The scenario was reminiscent of Curt Schilling’s performance against the Oakland Athletics two years ago on June 7. Boston was in a funk. Oakland had a chance at sweeping the Red Sox at home for the first time in a four game set since May 19-21, 1932 when they played in Philadelphia. Schilling was called upon to halt the losing streak.
Schilling was one out away from pitching a no-hitter until Shannon Stewart lined a single to right field. But most importantly, the Red Sox won, 1-0, stopping their three game losing skid.
Much like Schilling, Tim Wakefield needed to lift his ball club to a win. Boston had dropped three straight games coming into his start (one to the Angels, two to the Athletics). Wakefield didn’t disappoint.
Boston’s savvy knuckleballer flirted with a no-no into the bottom of the eighth inning until Kurt Suzuki smoked a single into left field with one out in the frame.
Wakefield saved the bullpen some trouble after last night’s 12 inning loss going the distance for his first complete game and win of the season. He allowed four hits, two runs, two walks and struck out four.
Mike Lowell and J.D. Drew both hit their second home runs of the season for the Red Sox in the win.
Star of the Game – Wakefield
It is pretty obvious that Boston needed this kind of performance today to stop the flood gates from overflowing.
Next Game – Fri. 4/17 vs. Baltimore
Boston returns home Friday for a four game series against the Baltimore Orioles.
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