MLB: Boston 8, Tampa Bay 4

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Sept. 1 (UPI) -- J.D. Drew hit a two-run homer Tuesday to lead the Boston Red Sox to an 8-4 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays.

Kevin Youkilis and Jason Bay added solo homers for the Red Sox, who have won four straight and seven of their last eight games.

Jon Lester (11-7) got the win after allowing two runs on seven hits over six innings.

Boston is 3 1/2 games ahead of Texas and six games in front of Tampa Bay for the AL wild-card spot.

Carlos Pena hit a solo homer and had two RBI and two runs, and Dioner Navarro had an RBI for the Rays, who have lost four of their last six games.

Andy Sonnanstine (6-8) took the loss after giving up five runs on eight hits in just four-plus innings.