That persistent Angels lineup, which was a problem for the Red Sox over the weekend, came through against the Yankees late Monday night (into Tuesday morning). Rookie catcher Ryan Budde upped his average to .167 with the game-winning RBI in the 10th inning.

With Dustin Pedroia and Mike Lowell coming thorugh for Boston (not to mention Tim Wakefield), the Red Sox bumped their lead back to five games

Tonight, the Yankees and Mike Mussina must face Kelvim Escobar (13-6, 2.68), while the Red Sox and Jon Lester oppose Andy Sonnanstine (2-8, 6.17). Of course, Sonnanstine ended a personal 8-game losing streak by beating the Red Sox in Boston last week.

While the Red Sox increased their lead, the Sea Dogs saw their push to the playoffs continue to stall. Portland lost again Monday and holds only a one game lead over the Fisher Cats for a playoff spot.

Minor league note of the day: Since lefty Abe Alvarez went to the bullpen at the All-Star break in Pawtucket, he has allowed 5 hits and no runs in six games (9 1/3 innings).

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