Bronx, NY (Sports Network) – Vernon Wells and Aaron Hill both knocked in three runs to help the Toronto Blue Jays beat New York, 7-3, and salvage the finale of a three-game series at Yankee Stadium.
Wells hit a two-run homer in the first inning and Hill matched him in the third, while John Buck added a solo shot off New York starting pitcher Phil Hughes (16-7).
Brett Cecil (12-7) allowed three runs on seven hits and walked four over 6 1/3 innings for the Blue Jays, who lead the majors with 208 home runs this season.
The loss snapped the Yankees’ season-high winning streak at eight games and dwindled their lead over Tampa Bay in the AL East to two games. The Rays are currently in action against Baltimore.
Hughes was tagged for six runs and seven hits in six innings for the Yankees, who welcomed back Alex Rodriguez. The All-Star third baseman was activated from the disabled list Sunday after missing time with a strained left calf. He went 2-for-5 with an RBI in his return to the lineup.