarez started the season in exceptional form, leading the league in ERA standings at one point before being derailed by injury. For the 2024 season, the pitcher holds an 11-5 record, posting a 2.82 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 122 strikeouts.

J.T. Realmuto homers twice as Phillies rout the Royals

The Philadelphia Phillies beat the Kansas City Royals 11-2 on Saturday, as Ranger Suarez registered a quality start on his return from injury. After losing the opener, Saturday's win was a much-needed comeback for the visitors.

Catcher J.T. Realmuto had a career-best performance at the plate, recording seven RBIs on the day. The 33-year-old homered twice in the game, in the sixth and eighth inning, driving in three runs each time. Realmuto is hitting .262, with 10 home runs and 36 RBIs this season.

After struggling offensively of late, fans hope the Phillies can carry forward the momentum in their upcoming games. The Phillies take on the Royals in the series finale on Sunday and will be looking to clinch the series after previously coming up short against the Atlanta Braves.