Left-hander Oliver Perez pitched eight strong innings to help the Mets to a much-needed 7-2 victory over the Marlins. Perez (15-9) gave up six hits and one earned run with eight strikeouts. “That’s an outstanding job of stepping up,” manager Willie Randolph said.
Melky Cabrera drove in five runs, capped by an RBI single that scored Johnny Damon with two outs in the bottom of the 11th in the Yankees’ 12-11 victory over the Blue Jays. Cabrera had started a strong relay to cut down Matt Stairs at the plate in the top of the 11th.
The Red Sox became the first team in the majors to clinch a playoff spot this season with an 8-6 win over the Devil Rays in Tampa. Jason Varitek hit game-tying opposite-field homer against Al Reyes. Then Julio Lugo added two-run shot to give Boston the victory.
THREE DOWN
The Tigers had hoped for better things from Kenny Rogers since he returned from left elbow discomfort three weeks ago, but the lefty extended his winless streak to seven starts, allowing five runs (three earned) on eight hits in six innings in a 7-4 loss to the Royals.
With a chance to clinch the AL Central, the Indians fell to the Athletics 9-3. Saturday was not destined to be the special night as Cleveland third baseman Casey Blake and catcher Kelly Shoppach let a pop fall with two outs in the second inning, opening the door for two A’s runs.
For the second straight day, the Angels could not wrap up the AL West title. The Mariners handcuffed the Angels 3-2 as Miguel Batista and six relievers stopped the Angels, who couldn’t take advantage of 10 hits and six walks.
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Compiled by Mike Pankow
