The Boston Red Sox really needed a good start out of Jon Lester to give them some momentum going into the All-Star break. They didn't get it.
Instead, Lester got knocked around by the Bronx Bombers, giving up five runs (four earned) in just 4 1/3 innings on nine hits and two walks. Scott Atchison didn't provide much relief in Lester's stead, surrendering two runs in just two innings.
The New York Yankees on the other hand received a terrific outing from their sophomore star Ivan Nova, who only allowed two runs in six frames. Nova also kept the ball out of reach all night, striking out 10 Red Sox.
Pedro Ciriaco was perhaps the lone bright spot for Beantown going 3-for-4 with two runs scored. David Ortiz also added a double and a RBI to his totals while Nick Punto had two hits.
The Red Sox now go into the break looking at a major deficit in the AL East while only being 2 1/2 games out of the AL Wild Card spot. It's probably the best time for a few days off, considering all the scrutiny that's about to be heaped on them.
For more on the Red Sox, please be sure to check out our blog Over The Monster and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.