John Danks threw 7 1-3 shutout innings and got a big lift from reliever Scott Linebrink as the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 5-0 on Friday night for their seventh straight victory.

A. J. Pierzynski homered and he and Scott Podsednik both had three hits for the White Sox, who won for the 11th time in 13 games.

Chicago has won five straight over the Royals, who have lost seven of nine.

Zack Greinke (10-4) lost to the White Sox for the first time in three decisions this season.

Danks (7-6) gave up five hits while striking out seven and not allowing a walk. Linebrink relieved him with the bases loaded and got a double play grounder from Alberto Callaspo.