Game 102: One-Eyed Jacks 5 Sox 12

Sox put up another big number against the Royals, scoring 10 runs in the first 4 innings. Ellsbury and Pedroia led off the game with back to back home runs. In fact the top three batters (Ellsbury, Pedroia, and Gonzalez) drove the engine today with 3 hits each. Gonzalez has certainly been getting his hits but he still doesn't look right to me. He's not really going the other way, dictating, the pitches he hits, or hitting with power. It seems like it's been quite awhile since he's hit a home run.

Ortiz also hit his 20th home run, a grand slam that capped the scoring in the 4th. It feels like the old Big Papi is back. He's batting in the 300's and hitting for power. If he can keep this up he's going to force the Sox FO to sign him to another contract.

Lackey started today and seemed very very lucky again getting the win. He only gave up 3 ERs in 5 2/3 but he gave up 11 hits and only struck out 3. You're not going to get away with giving up that much contact too often. Williams pitched 1 2/3 in relief and gave up another run. Wheeler finished the game going 1 2/3 with 3 hits and 2 Ks. He's seemed to pitch very well since coming off the DL but it's always been in low pressure situations. Hopefully his confidence will be up and the Sox will be able to use him in high leverage situations during the playoffs.

Beckett going next with the day game to finish the series. Sox going for the series win.