Matt Garza pitched seven strong innings in his first outing since throwing a one-hitter, and the Tampa Bay Rays beat Boston and nemesis Tim Wakefield 3-1 on Tuesday night. 

Best record in the majors, dominant at home and on the verge of sweeping their biggest series of the season. 

The Fourth of July is upon us, and Americans everywhere will celebrate our nation's independence in the time-honored manners: picnics, parades and the controlled detonation of low-grade explosives they bought from some guy in a big tent. 

MEDICAL WATCH: RHP Mike Timlin (left knee tendinitis) went on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to June 17. 

The Tampa Bay Rays may have subtracted the "Devil" from their team name, but they're giving Red Sox a devil of a time this season. 

--OF Manny Ramirez was swept up in a second in-house scuffle in the last month with a member of the Red Sox organization, according to a Monday report in the Providence Journal. 

Playing at home has been the key to success throughout the season series between the Boston Red Sox and Tampa Bay Rays. 

James Shields scattered five hits over 6 1-3 innings and B. 

James Shields scattered five hits over 6 1-3 innings and B. 

No punches, no angry words exchanged. 

In a story about the June 29 game between the Boston Red Sox and Houston Astros, The Associated Press reported erroneously that Boston had won its previous nine interleague series. 

Boston Red Sox manager Terry Francona declined comment Monday on a report the team received a mailed threat targeting black and Latin players. 

Manny Ramirez said he patched things up with a Boston Red Sox employee he reportedly shoved to the ground during an argument, and the club said the matter is over. 

Major League Baseball is now officially halfway through its season. 

Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz plans to attend next month's All-Star game, but won't play due to his injured left wrist.