Who Needs Manny When We Have Pedroia
Boston’s 6-5 comeback victory over Texas was their most impressive victory of the year. Playing without Varitek, Pedroia, Lowell (injured) and Ramirez (thrown out arguing a first inning strike) the Red Sox entered the 7th down 5-0 before scoring two runs in their half of the inning.
After the Rangers got the first two outs in the bottom of the 8th the game seemed all but lost for the Red Sox. Ellsbury then singled and Lowrie doubled him in. Texas brought in C.J. Wilson, who hadn’t been scored upon this season, to stop the rally. Five batters later Wilson was lifted having not recorded a single out while allowing the Red Sox to take the lead 6-5. It was Wilson’s first blown save of the season. The key blow was Pedroia’s pinch hit double (hitting in Manny’s usual 4 spot). Papelbon finished it off with a 1-2-3 top of the ninth.
Much credit should be given to Tim Wakefield. Though giving up 5 runs he pitched 8 complete innings keeping Boston within reach while giving the bullpen, other than Papelbon (only seven pitches), the day off.
The offense keeps clicking. Ellsbury seems to be hitting his stride and his speed seems to come into play almost daily. Jed Lowrie suddenly seems like a possible replacement if Lugo falters, and the Mayor looks like the steal of the summer. Ortiz seems to be coming out of his slump, and Lowell should be back in a week. The future looks bright.
The Red Sox now go for the sweep in the annual Patriots Day game. It’ll be interesting to see how Buchholz responds after his rough outing against the Yankees.
