Saying that last night's win at the Trop was big is probably the most understated thing that I could say, but last night's win was rather important for the Sox. With the uncertainty of how Beckett is going to play, the fight in the Rays, and the struggles of the big men (Dustin Pedroia, David Ortiz), I don't think that last night's win could have been any bigger.
The Rays are a great team and Joe Maddon a great manager so stealing the first one on the road could be what the series comes down to. Daisuke Matsuzaka pitched incredibly well, a lot better than anyone could have expected or even asked for. To hold such a talented lineup hitless through six innings was unbelievable, and for a moment it looked like he might throw a no-no. Daisuke scares the crud out of me the majority of the time with things like loading the bases on walks in the first inning, giving up back to back hits to lead off an inning, but he somehow manages to wave his magic wand and make everything go away, the man is incredible.
I'm not sure putting Dice back out there for the eighth was the right call by Tito, but I understand it. Put him out there hope for two outs so you can go directly to Papelbon for the four out save, it makes sense. Hideki Okajima and Justin Masterson did exceptionally well getting through the eighth, including the double play ball off the bat of Evan Longoria which saved the Sox and Daisuke from trouble.
I look forward to tonight's game with Josh Beckett vs. Scott Kazmir, should be a good one. If Beckett is even close to his usual postseason form it will be hard for anyone to contend with the Sox especially with the way Jon Lester pitched in the Division Series, and the way Daisuke pitched last night. Tonight should be a great night for Pedroia to step out of his slump with the way that he has hit Kazmir in the past. Hoping for a win tonight, but if the Sox don't come away with one then at least the series will be tied heading back to the Fens.
--Ryan Michaud
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