As Jon Lester’s frustrations lifted,striking out nine Orioles over seven innings pitched to earn his first victory of the season, Dustin Pedroia and David Ortiz’ frustrations continue to mount.
Despite knocking in the second run of the ball game on an RBI single to center field, Pedroia scorched a line out to Brian Roberts in the third inning and grounded into a double play in the bottom of the eighth which almost resulted in a helmet toss in Boston’s dugout.
Ortiz went 0 for 4 with two strikeouts.
Terry Francona opted against pitching Jonathan Papelbon for the third straight day instead putting in Takashi Saito in the ninth. Saito recorded his first American League save of his career allowing one run on two hits.
Boston now pushes their winning streak to four games.
Star of the Game – Lester
Lester threw 108 pitches, 67 for strikes, lowering his ERA to 5.50 with his seven scoreless innings. Lester was effective with all of his pitches especially against Nick Markakis striking him out looking twice.
Next Game – Mon. 4/20 vs. Baltimore Orioles – Mark Hendrickson/Justin Masterson
Masterson makes his first start of the season during Marathon Monday. Masterson’s last appearance was against Oakland on April 14 in a 6-5 loss. He pitched four scoreless innings out of the pen on two hits, no walks and six strikeouts.
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