Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Brad Keller pitched seven strong innings to win for the fourth time in six starts, leading the Kansas City Royals to a 6-3 win over the Chicago White Sox. Whit Merrifield had two hits, two RBIs, and scored two runs for the Royals. He also stole two bases to increase his American League lead to 33 steals, including a league-best 12 of third base. Keller gave up one run and four hits and two walks while striking out six. He is 4-1 with a 1.62 ERA in his last six starts.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Cardinals rookie Tyler O’Neill hit a three-run homer during a six-run eighth inning, Marcell Ozuna drove in three and Miles Mikolas pitched seven solid innings to lift the St. Louis Cardinals over the Pittsburgh Pirates 11-5. Mikolas gave up a run, five hits and a walk while striking out seven. He dropped his ERA to 2.99, and he got his first victory in five starts against the Pirates this season. Mikolas struck out five straight in one stretch, and the Cardinals improved to 21-8 in his starts.

UNDATED (AP) — It’s not unusual to see Iowa’s defense ahead of its offense in the middle of September. But the difference between those two units has likely never been starker. Through two games, Iowa has one of the best defense in America and one of the worst offenses. Coach Kirk Ferentz says there is always something to work out. The Hawkeyes host Northern Iowa on Saturday.

AMES, Iowa (AP) — For all the progress Iowa State has made under coach Matt Campbell, the offensive line has long been a sore spot. The Cyclones showed in their opener that their rebuilt line has yet to find itself. Iowa State gained just 188 yards in a 13-3 loss to Iowa. No. 5 Oklahoma is up next for the Cyclones.