Alex Colome started for the Rays and pitched five scoreless innings before Steve Geltz, Kevin Jepsen, Jake McGee and Brad Boxberger covered the final four innings. The victory lifted Tampa Bay into sole possession of first place in the American League East, a half-game ahead of the idle Yankees.
Chavez allowed three runs on five hits in six-plus innings but came away with his fourth loss of the season.
MOMENTS THAT MATTERED
Stranding room only: The Athletics, who went 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position in Wednesday's loss to Houston, continued to struggle in the clutch against the Rays.