Yankees tied down by Finley

The pitcher Chuck Finley allowed just one hit over six innings as the Cleveland Indians stormed to a 15-4 victory over the New York Yankees.

The pitcher Chuck Finley allowed just one hit over six innings as the Cleveland Indians stormed to a 15-4 victory over the New York Yankees.

Manny Ramirez started Sunday's rout by launching a two-run homer off the upper-deck facade in left field and Cleveland never looked back, pounding six New York pitchers.The victory gives the Indians a half-game lead over Oakland in the American League wild card race.

Cleveland's manager Charlie Manuel was reluctant to predict his side would take the Yankees' world series crown. He said: "We've got to get there first. We've got our work cut out for us to get there."

In St Louis, the Cardinals are on the brink of clinching the National League Central title after a 4-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs. Right fielder Sammy Sosa's error allowed a vital three runs in the eighth inning. The Cardinals can seal the title if they beat Houston at home tonight.

The Arizona Diamondbacks suffered a 7-1 reverse against the Atlanta Braves. Kevin Millwood kept a tight rein on the Arizona batsmen while Andruw Jones proved to be Atlanta's most productive batsman as they moved clear of New York in the National League East.