Red Sox rally to beat Rangers

Victor Martinez’s two-run double keyed a six-run ninth inning that lifted the Boston Red Sox to an 8-4 victory over the Texas Rangers on Friday night, preserving their lead in the American League wild-card race.

Martinez’s two-out hit gave the Red Sox a 5-4 lead and the win in the opener of the three-game series put them 1 1/2 games ahead of the Rangers.

Boston tagged Texas closer Frank Francisco (2-2) for seven hits and six runs before he was pulled after a two-run home run by J.D. Drew.

Michael Young had a two-run homer and three RBIs for the Rangers.

David Ortiz hit a two-run homer.