Johnny Bench battered the Royals, collecting a single, double, and triple and three RBIs in Cincinnati’s 6-1 win at Fort Myers. Dick Drago allowed two runs in the first inning but pitched two scoreless frames after that. Drago managed three strikeouts in his three innings but also allowed three hits and a walk.

Kansas City hitters could only manage four hits off the Reds’ Gary Nolan and two relief pitchers, although they did draw six walks in the game. Mike Fiore was the bright spot on offense, with a double, stolen base, and run scored. Steve Whitaker picked up Kansas City’s lone RBI.

Today’s birthday: Cesar Geronimo (1948)