By Jayson Henderson

Kansas City Royals pitching prospect David Shields delivered another strong outing Thursday for Single-A Columbia, throwing five scoreless innings in a 3-0 win.

The 18-year-old left-hander retired the first 12 batters he faced and allowed just one hit while striking out eight. Shields has not surrendered an earned run since July 9, a span of four starts totaling 17 innings.

In his first professional season, Shields holds a 1.68 ERA and 0.94 WHIP, with 62 strikeouts against 11 walks in 53 2/3 innings.

Shields, ranked No. 5 in the Royals’ system, has been a key part of Columbia’s rotation since joining the club earlier this year. His latest performance continued a streak of effective outings that has drawn attention within the organization.

Columbia will continue its homestand Friday as Shields looks to build on his scoreless run.