Ryan Howard hit a go-ahead two-run single in the ninth inning and the Phillies rallied past the Blue Jays 7-6 yesterday spoiling Canada Day in Toronto.
Trailing 6-5 heading into the ninth against Blue Jays closer Frank Francisco, Placido Polanco led off with a walk and Chase Utley followed with a fly to left that Juan Rivera misplayed into a double, putting runners at second and third. Howard followed with a two-run single to center, giving Francisco (1-4) his fourth blown save in 13 chances.
Shane Victorino flied out and Ben Francisco doubled Howard to third before Marc Rzepczynski came on for Frank Francisco. Danys Baez (2-3) pitched one inning of relief for the win, and Antonio Bastardo closed it out.
Red Sox 7, Astros 5
In Houston, Adrian Gonzalez hit a go-ahead two-run double after Dustin Pedroia drove in a pair of runs during Boston’s six-run seventh inning, helping the Red Sox rally for a win over the Astros.
White Sox 6, Cubs 4
At Wrigley Field, Alexei Ramirez hit a two-run homer, and the White Sox opened their weekend series against the crosstown Cubs with a victory.
Cardinals 5, Rays 3
In St. Petersburg, Fla., Colby Rasmus hit a three-run homer during a wild eighth inning that featured four ejections, leading the Cardinals past the Rays.
Braves 4, Orioles 0
In Atlanta, Jair Jurrjens threw a one-hitter for his first career shutout, Jason Heyward ended a long home-run drought and the Braves beat the Orioles.
Nationals 2, Pirates 1
In Washington, Matt Stairs drove in the winning run in the bottom of the ninth, leading Washington over the Pirates to give interim manager Davey Johnson his first win.
Indians 8, Reds 2
In Cincinnati, Grady Sizemore hit the first of Cleveland’s three homers off Bronson Arroyo, and the Indians remained perfect against the Reds.
Rangers 15, Marlins 5
In Arlington, Texas, Alexi Ogando limited the Marlins to two runs and five hits over 6 2/3 innings with a career-high eight strikeouts, ending the right-hander’s personal three-game losing streak in the Rangers victory.
