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Beckett Tosses Shutout Against Braves

The Red Sox welcomed back old friend Derek Lowe, who left after helping the Red Sox win their first world series since 1918 back in 2004. Lowe moved onto the Dodgers and then the Braves, and has never pitched against the Red Sox in his career. He pitched pretty well Saturday night, allowing three runs on seven hits in 6.1 innings pitched, but his return was overshadowed by a vintage performance from Josh Beckett.

Beckett threw his first complete game shutout in a Red Sox uniform, allowing just five singles with no walks and seven strikeouts in a 3-0 win. He needed only 94 pitches to get through all nine innings, and faced just two batters above the minimum thanks to two double plays.

Sox Stud of the Game

Jason Varitek, C: Not only did he catch Beckett’s masterpiece, but he also was solid at the plate too. Tek finished 2-3 with two doubles and two runs scored.

Sox Dud of the Game

Mark Kotsay, 1B: Kotsay started at first to give Mike Lowell a night off (Kevin Youkilis moved to third) and finished 0-4 with two men left on base. He was not alone though among the duds. Joining Kotsay in the 0-fer club: Dustin Pedroia (0-4, RBI), Jason Bay (0-4), Jacoby Ellsbury (0-3).

That’s What He Said

“A nice gesture by the fans. They clearly didn’t have to do it. They didn’t come to watch me,” said Lowe. “They’re great fans. They’re very loyal. But you tip your hat to Beckett. It was a great game, but it was a loss.”

Game Notes

W: Josh Beckett (8-3)
L: Derek Lowe (7-5)

• David Ortiz finished 1-4 with a double.
• Nick Green (2-3) joined Varitek as the only Sox batters with two hits.

Tags: Atlanta Braves, David Ortiz, Derek Lowe, Jason Varitek, Josh Beckett, Mark Kotsay, Nick Green

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