Pearson was handed a three-run lead in the ninth and worked around some late traffic to secure Kansas City's sixth consecutive victory. The right-hander allowed two runners to reach but stranded both, striking out Dillon Dingler to end the game and collect his third save of the season. Pearson owns a 2.56 ERA and has worked his way into high-leverage situations for the Royals. Since joining Kansas City on July 22, Pearson has posted a 0.77 ERA and 0.86 WHIP with a 10:5 K:BB across 11.2 innings, recording two holds and going 2-for-3 in save opportunities.

It's worth noting Steven Cruz, who seemed to have taken over as Kansas City's favorite for saves lately, worked ahead of Pearson on Saturday in the eighth inning for a hold. Pearson has handled a save opportunity in back-to-back appearances, suggesting he's in the conversation for high-leverage work. Through 25.2 innings for the Royals and Astros, the right-hander has a 2.81 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 20:14 K:BB with two saves in three chances.