The New York Yankees (80-52) were able to edge the Baltimore Orioles (53-79) in the finale of a long series of games in Baltimore on Monday night. New York needed this game, as they now head to Boston in a clash for the top spot in the American League East.

Bombers starter Freddy Garcia (11-7) pitched six innings of two-hit baseball, in his return from the disabled list. The starter was sidelined with a cut on his right index finger; the righty is now 4-0 with a 1.72 ERA in his last five stars.

Minus both Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez, the Yankees continue to find offense from Nick Swisher, who continues to swing a red-hot stick. The right fielder now has six homers in his last seven games with the Bombers.

As for Jeter and Rodriguez, they are slated to play in Boston for a crucial three-game set against their arch-rivals. The Yankees are only 1 ½ game back from the Red Sox for first place in the AL East race.

The rivalry series starts on Tuesday, as Yankees-ace C.C. Sabathia (17-7, 2.99 ERA) takes on John Lackey (12-9, 5.98 ERA). First pitch is slated for 7:10 p.m.