BOSTON, May 20 (UPI) -- Jason Varitek's three-run triple Sunday highlighted a four-run first inning and Boston held on to down Atlanta 6-3 in the finale of their inter-league series.
In a game that was delayed for 2 1/2 hours by rain at the start, Varitek ended 2-for-4 and Kevin Youkilis had three hits, including a homer, for the AL East-leading Red Sox, who ended a 10-game homestand 7-3 and improved to 14-4 in their last 18 games.
Boston starter Kason Gabbard (1-0) got the win, allowing two runs on six hits and one walk. He struck out seven in five-plus innings.
Matt Diaz went 4-for-5 with an RBI, and Jeff Francoeur went 3-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored for the Braves, who ended a 10-game road trip 4-6.
Hudson (5-2) suffered the loss, allowing six runs on eight hits with two walks in 4 2/3 innings.
