Don’t buy your championship t-shirts just yet, but those in attendance at Fenway Park for yesterday's Sox-O’s game caught a glimpse of the future. And it is now. Ladies and gentlemen…throwing out the first pitch…Boston Celtic… Kevin Garnett. In yet another installment in a show I like to call 'Why I love the Sox,' David Ortiz caught the newly acquired 6’11” Garnett (low and in the dirt) to a roaring crowd. When asked if he would attend Celtic games this upcoming season, Ortiz said "You'll see me out there, boy!"
The Celtics are trying to compete for the prize of top team in the Hub. Not to be outmatched, the Sox created some buzz in the ballpark. Eric Gagne, one of the most accomplished reliever-setup-closers in the business was on scene and available tonight. Curt Schilling, the self-described ace of the staff, re-joined the club today as well. After several positive outings in Pawtucket, all signs point to Schilling getting the ball Monday against the Angels.
There was also a game last night, the Sox coming back to beat the O’s 5-4. (J. Lopez, W) Due to Kason Gabbard’s departure (kid we hardly knew ya’), which coincided with Schilling’s return to the rotation, meant a spot start for Julian (you make me nervous) Tavarez. Jules, who hasn’t won a start since July 1, lasted five innings for the no-decision. Being his usual schizophrenic self, Tavarez gave up three earned runs (including a Nick Markakis homer in the first), scattered seven hits, walked one, struck out none, robbed a bank and gave the money to Manny’s favorite charity.
The Sox came back from two down with a four-run seventh to take a 5-3 lead. Youk, Pedroia, Papi, and Ortiz were key. Heading into the eighth many who looked to the pen for an emerging Gagne… were disappointed. Instead, Okajima entered and promptly gave up a bomb to Tejada making it 5-4. In the ninth, Papelbon locked things down for his 24th save. Order was restored and the Sox go to bed with a 7 game lead over the team that shall not be mentioned.
Comments