Though they’ve already clinched another American League East title, the New York Yankees didn’t hold anything back against their rivals, the Boston Red Sox, last night. New York destroyed Red Sox pitching while holding Boston’s bats silent on their way to a 9-1 victory.
Looking to pad their lead in the AL wild-card race, the Red Sox appeared to have the favorable pitching matchup entering the game. Jon Lester has been one of the few bright spots in Boston’s rotation this season, while Freddy Garcia entered the game having allowed 15 earned runs over his last three starts.
But the Yankees had Lester’s number last night, and things got ugly in a hurry.
Jesus Montero started the scoring off in the 2nd inning with his RBI single. Russell Martin followed up with a single of his own, driving in a pair of runs.
Derek Jeter then decided to out due his teammates, sending a Lester offering deep to right for his 6th home run of the season. Jeter’s jack doubled the Red Sox deficit to 6-0.
Montero added on another three RBI’s over his next two at bats with a double and home run. The youngster continued his torrid pace at the plate, finishing the night a triple shy of the cycle.
This all was more than enough for Garcia and the Yankees pen. Freddy gave up only six hits over his impressive six shutout innings of work. A bunch of guys not named Rivera and Soriano then came on to close out the Red Sox.
With the victory, the Yankees extended Boston’s skid to three. Coupled with a Rays victory, the Red Sox find themselves clinging to a one and a half game lead in the AL wild-card race.
After Friday’s rainout, the Red Sox and Yankees will finish their season series with a day-night double header today.
For more on the Yankees and Red Sox, be sure to check out Yanks Go Yard and BoSox Injection.