We mentioned last week in this space how the New York Yankees struggled with Derek Jeter in the lineup. Since his return on July 4th, the Yankees are 4-5. By comparison, they were 14-4 with him on the DL.
It’s that trouble that’s caused the Bronx Bombers to vanquish the lead that they held over the Boston Red Sox in the AL East.
The Red Sox, who have the best record in the American League, bounced back from a tough start to their second half – a 9-6 loss to Tampa Bay after Andrew Miller faltered early – and an early deficit in the second half’s second game, spotting Tampa a 3-0 lead before hitting the gas and winning going away to keep the Yankees, who beat Toronto 4-1 Saturday afternoon, at bay.
Boston Red Sox (56-36)
New York Yankees (54-37, one game back)
Tampa Bay Rays (50-42, six games back)
Toronto Blue Jays (47-48, 12 games back)
Baltimore Orioles (36-54, 18 games back)
For complete major league standings, check out MLB.com’s standings page.