2004 Boston Red Sox: Retooled with youth

[BostonRS14]

Henry sells Red Sox to run Expos, new owner brings massive changes

After the devastating loss to the Yankees in Gamve 7 of the American League Championship series, owner John Henry felt that he could no longer take the pressure of being a part of the Red Sox nation and decided to sell the team and purchase the Montreal Expos from Major League Baseball.


Former Sox owner John Henry, above left,
during last season's playoffs at Fenway Park.

"I loved my short time in Boston. 2003 was a great year for this club and we did some wonderful things with the ballpark. Those seats on the Green Monster have been awesome. I just felt that I needed to take over the Expos for the good of baseball. A decision is needed about moving them to a proper home and it wasn't getting done by the office of Major League Baseball so I will step in and make that decision between Las Vegas, DC and Virgina soon, hopefully by the All Star break. As for the Sox, it was a pleasure to own this storied franchise and I wish the best to the new ownership."

General Manager Theo Esptein, representing the new owners, announced that there would be no changes made in the front office. "We've had lengthy discussion before this announcement and we are all on the same page. Because of the timing of the change, the coaching staff and front office will remain intact this season and be evaluated during the offseason. With that being said, I have been given a mandate from the new owners to remake this team with youth and I have been active in the trade market, adding the best of the young players in the league to make the Red Sox competitive this year and beyond."


Boston Red Sox GM Theo Epstein speaks the press
conference announcing sale of team to new owners.

After the press conference ended, Epstein released a list to the media describing the moves he has made to remake the team:

• Free Agent 3B Aaron Boone was signed to a one year contract worth $1,295,000.
• Free agent 1B Fred McGriff was signed to a one year contract worth $515,000.
• SP Roger Clemens, MR James Barthmaier, and C John Buck were acquired from the Houston Astros in exchange for LF/DH Ellis Burks.
• 1B Mark Teixeira and CF Ramon Nivar were acquired from the Texas Rangers in exchange for 1B Kevin Millar and SP Tim Wakefield.
• MR Francisco Rodriguez and 2B Chone Figgins were acquired from the Anaheim Angles in exchange for SP Bronson Arroyo, 1B Brian Daubach and $2,500,000 in cash.
• RF Austin Kearns was acquired from cincinnati Reds in exchange for RF Trot Nixon (DL) and SS Hanley Ramirez (A).
• SS Bobby Crosby was acquired from the Oakland Atheletics in exchange for 3B Aaron Boone (DL), CF Ramon Nivar (AAA), SS Pokey Reese and $1,500,000 in cash.
• Free Agent MR Kent Mercker was signed to a one year contract worth $848,000.

New manager Terry Francona has his work cut out for him. Meshing six new faces into a lineup this late in Spring Training will be a difficult task. No lineup/pitching decisions have been annouced, but it is expected that most of the new acquisitions will play key parts in the 2004 Red Sox campaign. As soon as a final roster is announced, a breakdown will be given here.

[YankeeFanatic04]

wow man u ripped every team off. Whats up with that?

[And1pg2]

I was gonna post that as well but i decided not to ain't my dynasty.

[BostonRS14]

Don't ask me...

Trading Difficulty: Normal
AI Preferance: Favor Prospects

[YankeeFanatic04]

the trading must be on FAVORING THE REDSOX.

[BostonRS14]

Boston Red Sox 2004 Season Preview

2003 Record: 95-67, .586 -6.0, 2nd AL East (1st, AL Wilcard)
Ballpark: Fenway Park (1912)
Seating Capacity:33,993 (30th)
Manager: Terry Francona (1st w/ BOS)
Payroll: $87,749,500 (2nd)
Fan Interest: 90/100 (1st)

Boston manager Terry Fracona, sitting in his office in Fort Myers, was excited today. The first year manager was about to release his final roster on the eve of the breaking off camp. After adding Curt schilling, Keith Foulke, and Pokey Reese during an offseason dominated with Alex Rodriguez-Manny Ramariez trade talks, Francona had enough of a tough time making roster decisions and smoothing the egos of Ramirez and Garciaparra. Then the bombshell was dropped and the team was sold and a massive overhaul of the roster ensued. In a matter of 48 hours, Francona saw the right side of his team drasticly altered, as first baseman Kevin Millar, second baseman Pokey Reese and right fielder Trot Nixon, all expected to be starters for the Red Sox this season, were shipped out of town. In addition, Francona faces the season with a reworked bullpen that has clearly gone from the club's weakness to one of its strengths. Keith Foulke, Frankie Rodriguez, and Kent Mercker all bring playoff experience to a pen that often lacked a clear leader last season.

GM Theo Esptein announced that Bobby Crosby, acquired from Oakland just days ago, will not be breaking camp with the club. Instead, he will work out at second base with the Triple-A Pawtucket Red Sox. The move was made necessary by the potential log jam at shortstop that will develop when Nomar Garciaparra is activated later this month.


Catcher:



Starter: Jason Varitek
B/T: S/R; HT: 6-2; WT: 230; DOB: 04/11/1972 (31 yrs. old)
Debuted: Sept. 24, 1997 w/ BOS
Acquired: Traded along with SP Derek Lowe by Seattle to Boston in exchange for MR/CL Heathcliff Slocumb. (7/31/97)
Salary: $4,690,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Backup: Doug Mirabelli
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-1; WT: 220; DOB: 10/18/70 (33)
Debuted: Aug. 27, 1996 w/ SF
Acquired: Traded by Texas to Boston in exchange for Justin Duchsherer. (7/12/01)
Salary: $300,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Jason Vartiek returns for another season behind the plate for the Red Sox. His work in transforming Derek Lowe from a closer to a Cy-Young calibur starter has elevated him to amongst the best at his position in calling a game. Despite batting mostly out of the ninth spot in the lineup, Varitek put up career numbers in 2003, setting highs for homeruns (25), RBIS (85), and SLG (.512). A free agent at the end of the season, Varitek is playing for what will probably be his last shot at big money. Doug Mirabelli, the primary backup with the Sox since coming over in 2001, saw his meal ticket leave town when Boston traded knuckleballer Tim Wakefield to Texas. Doug has an average arm, and will throw out enough base runners to keep enough people
honest. His spot on the roster is dependent on the development of the Sox catchers in the minors, especailly Kelly Shoppach in Double-A.

First Base:



Starter: Mark Teixeira
B/T: S/R; HT: 6-3, WT: 220, DOB: 04/11/80 (23)
Debuted: Apr. 1, 2003 w/ TEX.
Acquired: Traded by Texas along with CF Ramon Nivar to Boston in exchange for 1B Kevin Millar and SP Tim Wakefield. (3/30/04)
Salary: $1,660,000, 2004. Automatic Resign

Backup: David Ortiz
B/T: L/L; HT: 6-4; WT: 230; DOB: 11/18/75 (28)
Debuted: Sept. 2, 1997 w/ MIN.
Acquired: Signed as free agent with Boston. (1/22/03)
Salary: $3,211,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Backup: Fred McGriff
B/T: L/L; HT: 6-3; WT: 225; DOB: 10/31/63 (40)
Debuted: May 17, 1986 w/ TOR.
Acquired: Signed as a free agent with Boston. (3/30/04)
Salary: $515,000, 2004. Free Agent after season.

Mark Teixiera comes over from the Texas Rangers highly regarded. With a thin minor league system, He will be the Red Sox first baseman for many years. Despite being only 23 years old, many scouts are already counting on him to do great things. "His swing from the left side is perfect for Fenway. Mark has explosive power. Look for him to go deep often as he has shown he can already hold his own againt major league pitching." David Ortiz will continue to see most of his atbats as the team's DH this season. David broke out in the second half last season, earning many votes for league MVP and making many wonder why the Twins organization let him go. With limited defensive range, Ortiz will not make many appearances in the field. Fred McGriff, with his seveth organiztion, will see limited atbats backing both men up as he hangs around to get his 500th career homerun.

Second Base:



Starter: Mark Bellhorn
B/T: S/R; HT: 6-1, WT: 205, DOB: 08/23/74 (29)
Debuted: Jun. 10, 1997 w/ OAK.
Acquired: Traded by Colorado to Boston for future considerations. (12/16/03)
Salary: $343,000, 2004. Arbitration Eligible.

Backup: Cesar Crespo
B/T: S/R; HT: 5-11; WT: 170, DOB: 5/23/79 (24)
Debuted: May 29, 2001 w/ SD.
Acquired:
Salary: $300,000, 2004. Automatic Resign.

Mark Bellhorn has bounced around a bit the past few season, but with Theo Epstein's higher dependance on on-base percentage, he will get a chance with Boston. His play in the field is not spectacular and he is better suited as a backup role, which he will take when prized prospect Bobby crosby is ready to take over. Cesar Crespo was the surprise of camp, winning a spot on the team when Pokey Reese departed for Oakland. He will probably see time as a late inning defensive replacemet at the middle infield positions, but won't be counted on for a big contribution.

Third Base:



Starter: Bill Mueller
B/T: S/R; HT: 5-10; WT: 180;DOB: 03/17/71 (33)
Debuted: Apr. 18, 1996 w/ SF.
Acquired: Signed as a free agent by Boston. (01/14/03)
Salary: $1,470,000, 2004. Free Agent after season.

Bill Mueller is coming off a season in which he finished first in the American League in batting average and hit Grand Slams from each side of the plate in the same game against Texas. Not much could happen to improve on 2003. Mueller enters the season as the clear starting thrid baseman for the first time in his career. One of 15 Red Sox free agents at season's end, he might just be keeping the seat warm for prospect Kevin Youkillis, who will be starting his first full season in Triple-A with Pawtucket this year.

Shortstop:



Starter: Nomar Garciaparra (injured)
B/T: R/R; HT: 6/0; WT: 205; DOB: 07/23/73 (30)
Debuted: Aug. 31, 1996 w/ BOS.
Acquired: Drafted in the 1st round (12th overall) of 1994 draft.
Salary: $8,050,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Backup: Chone Figgins
B/T: S/R; HT: 5-8; WT: 155; 01/22/78 (26)
Debuted: Aug. 25, 2002 w/ ANA.
Acquired: Traded by Anaheim along with MR Francisco Rodriguez to Boston in exchange for SP Bronson Arroyo, 1B Brian Daubach and $2,500,000 in cash. (3/30/04)
Salary: $300,000, 2004. Automatic Resign.

After an offseason that potential saw him leave the only franchise he has every known, Nomar Garciaparra started off Spring Training with a bang, injuring his achille's heal. Garciaparra will start the season on the DL and is expected to miss almost the entire first month. While the slugging shortstop has not been his old self since injurying his wrist a few seasons back, he is still considered an elite player at his position and will attempt to rebound in 2004. His expiring contract and displeasure with the ex-owners have given rise to many trade rumors in the media. Chone Figgins, acquired from Anaheim for his speed, steps into the starting lineup in place of Garciaparra. Able of playing multiple positions, Figgins will eventually settle into a utility-platoon with Mark Bellhorn for Terry Francona's club.

Left Field:



Starter: Manny Ramirez
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-0; WT: 200, DOB: 05/30/72 (31)
Debuted: Sept. 2, 1993 w/ CLE.
Acquired: Signed as a free agent with Boston. (12/13/00)
Salary: $14,000,000, 2008.

Backup: Dave McCarthy
B/T: R/L; HT: 6-5; WT: 210; DOB: 11/23/69 (34)
Debuted: May 13, 1993 w/ MIN.
Acquired: Signed as a free agent with Boston. (12/7/03)
Salary: $300,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Manny Ramirez, depsite his adventures in front of the Green Monster in left field, is the key to the Boston offense. One of the premier sluggers in baeball, his bat will be counted on once again to lead the club. Last season he lost the batting title to Bill Mueller by one percentage point, so look for him to continue to hit the ball well in addition to putting up 40ish homeruns and 110+ RBIs. Dave McCarthy won't see much playing time on a crowded Boston bench, but can be counted on for a timely hit when he does. With little outfield depth in the organization, he should be able to hold onto his spot for the time being.

Center Field:



Starter: Johnny Damon
B/T: L/L; HT: 6-2, WT: 190; DOB: 11/05/73 (30)
Debuted: Aug. 12, 1995 w/ KC.
Acquired: Signed as a free agent with Boston. (12/21/01)
Salary: $5,775,000, 2005.

Johnny Damon might scare some children with his beard and long hair, but he is most valuable to the Red Sox scaring opposion pitchers with his ability to get on base in the leadoff spot and steal bases. Despite some defensive liabilities, Damon remains a strong asset in centerfield for Boston. Terry Francona will use Chone Figgins and Austin Kearns some in center to give Johnny a night off every once and a while, but, with no true subsitute on the roster, Damon will counted on to play most nights.

Right Field:



Starter: Austin Kearns
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-3; WT: 220; DOB: 05/20/80 (23)
Debuted: Apr. 17, 2002 w/CIN.
Acquired: Traded by Cincinnati to Boston in exchange for RF Trot Nixon and SS Hanley Ramirez.
Salary: $305,000, 2004. Possible Arbitration.

Backup: Gabe Kapler
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-2; WT: 190; DOB: 07/31/75 (28)
Debuted: 09/20/98 w/ DET.
Acquired: Signed as a free agent with Boston. (12/22/03)
Salary: $525,000, 2004. Arbitration Eligible.

Austin Kearns came over to Boston in a late Spring Training deal, sending former starter Trot Nixon and top Red Sox prospect SS Hanley Ramirez to the Reds. Kearns will be immediately placed into the heart of the lineup and expected to contribute right away. After being counted on to carry a weak Reds team, Kearns will not have that burden on his shoulders in Boston. He can expect to continue to develop with fellow youngster Mark Teixiera while Manny Ramirez and David Oritz carry the bulk of the offensive load. Kearns has above average hand-eye coordination and will be able to turn the inside pitch off the wall in left frequently in his new park. Gabe Kapler has yet to show much promise and will probably continue being best fit for a fourth outfield position. He has tons of raw ability, but lacks the maturity and desire to put the puzzle together, and his chances of unseating a starter in Boston are slim to none. Look for his name to pop up in trade rumors as he will probably end up on another team before season's end.

Pitchings preview coming soon...

[CHOWDERHEAD]

the trading must be on FAVORING THE REDSOX.

The way it always should be -

[BostonRS14]

Starting Pitching:



Starter: Pedro Martinez
B/T: R/R; HT: 5-11; WT: 180; DOB: 10/25/71
Debuted: Setp. 24, 1992 w/ LA.
Acquired: Traded by Montreal to Boston in exchange for SP Carl Pavano and SP Tony Armas, Jr. (12/18/97)
Salary: $12,250,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Starter: Curt Schilling
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-5; WT: 235; DOB: 11/14/66
Debuted: Sept. 7, 1988 w/ BAL.
Acquired: Traded by Arizona to Boston inexchange for SP Casey Fossum, MR Brandon Lyon, MR Jorge DeLaRose and LF Michael Godd. (11/28/03)
Salary: $8,750,000, 2006.

Starter: Roger Clemens
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-4; WT: 235; DOB: 08/04/62 (41)
Debuted: May 15, 1984 w/ BOS.
Acquired: Traded from Houston along with MR Jame Barthmaier and C John Buck to Boston for LF Ellis Burks.
Salary: $3,500,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Starter: Derek Lowe
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-6; WT: 210; DOB: 6/1/73
Debuted: Apr. 26, 1997 w/ SEA.
Acquired: Traded by Seattle along with C Jason Varitek to Boston in exchange for MR/CL Heathcliff Slocumb. (7/31/97)
Salary: $3,150,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Starter: Byung-hyun Kim (injured)
B/T: R/R; HT:5-9; WT: 180; DOB: 2/19/79
Debuted: May 29, 1999 w/ ARI.
Acquired: Traded by Arizona to Boston in exchange for 3B Shea Hillenbrand. (5/29/03)
Salary: $3,500,000, 2005.

The Boston Red Sox pitching staff might be the best in baseball. Many will debate this, but they definately will rank in the top teir with Oakland, Chicago (N), and New York this season. Pedro Martinez and Curt Schilling both are yearly Cy Young candidates and will deserve consideration again this season. Roger clemens returns to Boston for his final year, having mended fences with the Boston media at the behest of the new ownership. The "Rocket" will look to continue climbing the alltime record book. Clemens currently sits 16th in wins (311) and if he can match last years total of 17, could move all the way up to tenth (John Clarkson, 328). He ranks third in strikouts (4,107), just 19 behind Stever Carlton for second. Derek Lowe will look to regain his 2002 form that saw him as a finalist for the cy Young award. The former closer's ERA rose almost two full points to 4.47 last season from 2002. Byung-hyun Kim, once he comes off the disabled list, will take the fifth spot in the rotation. He will look to settle into the rotation, after arriving last year from Arizona and bouncing between the rotation and bullpen before being left off the postseason roster.

Relief Pitching:



Reliever: Alan Embree
B/T: L/L; HT: 6-2; WT: 190; DOB: 1/23/70
Debuted: Sept. 15, 1992 w/ cLE.
Acquired: Traded by San Diego along with Andy Shibilo to Boston inexchange for Brad Baker and Dan Giese. (6/26/02)
Salary: $1,930,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Reliever: Ramiro Mendoza
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-2; WT: 190; DOB: 6/15/72
Debuted: May 26, 1996 w/ NYY.
Acquired: Signed as a free agent with Boston. (12/31/02)
Salary: $2,520,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Reliever: Kent Mercker
B/T: L/L; HT: 6-2; WT: 205; DOB: 2/1/68 (36)
Debuted: sept. 22, 1989 w/ ATL.
Acquired: Signed as a free agent with Boston. (3/30/04)
Salary: $840,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Reliever: Francisco Rodriguez
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-0; WT: 180; DOB: 1/7/82
Debuted: Sept. 18, 2002 w/ ANA.
Acquired: Traded by Anaheim with 2B Chone Figgins in exchange for SP Bronson Arroyo, 1B Brian Daubach, and $2,500,000 in cash. (3/30/04)
Salary: $312,500, 2004. Automatic Resign.

Reliever: Mike Timlin
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-4; WT: 210; DOB: 3/10/66
Debuted: Apr. 8, 1991 w/ TOR.
Acquired: Signed as a free agent with Boston. (11/17/03)
Salary: $1,190,000, 2004. Free agent after season.

Reliever: Scott Williamson
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-0; WT: 180; DOB: 2/17/76
Debuted: Apr. 5, 1999 w/ CIN.
Acquired: Traded by Cincinnati to Boston in exchange for SP Phil Dumatrait. (7/30/03)
Salary: $2,223,000, 2005.

Close: Keith Foulke
B/T: R/R; HT: 6-0; WT: 210; DOB: 10/19/72
Debuted: May 21, 1997 w/ SF.
Acquired: Signed as a free agent with Boston. (12/14/03)
Salary: $4,900,000, 2006.

Boston's bullpen was the downfall of the 2003 season, as GM Theo Epstein attempted to create a bullpen-by-committee without the correct parts for the philosophy. After adding Scott Williamson at the 2003 trade deadline, Epstein set fixing the 'pen as his offseason priority. In came closer Keith Foulke, middle reliver Kent Mercker, and setup man Francisco Rodriguez. These three additions will lessen the burden on Mike Timlin and Alan Embree in the late innings. Ramiro Mendoza will take over the long relief/spot starter role for the club after a short 2003 debut with the club.

[BostonRS14]

Top Prospects:

Boston's minor league system was recently ranked 25th best in baseball. Bobby Crosby, 26th in baseball, was the only prospect Boston had amongst the top 100 according to Baseball America. With most of its impact prospects in the upper levels/majors, there is not much hope for Boston. Most of these players will probably be used as trade bait. Crosby is expected to be promoted to the majors as soon as he grasps his new position the club has said. At that point three of the top ten prospects will no longer be in the minors, leaving Kelly Schoppach and Kevin Youkillis as the best of the group. Neither is expected to play a role with the club before 2005, when the starting thirdbase job and backup catcher positions are projected to be open.

Those currently on the active roster were not evaluated.

• 1. Bobby Crosby, SS (AAA) Drafted: 2001, 1st round (25th - Oak)

  -Crosby is ready for major league pitching right now, but Boston management thought it best to shift him from shortstop to second now, so as to avoid confusion when Nomar Garciaparra is healthy. He ha shown all the tools and attitude to be a star. He has some pop, but is more of a contact hitter who will drive the ball to the gaps.

• 2. Mark Teixeira, 1B (Majors) Drafted: 2001, 1st round (5th - Tex)

  -currently on active roster

• 3. Kelly Shoppach, C (AA) Drafted: 2001, 2nd round (48th - Bos)

  -Shoppach is the Red Sox catcher of the future. His arm demands repect, as most baserunners have been cautious running against him. His offensive development has been slow, but Boston has no need to rush him with Jason Varitek handling the duties behind the plate right now. He could earn a shot in Spring Training next year to secure the backup position with an eye on taking over in 2006.

• 4. David Murphy, LF (A) Drafted: 2003, 1st round (17th - Bos)

  -22 Years old, Murphy can play all three OF positions. He won't dazzle anyone with his speed, but he is expected to develop into a solid contact hitter and could earn a spot some day as a backup outfielder. With some more development he could earn a spot with the club in 2006.

• 5. Kevin Youkillis, 3B (AAA) Drafted: 2001, 8th round (Bos)

  -Youkillis might be better suited as a first baseman in the majors, but for now, he will continue as the Pawtucket third baseman. Dubbed the "Greek God of Walks", Youkillis has incredible patience at the plate and has been able to parlay that into the Triple-A record for consecutive games getting on base. Boston plans on giving him a shot at some point this year, and, baring injuries, he is project as the 2005 opening day starter at third.

• 6. Francisco Rodriguez (Majors) non-drafted free agent (Ana)

  -currently on active roster

• 7. Chad Spann, 3B (A) Drafted: 2002, 5th round (Bos)

  -With Youkillis in front of him, Spann's future with the organization is uncertain. Much like shortstop Hanley Ramiriez (now with the Reds), his value might best be as trade bait to fill a hole come midseason. He has yet to show much leadership during his brief tenure with teh organization. Spann is a very good defensive third baseman, and could evetually find a spot with the club if Youkillis is shifted to first base as some have suggested.

• 8. Andrew Good, SP (AAA) Drafted: 1998, 8th round (Ari)

  -Picked up off waivers from Arizona just a few days ago, Good instantly became the best starting prospect in an organization thin on pitching. With a solid rotation in Boston already, Good should spend the season with Pawtucket and will be given a look next Spring Training for the spot that Roger Clemens now holds. He will need to work on his control, but most scouts project him to be a good bet for a back of the rotation starter.

• 9. Mickey Hall, CF (A) Drafted: 2003, 2nd round (54th - Bos)

  -Only 18 years old, Hall is still a few years away from joining the club. His lack of speed and inability to take good routes to the ball have lead many scouts to suggest a move to right field for him. He has shown a great ability to make contact and connect with good pitches, but has yet to show any kind of discipline advoiding chasing bad pitches. If he does make any contribution to the club, it appears that he will be best suited as a fourth/fifth outfielder in 2007.

• 10. Anastacio Martinez, SP (AA) undrafted.

  -Martinez has struggled to climb throught the Boston system and, at one point last season, was traded to Pittsburgh briefly. He should start the season in Double-A, but unless he can prove himself ready soon, he might not ever pan out as many had thought. He has shown an inability to control his pitches, and often loses focus in difficult situations. Along with Good, he should join the club for Spring Training next season, but mostly likely will be in Triple-A in 2005.

[BostonRS14]

Upcoming Series:

Boston Red Sox v. Baltimore Orioles
Orioles Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore, Maryland

Team Records:
Boston Red Sox: 0-0, .000, t-3rd AL East, -1
Baltimore Orioles: 0-0, .000, t-3rd AL East, -1

Season Series: 0-0, first meeting.

Pitching Matchups:
04/04: Pedro Martinez (0-0, 0.00) vs. Sidney Ponson (0-0, 0.00)
04/06: Curt schilling (0-0, 0.00) vs. Eric Dubose (0-0, 0.00)
04/07: Roger Clemens (0-0, 0.00) vs. Kurt Ainsworth (0-0, 0.00)
04/08: Derek Lowe (0-0, 0.00) vs. Rodrigo Lopez (0-0, 0.00)

Season Series:
Both teams open the season with high expectations. The Red Sox are completely reloaded, with only 15 returning players from the squad that was within a few outs of the World Series. Fixed are a weak bullpen and a lack of depth in the starting rotation. GM Theo Epstein also was able to bring in much needed youth to compliment the returning core of Manny Ramirez, David Oritz and Nomar Garciaparra on offense.

The Baltimore Orioles again finished in fourth place in the AL East in 2003. In response, the Orioles front office brought in catcher Javy Lopez and shortstop Miguel Tejada in addition to first baseman Rafael Palmeiro (an Oriole from 1994-1998) and starting pitcher Sidney Ponson (traded from Baltimore to San Francisco at 2003 trade deadline.) With these additions, the Orioles are looking to move into the battle for the division crown with big-spenders Boston and New York.

Boston Team News: (03/31-04/03)
Transactions

• 04/02:
  -Boston claimed SP Andrew Good off waivers from Arizona and assigned him to Triple-A Pawtucket.

Around the League: (03/31-04/03)
Transactions:

• 03/31:
  -New York (A) acquired 2B Brian Roberts from Baltimore in exchange for MR Felix Heredia, 3B Eric Duncan (A), RF Estee Harris (A) and $300,000 in cash.
• 04/02:
  -Arizona claimed CF Adam Hyzdu off waivers from Boston.
  -Cincinnati claimed SS Deivi Cruz off waivers from Tampa Bay.
  -Boston claimed SP Andrew Good off waivers from Arizona.

[BostonRS14]

Opening Day Lineups:

[BostonRS14]

Sox open season with sweep of O's, take 1st in East.

Game 1: Boston 11, Baltimore 3

Pedro Martinez needed little help from his teammates against the Orioles, ending a streak of poor opening day starters for the Sox ace. Martinez surrender two late runs in the seventh before exiting with a 10-3 lead. The right hander pitched six and a third innings, scattering six hits and three runs, while striking out six and walking one. Kent Mercker and Frankie Rodriguez made the Red Sox debuts, combining on two and a third hitless innings of relief to secure the win for the Red Sox.

Boston got to Sidney Ponson for six runs before he exited after just three and a third innings, not what was expected of the big righty after returning to Baltimore with a large offseason contract. David Ortiz's solo homerun in the 2nd opened the scoring. In the third, Mark Teixeira hit his a two-run blast to deep right field in the 3rd to make it 3-0 before Austin Kearns singles home Manny Ramirez with the eventual game winning run.


David Ortiz watches his solo homerun leave the
park in the second inning against the Orioles.

After David Segui touched up Martinez for a solo homerun, Boston responded with five unanswered runs to break the game open. Jason Varitek lead off the 4th with a solo homerun, the third of the game for the Sox. Baltimore would add two more runs in the seventh before David Ortiz capped off the night, scoring the final run on a wild pitch by B.J. Ryan in the ninth.

W: Pedro Martinez (1-0); L: Sidney Ponson (0-1)
Player of the Game: David Ortiz. 3-5, 2B (1), HR (1), 2 Runs, RBI (1)
Game Notes: David Ortiz hit the longest homer of his career, it went 379 feet. Mark Teixeira hit the longest homer of his career, it went 424 feet. David Segui hit the longest homer of his career, it went 383 feet. Jason Varitek hit the longest homer of his career, it went 407 feet.

Game 2: Boston 1, Baltimore 0

It seemed fitting that Curt Schilling, having so long ago been apart of both the Boston and Baltimore franchises, would star in his debut. Schilling struck out 10 Orioles on the way to his first win in a Red Sox uniform. He work all nine innings for the complete game shutout, surrendering five runs and walking none.


Curt Schilling throws a pitch in the first inning in his
Sox debut against the Orioles in Baltimore.

"Curt was awesome," Sox manager Terry Fracona commented after the game. "I never seem him look so in control on the mound, even in all those years with the Phillies. I guess it was a good thing he worked here in Baltimore and not in Boston for his debut, or else we might be talking about a perfect game. He was just that determined out there."

Kurt Ainsworth had the misfortune of matching up against Schilling this night, as his masterful, seven and two-third innings of four hit ball were wasted.

The Red Sox scored the only run of the game in the top of the 4th. After Chone Figgins stole second, Ainsworth retired Mark Teixeira and Manny Ramirez before David Ortiz singled back up the middle ot score Figgins from third. The Orioles threatened in the bottom of the inning, but Mijuel Tejada was stranded on this after a one-out triple.

W: Curt Schilling (1-0); L: Kurt Ainsworth (0-1)
Player of the Game: Curt Schilling. 9 IP, 5 H, 0 Runs, 10 Ks, 126 PI/80 PS

Game 3: Boston 8, Baltimore 3

After Curt Schilling's masterpiece the night before, Roger Clemens knew he had to pitch well or else his role with the team would be in quesiton. "I know there are a lot of people who don't want me with the 'B' on my hat again. I know they will love Curt as much as they do Pedro and as much as they once did with me, but I want them to forget the past and focus on winning the title ine 2004.

It will take time for Boston fans to forgive, because they will never forget, and Clemens knows this. Making his first start with the club since 1996, the 'Rocket' outlasted his counterpart, Eric DuBose, to continue the early Red Sox winning streak. While he did not look as good as Martinez or Schilling did, Clemens pitched well enought to hand the bullpen a lead that Scott Williamson and Keith Foulke held onto.

The Sox got on the board in the first on a run-scoring double by Manny Ramirez. The Orioles tied it in the second inning when Melvin Mora scored easily from second base on a single by Jay Gibbons to right field. Johnny Damon and Bill Mueller both went deep in the 3rd inning to give Boston a brief 4-1 lead. Mueller's homerun was a two-run shot.

The Orioles battled back and took a 5-4 lead into the seventh before Gabe Kapler drove a single past a diving Jose Morban at second base, scoring Fred McGriff from third with the eventual game-winning run. A David Ortiz solo homerun added insurance in the top of the ninth before Keith Foulke came on to earn his first save in a Red Sox uniform.

W: Roger Clemens (1-0); L: Mike DeJean (0-1); SV: Keith Foulke (1)
Player of the Game: Jay Gibbons. 4-4, 2 HR (2), 2 Runs, 3 RBI (5)
Game Notes: Johnny Damon hit the longest homer of his career, it went 409 feet. Bill Mueller hit the longest homer of his career, it went 400 feet. Jay Gibbons hit the longest homer of his career, it went 373 feet. Terry Francona was ejected in the 7th inning!

Game 4: Boston 6, Baltimore 5 (11)

It took extra innings, but the Red Sox escaped Baltimore with a four game sweep. After surrendering walks to Larry Bigbie and Jack Cust, closer Keith Foulke surrendered a two-out single to Miguel Tejada in the ninth to tie that ballgame at 4. After a scoreless 10th, Mark Teixeira's two-run homerun off Jorge Julio gave Boston a 6-4 lead. Scott Williamson replaced Foulke for the bottom of the inning, but failed to retire both batters he faced. Kent Mercker entered the game and retired the first two batters before a Milvin Mora single scored Bibgie from second. Jay Gibbons flied out to short center with the winning run on first to end the game.

Once again, the Red Sox scored first, this time with a Mark Bellhorn solo homerun in the third inning of Baltimore starter Rodrigo Lopez. Mark Teixiera gave the Red Sox a 4-1 lead in the sixth with his first homerun of the game. After Derek Lowe left the game with the lead, Frankie Rodriguez and Alan Embree kept the Orioles quiet until Foulke entered the game in the ninth.

W: Keith Foulke (1-0); L: Jorge Julio (0-1); SV: Mercker (1)
Player of the Game: Mark Teixeira. 2-5, 2 HR (3), 2 Runs, 3 RBIs (5)
Game Notes: Mark Bellhorn hit the longest homer of his career, it went 367 feet. Jay Gibbons hit the longest homer of his career, it went 422 feet. Mark Teixeira hit the longest homer of his career, it went 431 feet.

Upcoming Series:
Boston Red Sox (4-0) vs. Toronto Blue Jays (1-2), Fenway Park, Boston, MA (04/09-04/11)
Baltimore Orioles (0-4) @ Tampa Bay Devil Rays (3-1), Tropicana Field, FL (04/09-04/11)

American League East Standings: (04/08/04)

Boston     4-0, 1.000
Tampa Bay  3-1, .750  -1.0
Toronto    1-2, .333  -2.5
New York   1-3, .250  -3.0
Baltimore  0-4, .000  -4.0

[BostonRS14]

Upcoming Series:

Toronto Blue Jays v. Boston Red Sox
Fenway Park, Boston, Masachusetts

Team Records:
Boston Red Sox: 4-0, 1.000, 1st AL East, +1
Toronto Blue Jays: 1-2, .333, 3rd AL East, -2.5

Season Series: 0-0, 1st meeting.

Pitching Matchups:
04/09: Pat Hentgen (0-0, 0.00) vs. Pedro Martinez (1-0, 4.26)
04/10: Roy Halladay (0-1, 5.63) vs. Aaron Sele (0-0, 0.00)
04/11: Miguel Batista (0-1, 22.50) vs. Curt Schilling (1-0, 0.00)

Series Preview:
No matter the time of the season, a matchup of division foes with playoff aspirations is an important series. Toronto comes into Boston to face he hottest team in baseball. The Red Sox swept the Baltimore Orioles with some great pitching performances.

The Blue Jays, losers of two of three to Detroit, are hoping that the addition of a few new pitchers can get them into the playoff race this season. Carlos Delgado is in his walk year so a lot of emphasis has been placed on winning this year across the border.


Boston Team News: (04/04-04/08)

• 04/04:
  -SP Manny Delcarmen (A) injured himself while pitching. Training staff diagnosis is a strained rotator cuff muslce. He is expected to miss about 4 weeks.
• 04/05:
  -SP Andy Pratt was claimed off waivers from Chicago (N) and assigned to Double-A Portland.
• 04/07:
  -SP Juan Perez was injured while pitching. He suffered a sore shoulder is day-to-day, but recover is expected to take one week.

Around the League: (04/04-04/08)
Transactions:

• 04/04:
  -Tampa Bay signed free agent LF Ricky Henderson to a minor league contract.
  -Anaheim released SP Aaron Sele.
  -Oakland released 1B Eric Karros.
  -Colorado released SP Shawn Estes.
• 04/08:
  -Oakland claimed SS Jose Hernandez off waiver from Los Angeles.

League News:

• 04/06:
  -Detroit Tiger 1B Dimitri Young hit for the cycle against the Toronto Blue Jays. He is the first player this season to do so. Dimitri drove in three runs on the day while scoring three runs on his own.
  -Colorado Rockies RF Jeremy Burnitz smacked three homeruns against the Arizona Diamondbacks. His third shot, with the game tied 5-5, scored the eventual game winning run.

[BostonRS14]

Red Sox sweep Bue Jays, start 7-0

Sox score 13 in first, rout Jays 23-3!
Game 5: Boston 23, Toronto 3

After Pedro Martinez looking sharp in the first inning, shut down the Blue Jays on just 12 pitches, things looked good for the Red Sox. Little did Martinez know that when he next took the mound to start the second inning, he would have a 13 run lead!

The Red Sox sent 16 batters to the plate in the first, scoring a team record eight runs before Pat Hengten left the game without recording an out. Three defensive miscues by the Blue Jays opened the door for Boston. David Ortiz single with the bases loaded to give the Sox a three run lead. After Austin Kearns and Manny Ramirez reached base on errors by Orlando Hudson and Vernon Wells, Jason Varitek launched a grand slam to the camera booth in deep left field, just barely making missing hitting the Green Monster. "It left the bat and I watched for a second, thinking it was gonna end up in the bullpen in right-center," Varitek recalled after the game. "The wind seemed to push it towards left and I started running for my life as it started to heading towards the Monster." That luckshot ended the day for Hengten, who was unable to record an out and ended up throwing just 39 pitches in his first start for the Blue Jays since 1999. After a short stay in St. Louis in 2000, he spent the past few season in Baltimore.


Jason Varitek watches his first inning
Grand Slam leave park as Boston
scored 13 runs in the fist inning against
Toronto.

Josh Banks, who was called up before the game from Triple-A Syracuse to make his major league debut in the second game of the series, was instead forced into action to replace Hentgen by manager Carlos Tosca. "It pretty much was a start for him. There was no one on base and no outs, of course he was coming in from the bullpen with an eight run deficit, but hey, not everyone's debut can be pretty. We didn't plan on this when we called him up, but we don't have a long reliever capable to stepping in that early."

Banks didn't have much more success than Hentgen. Manny Ramirez hit a two-run double down the left field line with two outs to increase the lead to 10. After walking David Oritz, Banks surrendered a three-run homerun to Austin Kearns that easily cleared the bullpens in center. Bill Mueller grounded out to short to end the inning. The Fenway faithful gave the 12 year old a loud ovation as he slumpishly walked off the field. Banks would pitch five innings, surrendering 12 runs in total, seven earned on eight hits. He walked seven and struck out one.

The Blue Jays got two runs in the 3rd off Martinez with back-to-back RBI singles to Carlos Delgado and Dave Berg. David Ortiz got the runs back for the Red Sox in the bottom of the inning with his first of two homeruns on the day. He would add a three-run blast in the 8th to end the day with a career high seven RBIs.

W: Pedro Martinz (2-0); L: Pat Hentgen (0-1)
Player of the Game: David Ortiz. 3-4, 2 HR (4), 2 BB, 5 Runs, 7 RBIs (11).
Game Notes: Austin Kearns hit the longest homer of his career, it went 434 feet. Manny Ramirez set a career high for runs (5) in a game! David Ortiz hit the longest homer of his career, it went 428 feet. David Ortiz set a career high for runs (5) in a game! David Ortiz set a career high for RBI (7) in a game!

Sele triumphant in return to Sox, win streak at 6
Game 6: Boston 4, Toronto 2

Those who follow the Sox had questioned General Manager Theo Epstein's decision to break camp with only 4 starting pitchers, but it appeared that his wisdom paid off. Fresh off signing with the club hours before the game, Aaron Sele joined Roger Clemens and Curt Schilling as former Sox-castaways who returned in 2004. All three have won their first games with the club this year. Ramiro Mendoza was sent to Pawtucket to make room for Sele, who last pitched for the Red Sox in 1997. Before being released on April 5th, Sele had spent time with Texas (1998-99), Seattle (2000-01) and Anaheim (2002-04).

"I was nervous. I think that at bat to Hinkse made that clear. I know my role with the club is up in question once Kim is healthy, but for now I'll pitch as good as I can and hope for the best."

Eric Hinkse greeted Sele with a solo homerun that landed in the Monster seats inches from the fould pole in left. Jason Varitek had set up low and inside on lefty, but Sele left the pitch over too much of the plate and Hinkse made him pay. Frank Catalanotto knocked in Carlos Delgado with the second run of the inning with a ground out to second.

"We wanted to come out and let them know that yesterday was behind us and we were not going to be embarrased again." Hinkse was clearly miffed at what he percieved as the Red Sox running up of the score in the previous day's blow out loss. "Who the hell has his team hit and run with a 15 run lead? That's bush league crap!"

Roy Halladay was unable to hold the lead for the Jays. Johnny Damon greated him in the bottom of the first with a bloop single that fell between Vernon Wells and the second baseman. A wild pitch later in the inning scored Damon to cut the lead in half. One pitch later, Manny Ramirez tied the game with a double to left that scored Chone Figgins easily from second. In the second, Damon would again be the key to the offense, hitting a two-out triple that scored Jason Varitek from first with the go ahead run. Figgins' single to straight up the middle to center brought Damon home with the final run of the game.


Catcher Jason Varitek congratualtes Keith Foulke after his first save at Fenway Park. It was the second game of the year
Foulke has earned a save in with Boston.

After the second, both pitchers settled down. Halladay would end up working the entire game, allowing only one hit to Austin Kearns in the third before retiring the final sixteen batters he faced in order. Sele worked six innings, allowing five hits and two walks along with the two first innings runs. Kent Mercker and Frankie Rodriguez relieved him before Ketih Foulke worked the final inning for his second save of the season.

W: Aaron Sele (1-0); L: Roy Halladay (0-2); SV: Keith Foulke (2)
Player of the Game: Johnny Damon. 2-4, 3B (1), 2 Runs, RBI (6)
Game Notes: Eric Hinske hit the longest homer of his career, it went 341 feet.

Schilling struggles; but Sox hold on for sweep, 7-0 start!
Game 7: Boston 11, Toronto 7

After creating high expectations for himself with a complete game shutout in his first start with Boston, Curt Schilling knew the most likely thing for him was to stumble in his Fenway debut. Schilling stayed around long enough to earn the win, but nine hits in five and two-third innings is not what he wanted the first impression to be in front of his new fans.

"Yeah, it's a lot of pressure going out in front of these fans. It's like nothing I've experienced before. They brace for the worse but expect the best and I think I let those expectations get the best of me out there."


Curt Schilling watches from the dugout before making his Fenway debut
against the Toronto Blue Jays.

For awhile it looked like Schilling was going to coast to another easy win. An six run lead after three is usually enough for the hard throwing right, but Toronto battled back. "I think I threw too hard early and it came back to bite me later when my arm was there when I need it to get out of those jams." Greg Myers hit a two-run homerun in the 5th to cut the lead to 6-2. It was his first of two homeruns against Schilling for the catcher. After pushing the lead to 8-2 in the bottom of the fifth against Jason Kershner, Schilling surrenderd a solo homerun to Carlos Delgado before Myers took him deep for a three run shot a few batters later. Terry Francona, who managed Schilling while they were both in Philadelphia, knew he had seen enough and called upon Scott Williamson to relieve the starter.
Toronto would get one run against Williamson when Chris Woodward scored from third on a sacrific bunt by Orlando Hudson with one out in the 7th. After surrendering a double to Carlo Delgado and a walk to Vernon Wells to put the go ahead run at the plate, Francona replaced Williamson with Kent Mercker who got left fielder Frank Catalanotto to strike out swingint to end the threat. Boston added two more runs late and Mercker pitched the last two innings to earn his second save of the season for the Sox.

W: Curt schilling (2-); L: Miguel Batista (0-2); SV: Kent Merckr (2)
Player of the Game: Mark Teixeira. 3-4, HR (4), BB, 2 Runs, 3 RBIs (8)
Game Notes: Manny Ramirez hit the longest homer of his career, it went 429 feet. Greg Myers set a career high for RBI (5) in a game! Mark Bellhorn hit the longest homer of his career, it went 468 feet.

Upcoming Series:
Boston Red Sox (7-0) vs. Baltimore Orioles (0-7), Fenway Park, Boston, MA (04/13-04/15)
Toronto Blue Jays (1-5) @ Detriot Tigers (4-2), Comerica Park, Detroit, MI (04/13-04/15)


American League East Standings: (04/12/04)

Boston     7-0, 1.000
Tampa Bay  6-1, .857  -1.0
New York   4-4, .500  -3.5
Toronto    1-5, .167  -5.5
Baltimore  0-7, .000  -7.0

[BostonRS14]

Upcoming Series:

Baltimore Orioles v. Boston Red Sox
Fenway Park, Boston, Masachusetts

Team Records:
Boston: 7-0, 1.000 (HM: 3-0), 1st AL East, +1
Baltimore: 0-7, .000 (RD: 0-3), 5th AL East, -7

Season Series: 4-0, Boston.

Pitching Matchups:
04/13: Eric Dubose (0-0, 6.00) vs. Roger Clemens (1-0, 7.50)
04/14: Sidney Ponson (0-2, 12.00) vs. Pedro Martinez (2-0, 3.38)
04/15: Rodrigo Lopez (0-0, 4.05) vs. Derek Lowe (0-0, 5.06)

Series Preview:
The Red Sox went into Baltimore and took all four games of the season opening series, embarassing the Orioles and their new look roster. The Red Sox have continued their fast start, taking three straight from the Blue Jays to start 7-0. Roger Clemens will be making his first start in Fenway Park as a member of the Red Sox since 1996 in the opening game of the series.

The Orioles have not lived up to expectations. A winless start in seven games is unacceptable for a club that spent big money on free agents Rafael Palmiero, Javy Lopez, Miguel Tejada and Sidney Ponson. While the chants have yet to reach a fevroed pitch, some Orioles' fans are already calling for the head of first year manager Leo Mazzilli. One went so far as to have a sign made up claiming Mazzilli was still working for the Yankees, this previous employer.

Boston Team News: (04/09-04/12)

• 04/09:
  -Free agent SP Shawn Estes was signed to a minor league contract and assigned to Triple-A Pawtucket.
• 04/10:
  -MR Ramiro Mendoza was sent down from the active roster to Triple-A Pawtucket.
  -Free agant SP Aaron Sele was signed to a minor league contract. He was added to the active roster in place of Ramiro Mendoza.
• 04/11:
  -SP Aaron Sele refused assingment to the minors.

Around the League: (04/09-04/12)
Transactions:

• 04/09:
  -Boston signed free agent SP Shawn Estes to a minor league contract.
  -Texas claimed LF Asam Piatt off waivers from Cleveland.
  -Chicago (A) claimed CF Doug Glanville off waivers from Philadelphia.
• 04/10:
  -Boston signed free agent SP Aaron Sele to a minor league contract.
  -Cleveland claimed 3B Shead Hillenbrand off waivers from Arizona.
• 04/12:
  -Montreal claimed SP Jason Young off waivers from Colorado.

League News:

• 04/12:
  -America League-Player of the Week: LF Raul Ibanez (SEA). He batted .500 in 24 AB, with 3 HR and 6 RBI.
  -National League-Player of the Week: LF Ryan Klesko (SDN). He batted .619 in 21 AB, with 3 HR and 7 RBI.

[captaincarl]

"Wow, the price of this popcorn is outrageous!"

This could get interesting as the season progresses.

Maybe, Peter Gammons should give his analysis on the trades. I would like to here how Houston got raped.

[BostonRS14]

O's steal thunder, sweep Sox at Fenway

Tejada blast homer in 10th, Sox win streak over at 7
Game 8: Boston 7, Baltimore 8 (10)

Roger Clemens was nervous on the mound at Fenway, with good reason. It in his first home start in 8 years for the Red Sox. "It left like it was 1984 again. My hand was sweaty and shaking a little, which made it hard to keep the ball on the corners. I just kept grooving them down the middle and there was nothing I could do." Clemens last five and two-third innings, surrendering five runs, hour of them earned, on eight hits and no walks. He struck out four Orioles.

Opposing Clemens was Eric Dubose, who wasted a four run lead. Baltimore got on the board first with back-to-back doubles to open the game, scoring Luis Matos with the first run. After retiring the next two batters, Clemens surrendered a single to right-center that brought Larry Bigbie home from second without a throw. Jay Gibbons lead off the 2nd inning with a solo homerun to right-center that just made it over the bullpens into the first row of the bleachers.

Manny Ramirez put the Sox on the board in the 3rd with a double off the wall down the line to score Johnny Damon easily from first. Bill Mueller's three-run homerun in the 4th tied the game up for the Sox. Despite the homerun, Mueller is slumping, batting a lowly .150 for the season. Manny Ramirez followed four batters later with a two-out single to score Damon again to give Boston its first lead, 5-4.

In the 6th, after Chone Figgins' throwing error put David Segui on first with two outs, Terry Francona brought Francisco Rodriguez in to the game. After loading the bases with a single and a hit batter, the O's took the lead back with a base-clearly, three-run double by Larry Bigbie that Austin Kearns had trouble fielding in the right field corner.

The Sox loaded the bases themselves in the bottom of the 6th against reliever John Parrish. Mark Teixeira singled home Mark Bellhorn and Damon to tie the game once again. Mike DeJean replaced Parrish and got Ramirez and pinch hitter David Ortiz out to end the threat. Miguel Tejada's solo homerun in the top of the 10th against Mike Timlin put proved ot be the game winning run. The Sox put the tying run on third in the bottom of the inning before Jorge Julio retired Chone Figgins on a ground out to end the game.

W: Felix Heredia (2-0); L: Mike Timlin (0-1); SV: Jorge Julio (1)
Player of the Game: Larry Bigbie. 2-4, 2 2B (6) BB, Run, 4 RBIS (5)
Game Notes: Bill Mueller hit the longest homer of his career, it went 414 feet. Miguel Tejada hit the longest homer of his career, it went 425 feet.

Bullpen, Foulke implodes, waste Pedro gem.
Game 9: Boston 4, Baltimore 8 (10)

Whenever Pedro Martinez is on the to of his game, the Sox offense seems to relax and take the day off. Unfortunately, after taking an ealry two run lead, the Sox seemed to stop trying and the Orioles took advantage of another poor bullpen performance to steal a win in Fenway.

Mark Teixeira's two-run homerun, his fifth of the season, in the first gave the Sox a lead that Pedro seemed at ease securing. The blast to deep center field briefly gave Teixeira the league homerun lead over teammate David Ortiz.

David Segui one out single in the 6th broke up Martinez's bid for a no-hitter. Luis Matos double one batter later broke up the shutout bid too. David Ortiz tied Teixeira once again with this fifth homerun, a solo shot over the wall in left to give Boston back its two run lead.

After Austin Kearn's 8th inning single made the lead 4-1, Boston manager Terry Francona called upon Keith Foulke to close out the game. After catcher Keith Osik reached on a throwing error by Chone Figgins, Foulke walked Rafael Palmeiro to bring the tying run to the plate with no outs. Miguel Tejada, hitless for the game up to that point, took the second pitch he saw and sent it to the deepest part of the park, depositing a game-tying three-run homerun in the centerfield bleachers. Foulke would recover to retire the next two batters before Tim Raines was thrown out attempting to steal second to end the inning.

Foulke continued to struggle with the score tied in the 10th, surrendering four straight hits without securing an out. Francona finally took his closer out of the game after he had surrendered five runs to give the game away. Mike Timlin came into the game to face Miguel Tejada with a runner on second. Tejada stroked a two-run homerun over the Green Monster to make the game 8-4. The Sox put a man on first in the bottom of the 10th before lefty Buddy Groom entered the game and retired David Ortiz to end the game.

W: B.J. Ryan (1-0); L: Keith Foulke (1-1)
Player of the Game: Miguel Tejada. 2-5, 2 HR (4), 2 Runs, 5 RBIs (9)
Game Notes: Javy Lopez was ejected in the 1st for arguing a strike three call. Miguel Tejada hit the longest homer of his career, it went 428 feet.

Game 10: Boston 4, Baltimore 10

The Orioles that came to Boston looked nothing like those that left town, winners of all three games in the series. As in each of the previous two games, the Boston bullpen was unable to keep the game close.

Defending batting champ Bill Mueller, after finding himself dropped to ninth in the order by manager Terry Francona, figured the best way out of the doghouse was to produce at the plate. A lead-off triple in the 3rd was a good way of showing he deserved to be in the lineup.

"I don't take last year for granted," Muller said. "I worked hard. I talked alot with Nomar [a former batting champ himself] and the coaching staff about my swing. The Sox have a great support staff of former players like Yaz and Pesky who still help players out. There is a great tradition here of batting champs and I knew I'd break out of the funk eventually."

Unfortunately, the unlikely triple was the only highlight on the day for the Sox. Derek Lowe and Kent Mercker combined to surrender seven runs to the Orioles in the seventh to blow open a tie ball game.

W: Rodrigo Lopez (1-0); L: Derek Lowe (0-1)
Player of the Game: Jay Gibbons. 2-4. BB, 2 Runs, 3 RBIs (12)

Upcoming Series:
Boston Red Sox (7-3) vs. New York Yankees (6-4), Fenway Park, Boston, MA (04/16-04/19)
Baltimore Orioles (3-7) @ Toronto Blue Jays (2-7), Skydome, Toronto, Canada

[Astros02]

Doesn't make sense to me that Boone would sign just to get traded, same with the Clemens/Astros situation.

[BostonRS14]

Originally Posted by Astros02

Doesn't make sense to me that Boone would sign just to get traded, same with the Clemens/Astros situation.

Neither one of them requested a no-trade clause so, they were unable to stop it. Seems like I should just restart or stop posting it, since no one seems to enjoy my moves...