SAN DIEGO (AP) Ryan Ludwick hit a two-run homer, Mat Latos won for the first time in four starts and the San Diego Padres beat the Kansas City Royals 4-3 on Monday night. The Padres, coming off consecutive series victories against Boston and Atlanta, have won five of six. The Royals have lost seven of nine. Latos (5-8) allowed three runs on seven hits in six innings, struck out six and walked two to win for the first time since June 5 against Houston. Heath Bell pitched the ninth for his 21st save in 22 chances, getting the final out after allowing consecutive two-out singles. The Padres continued their domination of Jeff Francis (3-9), who allowed four runs, three earned, and five hits in five innings.
