Jeremy Hellickson retired Yankees newcomer Alfonso Soriano with the bases loaded to preserve an early lead and the streaking Tampa Bay Rays tagged CC Sabathia once again, beating New York 10-6 Friday night.

Jim McIsaac, Getty Images
Jim McIsaac, Getty Images
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The Rays have won 20 of 23 and took sole possession of the AL East lead for the first time since June 10, 2012. Tampa Bay moved a half-game ahead of Boston.

Ben Zobrist, Yunel Escobar and Evan Longoria doubled during a six-run burst in the second inning, and James Loney later homered and drove in four runs.

Well supported all season, Hellickson (10-3) won his sixth straight decision. Fernando Rodney, the Rays' fourth pitcher in a three-run ninth, got the last out for his 25th save.

 

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