Rays throwing error gives Yankees 2nd straight walk-off victory

The New York Yankees went 79 games before picking up their first walk-off win of the season Friday night, and they enjoyed it so much that the club elected to treat its fans to an encore performance on Independence Day.

Ramon Flores dropped down what was supposed to be a sacrifice bunt in the bottom of the ninth inning with the score deadlocked at 2-2, but Tampa Bay Rays right-hander Brad Boxberger spiked his throw to first base. The error allowed Jose Pirela to come all the way around from second to score in walk-off fashion.

(Courtesy: MLB.com)

New York took a 2-0 advantage into the top of the ninth inning, but Steven Souza Jr. ripped a two-run homer off closer Dellin Betances to knot the contest at 2-2 and threaten extras.

Yankees starter Michael Pineda turned in seven shutout innings of five-hit ball, amassing 10 strikeouts in the process.

The Yankees have now won three straight to maintain their hold on top spot in the American League East , while the Rays dropped their seventh contest in a row.