Sox take Game 1 at the Trop behind an impressive performance from Dice-K and some timely pitching and hitting.
Dice-K escaped an early first inning jam and then cruised into the eighth inning. I was not sure of the logic for letting him start the inning. Regardless two hits later, led to the crucial situation of the game. Okajima was summoned to to face Carlos Pena with two on and none out. Nursing a slim two run lead, Okajima went to 3-0 on Pena. The Baseball Gods were aligned for the Sox because Pena swung on 3-0 and subsequently hit a sinking line drive that was snagged by JD Drew. Thank you Joe Maddon!!!
Justin Masterson relieved Okajima and induced an inning ending 6-4-3 double play. Papelbon becomes the all time playoff leader in innings pitched without allowing an earned run by closing it out in the ninth.
Simply a huge win for the Sox. The Rays must win game two or face a 2-0 deficeit heading into Lester's start at Fenway. Beckett versus Kazmir. Let's go Josh!!
BTW -- I'm pretty sure Balfour hit JD on purpose to load the bases. Bush League. Sager jacket and tie ensemble was a deplorable 8.5 out of 10.
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3 comments:
This is a huge win for the Sox. This is the best possible start to the series they could, and I, have hoped for. Only three games to win and onto defending the crown! Its not gonna be an easy road but with this win its one step closer.
Caleb ... we are in total agreement. Looks like at least a 2-1 advantage heading into the Wakefied game. Is today a must win for the Rays with Lester waiting in the wings?
I think from this point forward every game for the Rays is a must win. If they can't get the job done at Tropicana its not going to get any easier at Fenway for the Rays epically with Lester on Monday.
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