Gonzalez powers Red Sox past Rangers

ARLINGTON, Texas (Reuters) - Adrian Gonzalez hit two home runs to launch the Boston Red Sox to a 6-0 win over the Texas Rangers at Rangers Park on Thursday.

The win allows the Red Sox to maintain their one-game lead in the American League East over the New York Yankees, who thrashed the Oakland Athletics 22-9.

The Rangers have lost three consecutive games and their lead in the American League West has diminished to two games over the Los Angeles Angels.

Gonzalez homered in the first and third innings to drive in three runs around a solo home run by David Ortiz in the second inning.

"When I have a good swing, it's just a feeling I have, and you hit them (home runs) in bunches," said Gonzalez. "It's a time right now when I feel good. Hopefully I can continue swinging like that tomorrow."

Jarrod Saltalamacchia completed the scoring with a two-run blast in the fourth inning.

All six runs were scored against Rangers starting pitcher Alexi Ogando who lasted just four innings.

"We didn't match them on the mound, and if you don't do that, you don't have a chance," said Rangers manager Ron Washington.

"They swing the bats well. You've got to pitch to stay in the game with them."

Red Sox pitching had little difficulty protecting the lead as starter Andrew Miller allowed just three hits while striking out six in 6-1/3 innings, while Alfredo Aceves and Dan Wheeler did not give up a hit in relief.

It was certainly a good game all-around. Offense was great, defense was great," said Miller.

"I'm just glad I could carry my weight."

(Reporting by Mike Mouat in Windsor, Ontario. Editing by Alastair Himmer/Greg Stutchbury)