Red Sox slam Royals, 12-5

? Boston’s David Ortiz hit a grand slam to cap a five-run fourth inning and Dustin Pedroia extended his career-best hitting streak to 24 games with a solo homer in Boston’s 12-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday.

Jacoby Ellsbury and Pedroia, Boston’s first two batters, homered. It was the first time since July 21, 1995, that the first two Red Sox homered. The Red Sox won for the 19th time in 23 games.

Pedroia added two singles and a sacrifice fly. Adrian Gonzalez had three hits and three RBIs to raise his major-league leading total to 87.

Eric Hosmer hit a three-run homer and Billy Butler added a solo shot for the Royals.

John Lackey (9-8) won his fourth straight start, allowing four runs — three earned — and 11 hits in 5 2-3 innings.

Boston had 16 hits, reaching double digits for the 11th straight home game.

Bruce Chen (5-4) was tagged for 10 runs and 10 hits in four innings.