They didn't exactly solve A.J. Burnett, he still threw a complete game and struck out 8, but they did find a way to scratch across 2 runs, and it turns out that's
all they'd need.
The Carl Pavano push for a contract received a huge booth. Not only did he make his second consecutive injury-free start, but he pitched very well: 6 IP, 3 H, 1 BB, 1K, 1 ER, 72 pitches. He did get some luck, a handful of balls were scorched to the outfield, but caught. Still, Carl is 2-0 and looked strong and efficient. Someone will sign him when the season ends.
Girardi managed his pen like it was the 7th game of the World Series, which I guess it is to him. Mo came in with one out in the eighth, for the second consecutive day he worked more than an inning. Bruney, Marte, Veras and Edwar were also used. Kind of makes you wonder who's going to be available tomorrow when the Ras takes the hill.
The Sox (rojo) beat the Sox (blanco), Minnesota plays later in Oakland. Still 6 games behind, 29 to go.
Player of The Game: Abreu, drove in the first, scored the second.
Team Record: 72-62
Damon: Nada
Brian - Who would of thought Pavano would be lights-out....?
Beckett's injury is worth noting. The Rojo Sox could slide right out of the wild card race. We need to keep an eye on the Twins...
The Twins are in the middle of a monster road trip, which is a good thing. They're playing a bunch of horrible teams, though, which is a bad thing. From the get go, I thought they'd win the Central just because they aren't playing anyone the rest of the way. It looks like they're sinking on the road, though (they won last night).
The Sox have been just as ravaged by injuries as the Yanks have, if not more so. Plus the whole Manny thing. Francona has done a really good job of holding that team together, and adapting to a depleted lineup. Too bad Girardi hasn't been able to do the same in NY.