Yankees extend lead over Rays

NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Yankees opened a 2-1/2 game lead over Tampa Bay in the American League East by beating the Rays 8-3 on Tuesday.

Nick Swisher homered off James Shields (13-13) to key a five-run burst in the first inning as the Yankees cut their magic number for clinching a playoff spot to three over AL East third-placed Boston.

Tampa Bay nicked Phil Hughes (17-8) and two relievers, but never quite got the big hit it needed while stranding 10 runners.

Ahead 7-3, Chamberlain escaped a bases-loaded jam in the eighth by striking out one and inducing a line drive.

Angels 2, Rangers 0

In Anaheim, Ervin Santana …