Yanks' Take Opener Against Rays

Nova reacts after striking out Jose Molina to escape a jam in the 7th inning.  (Getty Images)

The Yankees came out on Tuesday Night ready to play as they defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 5-3 to pull within 2.5 games back behind the Rays and Orioles in the AL East.

Ivan Nova started for the Yankees in what was in best outing of the season. Nova allowed 2 runs on 6 hits in 7 innings of work. He walked 2 and tied his season high of 8 strikeouts on the night.

"Everything was working for me today, just everything," Nova told the reporters after the game.

The Yankees offense was sparked two home runs from Raul Ibanez and one by Curtis Granderson.

Rafael Soriano pitched the 8th inning and allowed 1 run on 1 hit. He struck out 3 and walked 1.

David Robertson picked up his first save of the year. He worked out of a bases loaded jam in the 9th inning to secure the win. He struck out 2 and walked 2. He also allowed one hit.

The Yankees and Rays will play Game 2 tomorrow.