The Sox took care of business last night and left Missouri with a split in their 4 game series, and a much smaller Magic Number. Jacoby Ellsbury had the big night, going 3 for 6 with 2 runs, a double, and 2 stolen bases. He has 66 steals on the season, which is made even more impressive by the fact that he's only been caught 10 times.
Both Martinez and Pedroia extended their hitting streaks to 22 and 16 games, respectively.
David Ortiz had a 3 RBI night, giving him 91 total on the season. Remember back in April when his over/under for RBI was 50?
Clay Buchholz struck out 8 on his way to win #7 of the season. What a godsend he's been for this club. Beckett's been a roller coaster, Matsuzaka and Wakefield missed huge chunks of starts, Smoltz was a bust, Penny disintegrated. His last 6 outings have been Quality Starts. He's 5-0 with a 1.32 ERA in that stretch.
Texas was blown out by the Athletics. That reduces the Magic Number to 3.
Big series in New York, as the Sox can clinch a playoff berth this weekend. And if they have any chance at the AL East title, they pretty much need to sweep the Yanks.
Jon Lester faces Joba Chamberlain Friday night.
Source:
ESPN.com
Photo Credit:
AP Photo/Ed Zurga
