New York moved within a percentage point of Seattle for the lead in the AL wild card chase.

Roger Clemens (6-5) gave up two hits over six innings for the victory and carried a no-hitter into the fifth. The Yankees beat the Red Sox for the second straight night and moved within six games of first place in the Eastern Division.

Melky Cabrera had three hits and an RBI for the Yankees while Johnny Damon singled in two runs in the second. New York had 14 hits to Boston's four.

The loss went to Josh Beckett (16-6), who had won his previous three decisions. He gave up four runs and 13 hits over 6 2/3.

The home run by Rodriguez was his 44th of the season and the 508th of his career, tying Frank Thomas for 20th on the all-time list.

After Boston scored twice in the ninth, Mariano Rivera was called in to record his 22nd save.