The Royals took advantage of some shoddy St. Louis defense early to build a lead against starter Mike Leake. The right-hander finished seven innings, but watched his record drop to 5-6 with the lack of run support.
The Cardinals tallied two hits -- solo homers from Brandon Moss and Jhonny Peralta -- but were also unable to take advantage of Royals starter Chris Young's command troubles. Young walked six in a 91-pitch, four-inning start, but was hurt only by Moss' homer.
With the win, the Royals remained six games behind the American League Central-leading Indians.