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Rays Walk-Off Against Sox

Tampa Bay Rays 5, Boston Red Sox 4 (in 11 innings)

Stars of the Game:

• Manny Ramirez is a monster this year. To quote a line from Rocky 4, “Whatever he hits… he destroys.” Manny’s hitting has always looked so effortless, but when you go 3-5 and push your average up to .370, you think Manny is using a corked fungo bat.
• Kevin Cash has to be mentioned as a successful predecessor to Doug Mirabelli. So what if he can’t catch the knuckleball? Only one person in the world has been able to. But he’ll have his chance to learn. Last night Cash went 3-3 and is batting .323 in 31 AB’s. Cash isn’t this good. But season long streaks happen. And the Sox appreciate a live bat.

Diamond Duds:

Julio Lugo is bad. This game marked his 7th error. His two RBIs came on a walk by a struggling pitcher and a fielders choice ball. When his average drops below .250 I’ll have more to say. Till then.

What were you thinking Francona?

Why is Francona avoiding Okajima? In a tied game he is your best guy without wasting Papelbon. Okajima has been used only twice in the past 9 days. Instead Papelbon and Timlin warm up. OK, fair enough, so bring Papelbon in and keep it tied at least. No…instead he brings in a guy with a 13.50 ERA. A win is hanging by a thread and the worst bullpen arm is let in. Game over, Rays win.

Notes:

• Sean Casey is listed as day-to-day with a strained hip flexor. With Alex Cora and Lowell out he is needed back as soon as possible.
• Dustin Pedroia extended his hitting streak to 14 games.
• Mike Lowell (sprained left thumb) began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Pawtucket.
• Eric Hinske (Now a Ray) received his World Series ring before the game.

Tags: Hideki Okajima, Julio Lugo, Kevin Cash, Manny Ramirez, Tampa Bay Rays