Weekly News

After today's 5-3 win in Chicago, the Red Sox closed out their 4-3 week to become 66-40 on the season, a fantastic record by all means. Our Player of the Week is Adrian Gonzalez for his 5th time as he batted .519/1/7 and is now .357/18/90 on the season, as he is going to be a certain MVP candidate. Our Pitcher of the Week was Jon Lester, who pitched dominantly twice, and wound up allowing 3 earned runs in 13 1/3 innings, and is now 11-4/3.17/124, as he has been good in his two starts off the DL. The Game of the Week was Wednesday (7/25/11) as the Sox beat the Royals 12-5, led by Big Papi's grand slam and 1,000th RBI with the Red Sox. The Performance of the Week also was David Ortiz on Tuesday's (7/24/11) 13-9 win when he went 4-5 with 5 RBIs in a great game. Next week, the Sox have another 7-game week as they play a 4-game set at home against the Indians and then a 3-game set against the Yankees, also at home.

Red Sox Prove That They Are the Better Sock (66-40)

Today, the Red Sox closed out a series win over the White Sox with a 5-3 win. The Red Sox took an early lead in the 2nd inning on a 2-run homer by Jason Varitek into the left-center bleachers. However, it didn't last long as the White Sox cut it to 2-1 when Tyler Flowers scored on a rocket double by Brent Morel. In the 3rd, the White Sox tied it when, with runners at 1st and 3rd, Alex Rios singled through the let side of the infield. The White Sox took a lead in the 4th when, with 2 runners in scoring position, Alexei Ramirez singled in Gordon Beckham to make it 3-2. It stayed that way until the 7th, when with 2 runners in scoring position, Dustin Pedroia lined a ball back up the middle to make it 4-3. In the 9th, the Sox padded their lead when Adrian Gonzalez lined an RBI double down the right field line to make it 5-3.

Andrew Miller was alright, allowing 3 runs in 5 2/3 innings, as he is now 4-1/5.36/25. He was relieved with a scoreless inning by Alfredo Aceves, 1 1/3 scoreless innings by Daniel Bard, and a scoreless inning by Jonathan Papelbon. Jacoby Ellsbury had a pretty good game today, going 2-5 with 2 runs scored, doing his job from the front of the lineup. Dustin Pedroia went 2-4 with that huge 2-run single, as he is now .309/15/59, as he is having another MVP year. Speaking of MVP years, Adrian Gonzalez went 2-5 with an RBI double, improving himself to .357/18/90. Jason Varitek (left) only went 1-4, but his hit was a 2-run homer, and he is now .237/7/22. Marco Scuatro went 2-4 with a run scored, as he was saying "We don't need no Mike Aviles!" Tomorrow, the Sox will go back to Fenway to face the Indians, and will send John Lackey (9-8/6.20/66) against Josh Tomlin (11-5/4.01/73).

Bright Spots:

Andrew Miller- 3 runs in 5 2/3 innings to go with 8 strikeouts

Aceves, Bard, and Papelbon- 1 hit and no runs in 3 1/3 innings

Jacoby Ellsbury- 2-5 with 2 runs scored

Dustin Pedroia- 2-4 with 2 RBIs in a key single

Adrian Gonzalez- 2-5 with an RBI double

Jason Varitek- 1-4 with a 2-run homer

Marco Scutaro- 2-4 with a run

Dull Spots:

Kevin Youkilis- 0-3

Carl Crawford- 0-4 with 2 strikeouts

This was a good game for the Red Sox, good pitching and good hitting, woohoo!

Red Sox Nab Bedard On Last Minute Move

This could be a huge move for the Red Sox; right about as the clock trickled out, the Red Sox made a huge 3-team deal that gave them starting pitcher Erik Bedard. Bedard has pitched worth a 4-7/3.45/87 line in 2011, and has pitched like an ace in the AL East in the past. It cost the Red Sox Tim Federowcz, one of the best defensive catchers in the minor leagues, who is one of the players I mentioned in my last post about Bedard. Many teams came off of Bedard after he had a horrible start on Friday, allowing 5 runs in 1 1/3 innings. However, if he can pitch like he has for most of this year, it could be a huge acquisition. With Clay Buchholz injured and Lackey, Miller, and Wakefield rounding out the rotation, he could come a long way in providing a viable 3rd or 4th starter for the playoffs. This is big, I am really glad the Sox could do something like this, high-five, Theo!

Red Sox Improve Depth By Landing Aviles

Well, first off, I was not able to blog last night's 10-2 win for the Sox, because I was at a friend's house. However, it was a great game as Lester pitched really well and Adrian Gonzalez and Kevin Youkilis hit home runs. Last night was also a big night for the Sox as they landed utility infielder Mike Aviles and almost starting pitcher Rich Harden. Aviles would be able to play second base, third base, and shortstop; but he would be most useful at shortstop where Marco Scutaro will likely be departing after this year. This year, Aviles is batting .222/5/31 compared to Marco Scutaro's .259/5/17. However, Aviles owns a career batting average of .286, and was .304/8/32 for the Royals last year. As for the Harden deal, despite being almost complete last night, this morning it fell through after the Red Sox looked at Harden's medical records. Shopping for a pitcher seems somewhat unlikely as the options have dramatically thinned, but I expect one more trade from the Sox.

Red Sox Bleached, Lose To White Sox (64-40)

Tonight was a bad game for the Red Sox, things went from a 1-0 lead to a 1-1 tie to a 3-1 loss in the matter of about 20 minutes. The Red Sox got their lone run on a solo home run by Jarrod Saltalamacchia in the top of the 3rd, and it was the first of only 3 hits in the game for the Sox. In the 6th inning, Juan Pierre reached base for the White Sox on a perfectly placed bunt to start the inning. Omar Vizquel immediately laid down another bunt, getting Pierre to second before a wild pitch by Wakefield put Pierre on third. Paul Konerko cashed in with a line drive to left field that Carl Crawford caught, but Pierre came home to tie the game at 1-1. In the 7th, a leadoff walk to Carlos Quentin set up for a crushed 2-run homer for A.J. Pierzynski to give the White Sox a 3-1 lead and eventually win.

Tim Wakefield pitched pretty well going for his 200th career win, allowing 3 runs in

7 innings. However, he earned the loss and is now 6-4/5.06/52. Alfredo Aceves relieved him with a scoreless inning, as he has just been lights out from the bullpen this year. Jarrod Saltalamacchia (left) was just about the only offensive bright spot for the Red Sox, as he went 1-3 with a solo home run and is now .257/9/32. Drew Sutton (1-2) and Marco Scutaro (1-3) got the only other Red Sox hits of the night, as it was a tough game for our batters. The Red Sox and Jon Lester (10-4/3.23/116) will look to even the score against Philip Humber (8-6/3.27/73) and the White Sox tomorrow night.

Bright Spots:

Tim Wakefield- despite falling short of his 200th win, 3 runs in 7 innings is good

Alfredo Aceves- a scoreless inning of relief

Jarrod Saltalamacchia- 1-3 with a solo home run

Drew Sutton- 1-2

Marco Scutaro- 1-3

Dull Spots:

Red Sox batters 1-6- 0-20

This was not a fun game to watch.

Red Sox Very Interested in Erik Bedard

As the Red Sox' interest in Erik Bedard grows, so does mine. He would be basically the most perfect rental that we could get for a not terribly pricey deal. He has been injury-riddled throughout his career, and he has been injured for some time this year. In fact, he comes off the DL tonight and will face the Rays at Safeco Field. The Red Sox scouts will be at tonight's Mariners game, and the Mariners scouts will be at Red Sox affiliates AAA Pawtucket Red Sox and AA Portland Sea Dogs games. The Red Sox are very interested in Bedard, and why shouldn't they be, before going on the DL this year he was 4-6/3.00/85 in 15 starts with the Mariners. He has shown that he can pitch consistently in the AL East, as he pitched for Baltimore from 2002-2007 including a 15-11/3.76/171 season in '06 and a 13-5/3.16/221 season in '07. The Red Sox would have to give up a mid-level prospect to get him, maybe somebody like Alex Hassan or Tim Federowicz could be traded. His contract expires after this year, but if Bedard could pitch like he has in his career (3.64 career ERA) then he would definitely be a huge acquisition for us.

Beckett's Fourth Inning Woes Lead To A Series Split With Royals (64-39)

Today, the Red Sox suffered a tough 4-3 loss at the hands of the Royals as the Red Sox bats were stifled by Luke Hochevar and the Royals. In the 3rd, after a single by Jason Varitek and a double off the green monster by Yamaico Navarro, the Sox were in a good spot to score with no outs and two runners in scoring position. And score is what they did as Jacoby Ellsbury laced a 2-run single down the right field line to make it 2-0. However, the Royals responded in the 4th, after walks to Alex Gordon and Mitch Maier to lead off the inning, Billy Butler deposited one into the center field seats to give the Royals a 3-2 lead. Later in the inning, back-to-back doubles by Jeff Franceour and Mike Moustakas made it 4-2 in the 4th. In the 8th inning, the Sox cut into the deficit as Dustin Pedroia homered over the green monster to extend his hitting streak to 25 games, and make it a 4-3 game, but it wasn't enough.

Outside of the 4th inning, Josh Beckett was very good, but overall he allowed 4 runs and struck out 8 in 7 innings, as he earned the loss and is now 9-4/2.09/115. He was relieved with Franklin Morales and Matt Albers with a scoreless inning each. Jacoby Ellsbury only went 1-4, but his one hit was big as it landed him 2 RBIs. Dustin Pedroia (left) went 1-3 with a solo home run, as he is now .308/15/54, as he is having a great season, even more so on this streak. Adrian Gonzalez went 2-4, raising his average to a fantastic .352 mark. Drew Sutton also had a good game offensively, going 2-4 despite a blunder in left field. Tomorrow, the Sox will head to Chicago to face the other Sox and will send Tim Wakefield (6-3/5.15/47) against Gavin Floyd (8-9/4.11/90) and the White Sox.

Bright Spots:

Josh Beckett- aside from the 4th inning, Beckett was very good, striking out 8

Franklin Morales- a scoreless inning of relief

Matt Albers- a scoreless inning of relief

Jacoby Ellsbury- 1-4 with a 2-run single

Dustin Pedroia- 1-3 with a solo home run

Adrian Gonzalez- 2-4

Drew Sutton- 2-4

Jason Varitek- 1-3 with a run scored

Yamaico Navarro- 1-4 with a run scored and a crushed double

Dull Spots:

Kevin Youkilis- 0-4 with a strikeout and 3 runners left on base

David Ortiz- 0-4 with a strikeout and 2 runners left on base

Josh Reddick- 0-4 with a strikeout

This was a tough game, and we split a series to the Royals, that's going to be a horror movie. Red Sox Split Series To Royals! Rated R for language and violence, I can see it now.

The Grand Papi Lifts Red Sox (64-38)

Last night, the Red Sox beat the Royals 12-5, as their offense as just so good again. The Royals got off to a very fast start off of John Lackey on a crushed 3-run homer over the green monster by Eric Hosmer. However, the Red Sox got two of those runs right back on back-to-back homers by Jacoby Ellsbury (off the pesky pole) and Dustin Pedroia (onto Lansdowne St.), two very different home runs, but effective nonetheless. In the 2nd inning, the Red Sox loaded the bases with no outs, and after Jacoby Ellsbury walked, they tied the game at 3-3. Dustin Pedroia then flew out to right field to give the Sox a 4-3 lead. Then Adrian Gonzalez grounded up the middle, scoring on Ellsbury if not for a would-be single on a great play by Chris Getz. In the 4th, an RBI single for Yamaico Navarro scored Darnell McDonald made it 6-3. Then later in the inning, a small milestone took place as David Ortiz knocked a grand slam into the bullpens to make it 10-3. In the 5th, Billy Butler crushed a ball onto Lansdowne St. for the second straight game to make it 10-4. In the 6th, the Sox got that run back on an RBI single up the middle by none other than the great RBI machine Adrian Gonzalez, making it 11-4. In the 8th, an Eric Hosmer single drove home Alex Gordon to make it 11-5. In the bottom of the 8th, Jacoby Ellsbury came home on a long drive off the monster by Adrian Gonzalez, as he earned his 3rd RBI of the game despite being thrown out going for a double to make it 12-5.

John Lackey was not bad, as although he gave up 4 runs in 5 2/3 innings, he gave up 3 of those on an Eric Hosmer home run in the 1st inning. After that start he is now 9-8/6.20/66, as he is not having a very good season. He was relieved by Randy Williams, who allowed a run in 1 2/3 innings and Dan Wheeler who pitched a scoreless 1 2/3 innings. Jacoby Ellsbury had a great game, going 3-4 with 3 runs and 2 RBIs, as well as the solo home run to lead off the game, he is now .325/17/60. Dustin Pedroia also had a great game, going 3-4 with 2 runs and 2 RBIs, as well as a homer as he is now .308/14/53. Adrian Gonzalez also had a good game, going 3-5 with a run and 3 RBIs, as he is now .351/17/87. David Ortiz only went 1-4, but that one hit was huge, as it was a grand slam over the bullpens, that accounted for his 1,000th RBI as a Red Sock. Darnell McDonald had a rare good game, going 2-4 with 2 runs scored. Yamaico Navarro also had a good game, going 2-4 with a run and an RBI despite some blunders playing the green monster for his first time ever. Today at 1:35, Josh Beckett (9-3/2.07/107) and Luke Hochevar (6-8/5.29/66) will square off as the Sox will look for a series win.

Bright Spots:

Dan Wheeler- 1 2/3 scoreless innings of relief

Jacoby Ellsbury- 3-4 with 3 runs and 2 RBI, including a leadoff homer

Dustin Pedroia- 3-4 with 2 runs and 2 RBIs, including going back-to-back with Ellsbury

Adrian Gonzalez- 3-5 with a run and 3 RBIs

David Ortiz- 1-4 with a grand slam, his 1,000th RBI with the Sox

Darnell McDonald- 2-4 with 2 runs scored

Yamaico Navarro- 2-4 with a run and an RBI

Dull Spots:

Marco Scutaro- 0-3

The Sox played a good game, and congratulations to David Ortiz!

Red Sox Offense Blows Up In 5th Inning, Beats Royals (63-38)

Last night, the Red Sox won a slugfest against the Royals by a score of 13-9. The Royals took an early lead in the 1st inning when Eric Hosmer doubled in Melky Cabrera to make it 1-0. Later in the inning, Billy Butler tagged up on a hard line drive to left field to make it 2-0. However, in the bottom of the 1st, a sacrifice fly by Adrian Gonzalez cut it to 2-1 before an RBI double for David Ortiz made it 2-2. With the bases loaded in the 2nd inning, Billy Butler hit a ground-rule double over Josh Reddick's head to make it 4-2. However, the Red Sox got one back in the 3rd on a double for Dustin Pedroia to make it 4-3. Then, a 2-run double for David Ortiz made it 5-4, as the Sox took another lead. In the 4th, the Royals took another lead on a 2-run homer by Alex Gordon and a solo homer by Billy Butler to make it 7-5. In the bottom half, Carl Crawford walked with the bases loaded to make it 7-6. All hell broke loose in the 5th inning, however, as the Sox put runners at 1st and 2nd to start the inning. Drew Sutton then put down an epic bunt, which after two errors, Suttonwound up at 3rd and the score was 8-7 Red Sox. An RBI single by Adrian Gonzalez made it 9-7 later in the inning, and a 2-run single by David Ortiz made it 11-7. A long sacrifice fly by Josh Reddick made it 12-7, scoring Dustin Pedroia. In the 7th inning, Jason Varitek crushed a home run over the green monster to make it 13-7. In the 9th, the Royals got a few runs on RBI singles by Mike Moustakas and Matt Treanor to make it 13-9.

Andrew Miller was, frankly, awful; he allowed 7 runs, 5 earned, in 3 2/3 innings, as he is now 4-1/5.45/17. Alfredo Aceves out of the bullpen, however, was very good, earning the win with 3 1/3 scoreless innings of relief, as he is now 6-1/3.28/41, as he's been a great acquisition for Theo. Matt Albers followed with a scoreless inning and Franklin Morales allowed 2 runs in an inning to close the game. Adrian Gonzalez played a great game, going 2-3 with 3 runs and 2 RBIs, as he is now .348/17/84. Dustin Pedroia, on the other hand, played a simply fantastic game, coming just a home run away from the cycle by going 4-5 with 3 runs and an RBI, as he is now .304/13/51. David Ortiz also played a great game, going 4-5 with 5 RBIs, as he is now a fantastic .306/19/64. Jason Varitek only went 1-5, but his one hit was a flat out bomb, that made him .235/6/20. Jacoby Ellsbury did well off the bench, going 2-3 with a run scored. Tonight, John Lackey (8-8/6.28/63) will face Bruce Chen (5-3/3.30/44) in the 3rd game of this 4 game series.

Bright Spots:

Alfredo Aceves- 3 1/3 shutout innings out of the 'pen.

Matt Albers- a scoreless inning of relief

Adrian Gonzalez- 2-3 with 3 runs and 2 RBIs

Dustin Pedroia- 4-5 with 3 runs and an RBI as well as 3/4 of a cycle

David Ortiz- 4-5 with 5 RBIs

Jacoby Ellsbury- 2-3 with 1 run off the bench

Dull Spots:

Andrew Miller- 7 runs in 3 2/3 innings in a bad start

Franklin Morales- 2 runs in 1 inning out of the bullpen

Darnell McDonald- 0-2 leading off for some reason

Well, this was a fun one to watch, nice and roller-coasterey, hey, I'm a blogger, I can make up words!

Red Sox Drop Series Opener In Extras (62-38)

Last night, the Red Sox lost a tough one on a rainy night at Fenway. Already delayed by rain, the game lasted into extra innings as well, and it went late in a 3-1 loss to the Royals. In the 2nd, the Red Sox took an early lead when Carl Crawford scored on a double by Josh Reddick, making it 1-0. In the 6th, the Royals tied it when Melky Cabrera scored on a double by Billy Butler. It stayed deadlocked at 1-1 until the 14th inning when Eric Hosmer scored on a safety squeeze by Mike Aviles to make it 2-1. Later in the inning, Jeff Franceour scored on a sacrifice fly by Alcides Escobar to make it 3-1 Royals.

Jon Lester was pretty good in his return, allowing just 1 run in 5 1/3 innings as he is now 10-4/3.23/116, as he is having a good season. Everybody in the bullpen (Albers, Bard, Papelbon, Morales, Wheeler) did very well with 6 2/3 shutout innings, except for Randy Williams, who gave up 2 runs in 2 innings to earn the loss, despite lowering his ERA to 11.25 (he hasn't been good). Adrian Gonzalez had a good game at 2-6 despite 3 strikeouts. David Ortiz did a very good job of getting on base, going 2-4 with 2 walks, that'll raise the OBP! Josh Reddick went 3-6 with an RBI and a double in a good day for him, he's been great, we don't need to get another right fielder in my opinion. Marco Scutaro (left) went 2-6, as he is having an average season at .262/5/17. Tonight's pitchers are Andrew Miller (4-1/4.65/16) and Danny Duffy (2-4/4.58/49) in the 2nd game of the series.

Bright Spots:

Jon Lester- 1 run in 5 1/3 innings in his return to the league

The Bullpen except Randy Williams- 6 2/3 shutout innings

Josh Reddick- 3-6 with an RBI double

Marco Scutaro- 2-6

Dull Spots:

Randy Williams- 2 runs in 2 innings along with the loss

Kevin Youkilis- 0-3

Dustin Pedroia- 1-6 with 4 runners left on base

Carl Crawford- 0-6 with 4 strikeouts and 6 runners left on base

Jarrod Saltalamacchia- 1-6 with 2 strikeouts and 3 runners left on base

This was a tough loss, but Francona should have put Aceves in, that way he would have used less arms in the bullpen.

Red Sox Take Out the Brooms To Beat Mariners (62-37)

Well, I decided that I have nothing better to do than make a blog post, so you'll be getting today's report of the Red Sox' 12-8 win. The Mariners took a 2-0 lead in the 1st on a Miguel Olivo 2-run homer over the monster. However, in the bottom of the 1st, an Adrian Gonzalez single made it 2-1 before a 2-run homer by Kevin Youkilis made it 3-2 Red Sox. Later in the inning, a 2-run homer by Jarrod Saltalamacchia made it 5-2. In the 5th, an RBI double by Brendan Ryan made it 5-3. However, in the bottom half, 6 straight batters for the Red Sox reached base (Gonzalez, Youkilis, Ortiz, Crawford, Reddick, and Saltalamacchia) and once the dust settled the Red Sox were ahead 10-3. In the 6th, an RBI single by Adrian Gonzalez made it 11-3. However, in the 7th, the Mariners got right back into the game on a grand slam by Brendan Ryan to make it 11-7. In the bottom of the 7th, Josh Reddick scoredon a bloop single by Jacoby Ellsbury to make it 12-7. In the 9th, an RBI double by Dustin Ackley made it 12-8.

Tim Wakefield was actually pretty good for most of the game, but after the grand slam he would up with 7 earned runs in 6 1/3 innings, and is now 6-3/5.15/47. Alfredo Aceves allowed 1 run in 2 2/3 innings of relief, as he has been so valuable out of the bullpen. Jacoby Ellsbury went 2-5 with a run and an RBI in a good day. Dustin Pedroia pushed his hit streak to 20 games in a 1-5 day where h

e scored a run. Adrian Gonzalez had a great day, going 3-5 with 2 runs and 2 RBIs, as he is now .346/17/82. Kevin Youkilis went 1-3 with 2 runs and a 2-run homer in a good day, as he is now .282/14/72. David Ortiz went 2-5 with 2 runs. Carl Crawford also played a good game, going 3-4 with 2 runs and 2 RBIs, as he is now .254/6/33. Josh Reddick continued to impress by going 2-5 with 2 runs and 1 RBI, as he is now .358/4/19. Jarrod Saltalamacchia (left) had a great game, going 3-4 with 4 RBIs, as he is now .259/8/31. Tomorrow night, Jon Lester (10-4/3.31/110) will return from the DL against Kyle Davies (1-9/7.32/44) and the Royals.

Bright Spots:

Alfredo Aceves- 1 run in 2 2/3 innings of relief

Jacoby Ellsbury- 2-5 with a run and an RBI

Adrian Gonzalez- 3-5 with 2 runs and 2 RBIs

Kevin Youkilis- 1-3 with 2 runs scored and a 2-run homer

David Ortiz- 2-5 with 2 runs

Carl Crawford- 3-4 with 2 runs and 2 RBIs

Josh Reddick- 2-5 with 2 runs and 1 RBI

Jarrod Saltalamacchia- 3-4 with 4 RBIs

Dull Spots:

Marco Scutaro- 0-4

This was a fun one to watch, the Red Sox are just playing so well right now, 16-3 in July!

Weekly News

I've made a lot of posts today, and I'm tired, so I think I can get away with not writing about today's 12-8 win over the Mariners. The Red Sox scored 5 runs in the 1st and 5th innings and went on to sweep the Mariners in the series finale. The Red Sox had a great week this past week, going 5-1 and moving to 3 games ahead of the Yankees in the AL East. Our Player of the Week for his 3rd time is Kevin Youkilis, who went .333/1/7 this past week and is now .282/14/72 including a 2-run homer today. Our Pitcher of the Week is, big surprise, #8 for Josh Beckett, who pitched a great game last night, going 7 innings and allowing 1 run while striking out 7. The performance of the week belongs to Jacoby Ellsbury on Wednesday (6/20/11) as he went 2-4 with 2 solo home runs, as he is having a great season this year. The game of the week goes to Monday (6/18/11) as the Sox won 15-10 in a roller coaster game that I had the pleasure of seeing at the park. Next week, the Sox will play a 4-game series at home against the Royals then go to Chicago to play the White Sox.

A Few More Likely Trading Deadline Options

Well, you may recall that a few days ago, I posted a long post about some potential blockbuster targets for the Sox. Well, I don't actually see any of those happening, and I don't think that many people do, so here are some people that the Red Sox have inquired about.

First off, Rich Harden, who has had an interesting career to say the least. When he's been healthy, he's been great, compiling a 3.66 career ERA, however he's been injured more consistently than not. He beat the Yankee yesterday, allowing 2 earned runs in 5 2/3 innings in his 4th start of the season. In those 4 starts this year, Harden has gone 2-1/4.63/23, as he has been effective as a #3 or 4 starter. He

has consistently put up 20 starts over the past few years, and that would be enough to fill the void of Clay Buchholz out of the rotation. His best seasons came in 2008 (10-2/2.07/181) and 2005 (10-5/2.53/121) and 2004 (11-7/3.99/167). Yesterday the Red Sox talked to

the A's about him, reportedly.

My second name is Jeff Francoeur, an outfielder for the Kansas City Royals. He has put up fairly consistent numbers for teams over the past several years and is having a very nice 2011 season at .269/13/60. His best seasons came in 2006 (.260/29/103) and 2007 (.293/19/105), as he played 162 games in each of those seasons. He has a great arm in

right field and won a Gold Glove in 2007. He would be considerably better than J.D. Drew and would not be nearly as expensive as Carlos Beltran or even Ryan Ludwick. The Red Sox have contacted the Royals about him, and I could see it happening.

My third and final name is Jeff Baker, a utility infielder for the Cubs. He would provide some relief and fresh air around the clubhouse as well as making a run for the starting shortstop job. He has put together a very nice little season at .287/2/18 in 54 games. He has pretty much been a backup his whole career, but has shown good versatility and would be a good man for the Sox to acquire. The Cubs have said that they are not going to deal him, but with the Cubs not going anywhere this year, they might change their mind for a few mid-level prospects. Please vote on my new poll about the Red Sox secondary trade options as well as the blockbuster trade options.

Red Sox Extend Division Lead To Three As They Beat Mariners (61-37)

Last night was a good, uniform win for the Red Sox; Beckett goes 7 innings, Bard pitches the 8th, Papelbon pitches the 9th. The Red Sox are held scoreless but burst late and score 3 in the 7th for a 3-1 win. This was a pitcher's duel for the first 6 innings, but in the top of the 7th, Mike Carp hit a bomb to right field that gave the M's a 1-0 lead. However, in the bottom of the 7th, the Sox got two quick outs before a Jason Varitek single to right field and a Marco Scutaro ground-rule double put runners at 2nd and 3rd with 2 outs. Jacoby Ellsbury came through with a rocket through the middle, scoring 2 and making it 2-1 Red Sox. On the next play, a successful hit and run play with a Dustin Pedroia single put runners at 1st and 3rd, still with 2 outs. A wild pitch bouncing off Miguel Olivo made it 3-1, and sealed the deal for the Sox.

Josh Beckett was fabulous, allowing just 1 run and striking out 7 over 7 innings, as he is having a greatseason at 9-3/2.07/107. Daniel Bard and Jonathan Papelbon pitched scoreless innings in the 8th and 9th, respectively, to close the game out. Jacoby Ellsbury had a great game, as he is on a massive hot streak right now, going 2-4 with a run and 2 RBIs, as he is now a remarkable .319/16/57. Dustin Pedroia went 2-4 with his 23rd double of the season, as he pushed the hit streak up to 20 games, a career high. Marco Scutaro had a good game, going 2-3 with a run scored including that huge, clutch, ground-rule double that set up Jacoby Ellsbury's go-ahead single. Today at 1:35, Tim Wakefield (5-3/4.80/43) will try his luck against a rookie to watch in Michael Pineda (8-6/3.24/119).

Bright Spots:

Josh Beckett- the win in 7 innings of 1-run baseball

Daniel Bard- a scoreless inning

Jonathan Papelbon- the save in a scoreless inning

Jacoby Ellsbury- 2-4 with a run scored and 2 RBIs

Dustin Pedroia- 2-4 with a double

Marco Scutaro- 2-3 with a run and a key ground-rule double

Dull Spots:

Kevin Youkilis- 0-4 with a strikeout and 4 runners left on base

Josh Reddick- 0-4 with 2 runners left on base

This was a fun game to watch, as the 7th inning continued its magic for the Sox.

5-Run 7th Seals The Deal As Sox Beat Mariners (60-37)

Last night, the Red Sox extended their winning ways to 15-3 recently as they beat the Mariners 7-4. In the 1st inning, the Mariners took an early lead when Ichiro Suzuki scored on an RBI single by Dustin Ackley (watch this guy, he's gonna be good). However, in the bottom of the 1st, the Sox got it right back when Kevin Youkilis drove in Dustin Pedroia. In the 3rd, Jacoby Ellsbury knocked a home run to make it 2-1. In the 7th inning, the Red Sox loaded the bases with one out for a bouncing single up the middle by Adrian Gonzalez to make it 4-1. Two more came in on a line shot that turned out to be a double for Kevin Youkilis to make it 6-1. A David Ortiz single to center made it 7-1. With runners on 1st and 2nd in the 8th inning, Mike Carp hit a high and deep fly ball to right field that when I saw it I thought: Home run, wait no, flyout, as it went over the wall I discovered it would be a home run to make it 7-4.

John Lackey pitched for the reasons we signed him to that ridiculous contract, as he went 7 innings, allowing just 1 run. After that, he is now 8-8/6.28/63, but he has been ok since coming off the DL. Franklin Morales allowed 3 runs in 2/3 of an inning, in not the sharpest of outings for him; Daniel Bard pitched just 1/3 of an inning before the 22nd save for Jonathan Papelbon. Jacoby Ellsbury (left) had a pretty good game, going 2-5 with 2 runs and the solo home run as he is now .317/16/55, as he is having a great season. Dustin Pedroia had a great game, going 3-3 with 2 runs scored, as he is now batting .299 after such a slow start. Adrian Gonzalez went 1-3 with 2 RBIs, his league-leading 79th and 80th. Kevin Youkilis had a good game as well, going 2-3 with 2 RBIs in a good game, he is now .285/13/70 after a slow start as well. David Ortiz batted 1-3 with an RBI in a good game as well. Tonight, we will get to see Josh Beckett (8-3/2.12/100) go against Blake Beavan (1-1/2.70/8).

Bright Spots:

John Lackey- 1 run in 7 strong innings to earn the win

Jonathan Papelbon- a scoreless inning to earn his 22nd save

Jacoby Ellsbury- 2-5 with 2 runs and a solo homer

Dustin Pedroia- 3-3 with 2 runs scored

Adrian Gonzalez- 1-3 with 2 RBIs

Kevin Youkilis- 2-3 with 2 RBIs

David Ortiz- 1-3 with 1 RBI

Dull Spot:

Franklin Morales- 3 runs in 2/3 of an inning

Every Red Sox player got a hit in this game, a great win overall for the Sox.

Red Sox In On A Few Trading Deadline Options

Theo Epstein is not going to be a slouch at this year's Trading Deadline. That is for sure as many names have circled around the name of the Boston Red Sox. Some of the most notable names that have popped up are starting pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez (right), outfielder Carlos Beltran, shortstop Jose Reyes, and outfielder Ryan Ludwick.

First Jimenez; this would be a great move for the Sox if they could get away with it without destroying their farm system. Despite a very rough start to the season, he now stands at 6-8/4.00/108, not bad by any means and with 3 of the Red Sox' starters injured, he would solidify that spot. He would be a solid #3 starter behind Lester and Beckett and would make the rotation one of the most formidable in

the league. To put that into perspective, this is his highest ERA since his rookie year in 2007, since then he has had ERA's of 3.99, 3.47, and 2.88 last year.

Next is Carlos Beltran (left), another man who the Sox appear very interested in bringing in. Beltran is having a very nice year in his first healthy season since 2008, as he has gone .293/15/61 in 92 games this season. This would be a good move for the present, but he has a very high contract, however, if they could convince the Mets to eat some or all of that, he would be great. Once again, they would have to kill their farm system to do this and he would only be a one year rental as his contract expires after this season. However, he, apparently, would love to be a member of the Red Sox as he has waived his no-trade clause to us.

Jose Reyes, I think, is a bit of a fantasy to me and the Red Sox. It would be very

unlikely for us to get him, it would cost a lot, and his contract expires after this season. However, despite all that, he would win the Red Sox the AL East, as he is having a year of the ages, leading the NL in batting average at .355 along with 3 home runs, 32 RBIs, and 30 steals. He would be a dream come true for half a season as the Sox have traditionally had no luck at shortstop since Nomar left. He is a great player: decent fielder, very good contact hitter, a fair amount of pop (16 home runs in 2008, 19 in 2006), and fantastic speed (78 steals in 2007, 56 in 2008). Ultimately, I don't think that the Sox should make this deal though, for it would cost us a lot and we wouldn't be able to keep him.

Ryan Ludwick would be the easiest player for us to get, as the Padres are shopping him. He is a decent player, batting .244/11/61, but he has shown his best potential in St. Louis when he batted .299/37/113, as one of the best bats in the National League. He could substitute for J.D. Drew in right field, despite having more experience in left field, and I'm sure could not be worse than Drew at hitting. The Red Sox have contacted the Padres about Ludwick so they are clearly interested, but why not fill the need with Josh Reddick? Beltran would be a better move than Ludwick for the outfield, and Jimenez is who they need most overall with all the injuries in the rotation. I would say just put all their energy into getting Jimenez and using Beltran or maybe Ludwick as a fall-back plan. But I'm not Theo Epstein.

Red Sox Blank Orioles In Series Finale (59-37)

Yesterday, the Red Sox concluded a series win against the Orioles by beating them 4-0. The Red Sox got their first run in the top of the 3rd on a solo home run by Jacoby Ellsbury. In the 4th, Josh Reddick came in to score on a groundout by Jason Varitek to make it 2-0. In the 7th, another homer by Jacoby Ellsbury made it 3-0. In the 8th, the bases were loaded, setting up for a walk by Carl Crawford to make it 4-0, the final score, as the O's couldn't do anything, managing just 2 hits.

Andrew Miller was very good, allowing no runs through 5 2/3 innings, however, he had some control issues, walking 6. After that start, he is n

ow 4-1/4.65/16, as he's been very good except for one start. Matt Albers, Daniel Bard, and Jonathan Papelbon didn't even allow a hit i

n 1 1/3, 1, and 1 innings, respectively. Jacoby Ellsbury had a great game, going 2-4 with 2 solo homers, as he is now a fantastic .316/15/54. Who would have guessed that, at this point in the season, Jacoby Ellsbury who have 2 fewer home runs than Adrian Gonzalez, and Dustin Pedroia would have 8 more steals than Carl Crawford. Adrian Gonzalez also had a great game, going 4-5 with a run scored and raising the average to .343. Josh Reddick went 2-3 with a run scored in a good game, and Carl Crawford went 2-3 with an RBI. Tomorrow, the Red Sox will head back to Fenway to face the Mariners, and will send John Lackey (7-8/6.70/59) against Felix Hernandez (8-8/3.26/146).

Bright Spots:

Andrew Miller- 2 hits in 5 2/3 shutout innings

Matt Albers- 1 1/3 shutout innings

Daniel Bard- 1 scoreless inning

Jonathan Papelbon- 1 scoreless inning

Jacoby Ellsbury- 2-4 with 2 solo home runs

Adrian Gonzalez- 4-5 with a run scored

Josh Reddick- 2-3 with a run scored

Carl Crawford- 2-3 with an RBI

Dull Spots:

Marco Scutaro- 0-4 with 2 strikeouts

Jason Varitek- 0-4 with an RBI, but a strikeout and 5 runners left on base

Yamaico Navarro- 0-4 with a strikeout and 4 runners left on base

This was a very good game for the Sox, as they just dominated the Orioles.

Weiland is Decent But Red Sox Fall to O's (58-37)

Last night, the Red Sox fell 6-2 to the Orioles in a tough game where they just never could muster up any offense. In the 2nd inning, the Orioles put runners at 1st and 3rd with 1 out, which set up for an RBI double by Mark Reynolds and an RBI groundout by Nolan Reimold to make it 2-0. In the 3rd, Nick Markakis came to score on a single by Matt Wieters. In the 5th, the Red Sox scored their only runs of the game on a home run by Jarrod Saltalamacchia to make it 3-2. With a runner on first in the 8th inning for the Orioles, back-to-back homers by Derrek Lee and Mark Reynolds made it 6-2.

Kyle Weiland was not bad in his 2nd major league start, he allowed 3 runs in 6 innings, however, he also earned his first loss. He is now 0-1/8.10/4 in 2 starts. Alfredo Aceves allowed 3 runs in 2 innings in relief. Josh Reddick played a great game, going 3-4 and scoring a run to make his batting average a remarkable .367. Jarrod Saltalamacchia went 1-3 with a 2-run homer, he is now .249/8/27. Today at 12:35, Andrew Miller (3-1/5.68/13) and Jake Arrieta (9-6/5.10/81) will square off in the rubber match.

Bright Spots:

Josh Reddick- 3-4 with a run scored

Jarrod Saltalamacchia- 1-3 with a 2-run homer

Dull Spots:

Alfredo Aceves- 3 runs in 2 innings of relief

Adrian Gonzalez- 0-4 with 2 strikeouts

Kevin Youkilis- 0-4

Carl Crawford- 0-4 with 3 runners left on base

This was a tough game, and I hope they win the series today.

Pedroia Is The Hero Again As Red Sox Smash Orioles (58-36)

Last night, I was live at the game as the Red Sox beat the Orioles 15-10 in a definite pitching game (sarcasm). The Orioles got an early lead in the 1st as with runners on 1st and 2nd, Derrek Lee crushed a 2-run double off the center field wall. In the 3rd, a leadoff homer by Jarrod Saltalamacchia put the Sox back in the game. Then later in the inning, with runners at 1st and 2nd, singles by Dustin Pedroia and Adrian Gonzalez gave the Sox a 3-2 lead. With runners on 1st and 2nd in the 4th, an error by Derrek Lee and a sacrifice fly by Jacoby Ellsbury made it 5-2. In the 5th, Josh Reddick smacked a home run to give the Sox a 6-2 advantage. In the bottom of the 5th, however, all hell broke loose as a 2-run homer by J.J. Hardy narrowed the lead to 6-4. Then an Adam Jones home run cut it even further to 6-5. With the bases loaded, later in the inning, Nolan Reimold hit a perfectly placed double down the left field line, scoring 2 and making it 7-6 Orioles. With runners on 1st and 2nd in the 7th, Kevin Youkilis singled one home to make it 7-7. In the 8th, the Red Sox loaded the bases with 1 out, setting up for a big inning. Dustin Pedroia broke the tie with a rocket double out to right field to make it 9-7. Then Kevin Youkilis smacked a 2-run single to make it 11-7. An RBI single by Carl Crawford (first day back from the DL) made it 12-7. Finally, a Darnell McDonald double really put the book on this game, as he cleared the bases and made it 15-7. However, the Orioles were not done either, in the bottom half, an RBI single by J.D. Hardy and a 2-run single by Nick Markakis made it 15-10.

Tim Wakefield was pretty bad, allowing 7 runs, 3 earned, in 4 2/3 innings. Dan Wheeler took over and tossed 2 1/3 innings of shutout baseball, earning the win, as he did a great job of not letting things get out of hand. Randy Williams allowed 3 runs in an inning

and Franklin Morales tossed a scoreless inning. Jacoby Ellsbury had a great game, going 3-4 with 3 runs and an RBI. Dustin Pedroia also did well, going 2-5 with a run and 3 RBIs. Kevin Youkilis had a great game, going 2-6 with 1 run and 3 RBIs. Josh Reddick went 1-4 with 2 runs and a solo home run, he is now .347/4/18. Carl Crawford did well in his first day back, going 2-5 with 2 runs and an RBI. Jarrod Saltalamacchia (left) went 2-5 with 2 runs and a solo home run, as he is now .247/7/25. Darnell McDonald came off the bench, and knocked a 3-run double, wow. Marco Scutaro also did well, going 2-5 with 2 runs scored. Tonight, Kyle Weiland (0-0/13.50/2) and Jeremy Guthrie (3-13/4.45/80) will start.

Bright Spots:

Dan Wheeler- 2 1/3 shutout innings of relief and the win

Franklin Morales- a scoreless inning of relief

Jacoby Ellsbury- 3-4 with 3 runs and an RBI

Dustin Pedroia- 2-5 with a run and 3 RBIs

Kevin Youkilis- 2-6 with a run and 3 RBIs

Josh Reddick- 1-4 with 2 runs and a home run

Carl Crawford- 2-5 with 2 runs and an RBI

Jarrod Saltalamacchia- 2-5 with 2 runs and a solo home run

Darnell McDonald- 1-1 with a 3-run double off the bench

Marco Scutaro- 2-5 with 2 runs scored

Dull Spots:

Tim Wakefield- 7 runs, 3 earned, in 4 2/3 innings

Randy Williams- 3 runs in an inning

J.D. Drew- 0-3 with a strikeout

This was a really fun game to be at and I'm glad I had that opportunity.

Triple Weekly News

The Red Sox had a great 3 weeks, they went 11-5, and are now 1.5 games ahead of the Yankees for first place, I kind of wish I could have seen it all.However, on a different note, a new competitor has emerged into the race; someone who has not even won a Player of the Week in his life now has three of them. That man is Jacoby Ellsbury, who in the last 10 games, batted .370/4/11 and is now a great .310/13/51. He has a career high in home runs and his batting average is 15 points higher than his career average. He has gotten injured a bit, and missed a couple starts, but when he was on in the past 3 weeks, he was fantastic. He is Josh Beckett, who allowed just 4 earned runs in 21 innings the past few weeks. He is having a fantastic season and is now a remarkable 8-3/2.12/100. I'm not going to be able to tell you the Game and the Performance of the last few weeks simply because I'm too lazy to check every game. However, in the upcoming week the Sox will play a 3 game series in Baltimore, take a day off on Thursday, and play a 3-game series at home against the Mariners.

Two Wins For the Price Of One! (57-36)

Well, this is going to be a very quick blog post. The Red Sox won, but they completely killed themselves and their bullpen in the process. The final score on ESPN or MLB.com says 1-0/16. And so it was, the Red Sox played 16 innings, and scored 1 run; which is sort of sad on the Rays' part because we won and they couldn't take advantage of a great offensenot scoring squat. The only run came on an RBI single by Dustin Pedroia in the 16th inning, scoring Josh Reddick. It would be safe to say that this game dropped the Red Sox' team ERA.

Josh Beckett was great, allowing 1 freaking hit over 8 innings, I'm gonna call him "Ray Killer" from now on (He did exactly that his last time out as well). The bullpen was also great, but none better than Alfredo Aceves (3 scoreless innings and the win) and Jonathan Papelbon (the save in a scoreless inning). The Red Sox had 5 hits and Dustin Pedroia had 3 of them in a 3-7 day, so its' safe to say that he was the only bright spot in their offense. I'm going to see the Sox in Baltimore tonight, and I get to watch Tim Wakefield (5-3/4.74/40) and Brad Bergesen (1-6/5.65/41).

Bright Spots:

Josh Beckett- 1 hit in 8 shutout innings

The Red Sox bullpen corps: 2 hits in 8 shutout innings

Dustin Pedroia- 3-7 with the walk-off single

Dull Spots:

The batters not named Dustin Pedroia: 2-45

This was an interesting game, but Dustin Pedroia is my man!

Red Sox Walk All Over Shields, Rays (56-36)

Yes, I'm back! And I was welcomed home with a win, as the Red Sox beat the Rays 9-5 in a good win for the Sox. The Rays took an early lead in the 1st as they scored three times on RBI singles by Casey Kotchman, Matt Joyce, and B.J. Upton. However, the Sox got right back in it in the 2nd inning on a 2-run homer by Josh Reddick to make it 3-2 Rays. In the 3rd, the Red Sox took a 5-3 lead on a 2-run double by David Ortiz and an RBI double by J.D. Drew. In the 4th, the lead was extended on a solo home run by Jacoby Ellsbury to make it 6-3 early in the game. In the 5th, the Rays scored on a solo home run by Matt Joyce to cut the lead to 6-4. However, the Sox got the run back in the 7th on a solo home run by Dustin Pedroia. The Sox then loaded the bases in the 9th inning, and a Kevin Youkilis walk and a David Ortiz groundout made it 9-4. The Rays cut it on an RBI single by Evan Longoria to make it 9-5, but it wasn't nearly enough.

John Lackey was alright at best, allowing 4 runs, 3 earned in 5 2/3 innings. He earned the win and is now 7-8/6.70/52. Randy Williams tossed a scoreless inning, Daniel Bard threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings and Jonathan Papelbon allowed a run in a scoreless inning. Jacoby Ellsbury had a good game, going 2-4 with a home run and 2 runs scored, he is now .317/13/51. Dustin Pedroia went 2-5 with a solo home run, as he is now .291/13/46. Kevin Youkilis went 1-3 with a run and an RBI in a good day. David Ortiz only went 1-5 but he had 3 RBIs, his 56th, 57th, and 58th of the year. Josh Reddick went 1-4 with a 2-run homer as he is now .379/3/17. Tomorrow night, Josh Beckett (8-3/2.27/94) and Jeff Niemann (4-4/4.53/33) will square off in the series finale.

Bright Spots:

Randy Williams- a scoreless inning

Daniel Bard- 1 1/3 scoreless innings

Jacoby Ellsbury- 2-4 with 2 runs and a solo shot

Dustin Pedroia- 2-5 with a solo home run

Kevin Youkilis- 1-3 with a run and an RBI

David Ortiz- 1-5 with 3 RBIs

Josh Reddick- 1-4 with a 2-run homer

Dull Spots:

Adrian Gonzalez- 0-4 with a run scored

Jarrod Saltalamacchia- 0-3 with a run scored

Overall, this was a good game, and I'm glad to be back.

Death By Pitching For Astros, As Red Sox Dominate (48-34)

Last night, the Red Sox routed the Astros 10-4 in a fitting way to send me on my way to camp. The Red Sox got off to a good start early, putting runners at first and third to start the game. Adrian Gonzalez hit a single through the right side, scoring Ellsbury and making it 1-0. The Red Sox proceeded to load the bases in the inning, setting up for a walk to David Ortiz to make it 2-0. Then, Jarrod Saltalamacchia grounded into a 5-4-3 double play, but the run still scored to make it 3-0. In the bottom half, Angel Sanchez singled after a Michael Bourn triple to make it 3-1. It stayed like that until the 5th, when consecutive doubles by Jacoby Ellsbury and Dustin Pedroia made it 4-1. In the 6th, Hunter Pence homered to left field to make it 4-2. In the 7th, Yamaico Navarro came in to pinch hit for the pitcher, and hit his first career home run on a shot to left field to make it 5-2. In the bottom half, the Astros loaded the bases, and the Red Sox walked Hunter Pence to make it 5-3. In the 8th, the Red Sox loaded the bases, and Jarrod Saltalamacchia hit a sacrifice fly to make it 6-3. Then, Darnell McDonald came up, I expected him to ground into a double play and the inning would be over, instead, he put the game away on a blast to left field. A BLAST. Then in the 9th, an RBI single by Kevin Youkilis made it 10-3. In the 9th, a Matt Downs RBI single made it 10-4, but that was it.

Andrew Miller has greatly impressed me so far, with another good start tonight, going 6 innings and allowing 2 runs. He is now 2-0/3.06/13. Alfredo Aceves allowed a run in 2/3 of an inning, Bard threw a scoreless third, Jenks tossed a scoreless inning, and Wheeler allowed a run in an inning. Jacoby Ellsbury went 1-4 with 2 runs scored. Dustin Pedroia (left) went 3-5 with a run and an RBI along with 3 double plays turned. Adrian Gonzalez went 3-5 with 3 runs and an RBI in a good game, raising the average to .353. Kevin Youkilis went 3-5 with a run and an RBI. Darnell McDonald only went 1-4, but that home run was too big to let go of, he is now .125/2/6, ouch. And, props to Yamaico Navarro on his first major league home run, ask my mom, I believed in you! Today, Josh Beckett (6-3/2.20/80) will go for the sweep against Jordan Lyles (0-3/4.50/28).

Bright Spots:

Andrew Miller- 2 runs in 6 innings, another impressive outing

Bobby Jenks- a scoreless inning of relief (for once)

Jacoby Ellsbury- 1-4 with 2 runs scored

Dustin Pedroia- 3-5 with a run and an RBI

Adrian Gonzalez- 3-5 with 3 runs and an RBI

Kevin Youkilis- 3-5 with a run and an RBI

Darnell McDonald- 1-4 with a crushed 3-run homer

Yamaico Navarro- first MLB home run, need I say anything else?

Dull Spots:

Alfredo Aceves- a run in 2/3 of an inning

Marco Scutaro- 0-4

The Red Sox crushed the Astros, and I'm glad I can leave town on a good note. Bye!

Red Sox Burst Late in 6 Run 7th Inning (47-34)

This was a great game, it looked like a certain loss up until the 7th inning, when the Sox scored 6 runs to get back in it. Marco Scutaro (right) led off the game in a big way, crushing a home run over the left field wall on the 5th pitch of the game. However, the Astros tied it back up in the bottom of the 1st on a sacrifice fly by Hunter Pence. In the bottom of the 2nd, the Astros came through again on an RBI single for Angel Sanchez (former Red Sox) and a double by Hunter Pence to make it 3-1. In the bottom of the 5th, an RBI double by Carlos Lee made it 4-1. In the 6th, the Astros pitcher Bud Norris singled on a line to left, scoring a run and making it 5-1 Astros. In the top of the 7th, it all changed as the Sox put runners at first and second to start the inning. Josh Reddick doubled on a ball down the right field line to make it 5-2. Then, Drew Sutton hit a hard groundball at the shortstop Clint Barmes, who missed it, scoring a run and making it 5-3. The Red Sox then loaded the bases, preparing for Dustin Pedroia's big hit, a 2-run single down the right field line to make it 5-5. In the nextat-bat, Adrian Gonzalez crushed a ball of the left-center wall, in Fenway it would've been gone, in any other ballpark, it would've been gone, but in Minute Maid Park, it was a 2-run double to make it 7-5.

Tim Wakefield was not good, allowing 5 runs and 11 hits in 5 1/3 innings. He got a no-decision and is now 4-3/4.82/33, as the knuckler wasn't working. The bullpen was perfect, as Dan Wheeler (2/3 of an inning, plus the win), Matt Albers (2/3), Franklin Morales (1/3), Daniel Bard (1), and Jonathan Papelbon (1 plus the save) all pitched last night. Marco Scutaro had that big leadoff home run, despite only going 1-5, as he is now .275/3/14. Dustin Pedroia (left)

went 1-3 with 2 RBIs and a run scored, all of them very important runs. Adrian Gonzalez only went 1-5, but his hit was huge, a big 2-run double, his 72nd and 73rd RBIs of the year. Josh Reddick had another great day at 2-4 with a run and RBI, as he is on a tear, now batting .450, this kid's for real. Drew Sutton went 1-2 with a run and an RBI, despite playing sub-par left field (he's an infielder). Tonight, at 6:05, Andrew Miller (1-0/3.09/10) and J.A. Happ (3-9/5.54/77) will battle.

Bright Spots:

The Red Sox Bullpen- 3 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing just 2 hits

Dustin Pedroia- 1-3 with a run and 2 RBIs, a very big hit

Adrian Gonzalez- despite going 1-5, his one hit was huge

Josh Reddick- 2-4 with a run and an RBI

Dull Spots:

Tim Wakefield- the Sox won the game, no thanks to him, as he allowed 5 runs in 5 1/3 innings

Kevin Youkilis- 0-4 with 3 strikeouts

This was a fantastic game, it seemed bleak for much of the game, but the Sox turned it around. Also, that was Game #81, the halfway point in the season, they are 47-34, on pace for a 94-68 season, however, they had some tough times in the first half, 0-6, 2-10; so, I hope my prediction of 98-64 is more realistic.