MLB: N.Y.Yankees 2, Baltimore 1

NEW YORK, Sept. 21 (UPI) -- A two-run homer by Matt Lawton Wednesday night helped the New York Yankees edge Baltimore, 2-1.

Hideki Matsui had two hits and scored one run for the Yankees, who have won nine of 10 to move one-half game ahead of Boston for first place in the American League East. The Red Sox lost to Tampa Bay, 7-4, Wednesday night.

Winner Randy Johnson improved to 15-8. Mariano Rivera rang up his 41st save.

Melvin Mora doubled in the Orioles' only run in the sixth inning. Losing pitcher Rodrigo Lopez fell to 14-11 with the fourth setback in his last five decisions.