No No-Hitter for Lester, A’s Sweep Sox

Jon Lester’s performance was a far cry from his previous outing (a no-hitter), as he allowed four runs (three earned) on seven hits and two walks in five innings of work. The Sox bats were quiet for the most part again thanks to a quality start from A’s pitcher Joe Blanton, who allowed three runs on five hits in six innings. Jack Cust’s HR in the seventh inning off Javier Lopez killed the Sox’s chances in a 6-3 A’s victory.

Sox Stud of the Game:

David Ortiz did hit a go-ahead HR in the first inning, but the nod should goto Manny Ramirez, who has been my Dud the last few games. Manny busted out of a recent slump to go 3-4 with a two-run single in the fifth inning to bring the Sox within one run.

Diamond Dud of the Game:

Julio Lugo did go 1-2, but he had another lousy error (his 12th) on a throw to first. The Sox defense overall was shotty with three errors (Jon Lester, Manny Ramirez the others). Defense wins championships! (Yes it applies in baseball too).

Road Cooking:

The Red Sox need to hire a different chef or something, because whatever they’re eating on the road isn’t working. They need to do something different when they hit the road. They’re just a completely different team. How do they win seven games in a row then get swept by a decent team?

Game Notes:

• Former Sox closer Keith Foulke had one shutout inning and pitched well…
• …As did former Sox lefty Alan Embree who struck out the only man he faced.

Tags: David Ortiz, Javier Lopez, Joe Blanton, Jon Lester, Julio Lugo, Manny Ramirez, Oakland Athletics, Red Sox

© 2008 Sports of Boston, LLC.