Chicago ? Despite struggling with the bat for most of the season, Joe Crede showed again why the White Sox have faith in him.

Crede hit a game-winning three-run shot in the ninth — his second homer in two innings — to lead the Chicago White Sox to a 7-6 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Thursday night.

“I think our expectations for Joe were very high in spring training,” said White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen. “I think the biggest disappointment with him this year has been his batting average. He has shown good power for us this year and has come up with some very big hits, and I think that going into next year our expectations should remain high for him in the future.”

Aaron Rowand and Ross Gload also homered for Chicago, which has won three straight games.

Trailing 6-1 in the eighth inning, the White Sox started their comeback against Kansas City starter Mike Wood.

Crede led off with a home run and Wilson Valdez singled off Wood. One out later Rowand followed with a two-run homer off Royals reliever Shawn Camp to make it 6-4.

In the ninth, Royals closer Jeremy Affeldt (3-4) allowed a leadoff walk to Juan Uribe. Joe Borchard followed with a single.

Jamie Burke botched a bunt attempt, and Stairs threw out Uribe going to third, but Crede followed with his third career game-ending homer to right-center.