KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Jack Flaherty got a lift from St. Louis' lineup, and the rookie right-hander made the most of it.
Flaherty struck out nine in seven innings, and the Cardinals beat the Kansas City Royals 8-3 on Saturday night for their fourth straight win.
Harrison Bader and Jose Martinez each hit a two-run homer, helping the Cardinals move seven games above .500 for the first time since June 12. They are 15-9 since Mike Shildt was named interim manager on July 15.
"It's a lot easier when the offense goes out and gets you four runs, gets you ahead like that," Flaherty said.