Boston ? A year ago, the Boston Red Sox tried to find room for Clay Buchholz in their rotation. Now, he’s their best starter.

Buchholz pitched seven shutout innings to outduel Zack Greinke and lead the Red Sox to a 1-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Saturday night.

“I think it’s just the natural progression of a real good pitcher,” Boston manager Terry Francona said, flashing a slight smile.

Buchholz (7-3) allowed four hits — three singles — walked four and struck out four in posting his sixth win in seven starts. He’s 3-0 with a 1.32 ERA in his last three outings.

With his name popping up in trade rumors as the club looked for a middle-of-the-order hitter last season, Buchholz bounced between Triple-A Pawtucket and Boston.

Saturday, he helped the Red Sox rebound after consecutive losses.

“No added stress,” he said. “I just felt like going out and being confident and pitching is good enough.”