Another below average starting pitching performance bailed out by some timely hitting and surprisingly effective middle-relief work. Another ugly win, but most importantly: another win.
The Sox spent the first six innings squandering offensive opportunities. But Jon Lester was cruising until the 4th inning, when he allowed 2 runs. He gave up two more in the 6th before being replaced by Julian Tavarez. Tavarez pulled a rabbit out of a hat, stranded all three inherited runners and going 2.2 scoreless innings.
The Sox chipped away at the 4-1 Indians lead in the 7th when Pedroia knocked in Crisp with a single. Youkilis chipped away a little more with a solo shot in the 8th, his first of the year. Then in the 9th, a Lugo double, a Crisp sacrifice bunt, and a Pedroia sacrifice fly tied the game at 4-4. A few batters later, Ortiz singled, and Manny homered (#493, tied with Fred McGriff and Lou Gehrig).
Papelbon pitched a perfect 2 strikeout 9th for his 5th save. Paps is second on the team in strikeouts. Timlin got the win thanks to a perfect 8th inning. Ortiz also appeared to bust out of his lengthy slump with a couple of basehits.
Wakefield against Byrd Tuesday night.
Source:
MLB.com
Photo Credits:
AP Photo/Mark Duncan
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