Beckett Returns as Sox Win 11-6

V-Mart and co celebrate his first career grand slam.

Josh Beckett, making his first start in nine days because of back stiffness, returned to the mound tonight in his final start of the season. He was not on his game, throwing 98 pitches over five innings while surrendering four run and giving up two base runners an inning. Hopefully he got that out of his system, and we'll give him the benefit of the doubt because of the layoff in between starts. Beckett did pick up the win though and finishes the season 17-6 with a 3.86 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 199 Ks. Paul Byrd threw two rocky innings of relief; is it possible we see him on the postseason roster as a possible innings eater? I don't think so. 2005 draft pick LHP Dustin Richardson pitched a clean frame to finish off the ballgame.

V-Mart jacked a grand slam to cap off a seven-run second inning for the Sox. Pedroia nailed his 14th dinger of the year and added three walks. RF Brian Anderson had three hits, a homer, and three RBIs while filling in for JD Drew. Dusty Brown, who took over for Victor at catcher at the end of the game, hit his first career homer.

NOTES:
-Manny Delcarmen was apparently in a car accident Saturday afternoon. He was treated for back and kneck injuries, and should be OK.
-Wake's back continues to bother him. Doubtful we see him on the postseason roster.
-Rocco will have an MRI Monday on his hip flexor. Not good news for his status for the ALDS roster. Brian Anderson had a good night, and he may be in line for that backup OF position and his right handed bat helps his case.
-Jacoby and Lowell received a night off tonight. Lowell's thumb appears to be bothering him.