Boston Red Sox 2010 Spring Training Schedule

MARCH 2010

Wednesday 3
Northeastern HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Boston College AWAY
6:05 p.m. ET/3:05 p.m. PT
Thursday 4
Minnesota Twins HOME
7:05 p.m. ET/4:05 p.m. PT
Friday 5
Minnesota Twins AWAY
1:10 p.m. ET/10:10 a.m. PT
Saturday 6
Minnesota Twins HOME
1:05 p.m.ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Tampa Bay Rays AWAY
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Sunday 7
Baltimore Orioles AWAY
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Monday 8
St. Louis Cardinals HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Tuesday 9
Florida Marlins AWAY
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Wednesday 10
Tampa Bay Rays HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Thursday 11
New York Mets AWAY
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Friday 12
St. Louis Cardinals AWAY
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Saturday 13
Pittsburgh Pirates HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Sunday 14
Minnesota Twins AWAY
1:10 p.m. ET/10:10 a.m. PT
Monday 15
Baltimore Orioles HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Tuesday 16
Tampa Bay Rays AWAY
7:05 p.m. ET/4:05 p.m. PT
Wednesday 17
New York Mets HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Thursday 18
DAY OFF
Friday 19
Pittsburgh Pirates AWAY
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Saturday 20
Baltimore Orioles HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Sunday 21
Toronto Blue Jays AWAY
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Monday 22
Tampa Bay Rays HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Tuesday 23
Minnesota Twins AWAY
7:10 p.m. ET/4:10 a.m. PT
Wednesday 24
Pittsburgh Pirates AWAY
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Thursday 25
Florida Marlins HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Friday 26
Toronto Blue Jays HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Saturday 27
Baltimore Orioles AWAY
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Sunday 28
Minnesota Twins HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Monday 29
Tampa Bay Rays HOME
7:05 p.m. ET/4:05 p.m. PT
Tuesday 30
Tampa Bay Rays AWAY
1:10 p.m. ET/10:10 a.m. PT
Wednesday 31
Baltimore Orioles AWAY
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT

APRIL 2010

Thursday 1
Minnesota Twins HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Friday 2
Washington Nationals HOME
1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT
Saturday 3
Washington Nationals AWAY
4:05 p.m. ET/1:05 p.m. PT

An Open Letter to Terry Francona

Terry, your sixth season with the Boston Red Sox as the team’s Manager has come to a close and I just want to write a few words to you. If you look at previous postings within this blog in which you are mentioned, it would seem that I am completely exasperated with you – this is far from the case. I am extremely happy that you are managing the Red Sox and totally love that Boston has two World Series championships under your leadership. It’s just how you use pitchers that sometimes gets me frustrated. You have improved since the 2006 season – perhaps the 2007 season approach would work in the coming season. But I’ve written enough about that for this season – on to other matters. I’m sure there are goals that you would like the team to achieve in 2010. Here are mine – hope some of them match yours.

Ten In TwentyTen

Win the season series against the New York Yankees
Win the AL East
Win at least 100 games
Increase road game wins by 10% (four additional wins)
Increase home game wins by 10% (six additional wins)
Have twelve to sixteen complete games
Starters pitch at least seven innings per game (based on game performance)
First place in AL defense
First place in AL offense
Win the World Series

I’m confident that with all the free agents, team/player options, trades, minor league callups, and returning players activity which will occur over the next several months, the Boston Red Sox will field an excellent team to begin the 2010 season. And Terry, with you at the lead, the Red Sox are sure to be in contention from the start. Enjoy the offseason, reflect on 2009, and return to Spring Training with renewed determination to improve Red Sox results for the 2010 season. Make the Boston Red Sox champions again!

Postseason Participants - 2001 to 2009

Now that the 2009 Postseason is over, I thought it might be interesting to take a look at the postseason participants from 2001 to 2009.

In the American League, currently ten teams (out of fourteen), for a 71% participation rate, have made it to the postseason in the 21st century. They are: Yankees: eight times (one WS win - 2009), Angels: six times (one WS win - 2002), Red Sox: six times (two WS wins – 2004, 2007), Twins: five times, Athletics: four times, Indians: two times, White Sox: two times (one WS win - 2005), Mariners: one time, Rays: one time, Tigers: one time.

In the National League, currently thirteen teams (out of sixteen), for an 81% participation rate, have made it to the postseason in the 21st century. They are: Cardinals: six times (one WS win - 2006), Braves: five times, Dodgers: four times, Astros: three times, Cubs: three times, Diamondbacks: three times (one WS win - 2001), Phillies: three times (one WS win - 2008), Giants: two times, Padres: two times, Rockies: two times, Brewers: one time, Marlins: one time (one WS win - 2003), Mets: one time.

Four out of the five World Series championships won by the American League were by teams that had been to the postseason six or more times, with the fifth win by a two-time participant. One out of the four World Series championships won by the National League was by a team that had been to the postseason six times, with two wins by two three-time participants and one win by a one-time participant.

In the American League, four teams are regular participants in the postseason this century with five or more appearances (Yankees – 8, Angels – 6, Red Sox – 6, Twins – 5). In the National League, two teams are regular participants in the postseason this century with five or more appearances (Cardinals – 6 and Braves – 5). Based on the current frequency of participation, the most likely combination of the American League postseason teams is easy to predict, while the National League postseason teams are harder to predict – more consistency in which teams participant from the American League, than from the National League. However, I am predicting the following for 2010:

Possible 2010 postseason participants

AL East Yankees
AL Central Twins
AL West Angels
AL WC Red Sox

NL East Braves
NL Central Cardinals
NL West Diamondbacks
NL WC Astros

The possible American League 2010 postseason participants are the same ones as in 2009. The possible National League 2010 postseason participants is a new combination, not yet seen this century. Of course, anything can happen in baseball and an unexpected breakout team is always a possibility. Perhaps the Orioles or Royals will be a surprise in the AL or the Nationals or Pirates in the NL But any potential surprises won’t begin for another five months – can’t wait!

2009 World Series Championship Ends Today

The sixth (and final) game of the 2009 World Series has produced a champion. It is my non-pleasure to write that the New York Yankees have won the WS championship. And the Philadelphia Phillies do not repeat as World Series champions. My utmost condolences to the Phillies and their fans - Boston was on your side. Although the result was not the one for which I (and others) had been rooting, the Boston Red Sox do maintain their current position of being the only two-time World Series champions in the 21st century. May the Red Sox uniqueness continue and only improve with a third Boston WS championship - perhaps in 2010, just to finish off the first decade with a winning tone. As for the New York Yankees - see you on Monday 5 April 2010 and the fun can begin again!

2009 World Series Championship Begins Today

Today, weather permitting, the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Yankees will play game one of the 2009 World Series in Yankee Stadium. The Phillies defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Yankees defeated the Los Angeles Angels in their respective league championship series to advance to the World Series. No Freeway series for LA. If it were possible, I would not want either the Yankees or the Phillies to win the series. Not wanting the Yankees to win is a given, but I don’t want the Phillies to win because they would tie the Boston Red Sox in having two World Series Championships in the twenty-first century. However, since having the Phillies share in the two World Series Championship accomplishment means that the Yankees would still not have a championship in the twenty-first century, is an outcome I can support. Therefore – Go Phillies, sweep the Yankees!!!

Note: It was two years ago today (in a four-game sweep of the Colorado Rockies) that the Boston Red Sox won the 2007 World Series Championship; their second championship this century!

Happy Fifth Anniversary Boston Red Sox!

Five years ago today the Boston Red Sox broke their seemingly never-ending, angst-ridden, curse-filled, eighty-six year old World Series Championship drought by shutting out the St. Louis Cardinals 3 to 0 in the fourth game of the 2004 World Series. It was this four game sweep against the Cardinals that swept away decades of frustration for the Red Sox and brought unbelievable happiness to their devoted fans throughout the world Think back to where you were that historic moment when the final out was made and allow yourself to re-experience those emotions for a bit today. I know I will. Today I will play the DVD of the fourth game and remember the place (my favorite New England sports living bar) where and the people (Nora, JP, Lisa, Mike, et. al.) with whom I shared this marvelous, long-awaited experience. So, cheers and happy anniversary to the Boston Red Sox and their fans – 2004 was just the beginning!!

Red Sox ALDS Recap, 8 to 11 October

Between Thursday 8 October and Sunday 11 October 2009, the Boston Red Sox played three games – first two games at Angel Stadium and the third game at Fenway Park - in the American League Division Series “B” against the Los Angeles Angels. Here are the breakdowns for those games.

Each Game Totals

Red Sox: 0 runs, 4 hits, 3 errors
Angels: 5 runs, 7 hits, 1 error
No win, one loss
Analysis: Red Sox had 0% of the total runs, 36% of the total hits, 75% of the total errors

Red Sox: 1 run, 4 hits, 0 errors
Angels: 4 runs, 6 hits, 0 errors
No win, one loss
Analysis: Red Sox had 20% of the total runs, 40% of the total hits, 0% of the total errors

Red Sox: 6 runs, 7 hits, 1 error
Angels: 7 runs, 11 hits, 0 errors
No win, one loss
Analysis: Red Sox had 46% of the total runs, 39% of the total hits, 100% of the total errors

Overall Series Totals

Red Sox: 7 runs, 15 hits, 4 errors
Angels: 16 runs, 24 hits, 1 error
No wins, three losses
Analysis: Red Sox had 30% of the total runs, 39% of the total hits, 80% of the total errors

The 2009 postseason for the Boston Red Sox has ended. The Los Angeles Angels advance to the American League Championship Series and will play the New York Yankees (who had defeated the Minnesota Twins). In the National League Championship Series, the Los Angeles Dodgers (who had defeated the St. Louis Cardinals) will play the Philadelphia Phillies (who had defeated the Colorado Rockies).

Angels Avenge Red Sox

LA ANGELS: 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 2 3 - 7 11 0

BOSTON: 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 1 0 - 6 7 1

Sweet Sunday. That's what I thought I would be naming this day after watching the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots win consecutive games in my favorite New England sports living bar. (I would have even be willing to name it Bittersweet Sunday, as long as the Red Sox won, with the Patriots losing). Instead it is Bitter Sunday (perhaps Sour Sunday would be more appropriate) because both teams lost. Most difficult to bear is that the Los Angeles Angels swept Boston in the ALDS in a game in which the Red Sox held the lead from the third through the eighth innings. Then it happened - despite his regular season success with the bases-loaded, the odds finally caught up with Papelbon in the ninth inning and he gave up the tying and winning runs. This was the worst possible situation for the laws of probability to be displayed in Fenway Park. So, the Boston Red Sox 2009 season has come to, a too early and a two runs too many, end. Savor the sweet memories, refuse the sour grapes, and replace the bitter emotions with warm ones for the Red Sox. April will come again.

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LA ANGELS: Starting Pitcher: Scott Kazmir, Winning Pitcher: Darren Oliver

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Clay Buchholz, Losing Pitcher: Jonathan Papelbon (1)

LA ANGELS: Save: Brian Fuentes

LA ANGELS: Homerun: Kendry Morales

BOSTON: Homerun: J. D. Drew (1)

=============================================

RED SOX: ALDS: Wins: 0, Losses: 3

=============================================

Next game: Monday 5 April 2010, Time: TBD, New York Yankees, Fenway Park, Pitcher: TBD

Angels Redress Red Sox

BOSTON: 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 - 1 4 0

LA ANGELS: 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 x - 4 6 0

First Inning: Red Sox: Jacoby Ellsbury (CF) strikes out looking, Dustin Pedroia (2B) grounds out to third, Victor Martinez (C) flies out to center

Angels: Chone Figgins (3B) grounds out to shortstop, Bobby Abreu (RF) grounds out to second, Torii Hunter (CF) grounds out to third

End of first inning score: Red Sox 0, Angels 0

Second Inning: Red Sox: Kevin Youkilis (1B) flies out to center, David Ortiz (DH) flies out to left, Jason Bay (LF) strikes out swinging

Angels: Vladimir Guerrero (DH) flies out to center, Kendry Morales (1B) grounds out to first, Juan Rivera (LF) strikes out looking

End of second inning score: Red Sox 0, Angels 0

Third Inning: Red Sox: Mike Lowell (3B) flies out to second, J. D. Drew (RF) grounds out to pitcher, Alex Gonzalez (SS) flies out to center

Angels: Maicer Izturis (2B) flies out to left, Mike Napoli (C) lines out to right, Erick Aybar (SS) singles to left, Figgins flies out to left

End of third inning score: Red Sox 0, Angels 0

Fourth Inning: Red Sox: Ellsbury triples to center, Pedroia grounds out to third, Martinez singles to center, Ellsbury scores, Youkilis flies out to center, Ortiz strikes out swinging

Angels: Abreu singles to left, Hunter lines out to third, Guerrero singles to right, Abreu moves to third, Morales flies out to right, Abreu scores, Rivera grounds out to shortstop

End of fourth inning score: Red Sox 1, Angels 1

Fifth Inning: Red Sox: Bay flies out to center, Lowell flies out to right, Drew walks, Gonzalez strikes out swinging

Angels: Izturis strikes out looking, Napoli flies out to center, Aybar grounds out to second

End of fifth inning score: Red Sox 1, Angels 1

Sixth Inning: Red Sox: Ellsbury strikes out swinging, Pedroia grounds out to pitcher, Martinez strikes out looking

Angels: Figgins strikes out looking, Abreu grounds out to first, Hunter flies out to right

End of sixth inning score: Red Sox 1, Angels 1

Seventh Inning: Red Sox: Youkilis grounds out to pitcher, Ortiz grounds out to second, Bay walks, Lowell flies out to center

Angels: Guerrero walks (Howie Kendrick pinch runs for Guerrero), Morales flies out to left, Kenrick steals second, Rivera grounds out to third, Izturis singles to center, Kendrick scores, Izturis steals second, Napoli hit by pitch, Aybar triples to center, Izturis scores, Napoli scores, (Boston pitcher Billy Wagner relieves Boston starting pitcher Josh Beckett), Figgins strikes out swinging

End of seventh inning score: Red Sox 1, Angels 4

Eighth Inning: Red Sox: Drew strikes out looking, (Los Angeles pitcher Darren Oliver relieves Los Angeles starting pitcher Jered Weaver), Gonzalez (Jed Lowrie pinch hits for Gonzalez) strikes out looking, Ellsbury singles to shortstop, (Los Angeles pitcher Kevin Jepsen relieves Los Angeles pitcher Darren Oliver), Pedroia grounds out to pitcher

Angels: Abreu singles to left, (Boston pitcher Jonathan Papelbon relieves Boston pitcher Billy Wagner), Hunter flies out to center, Abreu out attempting to steal second, Kendrick strikes out looking

End of eighth inning score: Red Sox 1, Angels 4

Ninth Inning: Red Sox: Martinez flies out to center, Youkilis doubles to center, (Los Angeles pitcher Brian Fuentes relieves Los Angeles pitcher Kevin Jepsen), Ortiz flies out to left, Bay walks, Lowell flies out to center

Angels: End of game

End of game score: Red Sox 1, Angels 4

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Josh Beckett, Losing Pitcher: Josh Beckett (1)

LA ANGELS: Starting Pitcher: Jered Weaver, Winning Pitcher: Jered Weaver

LA ANGELS: Save: Brian Fuentes

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RED SOX: ALDS: Wins: 0, Losses: 2

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Next game: ALDS: Sunday 11 October 2009, 9:07 a.m. PT, Los Angeles Angels, Fenway Park, Clay Buchholz

Angels Astound Red Sox

BOSTON: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - 0 4 3

LA ANGELS: 0 0 0 0 3 0 2 0 x - 5 7 1

Well, this was not the start of the ALDS for the Boston Red Sox that was envisioned. Today's game was a surprising shutout by the Los Angeles Angels on magnificent Angels pitching and inefficient Red Sox hitting. It was a pitcher's duel for four innings, then one bad pitch by Lester changed the game completely. Also errors and bad umpiring calls in Angel Stadium contributed to the Boston loss in this first game of the ALDS. In tomorrow's game, the Red Sox need their hitting to increase and to capitalize when men are on base. Boston has to win tomorrow so that the return to Fenway Park is with the series tied and not with the Red Sox down two games. Let's go Red Sox!!

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Jon Lester, Losing Pitcher: Jon Lester (1)

LA ANGELS: Stating Pitcher: John Lackey, Winning Pitcher: John Lackey

LA ANGELS: Homerun: Torii Hunter

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RED SOX: ALDS: Wins: 0, Losses: 1

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Next game: ALDS: Friday 9 October 2009, 6:37 p.m. PT, Los Angeles Angels, Angel Stadium, Josh Beckett

Joy Continues Today!

From the warm Spring mornings of April, through the hot Summer afternoons of June, and into the cool Autumn evenings of September, Joy is encouraged by the Boston Red Sox as they pitched, hit, scored, and won their way to another postseason. Now it is October and once again the Los Angeles Angels are the first hurdle on the path to a third Red Sox World Series championship in the Twenty-First century. This Divisional Series play begins in a California stadium and ends in a Massachusetts park. Accompanied by Joy, I will watch excellent pitching, double digit hitting, frequent scoring, and decisive winning in my Southern California abode as Boston dominates Los Angeles and moves on to the Championship Series. Joy looks forward to the process – pitch, hit, score, and win – repeat itself throughout October and into November, ending with the Boston Red Sox victorious. The triumphant end of the journey begins today, the acquisition of the third ring starts today, and the ever present Joy continues today! The inclusive seasons of Spring, Summer, and Autumn converge into the elusive Postseason once more.

Red Sox 2009 Regular Season Overview

The Boston Red Sox 2009 – regular season – month by month

April 14 Wins 8 Losses 64% Winning Percentage
May 15 Wins 14 Losses 52% Winning Percentage
June 18 Wins 8 Losses 69% Winning Percentage
July 13 Wins 12 Losses 52% Winning Percentage
August 16 Wins 12 Losses 57% Winning Percentage
September 15 Wins 13 Losses 54% Winning Percentage
October 4 Wins 0 Losses 100% Winning Percentage

All Months 95 Wins 67 Losses 59% Winning Percentage

End of season tops lists

Runs Scored – Dustin Pedroia 115, Jason Bay 103, Kevin Youkilis 99
Runs Batted In – Jason Bay 119, Victor Martinez 108, David Ortiz 99
Homeruns – Jason Bay 36, David Ortiz 28, Kevin Youkilis 27
Batting Average – Kevin Youkilis .305, Victor Martinez .303, Jacoby Ellsbury .301
Wins – Josh Beckett 17, Jon Lester 15, Tim Wakefield 11
Complete Games – Josh Beckett 4, Jon Lester 2, Tim Wakefield 2
Strikeouts – Jon Lester 225, Josh Beckett 199, Brad Penny 89
ERA – Jon Lester 3.41, Josh Beckett 3.86, Clay Buchholz 4.21
Saves – Jonathan Papelbon 38, Takashi Saito 2, Daniel Bard 1

Highlights

April – Wins Opening Day game; sweeps of the Yankees, Orioles, and Twins; Jason Varitek hits grand slam
May – Establishes AL record by scoring twelve runs in an inning before one out was recorded; David Ortiz hits first homerun of the season
June – Terry Francona 500th win as Red Sox Manager; sweep Yankees; Leads AL East
July – Six Red Sox on AL All-Star team (greatest number for either League); David Ortiz hits 300th career homerun; Jim Rice inducted into Baseball Hall of Fame
August – Leads AL Wild Card; Infielder Nick Green makes MLB pitching debut with two scoreless innings in relief
September – David Ortiz all-time DH leader in homeruns; sweep of Orioles and Rays; wins AL Wild Card
October – Sweeps Indians; Jacoby Ellsbury franchise leader in stolen bases; grand slams hit by Victor Martinez and Jed Lowrie

Red Sox Recap, 28 September to 4 October

Between Monday 28 September and Sunday 4 October 2009, the Boston Red Sox played seven games at home – three against the Toronto Blue Jays and four against the Cleveland Indians. Here are the breakdowns over the time period.

Total Each Series

Red Sox: 12 runs, 24 hits, 1 error
Blue Jays: 31 runs, 42 hits, 0 errors
No wins, three losses
Analysis: Red Sox had 28% of the total runs, 36% of the total hits, 100% of the total errors

Red Sox: 32 runs, 42 hits, 1 error
Indians: 15 runs, 29 hits, 3 errors
Four wins, no losses (sweep)
Analysis: Red Sox had 68% of the total runs, 59% of the total hits, 25% of the total errors

Combined Series Totals

Red Sox: 44 runs, 66 hits, 2 errors
Opponents: 46 runs, 71 hits, 3 errors
Four wins, three losses
Analysis: Red Sox had 49% of the total runs, 48% of the total hits, 40% of the total erros

Season-To-4 October 2009 (End of Season)

Red Sox: 872 runs, 1493 hits, 83 errors
Opponents: 736 runs, 1490 hits, 110 errors
Ninety-five wins, sixty-seven losses
Analysis: Red Sox had 54% of the total runs, 50% of the total hits, 43% of the total errors

AL East Standings (at the start of Monday 5 October 2009 – End of Season)

New York 103 59 .636
Boston 95 67 .586
Tampa Bay 84 78 .519
Toronto 75 87 .463
Baltimore 64 98 .395

AL Wild Card Standings (at the start of Monday 5 October 2009 – End of Season)

Boston 95 67 .586
Texas 87 75 .537
Detroit 86 76 .531
Minnesota 86 76 .531
Seattle 85 77 .525

Boston Controls Cleveland,12 to 7

CLEVELAND: 1 0 5 0 0 0 1 0 0 - 7 8 0

BOSTON: 3 1 0 1 2 5 0 0 x - 12 11 0

It's Sunday and once again I'm in my favorite New England sports living bar watching the simultaneous broadcasting of the Red Sox/Patriots games. Today both teams won! Also here to enjoy this feat is Lisa, who has been back East for the past several weeks getting reacquainted with nieces and nephews. Welcome back! The last regular season game for the Boston Red Sox ended in victory and a sweep of the Cleveland Indians. And for the second day in a row, Fenway Park witnessed another first career grand slam by a Boston player - this time, Jed Lowrie. Congratulations to you Jed! Keep up the hitting Red Sox, and the stealing. Jacoby Ellsbury stole his seventieth base of the regular season today. Is he good for stealing ten bases during the postseason? Although today's Boston starting pitching was not as impressive as the other starts in this series have been, Buchholz is scheduled to be the number three pitcher for Boston in the ALDS. Speaking of the ALDS, Detroit and Minnesota both won again today, so there will be a tiebreaker game on Tuesday at Minnesota. The winner of that game will be the AL Central champion and the New York Yankees can finally decide if it's the seven or eight day series that they want to play. So, as of today, Boston does not know if their postseason will begin on Wednesday or on Thursday. No matter which day it is, Boston will be ready. Welcome back to the postseason and let the games begin!

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CLEVELAND: Starting Pitcher: Tomo Ohka, Losing Pitcher: Tomo Ohka

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Clay Buchholz, Winning Pitcher: Michael Bowden (1)

CLEVELAND: Homerun: Luis Valbuena

BOSTON: Homeruns: Alex Gonzalez (8), J. D. Drew (23, 24), Dustin Pedroia (15), Jed Lowrie (2, Grand Slam)

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RED SOX: Wins: 95, Losses: 67, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: ALDS, Wednesday 7 October 2009 OR Thursday 8 October 2009, Time: TBD, Los Angeles Angels, Angel Stadium, Jon Lester

Boston Batters Cleveland,11 to 6

CLEVELAND: 2 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 - 6 10 0

BOSTON: 1 7 2 0 0 0 0 1 x - 11 11 0

Although today's Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians game was one of the last of the season, it did provide a first in a most grand way. In Fenway Park, former Indian Victor Martinez blasted his first career grand slam as a member of the Red Sox. It was the highlight of the seven-run second inning. Congrats Victor! Plus Dusty Brown had his first long ball of the season. Way to contribute! And on the pitching front, Beckett's back seems to be free of spasms, which is wonderful to know as the postseason approaches. Lots of run support for Josh. Boston has won this series against Cleveland and tomorrow they will go for the sweep. Would be a terrific way to end the regular season and enter the postseason. Regarding the postseason, the Dodgers have clinched the NL West and the Rockies have won the NL Wild card. However, the winner of the AL Central is still to be determined. Detroit and Minneesota now have identical records and both will be playing games tomorrow. Will there be a winner or will a tiebreaker be necessary? Drama on the last day of the regular season - what could be better?

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CLEVELAND: Starting Pitcher: Aaron Laffey, Losing Pitcher: Aaron Laffey

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Josh Beckett, Winning Pitcher: Josh Beckett (17)

CLEVELAND: Homerun: Shin-Soo Choo

BOSTON: Homeruns: Dustin Pedroia (14), Victor Martinez (23, Grand Slam), Brian Anderson (4), Dusty Brown (1)

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RED SOX: Wins: 94, Losses: 67, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Sunday 4 October 2009, 10:35 a.m. PT, Cleveland Indians, Fenway Park, Clay Buchholz

Red Sox Inflict Indians, 6 to 2

CLEVELAND: 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 - 2 8 3

BOSTON: 1 0 3 0 0 0 2 0 x - 6 8 1

Another winning game, another pitching gem for the Boston Red Sox today in Fenway Park. And though the Cleveland Indians matched Boston in the number of hits, they were kept from capitalizing on them by the Red Sox starting and relief pitching. Boston is halfway to sweeping the Indians and ending the regular season victoriously. Two Boston players did become injured during the game - Rocco Baldelli (hip) and Alex Gonzalez (wrist). Hope their injuries heal quickly in time for the postseason. Detroit and Minnesota are still battling to be the AL Central champion and the Dodgers and the Rockies are still competing for first place in the NL West, with the second place team becoming the NL Wild Card winner. Glad the Red Sox are set!

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CLEVELAND: Starting Pitcher: Jeremy Sowers, Losing Pitcher: Jeremy Sowers

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Daisuke Matsuzaka, Winning Pitcher: Daisuke Matsuzaka (4)

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RED SOX: Wins: 93, Losses: 67, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Saturday 3 October 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Cleveland Indians, Fenway Park, Josh Beckett

Boston Contains Cleveland, 3 to 0

CLEVELAND: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - 0 3 0

BOSTON: 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 x - 3 12 0

Today's game against the Cleveland Indians was just what the Boston Red Sox needed to return to the winning track. Lester came back strong from his recent encounter with a line drive to pitch six plus innings and give up just two hits. Although having Lester complete the shutout he started would have been great, the Boston bullpen did not disappoint and kept the Indians from scoring any runs. Almost everyone in the Boston starting lineup had a hit in contributing to the first game win of a four-game series in Fenway Park. In breaking the losing streak, Boston maintains six games as the longest winless duration this season. On the postseason front, Detroit and Minnesota are still vying for first place in the AL Central, due to today's win by the Twins.

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CLEVELAND: Starting Pitcher: Carlos Carrasco, Losing Pitcher: Carlos Carrasco

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Jon Lester, Winning Pitcher: Jon Lester (15)

BOSTON: Save: Jonathan Papelbon (38)

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RED SOX: Wins: 92, Losses: 67, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Friday 2 October 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Cleveland Indians, Fenway Park, Daisuke Matsuzaka

Toronto Trumps Boston

TORONTO: 0 2 3 0 3 2 0 1 1 - 12 17 0

BOSTON: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - 0 3 0

The day after the Boston Red Sox clinched the AL Wild Card, the reward was to rest most of the regular lineup in the final game against the Toronto Blue Jays. With the Red Sox non-regulars, the Toronto regulars and their pitcher Halladay, it is not surprising that the Blue Jays completed the three-game sweep of Boston with still ailing knuckleballer Wakefield on the mound. I'm sure no one is shocked that Halladay threw a shutout against the team that Boston fielded in Fenway Park today; after all he has done so against teams fielding their usual players. On Dave Magadan's (Boston's hitting coach) birthday, it would have been great if there had been more hitting displayed. The next time the Red Sox face the Blue Jays will be in Toronto for a three-game series from 26th to 28th April 2010. Bye, until next year in Canada!

Boston's last series of the regular season begins tomorrow and it is a four-game set against the Cleveland Indians. Perhaps the Red Sox can return to their usual winning ways and stop their current losing streak at six games, which matches a previous streak this year. Boston needs to experience a few good wins before heading out to California to face the Angels. Bring a winning momentum to the West coast! But first the Red Sox have to get past the Indians and handle them well.

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TORONTO: Starting Pitcher: Roy Halladay, Winning Pitcher: Roy Halladay

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Tim Wakefield, Losing Pitcher: Tim Wakefield (5)

TORONTO: Homeruns: Lyle Overbay, Rand Ruiz (two), Jose Bautista

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RED SOX: Wins: 91, Losses: 67, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Thursday 1 October 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Cleveland Indians, Fenway Park, Jon Lester

Happy 47th Birthday David Joseph Magadan!!

David Magadan was a left-handed batting and right-handed throwing infielder who is now the Batting Coach for the Boston Red Sox. David made his Major League debut with the New York Mets on Sunday 7 December 1986 when he was twenty-three years, eleven months, and eight days old. His final Major League appearance was with the San Diego Padres on Wednesday 26 September 2001 when he was thirty-eight years, eleven months, and twenty-seven days old. The Boston Red Sox named David the hitting coach on Friday 20 October 2006 when he was forty-four years and twenty days old. David wears number twenty-eight.

Blue Jays Bomb Red Sox

TORONTO: 4 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 - 8 11 0

BOSTON: 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 - 7 14 1

An incomplete rally for the Boston Red Sox and the Toronto Blue Jays take the second game of the three-game series. It was homerun derby time in Fenway Park today, but unfortunately it was the Blue Jays who supplied most of the long balls, with fifty percent of Toronto's blasts coming from one player. Although the Red Sox did manage to out hit the Blue Jays, it was the Toronto balls leaving the field that hurt Boston. Another rough start for Boston pitching - hope these last few games will shake out the problems and that they will be well-prepared for the postseason. Good to see aggressive play on the bases by the Red Sox (two steals today) - that intense attitude will most definitely be needed when Boston plays the Angels next week. Yes, playing the Los Angeles Angeles is no longer a speculation - BOSTON CLINCHES AL WILD CARD!!! See you soon Los Angeles!

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TORONTO: Starting Pitcher: Ricky Romero, Winning Pitcher: Ricky Romero

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Clay Buchholz, Losing Pitcher: Clay Buchholz (4)

TORONTO: Save: Jason Frasor

TORONTO: Homeruns: Jose Bautista, Adam Lind (three), Aaron Hill, Kevin Millar

BOSTON: Homerun: J. D. Drew (22)

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RED SOX: Wins: 91, Losses: 66, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Wednesday 30 September 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Toronto Blue Jays, Fenway Park, Tim Wakefield

Toronto Tramples Boston

TORONTO: 4 0 3 2 2 0 0 - 11 14 0

BOSTON: 2 0 1 0 0 1 1 - 5 7 0

The question is - if it had to rain on today's game, why couldn't it have rained during the third inning, not the seventh? That way, when the game was called, it wouldn't be an official game and the Boston Red Sox would not have started their final regular season homestand with a defeat. Or alternatively, that Boston be able to finish the rally they had begun. Instead, the Toronto Blue Jays contributed a pouring of runs at Fenway Park and Boston was ungraciously welcomed home. Coming off a .500 road trip, the Red Sox need to have a winning homestand to propel themselves into the postseason with a positive attitude. Hope Beckett's back gets better soon! And let's hope that Boston's last regular season Tuesday game fares better than their last regular Monday one. Still waiting to clinch the postseason.

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TORONTO: Starting Pitcher: Scott Richmond, Winning Pitcher: Scott Richmond

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Michael Bowden, Losing Pitcher: Michael Bowden (1)

TORONTO: Homeruns: Aaron Hill, Rod Barajas, Jose Bautista

BOSTON; Homeruns: Kevin Youkilis (26, 27), David Ortiz (28)

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RED SOX: Wins: 91, Losses: 65, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Tuesday 29 September 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Toronto Blue Jays, Fenway Park, Clay Buchholz

Red Sox Recap, 18 to 27 September

Between Friday 18 September and Sunday 27 September 2009, the Boston Red Sox played ten games on the road – three against the Baltimore Orioles, four against the Kansa City Royals, and three against the New York Yankees. Here are the breakdowns over the time period.

Total Each Series

Red Sox; 23 runs, 42 hits, 0 errors
Orioles: 9 runs, 26 hits, 1 error
Three wins, no losses (sweep)
Analysis: Red Sox had 72% of the total runs, 62% of the total hits, 0% of the total errors

Red Sox: 29 runs, 41 hits, 1 error
Royals: 22 runs, 42 hits, 6 errors
Two wins, two losses (won third and fourth games)
Analysis: Red Sox had 57% of the total runs, 49% of the total hits, 14% of the total errors

Red Sox: 7 runs, 18 hits, 1 error
Yankees: 16 runs, 31 hits, 2 errors
No wins, three losses
Analysis: Red Sox had 30% of the total runs, 37% of the total hits, 33% of the total errors

Combined Series Totals

Red Sox: 59 runs, 101 hits, 2 errors
Opponents: 47 runs, 99 hits, 9 errors
Five wins, five losses
Analysis: Red Sox: had 56% of the total runs, 51% of the total hits, 18% of the total errors

Season-To-27 September 2009

Red Sox: 828 runs, 1427 hits, 81 errors
Opponents: 690 runs, 1419 hits, 107 errors
Ninety-one wins, sixty-four losses
Analysis: Red Sox had 55% of the total runs, 50% of the total hits, 43% of the total errors

AL East Standings (at the start of Monday 28 September 2009)

New York 100 56 .641
Boston 91 64 .587
Tampa Bay 79 76 .510
Toronto 72 84 .462
Baltimore 60 95 .387

AL Wild Card Standings (at the start of Monday 28 September 2009)

Boston 91 64 .587
Texas 85 70 .548
Minnesota 81 74 .523
Seattle 80 76 .513
Tampa Bay 79 76 .510

Yankees Rest Red Sox

BOSTON: 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 - 2 8 0

NY YANKEES: 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 x - 4 10 1

It's another Red Sox/Patriots game combo at the New England sports living bar I frequent. Once again there is one winner and one loser - and this time the Patriots won and the Red Sox lost. Sadly, the Boston Red Sox lost their final regular season game against the New York Yankees and with that loss, Boston experienced the following: being swept in the three-games series at Yankee Stadium, splitting the season series at nine games apiece, and watching New York celebrate clinching the AL East division title. However, like the breakfast buffet I had during the games, there were some good items: Boston took the lead for the first time in the three-game series and Boston's magic number is now two to clinch a postseason position. The next time the Red Sox are scheduled to meet the Yankees is for a three-games series in Fenway Park - during April 5th through 8th 2010. But if Detroit (or perhaps Minnesota) does not favor us with eliminating New York in the ALDS, then the Red Sox will see the Yankees again in about three weeks for what is sure to be another memorable ALCS between the two teams. Yes, I am assuming another Red Sox ALDS victory over the Angels - not a problem, right? So for now, see you later New York!

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Paul Byrd, Losing Pitcher: Paul Byrd (3)
NY YANKEES: Starting Pitcher: Andy Pettitte, Winning Pitcher: Andy Pettitte

NY YANKEES: Save: Mariano Rivera

NY YANKEES: Homeruns, Melky Cabrera, Mark Teixeira

=============================================

RED SOX: Wins: 91, Losses: 64, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Monday 27 September 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Toronto Blue Jays, Fenway Park, Josh Beckett

Yankees Yard Red Sox

BOSTON: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - 0 2 1

NY YANKEES: 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 x - 3 7 0

The tenor of today's Boston Red Sox game against the New York Yankees was very different from yesterday's hitfest. But unfortunately for the Red Sox, the result was the same - a loss to the Yankees and another day added until Boston clinches a playoff spot. On the positive side, Matsuzaka pitched extremely well and has a good bid to be in the postseason rotation. And Martinez had the best defensive play of the game with getting Jeter out at home in the fifth, as well as extending his hit streak to twenty-five games. Tomorrow in Yankee Stadium, the Red Sox will try to salvage the series with a win (thus avoid viewing the Yankees clinching) and head back to Boston on a good note.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Daisuke Matsuzaka, Losing Pitcher: Daisuke Matsuzaka (6)

NY YANKEES: Starting Pitcher: C. C. Sabathia, Winning Pitcher: C. C. Sabathia

NY YANKEES: Save: Mariano Rivera

NY YANKEES: Homerun: Robinson Cano

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RED SOX: Wins: 91, Losses: 63, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Sunday 27 September 2009, 10:05 a.m. PT, New York Yankees, Yankee Stadium, Paul Byrd

Yankees Runover Red Sox

BOSTON: 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 - 5 8 0

NY YANKEES: 1 0 4 1 0 2 1 0 x - 9 14 1

First Inning: Red Sox: Jacoby Ellsbury (CF) grounds out to pitcher, Dustin Pedroia (2B) grounds out to shortstop, Victor Martinez (1B) flies out to center

Yankees: Derek Jeter (SS) singles to center, Jeter steals second, Johnny Damon (LF) grounds out to third, Mark Teixeira (1B) strikes out swinging, Alex Rodriguez (3B) singles to left, Jeter scores, Rodriguez steals second, Hideki Matsui (DH) walks, Rodriguez steals third, Jorge Poseda (C) strikes out looking

End of first inning score: Red Sox 0, Yankees 1

Second Inning: Red Sox: Kevin Youkilis (3B) grounds out to third, David Ortiz (DH) lines out to right, Jason Bay (LF) strikes out swinging

Yankees: Robinson Cano (2B) singles to center, Nick Swisher (RF) strikes out swinging, Cano steals second, Melky Cabrera (CF) flies out to right, Jeter walks, Damon grounds out on fielder's choice, Jeter out at second

End of second inning score: Red Sox 0, Yankees 1

Third Inning: Red Sox: J. D. Drew (RF) fouls out to catcher, Jason Varitek (C) strikes out swinging, Alex Gonzalez (SS) strikes out swinging

Yankees: Teixeira singles to left, Rodriguez homers to left, Teixeira scores, Matsui singles to right, Posada flies out to right, Cano doubles to left, Matsui moves to third, Swisher walks, (bases-loaded, one out), Cabrera singles to pitcher (hits Lester on inside right leg - out of game - diagnosis is a right quad contusion), Matsui scores, Cano moves to third, Swisher moves to second, (bases-loaded, one out), (Boston pitcher Hunter Jones relieves Boston starting pitcher Jon Lester), Jeter grounds into fielder's choice, Cano scores, Cabrera out at second, Swisher moves to third, Damon flies out to center

End of third inning score: Red Sox 0, Yankees 5

Fourth Inning: Red Sox: Ellsbury flies out to left, Pedroia grounds out to first, Martinez homers, Youkilis singles to left, Ortiz grounds out to pitcher

Yankees: Teixeira flies out to center, Rodriguez walks, Rodriguez steals second, Matsui singles to left, Rodriguez moves to third, (Boston pitcher Michael Bowden relieves Boston pitcher Hunter Jones), Posada singles to right, Rodriguez scores, Matsui moves to second, Cano grounds into double play, Posada out at second

End of fourth inning score: Red Sox 1, Yankees 6

Fifth Inning: Red Sox: Bay singles to center, Drew doubles to center, Bay moves to third, Varitek fouls out to third, Gonzalez strikes out swinging, Ellsbury grounds out to first

Yankees: Swisher strikes out swinging, Cabrera strikes out looking, Jeter strikes out swinging

End of fifth inning score: Red Sox 1, Yankees 6

Sixth Inning: Red Sox: Pedrioa walks, Pedroia steals second, Martinez strikes out swinging, Youkilis pops out to second, Ortiz homers to left, Pedrioa scores, Bay pops out to shortstop

Yankees: Damon walks, Damon steals second, Teixeira flies out to center, Damon moves to third, Rodriguez doubles to center, Damon scores, Matsui walks, Rodriguez moves to third on wild pitch, Matsui moves to second on wild pitch, Posada singles to center, Rodriguez scores, Matsui out at third, (Boston pitcher Manny Delcarmen releives Boston pitcher Michael Bowden), Cano fouls out to catcher

End of sixth inning score: Red Sox 3, Yankees 8

Seventh Inning: Red Sox: (New York pitcher Alfredo Aceves relieves New York starting pitcher Joba Chamberlain), Drew singles to right, Varitek grounds into double play, Drew out at second, Gonzalez pops out to shortstop

Yankees: Swisher strikes out looking, Cabrera strikes out swinging, Jeter singles to right, Jeter steals second, Damon walks, Teixeira singles to right, Jeter scores, Damon moves to third, Rodriguez walks, Teixeira moves to second (bases-loaded, two outs), Matsui grounds out to third

End of seventh inning score: Red Sox, 3 Yankees 9

Eighth Inning: Red Sox: (New York pitcher Jonathan Albaladejo relieves New York pitcher Alfredo Aceves), Ellsbury walks, Pedroia strikes out swinging, Martinez singles to right, Ellsbury moves to third, Youkilis singles to left, Ellsbury scores, Martinez moves to third, (New York pitcher Damaso Marte relieves New York pitcher Jonathan Albaladejo), Ortiz grounds into fielder's choice, Martinez scores, Youkilis out at second, (New York pitcher Phil Hughes relieves New York pitcher Damaso Marte), Bay strikes out swinging

Yankees: (Boston pitcher Ramon Rameriz relieves Boston pitcher Manny Delcarmen), Posada walks (Freddy Guzman pinch runs for Posada), Guzman moves to second due to fielder's indifference, Cano grounds out to shortstop, Swisher pops out to second, Cabrera flies out to center

End of eighth inning score: Red Sox 5, Yankees 9

Ninth Inning: Red Sox: (New York pitcher Phil Coke relieves New York pitcher Phil Hughes), Rocco Baldelli (pinch hits for Josh Reddick who had come in defensively for J. D. Drew) walks, Varitek strikes out swinging, Casey Kotchman (pinch hits for Jed Lowrie who had come in defensively for Alex Gonzalez) grounds out into double play, Baldelli out at second

Yankees: Game over

End of game score: Red Sox 5, Yankees 9

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Jon Lester, Losing Pitcher: Jed Lester (8)

NY YANKEES: Starting Pitcher: Joba Chamberlain, Winning Pitcher: Joba Chamberlain

BOSTON: Homerun: Victor Martinez (22), David Ortiz (27)

NY YANKEES: Homerun: Alex Rodriguez

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RED SOX: Wins: 91, Losses: 62, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Saturday 26 Setember 2009, 1:10 p.m. PT, New York Yankees, Yankee Stadium, Daisuke Matsuzaka

Happy 28th Birthday Rocco Daniel Baldelli!!!

Rocco Baldelli is a right-handed batting and throwing right fielder. He is a right fielder for the Boston Red Sox. Rocco made his Major League debut with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays on Monday 31 March 2003 when he was twenty-one years, six months, and six days old. Rocco signed with the Boston Red Sox on Thursday 8 January 2009 when he was twenty-seven years, three months, and fifteen days old. Rocco wears number five.

Boston Kerbs Kansas, 10 to 3

BOSTON: 0 0 1 3 0 1 0 1 4 - 10 15 0

KANSAS: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 - 3 10 5

The Boston Red Sox leave Kauffman Stadium with an excellent win and a series split with the Kansas City Royals. A terrific pitching outing for Buchholz and plenty of Red Sox hitting today - the Martinez hitting streak continued. Boston will be back in Kansas City next April 9th through 11th for a three-game series. Until then, the Red Sox say farewell to the Royals. Boston's final leg of this last regular season road trip is visiting the New York Yankees for a three-game series. Even though they have made some gain on the Yankees, Boston's path to the postseason appears to be via the Wild Card. The Rangers did lose today.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Clay Buchholz, Winning Pitcher: Clay Buchholz (7)

KANSAS: Starting Pitcher: Anthony Lerew, Losing Pitcher: Anthony Lerew

BOSTON: Homerun: David Ortiz (26)

KANSAS: Homerun: Billy Butler

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RED SOX: Wins: 91, Losses: 61, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Friday 25 September 2009, 4:05 p.m. PT, New York Yankees, Yankee Stadium, Jon Lester

Red Sox Roust Royals, 9 to 2

BOSTON: 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 3 - 9 12 0

KANSAS: 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 - 2 12 0

Yes, the Boston Red Sox and the Kansas City Royals had the exact number of hits in today's game; however, at the end, Boston had the greater number of runs scored in Kauffman Stadium and that is all that counts! The Red Sox will go for salvaging a series split in tomorrow's fourth game against the Royals. With his twenty-second straight game with a hit, Victor Martinez tied Jacoby Ellsbury for the longest hit streak for Boston this season. Congrats! In addition to Boston, the Yankees and the Rangers both won today, so the positions in the AL East and AL Wild Card remain the same.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Josh Beckett, Winning Pitcher: Josh Beckett (16)

KANSAS: Starting Pitcher: Luke Hochevar, Losing Pitcher: Luke Hochevar

BOSTON: Homerun: David Ortiz (25)

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RED SOX: Wins: 90, Losses: 61, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Thursday 24 September 2009, 5:10 p.m. PT, Kansas City Royals, Kauffman Stadium, Clay Buchholz

Kansas City Knocks Boston

BOSTON: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 - 1 2 0

KANSAS: 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 x - 5 9 1

Well, tomorrow the Boston Red Sox will be going for a split of the four-game series against the Kansas City Royals. Today the Red Sox lost another game to the Royals due to pitching - the shaky Boston starting pitching and the excellent Kansas City starting pitching. Even though the hitting and scoring were lower than yesterday, the run differential in today's final score from yesterday's increased by one. Let's hope that tomorrow in Kauffman Stadium that Boston is able to decrease that run differential into a win for the Red Sox. Joining Boston in the loss column today were the Rangers, which is a fortunate outcome for the Red Sox in the AL Wild Card race. However, the Yankees won today and that increases their AL East division lead.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Paul Byrd, Losing Pitcher: Paul Byrd (2)

KANSAS: Starting Pitcher: Zack Greinke, Winning Pitcher: Zack Greinke

KANSAS: Save: Joakim Soria

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RED SOX: Wins: 89, Losses: 61, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Wednesday 23 September 2009, 5:10 p.m. PT, Kansas City Royals, Kauffman Stadium, Josh Beckett

Royals Rule Red Sox

BOSTON: 0 0 6 0 2 1 0 0 0 - 9 12 1

KANSAS: 0 0 1 1 3 6 1 0 x - 12 11 0

The Boston Red Sox bullpen out did starter Wakefield. While it took Tim five innings to give up five runs to the Kansas City Royals, it took the relievers two innings to give up seven runs. Not exactly an endorsement for the Boston pen today. Although Wakefield was not in his top form, he did manage to leave the game with a lead and I'm sure expected a win against the Royals. Instead Boston has begun its four-game visit to Kauffman Stadium with a loss. Unfortunately, the Yankees also lost today and the Rangers won. Therefore, no gain on New York and a range reduction on Texas.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Tim Wakefield, Losing Pitcher: Daniel Bard (2)

KANSAS: Starting Pitcher: Lenny DiNardo, Winning Pitcher: Yasuhiko Yabuta

KANSAS: Save: Joakim Soria

BOSTON: Homerun: Jason Bay (36)

KANSAS: Homerun: Mike Jacobs

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RED SOX: Wins: 89, Losses: 60, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Tuesday 22 September 2009, 5:10 p.m. PT, Kansas City Royals, Kauffman Stadium, Paul Byrd

Boston Beats Baltimore, 9 to 3

BOSTON: 3 1 2 1 0 1 1 0 0 - 9 14 0

BALTIMORE: 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 - 3 9 0

Another Sunday in my favorite New England sports living bar and today there are more people here than usual on a Sunday because of the Patriots game. This will be the scenario for the next couple of Sundays. Good to see some familiar faces - Dave, who brought donuts (thanks!), Mishi who brought Jim (her boyfriend) for the first time, and especially Stacie, who brought, as always, her upbeat self for all to experience. The day may have been a loss for the Patriots, but it was a definite win for the Red Sox! The Boston Red Sox swept the Baltimore Orioles in their last meeting of the 2009 season. Another hitting and scoring fest in Oriole Park. Boston got to the Baltimore starter after three innings, but Matsuzaka lasted into the sixth. It is so long to the Orioles until next year when Boston will welcome them to Fenway Park for a three-game series from the 23rd through the 25th of April. At that time, Boston will take up where they left off today. As the Red Sox leave to go to Kansas City for a four-game series with the Royals, the team maintains the lead in the AL Wild Card and gains a game on the New York Yankees. Is an interesting and familiar scenario developing between Boston and New York where there is a reversal of positions? Let's hope!!

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Daisuke Matsuzaka, Winning Pitcher: Daisuke Matsuzaka (3)

BALTIMORE: Starting Pitcher: Jason Berken, Losing Pitcher: Jason Berken

BOSTON: Homeruns: Jason Bay (35), Jacoby Ellsbury (8)

BALTIMORE: Homerun: Luke Scott

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RED SOX: Wins: 89, Losses: 59, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Monday 21 September 2009, 5:10 p.m. PT, Kansas City Royals, Kauffman Stadium, Tim Wakefield

Happy 31st Birthday Jason Raymond Bay!!!

Jason Bay is a right-handed batting and throwing left fielder. He is the starting left fielder for the Boston Red Sox. Jason made his Major League debut with the San Diego Padres on Friday 23 May 2003 when he was twenty-four years, eight months, and three days old. The Padres played the Arizona Diamondbacks that day and Jason started in center field and his first career hit was a homerun. Jason was acquired by the Boston Red Sox from the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday 31 July 2008 when he was twenty-nine years, ten months, and eleven days old. Jason made his Red Sox debut on Friday 1 August 2008. The Red Sox played the Oakland Athletics in Fenway Park that day and Jason scored both runs in the two to one victory. He was named National League Rookie of the Year 2004 and named to the National League All-Star team 2005 and 2006, and to the American League All-Star team 2009. Jason wears number forty-four.

Red Sox Occupy Orioles, 11 to 5

BOSTON: 0 2 0 0 0 1 3 5 0 - 11 17 0

BALTIMORE: 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 - 5 12 1

A little more hitting and scoring for the Boston Red Sox and the Baltimore Orioles today than yesterday. Homerun after homerun after homerun! Almost everyone had a hit in the game, at least on the Boston side. And, once again in Oriole Park, the win belongs to the Red Sox. Both starters left in the sixth after giving up three runs each. But the Boston bullpen prevailed while only giving up two additional runs to Baltimore's eight. The Red Sox are looking for a sweep tomorrow in their final game against the Orioles this season.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Jon Lester, Winning Pitcher: Jon Lester (14)

BALTIMORE: Starting Pitcher: David Hernandez, Losing Pitcher: Matt Albers

BOSTON: Homeruns: Josh Reddick (2), J. D. Drew (21), Brian Anderson (3)

BALTIMORE: Homeruns: Ty Wigginton (two), Melvin Mora, Felix Pie

=============================================

RED SOX: Wins: 88, Losses: 59, AL East Standing: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Sunday 20 September 2009, 10:35 a.m. PT, Baltimore Orioles, Oriole Park, Daisuke Matsuzaka

Boston Blasts Baltimore, 3 to 1

BOSTON: 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 - 3 11 0

BALTIMORE: 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - 1 5 0

The final road trip (of the regular season) has started out well for the Boston Red Sox. A nice win over the Baltimore Orioles to begin the three-game series in Oriole Park. Boston was more efficient in their hit/run ratio than Baltimore, but both bullpens were effective in not allowing additional scoring after the starters left. The Red Sox have begun a new winning streak and will attempt to continue their wining ways tomorrow. And Boston's lead in the AL Wild Card has increased with today's Rangers loss.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Clay Buchholz, Winning Pitcher: Clay Buchholz (6)

BALTIMORE: Starting Pitcher: Jeremy Guthrie, Losing Pitcher: Jeremy Guthrie

BOSTON: Save: Jonathan Papelbon (37)

BOSTON: Homerun: Jason Bay (34)

BALTIMORE: Homerun: Luke Scott

=============================================

RED SOX: Wins: 87, Losses: 59, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Saturday 19 September 2009, 4:05 p.m. PT, Baltimore Orioles, Oriole Park, Jon Lester

Red Sox Recap, 8 to 17 September

Between Tuesday 8 September and Thursday 17 September 2009, the Boston Red Sox played eight games at home – two against the Baltimore Orioles, three against the Tampa Bay Rays, and three against the Los Angeles Angels. Here are the breakdowns over the time period.

Total Each Series

Red Sox: 17 runs, 26 hits, 1 error
Orioles: 5 runs, 17 hits, 1 error
Two wins, no losses (sweep)
Analysis: Red Sox had 77% of the total runs, 61% of the total hits, 50% of the total errors

Red Sox: 16 runs, 24 hits, 0 errors
Rays: 2 runs, 14 hits, 0 errors
Three wins, no losses (sweep)
Analysis: Red Sox had 89% of the total runs, 63% of the total hits, 0% of the total errors

Red Sox: 16 runs, 28 hits, 1 error
Angels: 13 runs, 31 hits, 2 errors
Two wins, one loss (won the first and second games)
Analysis: Red Sox had 55% of the total runs, 48% of the total hits, 33% of the total errors

Combined Series Totals

Red Sox: 49 runs, 78 hits, 2 errors
Opponents: 20 runs, 62 hits, 3 errors
Seven wins, one loss
Analysis: Red Sox had 71% of the total runs, 56% of the total hits, 40% of the total errors

Season-To-17 September 2009

Red Sox; 769 runs, 1326 hits, 79 errors
Opponents: 643 runs, 1320 hits, 98 errors
Eighty-six wins, fifty-nine losses
Analysis: Red Sox 55% of the total runs, 50% of the total hits, 45% of the total errors

AL East Standings (at the start of Friday 18 September 2009)

New York 94 53 .639
Boston 86 59 .593
Tampa Bay 74 73 .503
Toronto 66 80 .452
Baltimore 60 86 .411

AL Wild Card Standings (at the start of Friday 18 September 2009)

Boston 86 59 .593
Texas 80 65 .552
Seattle 76 71 .517
Minnesota 74 72 .507
Tampa Bay 74 73 .503

Angels Alter Red Sox

L. A. ANGELS: 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 - 4 8 0

BOSTON: 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 - 3 6 0

Yesterday - Top of seventh inning, two outs, Kendry Morales out swinging, safe at first on a passed ball - Angels score four runs, take lead - game ends with Red Sox win. Today - Top of seventh inning, two outs, Chone Figgins out swinging, safe at first on a "wild pitch" - Angels score one run, tie game - game ends with Angels win. Similar scenarios, different results. I disagree with the scoring of "wild pitch" today - should have also been a passed ball - there was nothing wild about the throw that Beckett made. That being written, why such miscues from Varitek two games in a row? It's fine that he's not an offensive powerhouse, but it is not okay for him not to be a defensive powerhouse. The Boston Red Sox have gone to great lengths to improve the defense at shortstop - perhaps it is time to evaluate the defense at catcher now and not wait until the end of the season to make some hard decisions. Just a suggestion. Despite today's loss to the Los Angeles Angels, the Red Sox have had an outstanding eight-game run in Fenway Park, winning seven of them. During this homestand, Boston became the leader of the AL Wild Card and gained two games on the New York Yankees. The Red Sox take to the road for the last time this regular season. Let's hope the road turns out to be just as uplifting as the homestand.

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L. A. ANGELS: Starting Pitcher: Ervin Santana, Winning Pitcher: Kevin Jepsen

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Josh Beckett, Losing Pitcher: Billy Wagner (1)

L. A. ANGELS: Save: Brian Fuentes

L. A. ANGELS: Homerun: Howie Kendrick

BOSTON: Homeruns: Jacoby Ellsbury (7), Jason Bay (33)

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RED SOX: Wins: 86, Losses: 59, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Friday 18 September 2009, 4:05 p.m. PT, Baltimore Orioles, Oriole Park, Clay Buchholz

Red Sox Ache Angels, 9 to 8

L. A. ANGELS: 0 0 1 0 1 1 4 0 1 - 8 17 1

BOSTON: 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 2 2 - 9 13 1

First Inning: Angels: Chone Figgins (3B) singles to center, Erick Aybar (SS) pops out to shortstop, Bobby Abreu (RF) flies out to center, Vladimir Guerrero (DH) flies out to left

Red Sox: Jacoby Ellsbury (CF) walks, Dustin Pedroia (2B) grounds into double play, Ellsbury out at second, Jason Bay (LF) grounds out to third

End of first inning score: Red Sox 0, Angels 0

Second Inning: Angels: Torii Hunter (CF) flies out to center, Kendry Morales (1B) lines out to left, Howie Kendrick (2B) grounds out to shortstop

Red Sox: Mike Lowell (3B) singles to left, David Ortiz (DH) strikes out swinging, Rocco Baldelli (RF) strikes out swinging, Jason Varitek (C) pops out to second

End of second inning score: Red Sox 0, Angels 0

Third Inning: Angels: Juan Riveria (LF) singles to center, Mike Napoli (C) grounds out to third, Riveria moves to second, Figgins flies out to left, Ayber doubles to right, Riveria scores, Abreu walks, Guerrero strikes out swinging

Red Sox: Casey Kotchman (1B) doubles to left, Alex Gonzalez (SS) bunts out to pitcher, Kotchman moves to third, Ellsbury grounds out to first, Pedroia grounds out to third

End of third inning score: Red Sox 0, Angels 1

Fourth Inning: Angels: Hunter doubles to center, Morales flies out to second, Kendrick grounds into fielder's choice to pitcher, Hunter out at third, Kendrick moves to second on play, Riveria fouls out to second

Red Sox: Bay singles to left, Lowell strikes out swinging, Bay steals second, Ortiz walks, Baldelli grounds into double play, Ortiz out at second

End of fourth inning score: Red Sox 0, Angels 1

Fifth Inning: Angels: Napoli strikes out swinging, Figgins strikes out swinging, Aybar singles to right, Aybar moves to second on throwing error by right fielder, Abreu doubles to center, Aybar scores, Guerrero pops out to second

Red Sox: Varitek strikes out swinging, Kotchman strikes out looking, Gonzalez flies out to left

End of fifth inning score: Red Sox 0, Angels 2

Sixth Inning: Angels: Hunter homers to left, Morales strikes out swinging, Kendrick hits ground rule double to right, Riveria singles to left, Kendrick moves to third, (Boston pitcher Takashi Saito relieves Boston starting pitcher Paul Byrd), Napoli walks, Riveria moves to second, (bases-loaded, one out), Figgins flies out to left, Aybar pops out to first

Red Sox: Ellsbury singles to second, Pedroia doubles to left, Ellsbury moves to third, Bay singles to center, Ellsbury scores, Pedroia scores, Lowell grounds into fielder's choice to second, Bay safe at second on error by shortstop, Ortiz grounds into fielder's choice to second, Lowell out at second, Bay moves to third, Baldelli singles to left, Bay scores, Ortiz moves to second, Varitek walks, Ortiz moves to third, Baldelli moves to second, (bases-loaded, one out), Kotchman flies out to shortstop, (bases-loaded, two outs), Gonzalez singles to right, Ortiz scores, Baldelli scores, Varitek moves to second, (Los Angeles pitcher Jason Bulger relieves Los Angeles starting pitcher Joe Saunders), Ellsbury (second time up this inning) strikes out swinging

End of sixth inning score: Red Sox 5, Angels 3

Seventh Inning: Angels: Abreu grounds out to pitcher, Guerrero hit by a pitch, (Boston pitcher Ramon Ramirez relieves Boston pitcher Takashi Saito), Hunter flies out to second, Morales strikes out swinging, Morales to first on passed ball, Guerrero moves to third on play, Kendrick singles to left, Guerrero scores, Morales moves to second, Riveria doubles to center, Morales scores, Kendrick scores, Napoli doubles to left, Riveria scores, (Boston pitcher Hideki Okajima relieves Boston pitcher Ramon Ramirez), Figgins strikes out swinging

Red Sox: (Los Angles pitcher Kevin Jepsen relieves Los Angeles pitcher Jason Bulger), Pedroia grounds out to shortstop, Bay grounds out to shortstop, Lowell grounds out to second

End of seventh inning score: Red Sox 5, Angels 7

Eighth Inning: Angels: Aybar singles to center, Abreu singles to center, Aybar moves to third, (Boston pitcher Manny Delcarmen relieves Boston pitcher Hideki Okajima), Maicer Izturis (pinch hits for Guerrero) pops out to shortstop, Abreu steals second, Hunter intentionally walks, (bases-loaded, one out), Morales strikes out swinging, (bases-loaded, two outs), Kendrick strikes out swinging

Red Sox: Ortiz singles to left, J. D. Drew (pinch hits for Brian Anderson who had come in defensively for Baldelli) walks, Ortiz moves to second, Josh Reddick (pinch hits for Varitek) grounds into fielder's choice, Drew out at second, Ortiz moves to third, (Los Angeles pitcher Darren Oliver relieves Los Angeles pitcher Kevin Jepsen), Reddick moves to second on wild pitch, Kotchman grounds out to shortstop, Ortiz scores, Reddick moves to third, Gonzalez walks, Ellsbury singles to right, Reddick scores, Gonzalez moves to second, Pedroia flies out to center

End of eighth inning score: Red Sox 7, Angels 7

Ninth Inning: Angels: (Boston pitcher Daniel Bard relieves Boston pitcher Manny Delcarmen), Riveria grounds out to catcher, Napoli grounds out to third, Figgins singles to left, Aybar singles to right, Figgins moves to third, Abreu singles to left, Figgins scores, Aybar moves to second, Izturis grounds to first

Red Sox: (Los Angeles pitcher Brian Fuentes relieves Los Angeles pitcher Darren Oliver), Bay pops out to center, Lowell flies out to center, Ortiz walks (Joey Gathright pinch runs for Ortiz), Drew singles to center, Gathright moves to second, Jed Lowrie (pinch hits for Dusty Brown who had come in defensively for Jason Varitek) singles to thrid, Gathright moves to third, Drew moves to second, (bases-loaded, two outs), Nick Green (pinch hits for Kotchman) walks, Gathright scores, Drew moves to third, Lowrie moves to second, Gonzalez singles to left, Drew scores

End of game score: Red Sox 9, Angels 8

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L. A. ANGELS: Starting Pitcher: Joe Saunders, Losing Pitcher: Brian Fuentes

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Paul Byrd, Winning Pitcher: Daniel Bard (2)

L. A. ANGELS: Homerun: Torii Hunter

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RED SOX: Wins: 86, Losses: 58, AL East Standings: New York, Boston, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Baltimore

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Next game: Thursday 17 September 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Los Angeles Angels, Fenway Park, Josh Beckett