Daniel Hudson gutted out seven strong innings and despite having trouble finding the strike zone, picked up his ninth win for Arizona as the Diamondback hitters jumped on Felipe Paulino’s breaking ball early for a 5-3 win over the Royals on Thursday night.

Arizona scored in each of the first four innings for their five runs and while the Royals countered with three of their own it wasn’t enough. After the game, Paulino was designated for assignment by the club.

“The first seven hits he gave up were all on breaking balls. I told Mac (pitching coach Bob McClure) to go out there and get his fastball going. He was a totally different pitcher from that point on. He made a great adjustment. There was just a little too much damage early on.”

Paulino then retired 13 straight as he pitched into the eighth inning. The Royals were held to just six hits on the night. Matt Treanor and Alcides Escobar each picked up an RBI.