Ellsbury had three hits and scored twice. J.D. Drew and Jed Lowrie drove in two runs apiece and David Ortiz added an RBI for the Red Sox.

Ross Gload drove in both of the Royals' runs.

Tim Wakefield (7-8) picked up the win, allowing the Royals two runs and four hits in six innings.

Kansas City starter Luke Hochevar (6-10) took the loss.

Boston first baseman Kevin Youkilis left the game with a bruised right hand after he was hit by a pitch in the first inning.