Earlier in the inning, pinch-runner Tony Pena Jr. scored on a wild pitch by losing pitcher Frank Francisco (1-2).

Kansas City's Alex Gordon had two hits, one a two-run homer in the bottom of the first.

Mike Aviles added a two-run homer while Alberto Callaspo also had two hits for the Royals, who avoided a three-game sweep.

The winner was Ron Mahay (2-0).

Closer Joakim Soria recorded his 15th save this season with a 1-2-3 ninth.

Texas got German Duran's three-run homer and a solo shot from Ian Kinsler, both in the top of the second.

David Murphy knocked in a run and Josh Hamilton had two of the eight hits for the Rangers, who had won three in a row.