The Kansas City Royals scored 6 runs as they batted around in the 1 st inning en route to a 17-3 thumping of the Seattle Mariners Tuesday night at Kauffman Stadium.

There were a number of hitting heroes. Designated hitter Bill Butler no doubt led the way as he drove in 6 runs on 3 hits, including a 3-run homer. Jason Larue went 3 for 3, driving in 2 runs. One of those hits was a solo home run. Esteban German had 3 hits, as well, going 3 for 6 on the night.

Kansas City starter Jorge De La Rosa (6-9) pitched 7 innings for the win, giving up 3 runs on 8 hits. M’s starter and losing pitcher Ryan Feierabend (1-3) lasted only 1 1/3 innings, surrendering 10 earned runs on 8 hits.

The Royals (36-48) try for the sweep when they again play the Mariners (45-35) Wednesday night at the K. Brian Bannister (5-4) goes to the mound for the Royals against Seattle’s Jarrod Washburn (7-6).