By the numbers

40

Saves in 43 chances for Los Angeles Angel Francisco Rodriguez, who struck out the side in the ninth to seal a win over Boston to become the fastest pitcher to 40 saves in big league history, doing so in 98 games. John Smoltz reached 40 saves in 108 games five years ago.

18

Homers for Tampa Bay’s Evan Longoria, who hit one in a loss to Toronto. The only A.L. rookie with more on July 20 in the last 20 years was the Angels’ Tim Salmon with 20 in 1993.

2,000

Career hit total for Jim Thome of the Chicago White Sox after he doubled in the seventh inning of a loss to Kansas City.