Tampa Bay Blanks Boston

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

TAMPA BAY: 0 0 4 2 1 1 0 5 x - 13 18 0

First Inning: Red Sox: Jacoby Ellsbury strikes out swinging, Dustin Pedroia grounds out to shortstop, David Ortiz flies out to center

Rays: B. J. Upton strikes out looking, Carl Crawford grounds to second, Evan Longoria flies out to left

Second inning: Red Sox: Kevin Youkilis flies out to right, J. D. Drew strikes out looking, Jason Bay strikes out looking

Rays: Carlos Pena strikes out swinging, Pat Burrell singles into left, Gabe Gross strikes out swinging, Akinori Iwamura strikes out swinging

Third inning: Red Sox: Mike Lowell pops out to shortstop, George Kottaras strikes out swinging, Julio Lugo flies out to right

Rays: Jason Bartlett singles to third, Michel Hernandez strikes out looking, Upton singles to third, Bartlett moves to second, Crawford walks, Bartlett moves to third, Upton moves to second (bases-loaded), Longoria doubles to center, Bartlett scores, Upton scores, Crawford scores, Pena strikes out swinging, Burrell singles into right, Longoria scores, Gross walks, Burrell moves to second, Iwamura strikes out swinging

Fourth inning: Red Sox: Ellsbury flies out to left, Pedroia flies out to left, Ortiz strikes out swinging

Rays: Bartlett grounds out to shortstop, Hernandez homers to left, Upton doubles to left, Crawford doubles to left, Upton scores, Crawford steals third, Longoria lines out to shortstop, Pena walks, Burrell lines out to shortstop

Fifth inning: Red Sox: Youkilis strikes out swinging, Drew grounds out to shortstop, Bay strikes out looking

Rays: Gross flies out to left, Iwamura doubles to left, Bartlett strikes out swinging, Hernandez singles into left, Iwamura scores, (Boston pitcher Hunter Jones relieves Boston starting pitcher Josh Beckett), Upton flies out to center

Sixth inning: Red Sox: Lowell grounds out to shortstop, Kottaras strikes out swinging, Lugo lines out to third

Rays: Crawford grounds out to pitcher, Longoria homers to left, Pena singles to right, Burrell strikes out looking, Gross strikes out swinging

Seventh inning: Red Sox: Ellsbury singles to pitcher, (breaks-up Tampa Bay pitcher Matt Garza's perfect game), Pedroia grounds into double play, Ellsbury out at second, Ortiz walks, Jeff Bailey (replaces Kevin Youkilis) grounds out to third

Rays: (Boston pitcher Takashi Saito relieves Boston pitcher Hunter Jones), Iwamura flies out to center, Bartlett pops up to first, Hernandez singles into center, Upton strikes out swinging

Eighth inning: Red Sox: Jonathan Van Every (replaces J. D. Drew) strikes out looking, Bay strikes out swinging, (Tampa Bay pitcher Grant Balfour relieves Tampa Bay starting pitcher Matt Garza), Nick Green (replaces Mike Lowell) strikes out swinging

Rays: (Boston pitcher Javier Lopez relieves Boston pitcher Takashi Saito), Crawford grounds out to second, Longoria singles to center, Pena singles to right, Longoria moves to second, Burrell walks, Longoria moves to third, Pena moves to second (bases-loaded), Gross doubles to left, Longoria scores, Pena scores, Burrell moves to third, Iwamura ground rule double to right, Burrell scores, Gross scores, (Boston Rightfielder Jonathan Van Every relieves Boston pitcher Javier Lopez who then replaces Van Every in right), Bartlett fouls out to third, Hernandez doubles to center, Iwamura scores, Upton walks, Ben Zobrist (hits for Crawford) fouls out to first

Ninth inning: Red Sox: Kottaras flies out to second, Lugo walks, Ellsbury flies out to center, Pedroia grounds out to third

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Josh Beckett, Losing Pitcher: Josh Beckett (2)

TAMPA BAY: Starting Pitcher: Matt Garza, Winning Pitcher: Matt Garza

TAMPA BAY: Homeruns: Michel Hernandez, Evan Longoria

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RED SOX: Wins: 14, Losses: 8, AL East Standings: Boston, Toronto, New York, Baltimore, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Friday 1 May 2009, 4:38 p.m. PT, Tampa Bay Rays, Tropicana Field, Justin Masterson

Boston Busts Cleveland, 6 to 5

BOSTON: 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 3 0 1 - 6 10 1

CLEVELAND: 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 - 5 8 1

The Boston Red Sox end their three-game series against the Cleveland Indians in Progressive Field with a win; thereby taking the series two games to one game and starting (I hope) a new winning streak. Although the Indians managed to have twice as many homeruns in this game as the Red Sox, it was Boston's one homerun that made all the difference. One catch might have made the difference yesterday - one hit did that today.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Jon Lester, Winning Pitcher: Hideki Okajima (2)

CLEVELAND: Starting Pitcher: Fausto Carmona, Losing Pitcher: Jensen Lewis

BOSTON: Save: Jonathan Papelbon (6)

BOSTON: Homerun: Jonathan Van Every (1)

CLEVELAND: Homeruns: Mark DeRosa, Kelly Shoppach

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RED SOX: Wins: 14, Losses: 7, AL East Standings: Boston, Toronto, New York, Baltimore, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Thursday 30 April 2009, 4:08 p.m. PT, Tampa Bay Rays, Tropicana Field, Josh Beckett

Cleveland Crushes Boston

BOSTON: 1 4 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 - 8 14 3

CLEVELAND: 1 2 4 0 0 0 1 0 1 - 9 13 0

A hitting fest game today for the Boston Red Sox and the Cleveland Indians. A very long night in Progressive Field and a large number of runs. Errors ended up being the determining factor in the game (not pitching or hitting) and the Red Sox winning streak has ended. How difficult is it to catch a ball that is flipped to you? Pay attention to the ball!! I knew that the streak would eventually end, but the indignity of losing that way is embarrassing. Being out hit or out pitched is one thing, but on a routine playable error??? An unworthy loss.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Brad Penny, Losing Pitcher: Javier Lopez (2)

CLEVELAND: Starting Pitcher: Anthony Reyes, Winning Pitcher: Kerry Wood

CLEVELAND: Homeruns: Ben Francisco, Mark DeRosa

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RED SOX: Wins: 13, Losses: 7, AL East Standings: Toronto, Boston, New York, Baltimore, Tampa Bay

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

Next game: Wednesday 29 April 2009, 4:05 p.m. PT, Cleveland Indians, Progressive Field, Jon Lester

Boston Bursts Cleveland, 3 to 1

BOSTON: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 - 3 8 0

CLEVELAND: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 - 1 4 1

The Boston Red Sox are on the road again and hoping that it is a happier experience than the first road trip. First stop is Progressive Field for three against the Cleveland Indians. Pitching duel today, but neither starter gets the win. Either Boston is exhausted from all the runs (25) that they scored against the Yankees and has nothing left for the Indians or the Cleveland pitching is very good. But wait, the Cleveland closer enters the game and... a Red Sox homer and three runs on the board!! Boston's closer was a little more effective and only allowed one run. Both starters did great work. Perhaps keeping the starters in for the whole game would have been the way to go. Anyway, the Red Sox winning streak is still alive at eleven and the road trip does begin on a happy note.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Tim Wakefield, Winning Pitcher: Manny Delcarmen (1)

CLEVELAND: Starting Pitcher: Cliff Lee, Losing Pitcher: Kerry Wood

BOSTON: Save: Jonathan Papelbon (5)

BOSTON: Homerun: Jason Bay (5)

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RED SOX: Wins: 13, Losses: 6, AL East Standings: Boston, Toronto, New York, Baltimore, Tampa Bay

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

Next game: Tuesday 28 April 2009, 4:05 p.m. PT, Cleveland Indians, Progressive Field, Brad Penny

Red Sox Recap, 17 to 26 April

Between Friday 17 April 2009 and Sunday 26 April 2009, the Boston Red Sox played nine games in Fenway Park - four against the Baltimore Orioles, two against the Minnesota Twins, and three against the New York Yankees. Here are the breakdowns over this time period.

Totals Each Series

Red Sox: 30 runs, 45 hits, 3 errors

Orioles: 14 runs, 30 hits, 3 errors

Four wins, no losses (sweep)

Analysis: Red Sox had 68% of the total runs, 60% of the total hits, 50% of the total errors

Red Sox: 17 runs, 19 hits, 3 errors

Twins: 4 runs, 11 hits, 1 error

Two wins, no losses (sweep)

Analysis: Red Sox had 81% of the total runs, 63% of the total hits, 75% of the total errors

Red Sox: 25 runs, 34 hits, 2 errors

Yankees: 16 runs, 35 hits, 4 errors

Three wins, no losses (sweep)

Analysis: Red Sox had 61% of the total runs, 49% of the total hits, 33% of the total errors

Combined Series Totals

Red Sox: 72 runs, 98 hits, 8 errors

Opponents: 34 runs, 76 hits, 8 errors

Nine wins, no losses (sweep)

Analysis: Red Sox had 68% of the total runs, 56% of the total hits, 50% of the total errors

Season-To-26 April 2009

Red Sox: 109 runs, 174 hits, 11 errors

Opponents: 79 runs, 157 hits, 16 errors

Twelve wins, six losses

Analysis: Red Sox had 58% of the total runs, 53% of the total hits, 41% of the total errors

AL East Standings (at the start of Monday 27 April 2009)

Toronto 14 6 .700

Boston 12 6 .667

New York 9 9 .500

Baltimore 9 10 .474

Tampa Bay 7 12 .368

Red Sox Rebuke Yankees, 4 to 1

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

BOSTON: 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 x - 4 7 1

First inning: Yankees: Brett Gardner grounds out to shortstop, Derek Jeter grounds out to second, Mark Teixeira strikes out

Red Sox: Jacoby Ellsbury singles into left, Dustin Pedroia flies out to center, David Ortiz lines out into double play second to first, Ellsbury out at first

Second inning: Yankees: Nick Swisher strikes out swinging, Robinson Cano grounds out to first, Jorge Posada flies out to left

Red Sox: Kevin Youkilis grounds out to second, J. D. Drew strikes out looking, Jason Bay singles to third, Mike Lowell singles into right, Bay advances to second, Jason Varitek flies out to left

Third inning: Yankees: Hideki Matsui singles into left, Melky Cabrera singles to third, Matsui advances to second, Angel Berroa out at first, Matsui advances to third, Cabrera advances to second, Gardner flies out to left, Matsui scores, Jeter singles to third, Cabrera advances to third, Teixeira flies out to right

Red Sox: Nick Green safe at first on third baseman's error, Ellsbury grounds into fielder's choice to pitcher, Green out at second, Ellsbury steals second, Pedroia on first on third basemen's throwing error, Ellsbury advances to third, Ortiz flies out to left, Ellsbury scores, Pedroia out trying to steal second

Fourth inning: Yankees: Swisher strikes out swinging, Cano singles to right, Posada fouls out to third, Matsui singles to right, Cano advances to third, Cabrera grounds out to second

Red Sox: Youkilis strikes out swinging, Drew strikes out swinging, Bay walks, Bay steals second, Lowell strikes out looking

Fifth inning: Yankees: Berroa grounds out to third, Gardner strikes out looking, Jeter singles to left, Teixeira flies out to right

Red Sox: Varitek walks, Green strikes out swinging, Ellsbury walks, Varitek advances to second, Pedroia flies out to center, Oritz doubles to left, Varitek scores, Ellsbury advances to third, Youkilis intentional walk, (bases loaded), Ellsbury steals home! (first straight steal of home by a Red Sox player since Billy Hatcher on 22 April 1994), Drew ground-rule double to right, Oritz scores, Youkilis to third, Bay strikes out

Sixth inning: Yankees: Swisher flies out to left, Cano singles to right, Posada walks, Cano advances to second, Matsui flies out to right, Cabrera strikes out swinging

Red Sox: Lowell grounds out to third, Varitek grounds out to second, Green singles to left, Green out trying to steal second

Seventh inning: Yankees: Berroa fouls out to first, Gardner flies out to left, Jeter strikes out swinging

Red Sox: Ellsbury grounds out to pitcher, Pedroia flies out to center, Oritz pops up to second

Eighth inning: Yankees: Teixeira flies out to left, Swisher grounds out to pitcher, Cano strikes out swinging

Red Sox: Youkilis singles into center, Jonathan Van Every (replaces Drew) walks, Youkilis advances to second, Bay hit by a pitch, Youkilis advances to third, Van Every advances to second, Lowell grounds into a fielder's choice at third, Youkilis out at home, Varitek strikes out swinging, Green grounds into a fielder's choice at second, Lowell out at second

Ninth inning: Yankees: Posada pops up to second, Matsui pops up to third, Cabrera singles into right, Cabrera steals second, Johnny Damon (pinch hits for Angel Berroa) flies out to right

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NY YANKEES: Starting Pitcher: Andy Pettitte, Losing Pitcher: Andy Pettitte
BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Justin Masterson, Winning Pitcher: Justin Masterson (2)
BOSTON: Save: Takashi Saito (2)
=============================================

RED SOX: Wins: 12, Losses: 6, AL East Standings: Toronto, Boston, New York, Baltimore, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Monday 27 April 2009, 4:05 p.m. PT, Cleveland Indians, Progressive Park, Tim Wakefield

Red Sox Ruin Yankees, 16 to 11

NY YANKEES: 2 0 2 2 0 2 2 1 0 - 11 15 1

BOSTON: 0 0 0 5 3 1 3 4 x - 16 13 1

Yesterday pitching, today hitting. Three home runs each for the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees, including a grand slam by Red Sox starting catcher Jason Varitek. In several opportunities, Boston even did well and scored runs with the bases loaded. And no matter what happens tomorrow, the Red Sox have won the first series against the Yankees and have exceeded my expectations for this Fenway Park homestand. Wonderful!

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NY YANKEES: Starting Pitcher: A. J. Burnett, Losing Pitcher: Jonathan Albaladejo

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Josh Beckett, Winning Pitcher: Hideki Okajima (1)

NY YANKEES: Homeruns: Robinson Cano (twice), Johnny Damon

BOSTON: Homeruns: Jason Varitek (4) Grand Slam, Jacoby Ellsbury (1), Mike Lowell (4)

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RED SOX: Wins: 11, Losses: 6, AL East Standings: Toronto, Boston, New York, Baltimore, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Sunday 26 April 2009, 5:05 p.m. PT, New York Yankees, Fenway Park, Justin Masterson

Red Sox Run-off Yankees, 5 to 4

NY YANKEES: 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 - 4 13 1

BOSTON: 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 - 5 14 0

Well, as I suggested in yesterday's post, pitching did indeed turn out to be the key in this game between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees - at least for most of it. Not an overwhelming number of runs scored and the starting pitchers were fine - it was the relief pitching for the Red Sox that was shaky. I hate when Francona takes out a fairly effective starting pitcher in a close game and relies on the bullpen. I know Lester had a high pitch count, but don't strikeouts count as well? Anyway, Youk came through and hit a homerun out of Fenway Park and the Red Sox have their first walk-off win in extra innings for 2009!

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NY YANKEES: Starting Pitcher: Joba Chamberlain, Losing Pitcher: Damaso Marte

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Jon Lester, Winning Pitcher: Ramon Ramirez (2)

BOSTON: Homeruns: Jason Bay (4), Kevin Youkilis (5)

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RED SOX: Wins: 10, Losses: 6, AL East Standings: Toronto, Boston, New York, Baltimore, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Saturday 25 April 2009, 1:10 p.m. PT, New York Yankees, Fenway Park, Josh Beckett

Boston Red Sox logo is from the website mlb.com

The Yankees Are Coming!!!

Once again the Boston Red Sox prepare to do baseball battle with the New York Yankees. Tomorrow the traditional rival invades Fenway Park for the first of three times during this 2009 season (also June and August). In addition to both teams entering the three-game series with identical win-loss records (nine and six), tying them for second place in the AL East; they have also scored an identical number of runs - eighty-four. However, the Yankees have had approximately fifty-four percent more runs scored against them then have the Red Sox. The key to the series may come down to the pitching. And while Boston heads into this series with a seven-game winning streak, New York only has a three-game winning streak coming into Fenway Park. Boston has a more than two times longer winning streak than New York. No doubt there will be some controversy, incredible plays, and intense emotions during the series. All in all, the usual occurrences one comes to expect when the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees meet on the field of baseball. Win Red Sox, win!

Red Sox Topple Twins, 7 to 3

MINNESOTA: 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 - 3 6 1

BOSTON: 0 3 2 2 0 0 0 0 x - 7 5 1

The Boston Red Sox won the second game of the day-night doubleheader and thus swept the two-game series with the Minnesota Twins. Good hitting and pitching carried over from the day into the night in Fenway Park. Now Boston has won seven games in a row, including two sweeps.

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MINNESOTA: Starting Pitcher: Francisco Liriana, Losing Pitcher: Francisco Liriana

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Brad Penny, Winning Pitcher: Brad Penny(2)

MINNESOTA: Homerun: Justin Morneau

BOSTON: Homerun: Jeff Bailey (1)

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RED SOX: Wins: 9, Losses: 6, AL East Standings: Toronto, Boston, New York, Baltimore, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Friday 24 April 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, New York Yankees, Fenway Park, Jon Lester

Red Sox Trample Twins, 10 to 1

MINNESOTA: 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 - 1 5 0

BOSTON: 2 2 2 0 0 0 4 - 10 14 2

In a rain-shortened game at Fenway Park (a mercy for the Minnesota Twins), the Boston Red Sox soundly won the first game of the doubleheader. A victory obtained due to the continued good pitching and hitting power - three two-run homers - of the Red Sox. Kevin Youkilis is definitely on a hitting tear and has been named as Boston's first base representative on the All-Star ballot instead of David Ortiz.

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MINNESOTA: Starting Pitcher: Scott Baker, Losing Pitcher: Scott Baker

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Tim Wakefield, Winning Pitcher: Tim Wakefield (2)

BOSTON: Homeruns: Kevin Youkilis (4), Nick Green (1), Mike Lowell (3)

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RED SOX: Wins: 8, Losses: 6, AL East Standings: Toronto, New York, Boston, Baltimore, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Wednesday 22 April 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Minnesota Twins, Fenway Park, Brad Penny

Happy 50th Birthday Terry Jon Francona!!!

Terry Francona was a left-handed batting and throwing infielder who is now the manager of the Boston Red Sox. Terry made his Major League debut with the Montreal Expos on Wednesday 19 August 1981 when he was twenty-two years, three months and twenty-eight days old. His final Major League appearance was with the Milwaukee Brewers on Thursday 19 April 1990 when he was thirty years, eleven months, and twenty-eight days old. Terry made his Major League managerial debut with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1997 when he was thirty-seven years old. He was hired as the forty-fourth manager of the Boston Red Sox on Thursday 4 December 2003 when he was forty-four years, seven months, and twelve days old. Under Terry's management to date, the Red Sox have made the playoffs every season except in 2006. In 2004 Terry led the Red Sox to their first World Series Championship in eighty-six years. Another World Series Championship was added in 2007. Terry wears number forty-seven.

Postponed: Boston versus Minnesota

Due to rain, tonight's game between the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins in Fenway Park has been postponed. The game has been rescheduled for Wednesday 22 April 2009 and will be the first game of a doubleheader. The second game of the doubleheader is the originally scheduled game for 22 April 2009.

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RED SOX: Wins: 7, Losses: 6 AL East Standings: Toronto, New York, Boston, Baltimore, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Wednesday 22 April 2009, 9:35 a.m. PT, Minnesota Twins, Fenway Park, Tim Wakefield

Red Sox Outplay Orioles, 12 to 1

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

BOSTON: 2 1 0 0 0 3 6 0 x - 12 15 2

It was a glorious Patriots Day for the Boston Red Sox as they concluded their four-game series against the Baltimore Orioles with a win, thus recording their first series sweep of 2009 in Fenway Park. The Red Sox continued to show their strength with the bat by the extra-base hits contributed from the top of the lineup - Jacoby Ellsbury, Dustin Pedroia and David Ortiz. It's good to see them set the pace. But the real impressive feat of the day was the pitching of Justin Masterson (in the rotation while Daisuke Matzusaka is on the disabled list) while allowing only one run. Batting and pitching - unbeatable combination. The Red Sox have now won five in a row.

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BALTIMORE: Starting Pitcher: Mark Hendrickson, Losing Pitcher: Mark Hendrickson

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Justin Masterson, Wining Pitcher: Justin Masterson

BOSTON: Homerun: Jason Varitek (3)

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RED SOX: Wins: 7, Losses: 6 AL East Standings: Toronto, Boston, New York, Baltimore, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Tuesday 21 April 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Minnesota Twins, Fenway Park, Tim Wakefield

Red Sox Over Orioles, 2 to 1

BALTIMORE: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 - 1 6 0

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

It was a pleasure to watch the first Sunday morning Boston Red Sox game of the season in my favorite New England sports living bar and at my usual table. Although he was a little late, Andrew arrived to open the bar in time so that the first pitch of the game was seen. And pitching was definitely the theme of the game against the Baltimore Orioles. Both Red Sox pitcher Jon Lester and Orioles pitcher Koji Uehara were effective in their outings, but it was Lester who received more offensive help (even if it wasn't as powerful as in yesterday's game). With the victory today, Boston has won its first home series in Fenway Park of 2009 and will go for the sweep against Baltimore tomorrow.

On another pitching front... The ruling from Josh Beckett's appeal of his six-game suspension has reduced the number of suspended games to five games. Although he wanted the suspension eliminated, Josh agreed to forgo further appeals for the good of the team. Fortunately, the suspension will not have major consequences for Boston. The suspension began today. Basically, Josh will switch starts with Jon Lester - Lester will pitch on Friday (the 24th) and Beckett will pitch on Saturday (the 25th). I do think that, since the umpires at the Angels game had determined that no punishment was required for Josh Beckett, the MLB should have let the matter rest.

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BALTIMORE: Starting Pitcher: Koji Uehara, Losing Pitcher: Koji Uehara

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

BOSTON: Save: Takashi Saito (1)

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RED SOX: Wins: 6, Losses: 6 AL East Standings: Toronto, New York, Baltimore, Boston, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Monday 20 April 2009, 8:05 a.m. PT, Baltimore Orioles, Fenway Park, Justin Masterson

Red Sox Outlast Orioles, 6 to 4

BALTIMORE: 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 - 4 8 1

BOSTON: 0 1 4 1 0 0 0 0 x - 6 12 1

With the win today, the Boston Red Sox have won three games in a row and two games in this series with the Baltimore Orioles. The Boston power has come alive in Fenway Park, with Kevin Youkilis a triple shy of the cycle. Josh Beckett pitched today and will remain in the rotation during the appeal of his six game suspension for the high throw at Bobby Abreu incident on 12 April at the Los Angeles Angels.

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BALTIMORE: Starting Pitcher: Adam Eaton, Losing Pitcher: Adam Eaton

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Josh Beckett, Winning Pitcher: Josh Beckett (2)

BOSTON: Save: Jonathan Papelbon (4)

BOSTON: Homerun: Kevin Youkilis (3)

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RED SOX: Wins: 5, Losses: 6 AL East Standing: Toronto, Baltimore, New York, Boston, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Sunday 19 April 2009, 10:35 a.m. PT, Baltimore Orioles, Fenway Park, Jon Lester

Red Sox Overhaul Orioles, 10 to 8

BALTIMORE: 0 7 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 - 8 11 1

BOSTON: 0 4 1 0 3 2 0 0 x - 10 12 0

Fenway Park was very friendly to both the Boston Red Sox and the Baltimore Orioles, but the ball park turned out to be friendlier to the home team. Although the Orioles ' Nick Marakakis (a New England native) had a grand slam, Red Sox players Jason Bay and J. D. Drew also enjoyed homeruns today. More importantly, Boston had its first double-digit run producing game of the season. After going two and four on the recent road trip, it was great to have Boston start this nine-game homestand with a victory.

However, in the seventh inning they managed to have the bases-loaded, no one out, and end up scoring exactly zero runs. That has always been the frustrating aspect of the Red Sox for me - to have the power and skill to get players on base and then leave them stranded. And though all the runs Boston needed to win the game had already been produced by the seventh inning, there was always the possibility that Baltimore could have come back in the late innings. The Red Sox need a way to stop stranding men on base.

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

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Brad Penny, Winning Pitcher: Ramon Ramirez (1)

BOSTON: Save: Jonathan Papelbon (3)

BALTIMORE: Homerun: Nick Markakis (Grand Slam)

BOSTON: Homeruns: Jason Bay (3), J. D. Drew (3)

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RED SOX: Wins: 4, Losses: 6, AL East Standings: Toronto, Baltimore, New York, Tampa Bay, Boston

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Next game: Saturday 18 April 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Baltimore Orioles, Fenway Park, Josh Beckett

Happy 25th Birthday Jed Carlson Lowrie!!!

Jed Lowrie is a switch-hitting and right-handed throwing shortstop. He is the starting shortstop for the Boston Red Sox, but is currently on the 15-day disabled list due to a sprained left wrist. The wrist will not require surgery and Jed should be back on the active roster by mid-May - perhaps by the time of the homestand series with the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Mets. Jed made his Major League debut with the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday 15 April 2008 when he was twenty-three years, eleven months, and twenty-nine days old. The Red Sox played the Cleveland Indians in Cleveland that day and Jed started at third base and had a single in the seventh inning for his first career hit. In 2008 he was errorless in one hundred fifty-five chances in forty-nine games, which set a major league record for rookie shortstops. Jed wears number twelve.

Red Sox Recap, 7 to 15 April

Between Tuesday 7 April 2009 and Wednesday 15 April 2009, the Boston Red Sox played nine games - three at Fenway Park against the Tampa Bay Rays and six on the road - three against the Los Angeles Angels and three against the Oakland Athletics. Here are the breakdowns over this time period.

Totals Each Series

Red Sox: 10 runs, 24 hits, 1 error

Rays: 14 runs, 26 hits, 2 errors

One win, two losses (won the first game)

Analysis: Red Sox had 42% of the total runs, 48% of the total hits, 33% of the total errors

Red Sox: 12 runs, 24 hits, 0 errors

Angels: 15 runs, 28 hits, 4 errors

One win, two losses (won the second game)

Analysis: Red Sox had 44% of the total runs, 46% of the total hits, 0% of the total errors

Red Sox: 15 runs, 28 hits, 2 errors

Athletics: 16 runs, 27 hits, 2 errors

One win, two losses (won the third game)

Analysis: Red Sox had 48% of the total runs, 51% of the total hits, 50% of the total errors

Combined Series Totals

Red Sox: 37 runs, 76 hits, 3 errors

Opponents: 45 runs, 81 hits, 8 errors

Three wins, six losses

Analysis: Red Sox had 45% of the total runs, 48% of the total hits, 27% of the total errors

AL East Standings (at the start of Thursday 16 April 2009)

Toronto 7 3 .700

Baltimore 6 3 .667

New York 5 4 .556

Tampa Bay 4 5 .444

Boston 3 6 .333

Red Sox Runover Athletics, 8 to 2

BOSTON: 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 - 8 10 1

OAKLAND: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 - 2 4 0

The Boston Red Sox got it together today! They stopped their second three-game losing streak, established their highest run production of the season, and had a complete game outing from pitcher Tim Wakefield. In fact, Wakefield had a perfect game into the sixth inning and he continued the no-hitter into the eighth inning. This was a much needed win against the Oakland Athletics as the Boston bullpen had been extensively used in last night's loss at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. And the usual batting breadth of the Red Sox was displayed as everyone in the lineup, except Dustin Pedroia, had a hit. Dustin will come around with the hitting, as will Jacoby Ellsbury and David Ortiz.

Boston ends their first road trip by winning two games out of six games - not quite the four games out of six games I had hoped for at the beginning of the trip. No matter, the Red Sox head home in good spirits and good form to take on the Baltimore Orioles Friday night. That game will be the beginning of a nine-game homestand in which they will also play the Minnesota Twins and Boston's traditional AL East rival, the New York Yankees. An excellent homestand would be winning six or seven games out of nine games. Boston will probably win five games out of nine games.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Tim Wakefield, Winning Pitcher: Tim Wakefield (1)

OAKLAND: Starting Pitcher: Brett Anderson, Losing Pitcher: Brett Anderson

BOSTON: Homeruns: Mike Lowell (2), J.D. Drew (2)

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RED SOX: Wins: 3, Losses: 6, AL East Standings: Toronto, Baltimore, New York, Tampa Bay, Boston

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Next game: Friday 17 April 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Baltimore Orioles, Fenway Park, Brad Penny

Athletics Rip Red Sox

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

OAKLAND: 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 - 6 11 2

This is the first extra-inning game of the season for the Boston Red Sox. In the regulation nine innings in Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, they scored five runs. That equals their highest run production this season (the five to four win over the Angels on 11 April 2009). And this game saw the earliest knock-out of a Red Sox pitcher in 2009. It was only one inning for Daisuke Matsuzaka. Where is Boston's pitching?? Tenth inning - Boston with the bases loaded, David Ortiz at bat and..... THEY DID NOT SCORE! Ugh!! Twelfth inning - Oakland Athletics with the bases loaded on Javier Lopez's three straight walks, Travis Buck at bat, an infield single and....ATHLETICS SCORE THE WINNING RUN! Ugh!! When will Boston get it together?

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Daisuke Matsuzaka, Losing Pitcher: Javier Lopez (1)

OAKLAND: Starting Pitcher: Dana Eveland, Winning Pitcher: Sean Gallagher

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RED SOX: Wins: 2, Losses: 6, AL East Standings: Baltimore, Toronto, New York, Tampa Bay, Boston

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Next game: Wednesday 15 April 2009, 12:35 p.m. PT, Oakland Athletics, Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, Tim Wakefield

Oakland Outplays Boston

BOSTON: 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 - 2 6 0

OAKLAND: 0 5 0 0 1 0 1 1 x - 8 12 0

Northern California is not starting out to be an improvement from Southern California for the Boston Red Sox. They played the first game of a three-game series against the Oakland Athletics tonight. And the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum was not welcoming to the Red Sox. Boston is having its worst start in over a decade. Both pitching and hitting have to come together on the same track for the Red Sox. When that happens, Boston will truly be contending for the postseason (or winning some games in a row, at least).

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Jon Lester, Losing Pitcher: Jon Lester (2)
OAKLAND: Starting Pitcher: Dallas Braden, Winning Pitcher: Dallas Braden

BOSTON: Homerun: Kevin Youkilis (2)

OAKLAND: Homeruns: Jack Cust, Normar Garciaparra

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RED SOX: Wins: 2, Losses: 5 AL East Standings: Toronto, Baltimore, Tampa Bay, New York, Boston

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Next game: Tuesday 14 April 2009, 7:05 p.m. PT, Oakland Athletics, Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, Daisuke Matsuzaka

Angels Retake Red Sox

BOSTON: 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 - 4 9 0

LA ANGELS: 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 x - 5 10 2

Confrontation was the theme of the day in Angel Stadium as the Boston Red Sox and the Los Angeles Angels met in the rubber match of their first three-game series. In the first inning when Red Sox starting pitcher Josh Beckett threw high at Bobby Abreu, after the batter had been granted a timeout, Abreu objected. Members of both teams ran out to the home plate area to take part in the first "meeting of the minds" this season. Amazingly there were no flying fists, but four members of the Angels were ejected from the game - Manager Mike Scioscia, Coach Mickey Hatcher, Outfielder Torii Hunter, and Reliever Justin Speier. The Red Sox were kept intact.

However, keeping Boston whole did not result in the victory that truly counts - scoring more runs than Los Angeles. Not sure why Manager Terry Francona had Nick Green (who already had two singles) attempt a bunt (he struck out) in a potential run scoring situation late in the game. The Red Sox do not bunt well. And why did J.D. Drew swing (he popped out) on the first pitch from Scot Shields who was throwing numerous balls? Taking and walking works. Now Boston travels up the California coast to face the Oakland Athletics (who have the identical record, two and four) in a three-game series. Perhaps Northern California will be a more successful area for Boston than Southern California was.

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

LA ANGELS: Starting Pitcher: Dustin Moseley, Winning Pitcher: Dustin Moseley

LA ANGELS: Save: Brian Fuentes

BOSTON: Homeruns: Kevin Youkilis (1), J.D. Drew (1)

LA ANGELS: Homerun: Vladimir Guerrero

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RED SOX: Wins: 2, Losses: 4 AL East Standings: Toronto, Baltimore, New York, Tampa Bay, Boston

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Next game: Monday 13 April 2009, 7:05 p.m. PT, Oakland Athletics, Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, Jon Lester

Red Sox Ram Angels, 5 to 4

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

LA ANGELS: 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 - 4 8 0

This was a day of celebration - Captain Jason Varitek's thirty-seventh birthday and the Boston Red Sox ending their three-game losing streak. Homer (Mike Lowell), homer (Jason Bay), homer (Jason Bay)! Yes, it was three homeruns that were responsible for all the Red Sox runs scored in this second game of a three-game series with the Los Angeles Angels. Today Angel Stadium was a great ballpark for long ball hitters on both teams. Let's hope that this is the beginning of a long winning streak for Boston.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Brad Penny, Winning Pitcher: Brad Penny (1)

LA ANGELS: Starting Pitcher: Joe Saunders, Losing Pitcher: Joe Saunders

BOSTON: Save: Jonathan Papelbon (2)

BOSTON: Homeruns: Jason Bay (2), Mike Lowell (1)

LA ANGELS: Homeruns: Torii Hunter, Mike Napoli

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RED SOX: Wins: 2, Losses: 3 AL East Standings: Toronto, Baltimore, New York, Boston, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Sunday 12 April 2009, 12:35 p.m. PT, Los Angeles Angels, Angel Stadium, Josh Beckett

Happy 37th Birthday Jason Andrew Varitek!!

Jason Varitek is a switch-hitting and right-handed throwing catcher. He is the starting catcher for the Boston Red Sox and is the team Captain. Jason made his Major League debut with the Boston Red Sox on Wednesday 24 September 1997 when he was twenty-five years, five months, and thirteen days old. The Red Sox played the Detroit Tigers in Detroit that day and Jason had a pinch-hit single in the ninth inning. Jason has been honored by being named or winning the following: Boston Red Sox Rookie of the Year 1998, American League Player of the Week 14-20 May 2001, Boston Red Sox Most Valuable Player 2003, All-Star Team 2003 and 2005, Gold Glove 2005, Silver Slugger 2005, and World Baseball Classic 2006. He has World Series rings for the 2004 and 2007 Boston Red Sox Championships. Jason wears number thirty-three.

Angels Attack Red Sox

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

LA ANGELS: 0 3 0 0 0 0 3 0 x - 6 10 2

First inning: Red Sox: Jacoby Ellsbury strikes out, Dustin Pedroia flies out, David Ortiz lines out

Angels: Chone Figgins strikes out, Howie Kenrick out at first, Bobby Abreu walks, steals second, Vladimir Guerrero walks, Torii Hunter hit by a pitch, (bases loaded), Kendry Morales pops out

Second inning: Red Sox: Kevin Youkilis single, J.D. Drew strikes out, Jason Bay walks, Mike Lowell lines out, Jed Lowrie flies out

Angels: Gary Matthews, Jr. walks, moves to second, out at third, Jeff Mathis single, moves to second, scores, Maicer Izturis single, scores, Figgins double, scores, Kenrick single, steals second, moves to third, Abreu single, Guerrero hits into an inning ending double play

Third inning: Red Sox: George Kottaras strikes out, Ellsbury single, steals second, onto third on error, scores, Pedroia walks, steals second, Ortiz flies out, Youkilis flies out

Angels: Hunter out at first, Morales strikes out, Matthews strikes out

Fourth inning: Red Sox: Drew out at first, Bay strikes out, Lowell strikes out

Angels: Mathis pops out, Izturis pops out, Figgins walks, steals second, Kenrick strikes out

Fifth inning: Red Sox: Lowrie flies out, Kottaras single, Ellsbury hits into an inning ending double play

Angels: Abreu single, moves to second, moves to third, Guerrero single, moves to second, Hunter walks, (bases loaded), Morales flies out, Matthews pops out, Mathis flies out

Sixth inning: Red Sox: Pedroia lines out, Ortiz strikes out, Youkilis strikes out

Angels: Izturis out at first, Figgins out at first, Kenrick out at first

Seventh inning: Red Sox: Drew strikes out, Bay out at first, Lowell single, Lowrie strikes out

Angels: Abreu single, steals second, moves to third, scores, Guerrero single, moves to third, scores, Hunter flies out, Morales double, scores, Matthews intentional walk, moves to second, moves to third, Mathis single, moves to second, Izturis out at first, Figgins flies out

Eighth inning: Red Sox: Kottaras flies out, Ellsbury single, moves to third, scores, Pedroia double, scores, Ortiz strikes out, Youkilis single onto second on the error, Drew flies out

Angels: Kendrick strikes out, Abreu out at first, Guerrero flies out

Ninth inning: Red Sox: Bay walks, Lowell hits into a double play, Lowrie flies out

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RED SOX: Starting Pitcher: Tim Wakefield, Losing Pitcher: Tim Wakefield (1)

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

LA ANGELS: Save: Scott Shields

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RED SOX: Wins: 1, Losses: 3 AL East Standings: Toronto, Baltimore, New York, Tampa Bay, Boston

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Next game: Saturday 11 April 2009, 1:10 p.m., Los Angeles Angels, Angel Stadium, Brad Penny

Rays Rack Red Sox

TAMPA BAY: 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 - 4 10 2

BOSTON: 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 - 3 7 0

The Tampa Bay Rays have won the first series of games with the Boston Red Sox, two games to one game. It was the long ball that gave Tampa Bay all their runs in today's rubber match win at Fenway Park. Boston made a valiant effort in their comeback - even producing a homerun of their own, but, in the ninth inning, fell one run short of tying up the game. The short home stand is over and Boston travels to California to play two series - one with the Angels and one with the Athletics. Let's hope that the road is friendlier to the Red Sox than Fenway was in the past few days. Looking for winning four out of six games on this upcoming trip.

A Sad Note: The Los Angeles Angels are mourning the tragic death of their rookie pitcher Nick Adenhart in a hit-and-run car crash early this morning. He had started Wednesday night's game for the Angels and had pitched six scoreless innings. All of baseball shares in the grief of this sudden ending of the twenty-two year-old player's life.

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TAMPA BAY: Starting Pitcher: Matt Garza, Winning Pitcher, Matt Garza

BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Daisuke Matsuzaka, Losing Pitcher: Daisuke Matsuzaka (1)

TAMPA BAY: Save: Troy Percival

TAMPA BAY: Homeruns: Matt Joyce, Evan Longoria, Shawn Riggans

BOSTON: Homerun: Jason Varitek (2)

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RED SOX: Wins: 1, Losses: 2 AL East Standings: Toronto, Baltimore, Tampa Bay, Boston, New York

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Next game: Friday 10 April 2009, 7:05 p.m. PT, Los Angeles Angels, Angel Stadium, Tim Wakefield

Tampa Bay Tags Boston

TAMPA BAY: 0 0 1 0 4 0 0 1 1 - 7 13 0

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

If there was a villain in today's game, it was not one of the Tampa Bay Rays. It was Bob Davidson, home plate umpire. Now I may not have officiated a ball game, but even I know when the ball crosses the strike zone and when it doesn't. And the ball didn't cross the zone a number of times this game, though Davidson called them strikes (and primarily against the Boston Red Sox). Bob Davidson took away legitimate chances for the team to stage a come back. This game and Davidson) needs to be reviewed.

On a positive note, it was the Red Sox debut of New England outfielder Rocco Baldelli. He made a Web Gem of a catch in the fourth inning in Fenway Park's right field. The rubber match of this opening series is tomorrow and Boston needs to come out swinging and have more effective pitching. The Red Sox have to be hungry for the win and do whatever they can for a good outcome. Perhaps they can take a cue from the Rays, who executed a "suicide safety squeeze?" play in today's game.

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TAMPA BAY: Starting Pitcher: Scott Kazmir, Winning Pitcher: Scott Kazmir

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

TAMPA BAY: Save: Grant Balfour

TAMPA BAy: Homeruns: Carlos Pena, Evan Longoria

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RED SOX: Wins: 1, Losses: 1 AL East Standings: Baltimore, Toronto, Boston, Tampa Bay, New York

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Next game: Thursday 9 April 2009, 10:35 a.m. PT, Tampa Bay Rays, Fenway Park, Daisuke Matsuzaka

Red Sox Repel Rays, 5 to 3

TAMPA BAY: 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 - 3 3 0

BOSTON: 1 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 x - 5 9 0

Opening Day for the Boston Red Sox was sweet - as in sweet revenge - and today they have more than met their daily minimum "sugar" requirement. They were triumphant over the Tampa Bay Rays in the first game of their three game season opening series. October fades. Boston's tradition of being a power team was re-enforced by two solo homers by Dustin Pedroia and Jason Varitek - an excellent beginning for both of them, as well as for starting pitcher Josh Beckett. I happily experienced this Fenway Park Opening Day win in a bar in Southern California and was joined at the table by three recent arrivals to the state - Annie, Dave, Sean. Just one hundred sixty-one more games.

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TAMPA BAY: Starting Pitcher: James Shields, Losing Pitcher: James Shields

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

BOSTON: Save: Jonathan Papelbon (1)

BOSTON: Homeruns: Dustin Pedroia (1), Jason Varitek (1)

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RED SOX: Wins: 1, Losses: 0 AL East Standings: Toronto, Baltimore, Boston, New York, Tampa Bay

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Next game: Wednesday 8 April 2009, 4:10 p.m. PT, Tampa Bay Rays, Fenway Park, Jon Lester

Opening Day Postponed

Due to the forecast of heavy rain, the Boston Red Sox home season opener against the Tampa Bay Rays has been postponed until Tuesday 7 April 2009 at 1:05 p.m. PT. Although I'm disappointed that I have to wait one more day for the season to begin, I'm glad the Red Sox organization made the announcement early in order to minimize the inconvenience for fans fortunate enough to have tickets for the game. So tomorrow the Boston Red Sox will begin their quest for more baseball glory and I will be gladly following their journey this 2009 season.

Joy Returns Tomorrow!

Joy last existed in a crowded, stand-anywhere-you-can-find-a-space New England sports living bar in Southern California. For several hours that warm October night, people happily embraced friends, eagerly consumed golden liquids, and voluntarily stared at illuminated screens on walls throughout the bar. All of this to support the Boston Red Sox in their quest to once again become American League Champions and have a chance at the World Series for a second year in a row. However, Joy left (an out here) and returned (a hit there) throughout the seventh game and only completely vanished into the night at the end of the ninth inning. The second chance was lost. People sadly consoled friends, slowly consumed liquids, and completely ignored the screens on the walls. The warm October night had unexpectedly turned cold.

Joy was deeply missed over the winter months. Then February arrived and with it Spring Training. The Boston Red Sox ended the preseason winning more games than they lost and a bit of Joy began to appear. And now it is April and a new season begins tomorrow - Opening Day. Boston starts the regular season at home in Fenway Park. And as twisted fate (or baseball scheduling) would have it, the Red Sox start the 2009 season by playing the Tampa Bay Rays - the last team they played in October. On Opening Day people will once again support the Boston Red Sox with Joy. And I will be at that New England sports living bar in Southern California and although it may not be as crowded (no ring ceremony this year); there will be embracing of friends, consumption of golden liquids, and staring at illuminated screens. Yes, Joy returns tomorrow! The cold October night becomes a warm April day.

Image is from the website boston.redsox.mlb.com

Red Sox Maul Mets, 9 to 3

BOSTON: 6 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 - 9 10 1

NEW YORK METS: 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 - 3 6 1

All the runs the Boston Red Sox would need to claim victory over the New York Mets came in the first inning, capped off by a Jed Lowrie grand slam which chased the Mets starting pitcher, Oliver Perez, from the game. That was the first homerun in Citi Field, but the question remains if it will officially have that honor, as this was a preseason game. In any case, Boston ends Spring Training on a positive note and a winning preseason. The Red Sox begin the regular season at home on Monday and, as usual, look good to be a strong contender for postseason play. Opening Day arrives!

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Daisuke Matsuzaka, Winning Pitcher: Daisuke Matsuzaka

NEW YORK METS: Starting Pitcher: Oliver Perez, Losing Pitcher: Oliver Perez

BOSTON: Homeruns: Jed Lowrie (grand slam), Jason Varitek

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RED SOX: Spring Training Wins: 22, Spring Training Losses: 15

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Next game: Monday 6 April 2009, 11:05 a.m., Tampa Bay Rays, Fenway Park

Mets Repress Red Sox

BOSTON: 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 - 3 8 0

NEW YORK METS: 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 x - 4 7 1

Spring Training for the Boston Red Sox changed location from Florida to New York. Today they played the New York Mets in the new NY ballpark, Citi Field. There was an hour long rain delay at the end of the fifth inning with the Mets leading. After the game resumed, New York managed to hang to the lead inspite of a Red Sox surge. The Mets celebrated the first game in Citi Field with a win. Tomorrow Boston will have a chance to even the score.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Jon Lester, Losing Pitcher: Manny Delcarmen

NEW YORK METS: Starting Pitcher: Livan Hernandez, Winning Pitcher: Bobby Parnell

NEW YORK METS: Save: Francisco Rodriguez

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RED SOX: Spring Training Wins: 21, Spring Training Losses: 15

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Next game: Saturday 4 April 2009, 10:10 a.m., New York Mets, Citi Field

Minnesota Mashes Boston

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

MINNESOTA: 1 0 0 2 0 2 2 0 x - 7 12 1

The Boston Red Sox ended their Florida portion of Spring Training with a disappointing loss to the Minnesota Twins. They did have the consolation of having won the Mayor's Cup on Saturday 28 March 2009, thus winning the preseason series with the Twins by three games to two games. In Hammond Stadium in South Fort Myers, the only highlight for Boston was the two-run homerun by Jason Bay in the top of the fourth inning. The team heads North today to New York for the final two Spring Training games against the New York Mets. A few players will be staying behnd (Tim Wakefield, George Kottaras, et.al.) to continue training before heading to Boston for the start of the regular season. Farewell Florida!

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Brad Penny, Losing Pitcher: Felix Doubrant

MINNESOTA: Starting Pitcher: Francisco Liriano, Winning Pitcher: Luis Ayala

BOSTON: Homerun: Jason Bay

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RED SOX: Spring Training Wins: 21, Spring Training Losses: 14

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Next game: Friday 3 April 2009, 3:10 p.m., New York Mets, Citi Field

Boston Blasts Pittsburgh, 4 to 3

BOSTON: 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 1 - 4 9 1

PITTSBURGH: 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 - 3 8 0

It was the long ball that brought success to the Boston Red Sox in its game with the Pittsburgh Pirates in Bradenton. Chris Ambres provided all the runs (a three-run homer in the fourth and a solo homer in the ninth) the Red Sox would need in their win at McKechnie Field. The Red Sox are back on a wining streak with two victories in a row.

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BOSTON: Starting Pitcher: Josh Beckett, Winning Pitcher: Jonathan Papelbon

PITTSBURGH: Starting Pitcher: Paul Maholm, Losing Pitcher: Daniel Haigwood

BOSTON: Save: C. George

BOSTON: Homeruns: Chris Ambres: 2

PITTSBURGH: Homerun: Nate McLouth

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RED SOX: Spring Training Wins: 21, Spring Training Losses: 13

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Next Game: Thursday 2 April 2009, 10:05 a.m., Minnesota Twins, Lee County