Tillman, Flaherty carry Orioles over Red Sox 9-1

BALTIMORE (AP) - Chris Tillman pitched eight innings of one-hit ball, Ryan Flaherty hit his first career grand slam and the Baltimore Orioles beat the Boston Red Sox 9-1 Friday night to secure their grip on the top AL wild-card spot.

Chris Davis also homered for the Orioles, who started the day one game behind the first-place Yankees in the AL East.

Tillman (9-2) gave up a bunt single to leadoff hitter Scott Podsednik, then allowed only two walks the rest of the way in his longest outing since July 4. The right-hander retired the final 14 batters he faced, and the only run he allowed was unearned.

Troy Patton worked the ninth to complete the one-hitter.

The Red Sox have lost 14 of 20. Starter Aaron Cook was knocked out in the second inning after allowing six runs, five hits and three walks.

Cox Media Group