4.8.08 – Tigers v. Sox

Sox win 5-0 behind an impressive performance from Dice-K.

108 pitches from Dice-K in 6 2/3 innings. 4 hits, 4 walks and 7 Ks. Clearly a very good outing against an allegedly fearsome offense that has only been able to score a total of 15 runs in their first 7 games. Not that fearsome.

Anyway, Dice-K looked very good. He mixed up his pitches well and seemed to have the Tigers baffled. He didn’t leave many balls over the plate and was very confident. If this continues, Dice-K is going to have a very good year.

In terms of offense, Youk and Pedroia keep getting on base, Manny smashed a triple that was fun to watch – this time he didn’t admire his blast but busted around first and chugged to third. He was lucky that Polanco made an errant throw (I think this was Polanco’s first error since 2006) or he likely would have been out at third.

The opening ceremonies were the usual fare. The “surprise” guest for the first pitch was Bill Buckner, who was very emotional walking in from the Green Monster and while on the mound. He made one of the best first pitches I’ve seen and one of my All-Time favorite players, Dwight Evans, caught the pitch. I thought Buckner had been back before, but clearly not in this manner. I hope it makes up for all the grief he caught for his game 6 error. There were others who should have caught more of the blame for that meltdown.

Today’s game is Bonderman v. Lester.

Interesting Fact of the Day

Edgar Renteria has 1,940 hits in his 12 year career. I was surprised to find this out. He is 32 years old and has never had a 200 hit season, so it looks like he may not have a shot at 3,000 hits. His one year in Boston was not good to him, but I’ve always thought that he seemed like a very nice guy and solid ball player.

Minors Update

AAA Pawtucket

Chris Smith went 4 innings last night for the Pawsox. He allowed 2 hits, issued 1 walk and struck out 7 in his 75 pitch stint.

AA Portland

Justin Masterson’s second start of the season went very well – 5 IP, 2H, 0BB, 7 Ks. Dominant. He may be on his way to Pawtucket pretty soon.