This Day in Red Sox History

August 30

1916: In the old Huntington Avenue Grounds, Boston gets 18 hits in a 13-0 victory over Detroit.

1910: For the second time in just four days, a Red Sox pitcher tosses a one hitter, as Ray Collins lead Boston to a 4-0 win over the visiting Chi Sox. Paul Meloan’s single is the only hit of the day for Chicago.

1916: Dutch Leonard leads the Sox to a no hit victory over St; Louis, winning the game 4-0.

1918: Carl Mays wins both games of a double header 12-0 and 4-1 over the A’s to finish the season at 21 wins.

1918: Ted Williams is born in San Diego, CA.

1928: In his last at bat of his 22 year career, “The Grey Eagle” Tris Speaker is Struck out by Boston’s “Red” Ruffing. Speaker’s lifetime batting average is .345.

1931: Ben Chapman and Lou Gehrig each have four hits for the visiting Yankees. They combine for a total of nine RBIs in New York’s 14 to 4 win over Boston. One of the Iron Horse’s home runs was his 37^th of the season, and two Chapman’s dingers leave Fenway completely. The lone bright spot for the Red Sox is Hal Rhyne’s four hits.

1954: The Indians win the three games played at Boston this week to complete “season sweep” in Fenway. This is the first time since 1927 that a visiting team wins all the games played in their opponents’ home field.

1960: Second baseman Pete Runnels is 6 for7, in Boston 15 innings 5-4 win over the Tigers in the first game of a double header. Then in the night cap Runnels get three more hits as Boston goes on to it 3-2. The six hits in the first game is the most in the American League game in over five years, and his nine total tie a Major League record for hits in a double header.

1970: In the first game of a twin bill against the White Sox, Boston wins 22-11. This is the 10^th time in the history of the Red Sox that the have scored 20 or more runs.

1976: In a game against the Rangers at Fenway Park, Jim Rice hits the 100^th home run of the year for the Red Sox. The Sox have hit 100 home runs or more for 31 straight years.

1982: Despite Dwight Evans hitting two home runs in the slugfest between Boston and Oakland, the Red Sox lose the game 9-7. Both teams combine for a total of seven home runs.

1984: Jim Rice breaks a Major League record when he grounds out for the 33^rd time this season. The Record was set in 1954 by fellow Red Sox Jackie Jensen.

1990: For the third time in five years reaches the twenty win mark as the Red Sox beat the Indians 9-2. The Rocket strikes out nine and does not walk a single batter.

1992: First Baseman Scott Cooper has five hits in Boston’s 4-2 win over the Angels in 10 innings.

1992: Boston trades pitcher Jeff Reardon to Atlanta for minor leaguers Nate Minchey and Sean Ross.

1996: “Big Mac” Mark McGwire hits his 45^th home run of the season, ending Boston’s five game winning steak.

1997: Nomar Garciaparra is held hitless by Atlanta in the 15-2 loss to the Braves. Thus ending his streak of 30 games with a hit; this is longest streak for an American League Rookie since Gary Curtwright hit safely in 26 straight games in 1943.

BY SOUTHSTANDER

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Cap'n 'Tek Has His Game Goin' On

There's been a lot of discussion about the fate of Jason Varitek after this season. A lot of naysayers are raggin' on his BA, while omitting his skills behind the dish. Well I just want to point out just exactly what he's done in the last 10 games offensively: a nice average of .371 from lucky 13 hits in 35 AB's, also 6 runs, 5 RBI's, and 3 HR's.

So he had a slump, so what? Papi & Mikey had major slumps this year, as did Pedroia last year. They're part of the game, and sometimes they last longer than one would care, but don't be shipping out the glue that holds the team together over one. Besides, who else has the cajones to smackdown A-Rod?! Go 'Tek! Go Sox!

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Dice-K Rolls as Boston Puts Up a Snowman on Chicago

There are not many ways to put Red Sox Nation at ease more than a game like tonight's. Dice-K earned his 16th win going 8 innings...that is not a typo, he went 8 innings!! He only gave up 2 hits and had 8 K's. Mike Timlin pitched a perfect 9th to seal the deal. Boston only needed one run to win but they put up 8 with 15 hits. Pedroia went 4-4 and Big Papi had 3 hits on the night. Great offense, great pitching, and good news on Beckett; nice way to start a three day weekend.

Red Sox Win 8-0 BOX SCORE

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Casey to DL, Bowden to Boston

Sean Casey has gone on the 15-Day DL with a stiff neck...really, to the DL with a stiff neck?...next thing you know a player will get turf toe. The Red Sox called up Michael Bowden to the big club, he will make his MLB debut tomorrow against the White Sox.

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Beckett to DL

Josh Beckett has been placed on the 15-Day DL retroactive to Aug. 18

UPDATE: Francona responds to Josh Beckett's visit to Dr. Andrews....positive news for the Nation.

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Tonight's Red Sox Lineup 8/29 vs. Chicago

Mark Kotsay, RF
Dustin Pedroia, 2B
David Ortiz, DH
Kevin Youkilis, 1B
Jason Bay, LF
Jed Lowrie, 3B
Coco Crisp, CF
Alex Cora, SS
Jason Varitek, C

Daisuke Matsuzaka, SP

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This Day in Red Sox History

August 29
1906: Manger Jimmy Collins is suspended, and subsequently resigns, for leaving the team for a “holiday”. Collins friend as former Outfielder Chick Stahl is named the new manager. Stahl has a 5-13 Manger as skipper, he was supposed to return the next season at the helm, but commits suicide, confiding to Collins that he could not handle the strain of being the manager. Stahl is just one of many baseball players to kill themselves during the deadball era (1900-1920).

1916: The Browns (Orioles) defeat the Red Sox 5-3. “Babe” Ruth has an off day for both on the hill and at the plate. Coming in the game as a relief pitcher he last for five innings before being pulled with the bases loaded. Also with sack full, Ruth strikes out swinging.

1967: Boston ties an American League record set back on Independence Day of 1905, by playing in 29 innings in a doubleheader. The Sox take the first game beating the Yankees 2-1, but lose the second 4-3 in 20 innings. The night cap last hours and 15 minutes, and is the third game of least 18 innings of the year.

1972: Luis Taint pitches his 3rd straight shut out to beat the visiting White Sox 3-0. Reggie Smith hits two run scoring doubles off Tom Bradey in the win at Fenway.

1977: In an 8-7 loss to Oakland at Fenway Park, Jim Rice hits a homer in the 2nd, 3rd and 6th innings; he would also get a single in the 4th inning. Rice is the first player to go 4 for 4 since Norm Zauchin on May 27th, 1955.

1986: Joe Carter hits three home runs and singles twice for the visiting Indians, as Cleveland defeats the BoSox 7 to 3.

1993: The Royals George Brett steals the 200th stolen base of his career, leading the Kansas City to a 5-4 victory over the Boston. The Future Hall of Famer joins Willie Mays and Hank Aaron as the only players to amass 3,000 hits, 300 home runs and 200 stolen bases.
2000: Pedro Martinez has a no-hitter over the Devil Rays going into the ninth inning, when John Flaherty gets a lead of single to end it. After plunking the first batter of the game Martinez goes on to retire 24 batters in a row. Also in the game eight players for Tampa are ejected as well as Manager Larry Rothschild as well as two of his coaches.

2007: During a game at Yankees Stadium, Red Sox Manager Terry Francona is told by a Resident Security Agent or RSA to go to the dugout tunnel to prove that he is in compliance Major League Baseball rule 1.11 subsection 1 which states “All players on a team shall wear uniforms identical in color, trim and style, and all players uniforms shall include minimal six-inch numbers on their backs”, and subsection 3 that states “No player whose uniform does not conform to that of his teammates shall be permitted to participate in the game”. In the past “Tito” had been know not to wear his jersey underneath his pullover. The Boston skipper is upset with the timing of the inspection, as it happens during the first inning with Bobby Abreu at the plate and Derek Jeter on second base. Manager Francona asks the RSA if it can wait till the inning is over, and is harshly told no.

In an interview after the game Tito fumed saying “Unless that (expletive) RSA can keep Jeter close (to second), he’d better stay out of the dugout…That’s as embarrassed as I’ve been for baseball in a long time. …Unless the guy can put on a bunt play, he ought to stay out of the (expletive) dugout. I’ve never seen that before. In the middle of the game, you’ve got the fashion police.” He would go on to explain the reason for he wears the sweatshirt over his jersey is do to a well documented circulation problem, and that he wears nylon legging under his pants regardless of the temperature to improve his circulation. He take does take blood thinners to help aid his condition, but one of the side effects is he tends to get cold early.

By Southstander

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Beckett Scratched From Tomorrow's Start

If today's game wasn't bad enough, we now have Josh Beckett out again. Here's what Tito said in the post game press conference:

"I think the best word I can use is we're just trying to get some closure," Francona said. "We never want to send anyone out there that's not 100 percent. We're no more pessimistic about him today than we were, but when he goes out there [again] we want him to be able to pitch with peace of mind."

Let's just hope they are being extra cautious with him and that this is not a season ending injury.

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Red Sox fans get rude treatment in skankeeland

Two Red Sox fans were escorted out of Yankee Stadium yesterday after getting what local skank fans thought was a little too vocal in their support of the Sox. Apparently, it’s OK if their own fans can intimidate and assault Sox fans, but not the other way around. The officer initiated contact with the Sox fan among heightened tensions already present with hundreds of skank fans shouting their famous ‘asshole’ chant. (Takes one to know one, I say.) I’m sure NYPD knows how volatile it can be for a Sox fan in skankee land and should have handled the situation much differently. The Sox fan was wrong to resist, but was provoked by the officer into escalating the incident even further before realizing that she was not going to see the remainder of the game, which the Sox won 11-3.

Ruth is turning over in his grave.

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This Day in Red Sox History

August 28

1907: “Cy” Young wins the 20^th game of the season defeating the Highlander (Yankees) 5-3.

1908: Boston fires manager Deacon McGuire and replace him with Fred Lake.

1912: The Red Sox sets a Major League record for the fewest at bat in a double header at 50. The few at bats that the do get, they make the most of winning the games 5-3 and 3-0.

1913: Walter Johnson’s 14 game winning streak ends as Boston defeats Washington 1-0 in 11 innings.

1915: Boston takes the first games of a double header in Cleveland 5-3 behind “Babe” Ruth and Carl Mays.

1921: The White Sox lose at home to the Red Sox 6-5 in 11 innings, and Sam Jones picks up his 20^th win of the season.

1926: The Indians use the same line up, including starting pitcher Dutch Levsen in a double header at Fenway. Cleveland wins the first game 6-1 and the second one 5-1. Although Levsen did not strike out a single batter, he is the last Major League player to win two complete games in one day.

1932: Due the total solar eclipse on happening on the 31^st, the Red Sox and Indians by a double header. Boston splits the series 10-1Land 4-3W.

1948: Short stop Vern Stephens is 4 for 4 with two double to lead Boston in a 6-2 win over Chicago. The only starter for Beantown not to get a hit is Ellis Kinder.

1950: Facing the Indians at Fenway Park the Red Sox rally to win 15-14, over coming deficits of 10-0 and 12-1. Dom DiMaggio is the spark the powers the Sox back as he has two triples and a single. The losing pitcher for Cleveland is Bob Feller, in his only relief appearance of the season, as he comes in the game for starter Bob Lemon, who happens to be the winningest pitcher in the American League this season.

1967: The Red Sox signs free-agent Ken Harrelson for the rest of this season and all of 1968. The contract has a $75,000 bonus. Harrelson will go on to hit a homer in is first at bat, but post a meager .200 average for the rest of his time in Boston.

1978: With the Sox down 9-7 in the bottom of the ninth Fred Lynn steps to the dish, and gets his 5^th hit of the game including his 34^th homer. Lynn would go on to score on an error, then Butch Hobson drives in the winning run on a two run double. The Red Sox and the Mariners combine for 16 extra base hits, in Boston’s 10-9 win.

1983: Greg Luzinski becomes the first player to hit three homers onto the roof of Comiskey Park, by connecting off “Oil Can” Boyd in Chicago’s 6-2 victory. Both “Double X” Jimmie Foxx and Teddy Ballgame each reach the top of the barn twice in Comiskey.

1999: Tim Wakefield faces fellow Steve Sparks knuckleballer face off at Fenway. This believed to be only the 27^th match up between two knuckleballers in the entire history of big league play. Boston would win the game 7-6.

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Yankee Fan w/Laser Fails to Rattle Byrd

Yankee fans will sink to the absolute lowest depths in attempting to gain an edge for da Bronx Bums. A fan apparently tried to shake the Byrd cage by flashing a laser light at him during the game. Byrd, being the professional he is, ignored the inconvenience (unlike Joba and the flies) and continued to pitch a most excellent game. The umpires, however, were more concerned than Byrd and convened on the mound with him about it. The mysterious light seemed to have disappeared after the mound convention.

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I Think Theo Knew Something We Didn't

Former Red Sox reliever Craig Hansen, who was traded to Pittsburgh in the three-team trade that sent Manny Ramirez to the Los Angeles Dodgers and brought Jason Bay to Boston, has been demoted to AAA by the Bucs. Two days ago, Hansen issued free passes to walk in the tying and go-ahead runs during the Cubs' seven-run, eighth-inning rally that helped Chicago win 14-9 and sweep a three-game series. Hansen was 0-2 with a 8.10 ERA in nine games with Pittsburgh. He was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis on Wednesday.

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Dancing On the Yankees Grave

You never know how long the good times will last so lets enjoy them while they are here. If you look at the headline of the NY Daily News, you will notice our old friend Hank has something to say about his team. He only really states the obvious: "All I can think about is this game at this point," Steinbrenner said when asked if his team's playoff hopes were finished. "We'll see what happens (today), but the bottom line is they sucked." Maybe Hank is not as dumb as we thought. But then he went right back to being Hank with: It's very disappointing," Steinbrenner said. "Even without having our two best pitchers, so forth and so on, they still stunk. That's the bottom line." Hank, do you realize that Beckett was not in the game? Your team just lost to Paul Byrd. Why are you still whining about injuries?





Hank watches in horror as he realizes his first year at the helm has been a total disaster.







Yes, that is Jack looking on as his team gets beat in another sport by Boston. It is also nice to see two Sox fans right behind him to make his night more painful.

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Turn Out The Lights....The Party's Over

The Red Sox destroyed the Yankees in their second to last game at Yankee Stadium tonight. Pedroia's grand slam in the 8th put one more shovel full of dirt on the Yankee's grave. Theo has made all of the right moves and has put the team in a position to repeat this year. Paul Byrd has pitched well and Jason Bay haa hit well. Asking for a sweep tomorrow might be too much but it would show how much things have changed. The Red Sox lost their first game in Yankee Stadium back in 1923, it would be fitting if their last game ends in a win. Do you think the Sox will be invited to open the new Yankee Staduim? Something tells me they might be left off of the guest list.

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The Buzzards are Circling da Bronx

The Sox have taken games 1 & 2 of the last series between the Sox and the Yanks to ever be held at that stadium. This one was even more convincing than last night. Chief vulture Paul Byrd pitched 6 innings, allowing only 5 hits, 2 walks, and 2 runs. Manny pitched a clean 7th in relief. The Sox broke it open in the 8th on Dustin Pedroia's 1st major league grand slam.

The Yanks are now 7 GB the Sox and 10.5 behind the Rays, who won a pitcher's duel in Toronto tonight, 1-0. The Yanks are also in 3rd place in the wild card race behind the Sox and the Twins. (I think I hear the funeral dirge.)




Sox win 11-3 BOX SCORE

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Moe, Larry, and Curly

Much has been made of the manner that the Steinbrenner’s have managed the Yankees over the years, but I say leave them be. They know what they’re doing, right? I mean, that’s why they’re the owners and we’re just fans, (albeit fans of a different team), but fans nonetheless. If we knew as much about owning a baseball team as ol’ George and Hank and Hal, then we’d be sitting we’re John Henry is up in that suite, and not watching in front of the tube or on the computer. So let’s just leave the Steinbrenner’s alone as they continue to manage the team to its eventual fate.
I mean, we don’t want to be pointing out all their mistakes, now do we?
(heh heh, snicker)

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Tonight's Red Sox Lineup 8/27 in New York

Ellsbury RF
Pedroia 2B
Ortiz DH
Youkilis 1B
Bay LF
Lowrie 3B
Varitek C
Cora SS
Crisp CF

Byrd SP

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Mark Kotsay, A Red Sox OF

Mark Kotsay in Boston. . . . who's to say he's really any better than the current crop of our three out fielders?  Looking at his stats... 282 career BA. . maybe 6-8 average HR's a year. .  I don't know if it makes me drop my cigar in awe. . . Cigar you ask? Yes.  .I had a baby boy Born on Yaz's birthday Friday the 22nd, so join me shall we in a congratulatory smoke for the Sox, Yaz, and my tyke Nolan.  

Ok. now that that's done. . . what to do with Kotsay? is this a cautionary move since JD is out? What bout our need with Pitching, seems Clay will stay in AA for a bit don't it? 

Colon? he the 5th starter? COME ON people we NEED some pitching help..... I love Masterson, and think he's developing into a great player, but we need some relief help maybe a starter, and we go get a CENTER FIELDER? Don't we have the future of the game in CF (and the only one on the team that can play all three outfield positions, in Ellsbury?)

Maybe that's why I'm NOT a GM. but PUHLEASE, what am I missing?

Well, at least we're spanking the Yanks, and will sweep 'em in their last home stand ever, if that aint poetry what is?

I'm out for the day guys, gotta finish this Cigar, 

Oregon Out!

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What Fun!

Here's the good stuff from the NY Media:

A-Bum hears boos as Yanks sink

Just call him Double Play-Rod. Alex Rodriguez set the tone in a dismal 7-3 loss to the Red Sox, going 0-for-5 with an error, 2 strikeouts - including one to end the game - and 2 double plays. For the year, A-Rod is 1-for-10 with the bases loaded.

Lupica: Blame lands on A-Rod

They booed Alex Rodriguez Tuesday night at Yankee Stadium on what was supposed to be the first big night of the rest of the season, booed him as loudly as they have lately, booed him maybe as loudly as they ever have.

and from the NY Post:

YANKEES RUN INTO A-WAD OF TROUBLE

ALEX, ANDY DON'T BRING 'A' GAME VS. SOX

and from the Star Ledger:

New York Yankees' Alex Rodriguez fails at the plate and in the field in crucial series opener vs. Boston Red Sox

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Mark Kotsay Could Be Headed To the Red Sox

ESPN and the Atlanta Journal Constitution are citing sources as saying a deal is in the final stages:

A person familiar with the situation said the Braves were close enough to a trade that they didn’t want to risk Kotsay getting hurt playing on the rain-soaked surface at Turner Field.

This will give the Red Sox another outfielder who can play all three spots with solid defense. This is a sign that they are worried about J.D. Drew. Landing Mark Kotsay would give the Sox another lefty at the plate.

UPDATE: Gordon Edes is reporting that the deal is done.

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Going For the Jugular

The Boston Red Sox entered Yankee Stadium for one last series before the Yankees fade into oblivion. With a lineup that resembled a spit squad from spring training, they dismantled a team that already had one foot in the grave. Wake came off of the DL to pitch effectively for 5 innings giving up 3 earned runs and earning the win. The Yanks jumped to an early lead after Damon's home run but the Sox quickly came back and had the lead by the third inning for good. Aside from Delcamen trying to let the Yankees back in the game, the pen was spectacular, especially Masterson getting out of a big jam. To add to the fun of the game the boobirds came out several times for A-Rod. Even if the Yankees win the next two games they will only gain one game in the race, they are fading away in front of their own crowd. I can't wait to see the New York papers tomorrow as they rip their hometown team. But for those of you who can't wait here's a tidbit from the NY Times:

Rodriguez went 0 for 5 with two double plays, two strikeouts and a throwing error in the Yankees’ 7-3 loss to the Red Sox on Tuesday at Yankee Stadium....“It was an awful night,” Rodriguez said. “I pretty much screwed it up every way you can screw it up.” The Yankees are 11-12 in August, and Rodriguez has grounded into nine double plays in the month while hitting .238. If they cannot depend on Rodriguez in the clutch, the Yankees have little hope of a monumental comeback.

Red Sox win 7-3 BOX SCORE

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Drew, Beckett, and Yaz

J.D. Drew has gone on the 15 day DL with the back issue, Beckett is going to pitch on Friday, and Yaz was discharged from Mass General Hospital.

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Tonight's Red Sox Lineup 8/26 in the Bronx

J.D. Drew and Sean Casey are still out. Jacoby Ellsbury, RF
Dustin Pedroia, 2B
David Ortiz, DH
Kevin Youkilis, 3B
Jason Bay, LF
Jed Lowrie, SS
Coco Crisp, CF
Jeff Bailey, 1B
Kevin Cash, C Tim Wakefield, SP

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Finally a Red Sox/Yanks Series That is Not Over-hyped

This is perhaps the most important series the Red Sox so far this season, for the Yankees it could mean the end or a hope for the playoffs. One surprising thing is the little amount of attention this series has received outside of Boston in New York. Giants or A's fans out here in California always know when the Sox/Yanks are playing and it becomes water cooler discussion, but not for this series. Since Fox and ESPN have over hyped every May-July meeting of the A.L. East rivals they have made people weary of a non October match up between New York and Boston. The games will not be on national TV and there will be no Star Wars intros and ominous music to show fans the importance of the game. These games however are very important. The Red Sox have a chance to bury the Yankees for the season in their last visit to the Stadium. They can prove to be a true playoff contender that can win on the road with a team riddled with injuries. For the Yankees there could not be more on the line. Girardi will be considered a failure if the Yankees lose this series; a sweep by the Red Sox would be another example of faded Yankee glory. Most likely the series will be won 2 games to 1, a one game swing in the standings that will be OK for the Red Sox if they are on the losing side but devastating for the Yankees if they fall back another game.

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Injury Update

Good news on the injury front. Aardsma had X-rays taken today (negative) and is going to begin a short rehab period. Lugo's injury is not as bad as thought so he will be able to resume rehabbing also and could join the team in mid September. Mike Lowell is also joining the team in New York and should come off of the DL soon.

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This Day In Red Sox History

August 25

1911: “Smoky” Joe Wood beats the St. Louis Browns (Baltimore Orioles) 3-2, picking up his 20^th win of the season.

1915: Boston extends its winning streak to seven games by, beating the Tigers by a score of 2-1, and solidifies first place in the American League. The Sox have also won 19 out of the past 21 games played.

1937: 16 Red Sox batters are fanned by Cleveland’s Bob Feller; this is one less the American League record. The Indians win the game 8-1.

1940: After losing 7- 2 to St. Louis in the first game of a twin bill, Boston comes back with a vengeance, in the night cap winning the game 17-3. Eleven of the 11 runs come in the sixth inning, with Jimmie Foxx hitting his 3^rd grand slam of the year. The game is called just one inning later.

1950: Mel Parnell leads Boston to its 11^th straight win by beating Detroit 6-2.

1960: Coming into the game as a pinch hitter, Vic Wertz hit his second career grand slam tying a record Bill Skowron in 1957. Ted Williams hit his 516^th home run in the 10-7 win over Cleveland.

1963: Two records for strike outs where set today, the first is a combined 44 strike out by Boston and Cleveland in a double header. The second is the Indians having 27 strike outs in 24 innings.

1965: Earl Wilson strikes out 13 in an 8-3 win over the visiting Senators.

1967: With today’s 6-2 win over Chicago, the Red Sox move to a half game lead of the American League.

1978: Dennis Eckersley wins his eighth win of the season at Fenway by shutting out the Angels 6-0. Jim Rice has three hits including his 32^nd home run of the season.

1995: Jose Canseco becomes only the fifth player to hit five home runs in five straight games. Unfortunately his homer is the only run that the Sox score in a 6-1 loss to Oakland. This is only the 3^rd loss of the past 23 games for Boston.

2001: Boston loses to Texas 8-7 in 18 innings, the game last six hours, 35 minutes, becoming the longest game of the season. Both teams combine to use 17 pitchers, only one shy of the Major League record for an extra innings game. After a wild pitch by Boston, Chad Curtis steals second, and is driven home on a grounder. In a strange twist, Chris Michalak picks up the win, after being the losing pitcher yesterday.

BY SOUTHSTANDER

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Lowrie Talks About Yesterday's Game and Playing Third

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For All of You Political Junkies

Fenway West contributor Brian O'Donnell was elected delegate to the Democratic National Convention from Colorado. He will be posting updates about the event throughout the week on his site 2008delgate.com

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The Last Stand at Yankee Stadium

The Sox leave Toronto with a series win and head to the Big Apple (rotten to the core) for their last visit ever to the venerable, the original, Yankee Stadium. MLB celebrated the distinguished history of that stadium by staging this year's All Star game there. That was the game that JD Drew of the Sox was named MVP.
(click, save.)

I'm dreaming of the Sox taking the Yankees out back and tying them to the whipping post for this stand, a massacre that makes up for the Yankee's humliation of the Sox in '78 and '06, a massacre that outdoes that pair of 17-1 victories, the 4 back-to-back-to-back-to-back home runs from last year, and Lester's complete game shutout this year.

Such a storied franchise should be leaving The House That Ruth Built on top, but thanks to Moe, Larry, and Curly (The Steinbrenners 3- George, Hank, & Hal), they leave the building in disgrace, quite possibly not even making it to the post-season for the first time in several years. Not that I'm complaining, mind you. The Yanks, after swaggering like peacocks all these years, are due for a little humility, perhaps 87 years worth. Call it the Curse of A-Rod: 26 WS Championships, no more, no more.

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Jed Lowrie is Today's Hero

Bottom of the 1st, it looked as if the Sox pitching staff was still working Toronto BP as Dice-K gave up a long ball to Vernon Wells with one on. 'Huh boy, it's gonna be another long night', I thought . The Sox answered with 4 runs in the top of the 3rd. Despite allowing 5 runs on 8 hits, Dice-K only issued 1 free pass today, and had a relatively low pitch count as well. The 2 teams alternated leads only to come up tied at 5 apiece at the end of the 9th. Masterson and Okajima put in 2 innings and only allowed 1 hit and 1 BB. Papelbon pitched 2 scoreless innings, but only threw 16 pitches. Jed Lowrie is today's hero, hitting a solo shot in the top of the 11th to give the Sox the go ahead run.

Because of his low pitch count, I was wondering if Tito was going to send Pap out for a 3rd inning, but out came Manny Delcarmen instead. I could hear the groans 3000 miles away, but he got the job done today. The BJ's made him work for it, though, as he needed 26 pitches to get through the inning and earn the save.

Meanwhile in Chicago, the other Sox also went into extra innings to beat the Rays by the same 6-5 score. The Red Sox are now 4.5 GB the Ray's as they head next to the Big Apple and their last visit to Yankee Stadium.

Sox win 6-5 BOX SCORE

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Book Preview: 'The Last Night of the Yankee Dynasty' by Buster Olney

I'm only up to page 58, but oooh! This is a good one so far! One thing is fo' shua~ this one is a must read for any Sox fan.

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David Ortiz Gives Us the Quote of the Day

Here's what Big Papi had to say when asked if the Sox would make the playoffs:

“We’re fine, bro, we go through this shit every year. And at the end of the year, we’ll take another ring for us.”

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Lester Throws BP to Jays

What was that? Jon Lester had become the ace of the staff but today he looked like Clay Buchholz. Here's his line: 8 hits, 2 walks, 7 earned runs in 2 1/3 innings. Ouch. Tito called for Chris Smith who followed Lester's lead with a train wreck of his own. Smith's line: 6 hits and 4 earned runs in 2 1/3 innings. The Sox had a huge hole to dig out of and were not up to the challenge; the offense only put up 4 hits and was shut out. Strangely enough the Red Sox can win the series tomorrow in Toronto as Dice-K tries to get the team back in the winning groove.

Red Sox lose 11-0 BOX SCORE

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Aardsma to DL, Pauley Called up

David Aardsma was placed on the DL with a groin strain after today's game. David Pauley was called up to take his roster spot.

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Beckett's Start Moved Back Again, Wake Will Pitch in NY

Josh Beckett had inflammation in his elbow along with the numbness in his arm and hand. To give him more time to rest his arm his start will be pushed back to Friday against Chicago. Wake will be activated and pitch against the Yankees on Tuesday.

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Today's Red Sox Lineup 8/23 in Toronto

Ellsbury,RF
Pedroia, 2B
Ortiz, DH
Youkilis, 1B
Bay, LF
Lowrie, 3B
Varitek, C
Cora, SS
Crisp, CF

Lester, SP

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I Told You It Would Get Worse

As if the other ones weren't bad enough, now we have a new Rays song. What is with the cowbell guy? (not that the other guy is normal) I can only hope the White Sox win today and somehow these new Ray's fans can go back to their daily lives of watching WWE wrestling and eating at Hooters. Where is Belushi when we need him?

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Injury Update

J.D. Drew: The team learned he has herniated disc in his back. Drew said it was possible that he could play through the pain and not miss any more games but a trip to the DL is very likely.

Sean Casey: Lowrie played third last night and Youk moved over back to first because Casey had a stiff neck and said he could barely move his head. Expect Casey to be back in the lineup tonight.

Julio Lugo: An MRI will tell if he did new damage to his quad or if he just aggravated it. If there is new damage he will be out for the season. Either way he is still at least 3 weeks away from returning.

Josh Beckett: Yesterday's test of the arm went well and Beckett felt comfortable with no complaints. He should be able to start against the Yankees.

Tim Wakefield: Francona would not confirm that Wake will be ready early next week but he has been throwing side sessions without problem.

Bartolo Colon: Since he only threw 40 pitches in his last outing he will make two more starts with the PawSox; Tuesday and Aug. 31. He will not be brought up until September if all goes well.

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The Byrds Part 2

Alfred Hitchcock's movie The Birds was filmed right here in Sonoma County in Santa Rosa and Bodega Bay. Tonight we had The Birds Part 2 as Paul Byrd took on the Blue Jays in Toronto in his second start for the Red Sox. The Nation will be happy with this one; Byrd did just what he was supposed to do, the offense delivered and the bullpen looked good. Didn't I tell you not to panic? Granted it was just one game, but this one was very good win for Boston. The Red Sox came from an early deficit fueled by yet another homer from Tek. Sox batters were patient at the plate and the hits came from all parts of the lineup. Coco went 3-4! The pen looked great tonight; Masterson gave up a hit an a couple of walks but still seemed to be in control in his scoreless inning. Okajima was perfect in the eighth and Paps closed the door in the ninth.

Sox Win 8-4 BOX SCORE

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Tonight's Red Sox Lineup 8/22 at Toronto

J.D. Drew is still out.

Jacoby Ellsbury, RF
Dustin Pedroia, 2B
David Ortiz, DH
Kevin Youkilis, 1B
Jason Bay, LF
Jed Lowrie, 3B
Jason Varitek, C
Alex Cora, SS
Coco Crisp, CF

Paul Byrd, SP

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Beckett Tests the Arm

Josh Beckett played catch in Toronto to see if he gets any more numbness in his pitching arm. If all goes well he will start against the Yankees.

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Hank Shoots the Messanger

Hank Steinbrenner delights us with another Hankism:

"Most of the national media is full of Yankee haters. That's why I have to point out the injuries, because the media sweep that under the rug and say we're playing poorly. But next year, in a new stadium, we'll be much better."

So let me get this straight, it's a Yankee Universe but somehow that doesn't apply to the media, you are not going to blame the season on injuries even though you do, you are not going to give up on the season even though your are, and the team is going to be better because they are leaving the stadium where they won 26 World Championships. Just put this under Hank being Hank.

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This Is No Time To Panic

The Red Sox are 4.5 games behind the Rays and tied for the wild card, do not panic. Take a deep breath, everything is O.K. You have a right to have some concern about the rotation but Wake is coming back, Colon is looking good and Beckett will be fine. The offense has been healthy and will improve with J.D. and Lowell back in. Big Papi's wrist and knee are not an issue now, Jason Bay is hitting well, and Youk is gunning for MVP. Sit back and enjoy the ride, it will be bumpy at times but the Red Sox will be in the playoffs. The 2008 Red Sox have the talent, experience, and favorable schedule to make the stretch run enjoyable for the Nation. Keep the Faith!

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Colon Makes His Case

In a week where Beckett came up with a new injury and Buchholz was demoted to AA, the Sox were in need of some good news about the pitching staff. They got that news tonight in Pawtucket where Bartolo Colon was continuing his rehab. El Gordo pitched 4 no-hit innings with 2 walks and 2 K's. He will most likely make two more starts before rejoining the big club and filling the void in the rotation.

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This Day In Red Sox History

August 21

1903: The Boston “Pilgrims” and “Cy” Young beat the White Stockings 11-3, despite the fact Chicago’s OF “Ducky” Holmes ties a Major League record with four assists in a game.

1915: “Babe” Ruth is held hitless in a 4-1 victory over the Browns, but he does get the credit as the starting pitcher.

1916: Infielder Jack Barry hits four sacrifice flies for the Red Sox tying a Major League record in 4-0 win over the Indians.

1936: Starting pitcher Wes Ferrell pulls a “Manny” like tantrum when he walks off the mound during a game with the New York Yankees, for what he calls shabby run support. Manager Joe Cronin fines him $1,000, in part, because this the second time in five days that Ferrell has walked off the mound during a game, having done so versus the Senators. When Ferrell hears about the fine, he becomes enraged stating “They can suspend me or trade me, but they’re not getting any dough from me”, four days later the Sox lift the fine, but trade Ferrell and his brother Rick to the Senators for Ben Chapman and Bobo Newom.

1961: The former cross-town rival Braves, now playing in Milwaukee are in town for an exhibition game to benefit the Jimmy Fund. This is the first time that the Braves return the “Hub” since the team left in 1953. The Braves win the game 4-1.

To donate to the Jimmy Fund please visit www.jimmyfund.com

1974: By pitching a one hit shut-out of the White Sox, P Roger Moret earns a new contract. In the game, only Dick Allen’s seventh inning hit is the only blemish in the 12 strike game.

1984: Rookie sensation Roger Clemens gets 15 K’s and no walks in an 11-1 beat down of the Royals.

1986: SS Spike Owen has four hits and becomes the first Major Leaguer to drive in six runs in one game 40 years. Boston goes on to dismantle the “Tribe” 24-5.

1993: Detroit trades OF Rob Deer to Boston for a player to be named later. Deer will homer in his first at bat for the Sox the next day.

2003: Before a crowd of 34,844 Fenway Faithful, “Rally Karaoke Guy” makes his first appearance on the Jumbotron before the start of the sixth inning. The video is a take off of the “Rally Monkey” used by the Anaheim Angels. The video is of Sox first baseman Kevin Millar back when he was a freshman at LA City College, doing an impression of Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the USA”. It was originally played in a clubhouse meeting in Texas, by a friend from college. Boston wins its first game in a week beating the A’s 14-5.

Here is the video clip

By Mac Stepp Jr

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Red Sox Sign Backup Catcher

The Red Sox have signed catcher David Ross to a minor league deal, he will be the third string catcher behind Tek and Cash.

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What Does Buchholz Departure Mean For the Rotation.

With Clay Buchholz in Portland the Red Sox rotation now includes: Beckett, Byrd, Dice-K, Lester, and Wake. Since they demoted Buchholz that can only mean that Wake is ready to return when he is schuduled to come off of the DL. Since Masterson did not pitch last night and did not warm up I believe they are planning on bringing him back into the rotation if Beckett misses more time than expected. The Globe has Byrd, Lester, and Dice-K as the next three probable pitchers without anyone listed for the Yankees series. It could be Wake, Masterson, and Byrd in that series if Beckett can't go. You can never have too much pitching.

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Red Sox Staff Stinks Up the Joint

How bad an outing was it for the Red Sox pitching staff? So bad that Alex Cora had to warm up in the bullpen, that's right, Alex Cora the middle infielder who has not pitched to a batter in his major league career. But hey, he couldn't throw worse than some of the Red Sox pitchers tonight. Buchholz was bad, (see earlier post) Aardsma was bad, Lopez was bad, and Timlin was bad. Combined they walked 8 batters, gave up 9 hits and 11 runs in 6 innings of work. Okajima came in and pitched well for two innings but there was zero pressure on him. The worst part of this loss was that the Sox jumped out to an early 4-0 lead. Buchholz needs to be removed for the rotation, Beckett and Wake need to get healthy and the Sox starters need to keep the team in the game if they want to catch the Rays.

Sox Lose 11-6 BOX SCORE

UPDATE: After the game Buchhoz was demoted to Portland....not even Pawtucket.

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No Improvement For Buchholz

Enough already, send Clay Buchholz down and keep him there for the rest of the season, right now he is giving Eric Gagne a run for his money on how to take the Sox out of a pennant chase. Buchholz has not won a game since early May and tonight did not change that. Clay went 2 1/3 innings giving up 5 earned runs.

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Lugo Reinjures His Quad

Julio Lugo has aggravated his torn quadriceps while running today. This should push his return back from the anticipated date of Sept. 1. Lowrie and Cora will continue to spit time at short in Lugo's absense.

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Tonight's Red Sox Lineup 8/20 at Baltimore

J.D. Drew is still out, Bailey gets his first start and Cash will catch tonight.

Jacoby Ellsbury, RF
Dustin Pedroia, 2B
David Ortiz, DH
Kevin Youkilis, 3B
Jason Bay, LF
Jed Lowrie, SS
Jeff Bailey, 1B
Coco Crisp, CF
Kevin Cash, C Clay Buchholz, SP

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SportsBlogNet.com Launches into Beta

We just wanted to let our readers know that we are a part of a new Sports Blog Network at SportsBlogNet.com. SportsBlogNet.com is a site that feeds in over 50 great sports blogs and links back out to all of them. They drive traffic to our site and also sell ads for all the blogs in the network.

At SportsBlogNet.com you can:

• Read all the quality blogs in the network
• Write for a blog in the network
• Discover new blogs
• Build a new free sports blog
• Join the network as an additional revenue and traffic source for your sports blog

Currently SportsBlogNet.com has approximately 56 blogs in the network with a reach of approximately 200,000 unique visitors per month which is growing daily. Check it out. They are interested in hearing your feedback.

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This Day in Red Sox History

August 20

1901: At Huntington Avenue Baseball Grounds Denton True "Cy" Young pitches a 6-0 shutout over the Milwaukee Brewers.

1903: “Buck” Freeman is the first player to hit a ball over the right filed score board in Chicago South Side Park. Alas Boston loses the Game 9-5.

1960: Ted Williams picks up his 2000th career walk, as the Red Sox split a doubleheader with Baltimore. In doing so Williams joins “The Bambino” as the only batters to have 2,000 walks. “Teddy Ballgame” also bashes his 514 and 515^th home runs.

1967: In the first game of a double header, switching OF Reggie Smith hits a home run from both sides of the dish. The first is a three run shot, while the second is for two runs. This not only marks the first time this feat has ever been done by a Red Sox it is also the first time it has happened at Fenway Park. He joins Mickey Mantle, Pete Rose, and a host of others to pull this off. Smith however is not the only person to hit two dingers today, Carl Yastrzemski also nets 2 homers, one in each game. The Sox take the night cap 9-8. The Sox need to come from behind in this one. The Angles surge to an 8-0 lead, but Smith and hits his third home run of the day, to complete a four game sweep of the California Angels, avenging a four game sweep earlier in season in Anaheim.

1997: Boston take two from the A’s in Oakland. Nomar Garciaparra hits in both games to set a Major League record for a rookie by safely hitting in 22 games in a row.

By Mac Stepp Jr

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Damon Drops Ball...Winning Run Scores

The Yankees lost another one last night when Johnny Damon dropped a fly ball on what would have been the third out of the inning, allowing the winning run to score.
"Nine hundred and ninety-nine times out of a 1,000 he catches the ball," Girardi said of Damon, who made his 10th start in center. "For whatever reason, it didn't happen. Those are balls Johnny is used to catching. It was a strange event."
"I just missed it, plain and simple," said Damon. "I know that stuff happens sometimes, but catching routine fly balls should not be that much of a problem. I'm baffled. I'll take this on me."
A-Rod was also thrown out trying to stretch a single into a double in the 9th.
The Yankees are now 11 games behind the Rays and 6.5 behind the Red Sox.

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Red Sox Sign Local Hero

The Boston Red Sox have signed Jason Lane to a minor league deal. Lane was born here in Sonoma County, California and went to El Molino High School right down the street. He was released by the the Yankees farm system and quickly picked up by the Sox. He will now start for the PawSox and could see some playing time in Boston when rosters expand.

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STATEMENT FROM THE FAMILY OF CARL YASTRZEMSKI

BOSTON, MA-- Carl Yastrzemski arrived at Massachusetts General Hospital on Monday after experiencing chest discomfort. After numerous tests and evaluations, it was determined that he needed triple bypass surgery which was performed this afternoon. The surgery was a complete success and he is resting comfortably. We are most grateful for all of the prayers and support we have received.

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Red Sox Roll Over Orioles

The Red Sox took an early lead and steadily built upon it in their defeat of Baltimore tonight. The Red Sox offense looked very good tonight with 15 hits. Jacoby jumpstarted things with a single in the first, he then stole second ,advanced to third on a throwing error, and scored on a sac fly. Many Sox fans are probobly asking who is that power hitting catcher and what has he done with Jason Varitek? The captian went yard for the second consecutive game. Youk continued his MVP quest going 3-5 on the night with 3 RBI's. Dice-K pitched one of his typical games; high pitch count, some jams with masterful escapes, an early exit, and another W. The bullpen was good tonight, going 4 scoreless innings and allowing just 3 hits. With the bad news from Beckett this was a good win for the Red Sox.

Sox Win 7-2 BOX SCORE

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Beckett Hurt, Next Start Moved Back

Josh Beckett's next start has been moved back because of numbness in his fingers and throwing arm. Here is what he told the ProJo moments ago:

"I have some numbness in fingers that I'm not used to having," he said. "As far as pain goes, there's not very much pain with it. We just have to figure out what it is because you don't want it to get so bad where it ends up being a really bad problem...."It's something I've been dealing with," Beckett said moments ago. "At some point and time we just have to figure out what the hell it is. Obviously, it's not what I want, but at this juncture (being pushed back) is something that needs to happen because there's something going on."

This is not the news the team needs right now but it does help explain his last outing.

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Tonight's Red Sox Lineup 8/19 at Baltimore

Jacoby Ellsbury, RF
Dustin Pedroia, 2B
David Ortiz, DH
Kevin Youkilis, 3B
Jason Bay, LF
6. Sean Casey, 1B
Jason Varitek, C
Alex Cora, SS
Coco Crisp, CF

Daisuke Matsuzaka, SP

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Yaz in Hospital

Carl Yastrzemski was admitted to Mass General hospital this morning after experiencing discomfort an chest pains. He will turn 69 on Friday.

UPDATE: Yaz is undergoing bypass surgery to clear a blocked artery.

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The Eighth Inning

Lester cruises through seven, if the Red Sox can just get to Paps the game will be over. This scenario from last night's game has shown a key difference from last year's team. Last season if the starter could go seven innings and the Sox had the lead the game was an almost guaranteed victory; Oki would dazzle in the eighth and Papelbon would close the door in the ninth. Yesterday Delcarmen got the call in the eighth because Okajima was just plain awful on Sunday. Manny gave the Orioles base runners they needed to get back in the game and Papelbon had to come in at an irregular time for him and gave up a big double. Who is the go to guy in the eighth? It is getting to be late August and we still don't know. Okajima is not the same pitcher he was last year, Delcarmen, and Lopez are inconsistent and Timlin is showing his age. Tito usually has Aardsma go into the game in the early innings along with Masterson. Could Buchholz become an eighth inning guy? It seems unlikely because he has had problems with dealing with pressure this season. If the Red Sox want to repeat as World Champions they need a pitcher to step into the role of setup man and pitch well down the stretch. The Red Sox did not make the deal at the break for a reliever so they have faith that one of these guys can get it done. My question is which guy?

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Lester and Bay Deliver

The Red Sox needed a good win today after the disaster yesterday and they got one thanks to Jon Lester and Jason Bay. Lester looked like the ace of the staff again going 7 innings and allowing just 4 hits and one run that came off of a home run by Aubry Huff. Jason Bay hat his first multi home run game with the Red Sox hitting taters in the second and the eighth, he had 3 hits on the night and drove in 4. Tek also had a home run in the game, his 9th in the season. The game tightened up in the eighth when Delcarmen walked back to back batters before getting the hook from Tito. Papelbon came in for a 4-out save but gave up a double to let the O's back in the game. The Red Sox added 2 more in the top of the ninth thanks to some bad fielding by Baltimore and Papelbon shut them down in the bottom of the inning for his 33rd save.

Sox Win 6-3 BOX SCORE

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Red Sox Injury Update

J.D. Drew: He is sitting tonight with the back issue but it is only precautionary, at the most he will miss the remainder of the series but I would suspect he will be back in the lineup tomorrow.

Julio Lugo: He has begun sprinting in the outfield and will start hitting in the cage today.

Mike Lowell: He has gone to his home in Miami to begin two workouts a day with his personal trainer because Fenway will not be available this weekend due to the Neil Diamond concert. He is still about 2 weeks away from returning.

Tim Wakefield: He has been playing catch without problems. The Red Sox are being cautious not to rush his return and have the same problem they had with him last season. If Buchholz struggles again on Wednesday they may have to rethink that plan. Wake could come back as early as next week.

Bartolo Colon: El Gordo has been on the slow road to recovery, he was supposed to throw extended innings this weekend but he had a stomach issue and had to come out of the game early. It must have been something he ate. (insert your own joke here) He will continue to bring up his pitch count with the PawSox and is still several weeks away.

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Tonight's Red Sox Lineup 8/18 in Baltimore

Jacoby Ellsbury, RF
Dustin Pedroia, 2B
David Ortiz, DH
Kevin Youkilis, 3B
Jason Bay, LF
Jed Lowrie, SS
Sean Casey, 1B
Jason Varitek, C
Coco Crisp, CF Jon Lester, SP

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Clay Needs A Reality Check

Clay Buchholz was happy with yesterday's outing, “It was definitely a confidence booster, my arm felt good, and it feels like I’m moving forward now instead of staying back where I was and, hopefully, there’s good things to come.” In his last 8 starts, Buchholz is 0-6 with an 8.61. Yesterday he gave up a walk, a hit, and a run in one inning of work. That would give Clay an ERA of 9.00 on the day and a WHIP of 2, neither of which is good. Clay has "turned the corner" so much he is spinning in circles. I am glad he will enter his start in Baltimore with confidence, but why do I feel like I have seen this movie before? It does not end well. Now is time for Clay to prove me wrong and throw a great game, we do not need any more hype for this kid, what we need is a win.

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This Day in Red Sox History

August 18

1907: Rube Kroh beats the St. Louis Browns 2-1 in a complete game. This will be Kroh’s only win of the season.

1967: While facing right handed pitcher Jack Hamilton of the Angels in the bottom of the fourth at Fenway, OF Tony Conigliaro is hit the face by a fastball (according to most Red Sox players it was a spit ball). The ball hits him on his cheekbone, just below his left eye socket. Conigliaro suffers a fractured cheekbone, a dislocated jaw, and a damaged retina, and doctors say that had the ball hit an inch or two away it would have killed him. The 22 year old will miss the rest of the season as well as all of 1968. However by special permission of Commissioner William Eckert, Tony C. was able to be in uniform for the last game of the season, and was on the bench when the Sox won their first pennant in 21 yeas. At the time he was hitting .267 with 20 home runs and 67 RBIs in only 95 games. Due to his injury he has problems with his eyesight for the rest of his life, and never is able to live up to his Hall of Fame potential that was on display during his first three years.

1993: Righty Danny Darwin pitches a 5-0 shut out over the White Sox.

2006: In the second half of a day/ night double header the Yankees and the Red Sox play in the longest nine inning game in Major League History. The game lasts 4 hours and 45 minutes. The teams have a total of 34 hits. The Sox go on to lose the game 14-11.

By Mac Stepp Jr.

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Jays Take Red Sox Behind the Woodshed

Josh Beckett started to dig a massive hole for the Red Sox by giving up 8 runs in 2 1/3 innings and then he handed the shovel to the bullpen. One by one the Sox relievers dug some more until the team had given up 22 hits and 15 runs. Josh Beckett did not have much today but niether did Aardsma, Timlin, Buchholz, Masterson, nor Okajima. Every Boston pitcher not named Papelbon that entered the game added to the misery. On the offensive front, the Sox were not terrible; they did score 4 runs on 10 hits but in reality the game was over in the first inning. To add to the bad news, J.D. Drew left the game early with back stiffness. Usually when his back flares up Drew misses 2-3 games.

Sox Lose 15-4 BOX SCORE

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Beckett Gets Shelled

Josh Beckett did not get out of the third inning; he went 2 1/3 innings, his shortest outing of the season. None of his pitches were working and the Jays were able to feast on most of his offerings. Beckett gave up 8 hits, 8 runs (all earned) and a home run in today's start.

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Today's Lineup 8/17 vs. the Jays

Today is Dustin Pedroia's 25th Birthday.

Ellsbury CF
Pedroia 2B
Ortiz DH
Youkilis 1B
Drew RF
Bay LF
Lowrie 3B
Cora SS
Varitek C

Beckett SP

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This Day in Red Sox History

August 17

1904: In South Side Park, lefty Jesse Tannehill gets a no-hit shutout of his brother Lee and the White Sox, winning the game 6-0.

1914: The Red Sox beat the Manchester Amoskeags from the New England League 4 – 2, in an exhibition game. On the mound is “Babe” Ruth, who one day later will be sent to the Providence Grays (International League), after clearing waivers.

1940: Jimmie Foxx sets a club record when he hits a home run for the fifth straight game. Foxx’s homer helps to lift the Sox over the visiting Senators 12-9.

1950: Fenway Park hosts the first ever Lady’s Night in the American League. In game Boston tops Philly 10-6. This will be the A’s 19^th straight loss in Fenway, a streak that dates back to September 12, 1948. The game also sees Joe Murray make his Major League debut for the A’s, it is not the kind of start he had hoped for; Bobby Doerr touched him up for a grand-slam, in the first inning.

1979: The Red Sox purchase veteran 2B Ted Sizemore from the Chicago Cubs for a player to be named later (C Mike O’Berry).

1986: Boston sends SS Rey Quinones, P Mike Brown, and P Mike Trujillo to Seattle for SS Spike Owen, OF Dave Henderson, and OF John Christensen.

1996: “The Rocket” Rodger Clemens, shutout the Angles 6 – 0, get his first shut out since April 20, 1994. It also is his 37^th career shutout, and only one behind Cy Young for the most all time in a Red Sox uniform.

1997: In the last game of a four game sweep of the Twins, Nomar Garciaparra hits in his 20^th consecutive game. In doing so he ties a team record for a rookie. The only other person to do it is Fred Lynn.

By Mac Stepp Jr

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