Kendrys showing knack for birthday blasts

KANSAS CITY -- This much we know: Royals designated hitter Kendrys Morales really enjoys his birthdays.

Morales turned 32 on Saturday and celebrated with his eighth homer of the season, a key two-run shot to right that put the Royals ahead en route to a 7-4 win over the Red Sox.

It was the third time in his career that Morales homered on his birthday.

"I didn't know that," manager Ned Yost said. "Jeremy Guthrie kept screaming 'Birthday homer! Birthday homer!' I don't know anyone who has hit a birthday homer and he's hit three. That's pretty good."

But Morales' birthday successes spread throughout the clubhouse and his teammates have a secret plan for him on Sunday.

"We're going to bring him cake and some candles, and pretend it's his birthday again," third baseman Mike Moustakas said. "He's just been great for us. He's having a great year and I hope it continues."

Morales perhaps was anxious to celebrate his birthday afterward -- he left the clubhouse without talking to reporters, and that is rare for the veteran.

"I know he got hit with Gatorade and baby powder," a Royals official said. "Maybe he just got in the shower and then got out of here."