Baseball report: Kendrick, Howard spur Phillies

Kyle Kendrick (2-1) pitched eight impressive innings, Ryan Howard hit a grand slam and had six RBIs, and host Philadelphia beat the Pirates, 12-2, last night. Howard's grand slam in the eighth inning was his ninth career slam, extending his franchise record. Jayson Werth had a three-run homer for the NL East-leading Phillies, who have won four straight and 12 of 15.

Cubs 4, Rockies 2

Aramis Ramirez hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the 11th, his first home run since April 15, to lift Chicago. Starlin Castro opened the 11th with his third hit of the game, a single. Even after last night's two-hit game, Ramirez is batting only .175.

Diamondbacks 5, Marlins 1

Edwin Jackson (2-5) struck out a career-high 12 to lead visiting Arizona. Marlins star shortstop Hanley Ramirez was benched by manager Fredi Gonzalez for not hustling after a ball. Also of note, Manuel Gonzalez, 30, became the first Venezuelan umpire in major-league history, working at third base.

Reds 6, Brewers 3

Jonny Gomes' three-run homer completed a five-run rally in the seventh as host Cincinnati won for the eighth time in its last nine games. Johnny Cueto (3-1) struck out seven in seven innings. Corey Hart homered twice for the Brewers, who lost their seventh straight.

Cardinals 6, Nationals 2

Albert Pujols had three hits and a walk and helped fuel a four-run first inning from the cleanup slot for host St. Louis. Pujols batted cleanup instead of his accustomed No. 3 for the first time in nearly seven seasons.

Rays 4, Indians 3

Jason Bartlett laid down a bunt to drive in the winning run in the bottom of the 11th to lift Tampa Bay.

Rangers 4, Angels 3

Nelson Cruz drove in two runs as host Texas beat Scott Kazmir.

Twins 8, Blue Jays 3

Justin Morneau homered twice and Kevin Slowey (5-3) earned his first win in five career starts against Toronto to lift visiting Minnesota.

Royals 4, Orioles 3

Kyle Davies (3-2) allowed two runs in six innings, and visiting Kansas City earned its third win in four games under new manager Ned Yost. - AP