BOSTON (AP) — Johnny Cueto had his worst start since coming to Kansas City just before the trading deadline, and the Boston Red Sox beat the AL Central-leading Royals 7-2 on Friday night to send them to their second straight loss.

Cueto (2-2) had allowed just six runs in four previous starts for the Royals. He allowed six earned runs and 13 hits on Friday, striking out three before leaving after six innings. The Royals also committed two errors, leading to another run.

Henry Owens made the longest start of his short career, pitching eight innings of four-hit ball. Blake Swihart had four hits and Mookie Betts three for the Red Sox, who tied a season high with their fourth win in a row.

The Royals entered the series against last-place Boston with a 14½-game lead in the division.