Cards rally vs. Bucs, increase division lead

Returning to St. Louis for the first time since being stung by three straight walk-off defeats in May, the Pirates once again let a lead — and a chance to tighten the National League Central race — slip through their grasp on Tuesday. Instead the Cardinals used a three-run fifth and a gutsy effort by Carlos Martinez to nab a 4-3 win and push their division advantage to six games.

Blue Jays soar over A’s for 9th straight win

The Blue Jays put together a three-run second inning with help from a pair of A’s miscues, and Jose Bautista chipped in with a solo shot in the fifth in support of right-hander Drew Hutchison, who held Oakland to two runs across seven-plus innings in a series-opening 4-2 victory, Toronto’s ninth in a row. With the Yankees’ loss to the Indians Tuesday, the Blue Jays are a half-game out of first in the American League East.

Utley clears waivers, may soon be dealt

Chase Utley has cleared waivers. FOXSports.com reported the news Tuesday afternoon, which means the Phillies have until the Aug. 31 waiver Trade Deadline to trade the second baseman. It is a distinct possibility, based on the interest Utley has received from teams since he returned from the 15-day disabled list Friday.