Bisons Edge PawSox in Slugfest 11-10

The Buffalo Bisons swept the Pawtucket Red Sox in their two-game series at McCoy, taking last night's contest as DH Michael Aubrey drove in the game winning run in the top of the 10th to give the Bisons a 11-10 victory.

Both teams collected 18 hits. LF Trevor Crowe and 1B Jordan Brown had three hits each for Buffalo. Dusty Brown and Gil Velazquez had three apiece for Pawtucket. Each member of both starting line-ups had at least one hit.

Brown, 3B Morgan Ensberg, and SS Andy Cannizaro each belted a home run for the Bisons. Brown and Ensberg also drove in three runs each.

Although the PawSox did not hit a homer in the game, Brown drove in three runs with Josh Wilson and Keith Ginter driving in two runs each.

Neither starting pitcher figured in the decision. PawSox hurler Davern Hansack, fresh off the disabled list, worked only two innings, giving up two runs on four hits. Buffalo starter Aaron Laffey worked five innings, yielding seven runs on 11 hits. Preston Larrison (3-4) took the win in relief for Buffalo. Chris Smith (1-5) took the loss for Pawtucket.

With the loss the PawSox are officially eliminated from contention for the IL North Division title. They begin their last two-game series of the season beginning tonight (6:05 pm) against the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs at McCoy. RHP Drew Carpenter (NR) will pitch for the Iron Pigs. He'll be opposed by RHP Edgar Martinez (7-3, 4.28) for the PawSox.

NOTES: The Red Sox yesterday designated RHP Eric Hull for assignment. Hull threw in 40 games for the PawSox, garnering a 2-3 record with a 4.12 ERA.

IF/OF Joe Thurston was officially added back to the PawSox roster after being optioned back to the club by the Red Sox last week. In his return to the line-up Thurston went 2 for 5 with a strikeout.

BOX SCORE

Game Wraps- August 29, 2008

Here is what happened across the rest of the International League last night.

With the PawSox loss, the magic number for the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees to clinch the IL North Division is one, despite the Yankees falling 9-3 to the Rochester Red Wings. BOX

Kory Castro Homered and drove in two runs as the Columbus Clippers shut-out the Toledo Mud Hens 4-0. BOX

Fernando Cortez had three hits and drove in two runs as the Charlotte Knights beat the Durham Bulls 7-5. BOX

Oscar Robles had three hits and drove in three as the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs took care of the Syracuse Chiefs, 9-1. BOX

Luis Cruz homered and drove in three runs in the Indianapolis Indians' 8-4 win over the Louisville Bats. BOX

Lead-off man Brent Lillibridge had two hits and drove in three runs as the Richmond Braves beat the Norfolk Tides, 7-2. BOX

Bisons Shutout PawSox, 3-0

The Pawtucket Red Sox were limited to three hits as they fell to the Buffalo Bisons, 2-0 last night at McCoy.

Six Bisons pitchers held the PawSox in check, collecting a total of 11 strikeouts and walking no one along the way. Scott Lewis (2-2) got the start for Buffalo and picked up the win, working six innings and giving up two hits. Jeff Stevens, Rich Rundles, and Edward Buzachero closed out the Pawsox by each pitching a scoreless inning. The PawSox' hits were all singles, and came from Chris Carter, George Kottaras, and Gil Velazquez.

Pawtucket wasted a solid pitching performance from starter Charlie Zink (14-6). Zink pitched eight innings, giving up both Buffalo runs (only one earned) on seven hits. He walked three and struck out three. One of the runs came courtesy of a solo home run from Todd Linden in the top of the sixth.

The Bisons now hold a 9-6 record over the PawSox, only the second team in the league that will end the season with a winning edge over Pawtucket (Louisville is the other). The teams will wrap-up their two game series tonight (6:05 pm) at McCoy. Aaron Laffey (6-2, 3.65) will star for Buffalo. Eric Hull (2-3, 4.12) will make another spot start for Pawtucket.

NOTES: The Red Sox yesterday called up catcher David Ross and pitcher Michael Bowden from the PawSox. The Ross move was expected as the Sox were looking to have another catcher available for the postseason and needed to add Ross before August 31st. Bowden is expected to make a start tonight against the Chicago White Sox.

On a personal note, my work and family schedule is keeping me away from McCoy (and maybe the computer) this final homestand of the season. I will do my best to check in with news and notes when I can. Thanks for understanding.

BOX SCORE

Game Wraps- August 27, 2008

Here is a wrap of the rest of the action from around the International League...

The Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees have now won seven straight games, knocking off the Buffalo Bisons last night 3-2. BOX

Eight Toledo Mud Hens had at least one hit in their 11-8 victory over the Columbus Clippers. BOX

Luis Bolivar had two home runs and drove in four to lead the Louisville Bats over the Indianapolis Indians, 7-5. BOX

The Rochester Red Wings scattered eight hits on their way to a 4-2 win over the Syracuse Chiefs. BOX

Mike Costanzo drove in three runs, including the game winner in the bottom of the 10th inning, as the Norfolk Tides nipped the Durham Bulls 5-4. BOX

The Richmond Braves and Charlotte Knights had their game postponed due to rain.

PawSox Bash Iron Pigs, 14-4

The Pawtucket Red Sox continued its dominance over the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, collecting a season-high 19 hits in their 14-4 thrashing last night at Coca-Cola Park. The PawSox swept the four game series in Allentown and are 13-1 against Lehigh Valey this season.

Every member of the PawSox line-up had at least one hit, with Josh Wilson, Chris Carter, and Gil Velazquez contributing three hits each. Jeff Corsaletti, Jason Lane, Dusty Brown, and Jonathan Van Every chipped in with two hits each. Ten of the 19 hits were for extra bases.

Also impressive was that eight of the nine Pawtucket hitters had at least one RBI. Velazquez (3 RBIs) and Van Every (2 RBI's) hit back-to-back homers for the second straight game. Lane (3 RBI's) and Brown (2 RBI's) also knocked in multiple runs.

The PawSox were once again led on the mound by the bullpen, which pitched seven combined scoreless innings to close out the game. Lincoln Holdzkom (6-5) was the most impressive, throwing four innings of one hit ball to earn the win. Jon Switzer (one inning) and Hunter Jones (two innings) each gave up only one hit apiece during their outings.

PawSox starter Edgar Martinez had his issues on the mound, giving up four runs on six hits in two innings of work. He was also a bit wild, walking four and not striking out anyone.

Former Major League starter Kris Benson (1-4) took the brunt of the damage for the Iron Pigs. He gave up eight runs (six earned) on nine hits over four innings. He walked three, struck out two, and gave up both PawSox home runs. Reliever Wes Walrond did not fare much better, giving up six runs on eight hits over 1 2/3 innings.

With the win the PawSox tied a franchise record for most wins in a season at 83. They are off today and begin their final regular season homestand of the season tomorrow nignt (7:05pm) when they open a two game series with the Buffalo Bisons. Aaron Laffey (6-2) will pitch for Buffalo. He'll go up against Charlie Zink (14-5) for Pawtucket.

NOTES: With the Red Sox trading for OF Mark Kotsay yesterday, IF/OF Joe Thurston has been optioned back to Pawtucket. He should be back in the starting line-up tomorrow night.

BOX SCORE

Game Wraps- August 26, 2008

Here is how the rest of the games across the International League played out last night...

Kei Igawa picked-up his league-tying 14th win and Ben Broussard drove in three runs as the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees beat the Buffalo Bisons 9-1. BOX

The Richmond Braves scored three runs in the top of the sixth inning, enough to edge the Toledo Mud Hens 3-2. BOX

The Columbus Clippers broke a 2-2 tie with a run in the top of the sixth to beat the Louisville Bats 3-2. BOX

The Durham Bulls are champions of the IL South Division after beating the beating the Indianapolis Indians, 3-2. BOX

The Syracuse Chiefs scored five runs in the first inning to lead them to a 9-1 win over the Rochester Red Wings. BOX

The contest between the Norfolk Tides and Charlotte Knights was canceled due to rain.

PawSox Bash Iron Pigs 11-4

The PawSox pounded out 18 hits and pulled away from the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs late, 11-4, last night at Coca Cola Park. Pawtucket has won three in a row and are now 12-1 against the Iron Pigs this season.

Eight of the nine batters in the Pawtucket line-up collected at least one hit. The group was led by the newly-activated Chris Carter and 1B Jeff Natale who had four hits each. C David Ross had three hits while Keith Ginter and Gil Velazquez contributed with two apiece.

The PawSox got out of the box right away against Lehigh Valley starter J.A. Happ (8-7) by scoring five runs over the first two innings. Carter, Ginter, and Natale had RBI singles in the first while Carter and Ross drove in a pair in the second.

The PawSox did not score again until putting up six runs in the top of the ninth, on RBI singles by Ginter and Natale and back-to-back home runs by Velazquez (3-run) and Jonathan Van Every (solo).

Bartolo Colon started the game for the PawSox and was not as solid as his previous outings. He pitched three innings, giving up all four Iron Pigs Runs (3 earned) on four hits. He walked one, struck out three, and gave up a three-run homer to LF Brandon Watson.

The Pawtucket bullpen once again picked-up the pieces and threw six innings of scoreless relief. Marcus McBeth (2-1), Beau Vaighan, and Chris Smith pitched two innings each, surrendering a total of four hits. McBeth was credited with the win while Smith earned his 15th save.

Happ gave up five runs over 1 2/3 innings to take the loss. Reliever Matt Childers was the victim of the PawSox' six-run ninth.

Pawtucket plays its final regular season road game tonight (7:05 pm) as they wrap-up their four game series in Allentown. Edgar Martinez (7-3) in scheduled to pitch for Pawtucket. He will be opposed by Kris Benson (1-2) for Lehigh Valley.

NOTES- IF/OF Joe Thurston was recalled by the Red Sox to take the roster spot left vacant after J.D. Drew was placed on the 15-day disabled list. Thurston was also added to the Red Sox' 40-man roster.

Chris Smith was sent back down to Pawtucket after Tim Wakefield re-activated from the disabled list.

BOX SCORE

Bailey, Zink Capture IL Honors

For the first time in team history the Pawtucket Red Sox have teammates that have earned the International League MVP and Pitcher of the Year Awards.

OF/1B Jeff Bailey was named the IL's MVP while Charlie Zink was named Pitcher of the Year.

Bailey is among the league leaders in many offensive categories including runs scored (1st), home runs (3rd), OBP (3rd), slugging (2nd) and OPS (1st). He is the first PawSox player to earn MVP honors since Pat Dobson took home the award in 1986.

Zink is tied for the league lead in wins (14) and WHIP (1.10) He is second in ERA (2.92) and innings pitched (166 1/3). Zink is the first PawSox pitcher to win the award since Brian Rose in 1997.

Bailey and Zink were joined by IF/OF Joe Thurston and OF Chris Carter on the end of the season International League All-Star team.

Read more here.

Game Wraps- August 25, 2008

Here is a run down of the other action Around the International League from last night...

The Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees edged closer to the North Division title, pounding out 20 hits in beating the Buffalo Bisons 7-2. BOX

Dontrelle Willis pitched only one inning, yet the Toledo Mud Hens were able to defeat the Richmond Braves 3-2. BOX

Jason Pridie and Alejandro Machado had three hits each to lead the Rochester Red Wings to a 7-1 win over the Syracuse Chiefs. BOX

Shuan Cumberland and Alvin Colina drove in three runs each as the Louisville Bats set a franchise record for wins, beating the Columbus Clippers 6-3. BOX

The Durham Bulls' magic number to clinch the IL South Division is now one after a walk-off 9-8 10 inning win over the Indianapolis Indians. BOX

The Norfolk Tides beat the Charlotte Knights 4-1 in a game called in the eighth inning due to rain. BOX

PawSox Get By Iron Pigs, 4-2

For the second straight game the Pawtucket Red Sox rallied from behind to over take the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, 4-2, last night at Coca Cola Park.

Trailing 2-0 entering the fourth inning, the PawSox were able to tie the score on a two-out, two-run single to right by Josh Wilson.

Pawtucket broke the tie in the seventh, this time on a two-out, two-run single by Jeff Corsaletti.

The PawSox scattered 10 hits, with Joe Thurston collecting three and Corsaletti two. Seven Pawtucket batters had at least one hit.

The PawSox received a strong outing on the mound out of Eric Hull, who was called to make the start in place of Davern Hansack. Hull pitched five innings, giving up two runs on five hits. He struck out seven and did not walk a batter.

Jose Vaquaedano (4-1) earned the win in relief, working an 1 2/3 innings. Jon Switzer and Kyle Snyder closed out the game in scoreless fashion with Snyder picking up his first save of the season.

Left Brian Mazzone put together a solid outing for the Iron Pigs, although not figuring in the decision. He too pitched five innings, yielding two runs on five hits. He walked two and struck out seven. Les Walrond (5-8) took the loss in relief.

The PawSox are now an amazing 11-1 against the Iron Pigs this season. The pair play game three of their four game series tonight (7:05 pm). Bartolo Colon (2-1) makes another rehab start for Pawtucket. He'll be opposed by J.A. Happ (8-6) for Lehigh Valley.

BOX SCORE

Game Wraps- August 25, 2008

Here is how the rest of the action from around the International League played out yesterday...

Three Scranton/Wilkes Barre pitchers limited Buffalo to four hits as the Yankees shut out the Bisons 2-0. BOX

Carolos Maldonado had three hits and drove in three runs to lead the Indianapolis Indians to a convincing 10-6 win over the Durham Bulls. BOX

Jason Bourgeois' walk-off single in the bottom of the 10th gave the Charlotte Knights a 2-1 victory over the Norfolk Tides. BOX

The top of the Richmond line-up drove in all the team's runs in the Braves 6-0 shut out of the Toledo Mud Hens. BOX

The Syracuse Chiefs scored five runs early and held on for a 5-3 win over the Rochester Red Wings. BOX

Four Louisville batters had at least two hits as the Bats came from behind to beat the Columbus Clippers 8-5. BOX

PawSox Strike Late, Take Out Iron Pigs

The Pawtucket Red Sox scored all their runs over the last three innings, overcoming an early deficit to beat the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, 8-5 yesterday in Allentown, PA.

The PawSox were held in check over the first six innings of the game by the masterful pitching of LHV starter Carlos Carrasco. Pawtucket finally broke the string by scoring two unearned runs off Carrasco in the seventh on a ground out by Joe Thurston and a single by Jason Lane.

The PawSox took the lead with four runs in the eighth, all against Iron Pigs reliever Travis Blackley (5-10). The big hit in the inning was Jonathan Van Every's three-run double to center. Van Every would score two batters later on Thurston's RBI single up the middle.

Pawtucket added two runs in the ninth on a Keith Ginter sacrifice fly and a Gil Velazquez RBI triple.

The PawSox banged out 11 hits in the game, with Lane, George Kottaras, and Velazquez collecting two each.

Charlie Zink (14-5) started the game for the PawSox, and despite giving up all five Lehigh Valley runs (four were earned), he pitched long enough to earn the win. Zink threw seven innings, scattering five hits while walking three and striking out two. He did surrender a solo home run to 3B Mike Cervenak in the third inning.

Lincoln Holdzkom and Hunter Jones pitched the final two inning without giving up a run. Jones earned his eighth save of the season.

With the win the PawSox snapped a two game losing streak. They are currently 1-2 on this six game road trip with game two with the Iron Pigs set for tonight (7:05 pm). Davern Hansack (6-10) returns to action to pitch for the PawSox. He'll be opposed by lefty Brian Mazzone for the Iron Pigs.

BOX SCORE

Game Wraps- August 23, 2008

Here is a wrap of the other action from around the International League...

Former PawSox catcher Corky Miller went 3 for 3 with a homer to lead the Richmond Braves to a 6-1 win over the Toledo Mud Hens. The win officially eliminated the Hens from playoff contention. BOX

The Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees got a strong pitching performance from Chase Wright in shutting out the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, 4-0. BOX

Cory Castro had two hits, including a grand slam, as the Louisville Bats beat the Columbus Clippers 8-6. BOX

Syracuse starter Brent Cecil threw seven innings of no-hit ball, and the Chiefs bullpen gave up the lead, but Syracuse won in the bottom of the ninth over the Buffalo Bisons 5-4. BOX

Luis Cruz went 3 for 5 with a homer and three RBI's as the Indianapolis Indians beat the Durham Bulls 6-3. BOX

Brad Eldred blasted his 35th home run on the season, and he also drove in four runs, in the Charlotte Knights' 9-5 win over the Norfolk Tides. BOX

PawSox Lose to Wings, Still Gain Playoff Berth

For the first time since 2003 the Pawtucket Red Sox will be playing in the Governor's Cup Playoffs.

The PawSox lost last night's game to the Rochester Red Wings, 4-3, but secured the playoff spot as a result of Toledo's 6-1 loss to Richmond.

Last night's game was a tough one for Pawtucket to lose, as they saw an early 3-0 lead evaporate when Rochester scored three runs in the bottom of the seventh. PawSox starter Michael Bowden began the frame by allowing a double to left by LF Bobby Kielty. Two batters later SS Trevor Plouffe knocked in Kielty with a single to center. Kyle Snyder replaced Bowden and served up a two run homer to 2B Matt Macri, costing Bowden a chance for his first Triple A win.

The PawSox broke out of the gate fast in this game, scoring a pair of runs in the first on a Jason Lane two-run homer and another in the second on an RBI single by Josh Wilson.

For the game the PawSox collected 7 hits. Jeff Corsaletti had three of them, including a triple. Wilson added two. Plouffe and Macri added two hits each for the Wings.

Bowden again pitched well but did not figure in the decision. He gave up three runs on six hits in his 6 1/3 innings of work. He struck out six and did not walk a batter. Snyder (1-4) was saddled with the loss.

Rochester starter Brian Bass made his Red Wings debut, going four innings, giving up three runs on four hits. He walked two and struck out three. Mariano Gomez (5-2) picked-up the win in relief.

The PawSox now head to Allentown, PA to begin a four game series this evening (5:35 pm) with the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs. Charlie Zink (13-5) will pitch for Pawtucket. He'll be opposed by Carlos Carrasco (1-2) for the Iron Pigs.

NOTES- Scranton/Wilkes Barre defeated Lehigh Valley 4-0 last night and have extended its lead in the IL North Division over the PawSox to 3 1/2 games. The chances of the PawSox taking the division crown are slipping away as the Pawtucket has only 8 games remaining to play.

David Pauley has been promoted to Boston following the placement of reliever David Aardsma on the 15-day disabled list. No word on who in the PawSox staff will assume Pauley's next start in the rotation.

PawSox outfielder Jonathan Van Every returned to the line-up yesterday after missing the last three games with a stiff neck. In his first game back Van Every went 0 for 2 with a walk.


BOX SCORE

Game Wraps- August 22, 2008

Here are the results from other action around the International League...

The Toledo Mud Hens keep their playoff hopes alive, edging the Norfolk Tides 6-5. BOX

The Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees scored nine runs over the last three innings to overtake the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, 13-12, in a thriller at PNC Field. BOX

Jason Cooper went 3 for 4 with a triple as the Buffalo Bisons beat the Syracuse Chiefs 6-3. BOX

Chris Nowak had four gits and drove in two runs as the Durham Bulls beat the Louisville Bats 6-2. BOX

Jorge Cortes belted his first homer of the season, leading the Indianapolis Indians to a 3-2 win over the Charlotte Knights. BOX

The Richmond Braves used a seven run second inning to propel them to a 8-4 win over the Columbus Clippers. BOX

Wings Top PawSox 5-1

The PawSox will have to wait at least one more day before they can celebrate clinching a playoff berth.

Rochester starter Phillip Humber kept the PawSox bats in check, throwing a complete game five hitter as the Red Wings beat the PawSox 5-1 last night at Frontier Field.

With the Toledo Mud Hen's victory, the PawSox' magic number to clinch a playoff spot in the International League playoffs remains at one. They also now trail Scranton/Wilkes Barre by 2 1/2 games in the IL North Division.

In going the distance Humber (9-8) struck out eight and walked no one. The only PawSox run against him came on newly acquired catcher David Ross' solo home run in the fourth.

Offensively the Red Wings got all the runs they needed in the third when they scored four runs off PawSox starter Edgar Martinez (7-3). With one out DH Alejandro Machado reached on a single and advanced to second on a ground out by RF Howie Clark. 1B Garrett Jones knocked in Machado with a single to right. After LF Bobby Kielty walked, 3B Luke Hughes cleared the bases with a double to center. Hughes scored one batter later as SS Trevor Plouffe lined an RBI single to left.

Jones added another run in the fifth by belting a solo homer to left, his 21st of the season, off PawSox reliever Beau Vaughan.

Martinez pitched only 3 1/3 innings giving up four runs on five hits. He walked three and struck out three. Despite giving up the homer to Jones Vaughan pitched well, throwing 3 2/3 innings yielding only one hit. He struck out three and walked no one. Marcus McBeth struck out two batters in pitching a scoreless eighth inning.

Both Ross for Pawtucket and Jones for the Wings led their teams with two hits each.

The PawSox did commit three errors in the game, but none of of them contributed in any great way to the Red Wings' runs.

The two teams close out their brief two game series tonight (7:05 pm). Michael Bowden (0-3) still seeks his first Triple A win for Pawtucket. He'll be opposed by Brian Bass, making his debut for the Red Wings.

BOX SCORE

Game Wraps- August 21, 2008

Here are the results from the rest of the action from around the International League last night...

Kei Igawa won his 13th game of the season and Juan Miranda belted two homers to lead the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees over the Rochester Red Wings, 8-7. BOX

The Norfolk Tides made the most of their 12 hits, dominating the Toledo Mud Hens 7-1. BOX

Brandon Watson had three hits, including a homer and three RBI's to pace the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs to a 7-3 win over the Buffalo Bisons. BOX

The Louisville Bats retain the best record in the IL following their 6-3 win over Durham. BOX

A five run third inning helped propel the Columbus Clippers to a 6-1 win over the Richmond Braves. BOX

Josh Fields homered and drove in both Charlotte runs in their 2-1 win over the Indianapolis Indians. BOX

PawSox, Colon Dominate Chiefs

PAWTUCKET- Solid pitching. Timely hitting. Those phrases may be over used but that’s exactly how the PawSox earned their 8-3 win tonight over the Syracuse Chiefs.

With the win, combined with Toledo’s loss, the PawSox are now one game away from clinching a playoff berth. Pawtucket still trails Scranton/Wilkes Barre by 1 1/2 games in the IL North Division

Bartolo Colon, making his fourth start on this current rehab stint with the PawSox, threw four innings of hitless ball. He walked two and struck out two. He again was on a pitch limit, throwing only 40 pitches, 23 for strikes. His fastball consistently was clocked at between 88 and 90 miles per hour. This is the fifth start this season for Pawtucket that Colon did not allow a run.

“I liked his command and movement” said PawSox Manager Ron Johnson, “He just looked crisp to me”.

“He had good life on his fastball” said PawSox catcher George Kottaras, “He was up on the mound ready to pitch. He went after the hitters.”

Johnson said Colon is scheduled to make another start next Tuesday in Lehigh Valley where his pitch count in expected to increase.

Colon was followed on the mound by Jose Vaquedano (3-1) who pitched 2 1/3 innings of scoreless ball to earn the win. Jon Switzer pitched 1 2/3 innings giving up only one hit. Eric Hull finished closed out the game in the ninth, yielding all three Syracuse runs.

Pawtucket scored three runs off Syracuse starter Ricky Romero (1-3) in the first. With one out Joe Thurston reached on an infield singe and Jason Lane followed with a double to right. After George Kottaras struck out, Dusty Brown walked to load the bases. Sandy Madera then blooped a double down the right field line scoring two. Keith Ginter followed with a single to left, plating Brown. On the play Madera was thrown out at the plate to end the inning.

Madera drove in another run in the third with an RBI single to right to plate Kottaras, who reached on a double. Jeff Corsaletti drove in the PawSox' fifth run with an RBI single in the sixth.

Pawtucket added three more in the seventh. Lane got his first home run in a Pawtucket uniform driving a two-run blast into the berm in left. The PawSox then loaded the bases and scored their eighth run on a wild pitch by Syracuse reliever Jordan De Jong.

Every member of the PawSox line-up had at least one hit. Thurston, Lane, Kottaras, Madera, Brown, and Ginter had two hits each. Buck Coats and Travis Snyder had two hits for the Chiefs. Snyder knocked in both Syracuse runs.

The PawSox embark on their last road trip of the season beginning tomorrow night (7:05pm) with the first of two games in Rochester against the Red Wings. Edgar Martinez (7-2, 3.79 ERA) throws for Pawtucket. Phillip Humber (8-8, 4.94 ERA) goes for the Red Wings.

NOTES: Reliever Chris Smith was promoted to Boston to fill the roster spot left by the demotion yesterday of Clay Buchholz to Portland. Smith is 1-0 with a 2.16 ERA in 5 games this season with the Red Sox.

Johnson expects newly signed catcher David Ross will join the team tomorrow night in Rochester. Ross played 52 games with the Reds this season, batting .231 with three homers and 13 RBI’s.

BOX SCORE

PawSox Handle Chiefs 8-3

The PawSox were in total control tonight, taking care of the Syracuse Chiefs tonight 8-3 at McCoy.

More to come

PawSox Still In Control Through Six

Tha PawSox are leading the Syracuse Chiefs, 5-0 after six innings at McCoy.

Pawtucket scored three runs in the first and one in the third off Syracuse starter Ricky Romero. They added another off Romero in the sixth on a single by Jeff Corsaletti. Sandy Madera has three RBI's in the game.

The story of the game thus far is the outing by PawSox starter Bartolo Colon, who pitched four hitless innings in his latest rehab start. The PawSox pitching staff has only allowed one hit through six innings.

PawSox Increase Lead Over Syracuse, Colon Done

The PawSox added another run and now lead 4-0 after four innings tonight at McCoy.

Sandy Madera added his third RBI of the night with an RBI single in the third.

Bartolo Colon is pitching a gem, not allowing a hit through four. He has struck out two and walked two. He has only thrown 40 pitches, 23 for strikes..

Jose Vaquedano has come on in relief to begin the fifth inning.

PawSox Lead Chiefs 3-0 After Two Innings

Good start for the PawSox tonight as they lead the Syracuse Chiefs 3-0 after two innings tonight at McCoy.

Pawtucket scored their runs in the top of the first on a 2-run double by Sandy Madera and a RBI single by Keith Ginter.

Barolo Colon is pitching well for the PawSox. He has not given up a hit through two innings. He has thrown 23 pitches, 14 for strikes. He is on a pitch count of between 45 and 50 pitches.

Mike Schmidt and Men's Health

This podcast is geared to the men who read the PawSox Blog.

Former Phillies Hall of Fame third baseman Mike Schmidt is at McCoy tonight to, of course, talk baseball, but also about a common health problem experienced by men over 40.




You can read what he had to say about baseball elsewhere. Go to http://www.talkaboutbph.com/.

Game 133- Chiefs vs. PawSox, August 21, 2008

It's the rubber game tonight (7:05pm) of the three game series between the PawSox host the Syracuse Chiefs at McCoy. Syracuse took game one of the series, 4-2, on Tuesday while Pawtucket won last night's contest, 8-5. LHP Ricky Romero (1-2, 3.52 ERA) throws for Syracuse. He'll be opposed by Bartolo Colon (2-1, 1.93 ERA) for Pawtucket.

I am at the game this evening. Here's a brief preview...

Syracuse Chiefs (62-66)

LINE-UP

Wayne Lydon RF
Curtis Thigpen 1B
Buck Coats CF
Russ Adams 2B
Hector Luna 3B
Travis Snyder RF
Kevin Melillo DH
Pedro Lopez SS
Brian Jeroloman C

Romero makes his fourth start of the season for Syracuse. His last outing came last Friday against the PawSox where he took the loss, throwing six innings, giving up five runs on seven hits. That outing was the worst of his Triple A season.

Pawtucket Red Sox (78-54)

LINE-UP

Sean Danielson CF
Joe Thurston 2B
Jason Lane RF
George Kottaras C
Dusty Brown DH
Sandy Madera 1B
Keith Ginter 3B
Jeff Corsaletti LF
Gil Velazquez 1B

Colon makes his sixth start overall for the PawSox and his fourth in this current rehab assignment. He last pitched last Friday in Syracuse. He did not figure in the decision, working only one inning and giving up two hits. In his six previous starts with Pawtucket, Colon has not surrendered a run in four of them. Colon will still be on a pitch limit of between 45 and 50 pitches.

Sorry for the short preview...Internet problems. Join me for updates throughout the game

Game Wraps- August 20, 2008

Here is how the rest of the action from around the International League played out last night...

Trevor Plouffe had two triples and drove in five runs to pace the Rochester Red Wings over the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees, 7-2. BOX

Dontrelle Willis gave up 5 runs (3 earned) but still got the rehab win as the Toledo Mud Hens beat the Norfolk Tides 8-5. BOX

Jeff Neimann cooled off the Louisville Bats, throwing a complete game 5-0 shutout for the Durham Bulls. BOX

The Buffalo Bisons rode a seven run fourth inning to a 10-5 win over the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs. BOX

The Columbus Clippers took the lead with two runs in the bottom of the seventh and held on for a 4-3 win over the Richmond Braves. BOX

The Charlotte Knights came from behind to edge the Indianapolis Indians in 11 innings 5-4. Brad Eldred added his 34th homer of the season in the Knights' win. BOX

PawSox Rebound to Beat Chiefs 8-5

The Pawtucket Red Sox scored all their runs in the middle innings in beating the Syracuse Chiefs, 8-5 last night at McCoy. With the win the PawSox cut their magic number in securing a playoff berth in the International League Playoffs to three. They are also only 1 2/2 games behind Scranton/Wilkes Barre for the lead in the North Division.

Trailing 2-1 entering the bottom of the fifth, the PawSox blew the game open with five runs against Syracuse reliever Chris George (0-1). Joe Thurston lead off the inning with a walk and then stole second. After Jason Lane and Geroge Kottaras were retired, Dusty Brown walked. Sandy Madera drove in Thurston with a single to center. After Keith Ginter walked to load the bases, Brown scored on a wild pitch. Jeff Corsaletti then cleared the bases with a three-run homer run to right center, his second of the season.

Corsaletti drove in Pawtucket's first run of the game with a sacrifice fly in the fourth. The PawSox scored two more in the sixth on a Brown RBI single and a bases loaded hit-by-pitch to Ginter.

The PawSox were supported on the mound by another solid performance from starter David Pauley. Pauley (14-4) earned the win, Giving up four runs on seven hits. He struck out two and did not walk a batter. He gave up a pair of runs each in the fifth and seventh innings.

Kyle Snyder came on in relief of Pauley and gave up a run over 2 1/3 innings of work. Hunter Jones closed the game for the PawSox, earning his seventh save.

Corsaletti led all PawSox batters with 4 RBI's on the night. Brown had three hits while Thurston and Madera chipped in with two apiece.

For the Chiefs Hector Luna had three hits and scored three runs. Buck Coats, Russ Adams, and Travis Snyder had two hits each.

The two teams play the rubber game of the three game set tonight (7:05 pm). Ricky Romero (1-2) takes the mound for the Chiefs. He'll be opposed by Bartolo Colon (2-1) for the PawSox.

NOTES: According to Fox Sports, the PawSox may soon have another catcher in the clubhouse

Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt will be at the game tonight. He is in town as part of a Prostate Health Awareness campaign. He will be made available to fans for autographs at the game. More information on his appearance can be found at www.TalkAboutBPH.com.

BOX SCORE

Game Wraps- August 19, 2008

Here is a look at the other action from around the International League from Tuesday night..

The Rochester Red Wings belted a pair of home runs, including one from former PawSox Bobby Kielty, in their 3-1 win over the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees. BOX

The Toledo Mud Hens are still alive in the playoff hunt, winning 2-1 in 11 innings over the Norfolk Tides. BOX

The Louisville Bats came back from a 8-2 deficit to beat the Durham Bulls in 1o innings 9-8, BOX

The Buffalo Bisons scored 10 unanswered runs on 17 hits to dominate the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, 10-1. BOX

The Columbus Clippers scored six runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to over take the Richmond Braves 8-5. BOX

Brad Eldred belted his 33rd homer of the season as the Charlotte Knights edged the Indianapolis Indians 4-3. BOX

Chiefs Overtake PawSox 4-2

PAWTUCKET- The Syracuse Chiefs scored single runs in each of the last three innings to break a 1-1 tie and defeat the PawSox, 4-2, tonight at McCoy.

Both PawSox runs came via the long ball as SS Josh Wilson led off the bottom of the first with a homer into the Pawtucket bullpen in left and C George Kottaras belted a solo home run to right in the bottom of the ninth.

Pawtucket could only muster six hits against four Syracuse pitchers.

“It just was a night when we had a tough time scoring runs", said PawSox Manager Ron Johnson, “We didn’t do a lot of threatening.”

Pawtucket starter Charlie Zink (13-5) proved to be the tough luck loser, giving up a pair of solo homers, to DH Hector Luna in the second and 3B Danny Sandoval in the seventh. He worked seven innings, giving up only three hits. He struck out seven and walked no one. He threw 91 pitches, 65 for strikes.

“I was really happy with my control” said Zink “I hung one to Sandoval and thought I made a good one to Luna down low, but he was able to get it out.”

“(Charlie) definitely pitched well enough to win” said Johnson.

PawSox reliever Chris Smith gave up a solo run in the seventh on a lead-off double by 1B Kevin Melillo and a sacrifice fly to SS Pedro Lopez.

New PawSox reliever Marcus McBeth pitched the ninth and gave up a double by CF Buck Coats and a sacrifice fly to center by 2B Russ Adams.

Syracuse starter Scott Richmond pitched five solid innings, although he did not figure in the decision. He gave up one run on four hits. He walked two and struck out six. His lone mistake came when he surrendered Wilson’s homer in the first..

Lefty Bill Murphy (6-10) came on in relief of Richmond and pitched two scoreless innings to pick-up the win.

Kottaras and LF Jeff Corsaletti had two hits apiece for the PawSox.

The PawSox still trail Scranton/Wilkes Barre, 2 ½ games out of first place in the IL North.

Game two of the three game series with the Chiefs continues tomorrow night (7:05pm) RHP Brian Wolfe (2-2, 2.39 ERA) throws for Syracuse. He’ll be opposed by David Pauley (13-4, 3.45 ERA) for Pawtucket.

NOTES- PawSox outfielder Jonathan Van Every, who returned to the line-up tonight after missing a few weeks with a strained oblique, left the game in the fifth with a stiff neck and was replaced by Sean Danielson. Johnson said he is day-to-day.

Johnson has announced his rotation for the next five days. Pauley will pitch tomorrow night. Bartolo Colon will make another rehab start Thursday. Edgar Martinez will start on Friday at Rochester in place of Davern Hansack, who was placed on the disabled list yesterday. Michael Bowden will be pushed back one day and start the second game of the Red Wings series Saturday.

BOX SCORE

PawSox Fall to Chiefs 4-2

Tough night for the PawSox as they fall to the Syracuse Chiefs, 4-2, tonight at McCoy.

More coming up...

PawSox and Chiefs Still Tied at 1-1

Status quo from McCoy as the PawSox and Chiefs are still tied 1-1 after six innings.

After giving up a solo homer in the second, PawSox starter Charlie Zink has been outstanding. He has retired the last seven Syracuse batters, throwing at total of 81 pitches, 56 for strikes.

Chiefs/PawSox Still Tied Though Four

No changes at McCoy as the Chiefs and PawSox are still tied 1-1 after four innings.

PawSox starter Charlie Zink has been solid through four. He has given up two hits while walking no one and striking out four. He has thrown 59 pitches, 43 for strikes.

PawSox/Chiefs Knotted at 1-1 After Two

The PawSox and Syracuse Chiefs are tied at 1-1 after two innings tonight at McCoy.

Both runs came courtesy of solo homers...by Pawtucket's Josh Wilson in the first and Syracuse's Hector Luna in the second.

Lane A Welcomed Addition

PAWTUCKET- Baseball is a game of opportunities. And Jason Lane has another one here in Pawtucket.

The Red Sox signed the 31-year old outfielder to a minor league contract today and assigned him to the PawSox. Lane opted out of his contract with the Yankees over the weekend and quickly signed with Boston.

“I’m excited to come here and get some bats and help this team win” said Lane

Lane spent his entire season with Scranton/Wilkes Barre, batting .236 with 16 homers and 51 RBI’s. He traditionally has provided a power bat for every team he has played but has struggled with consistency.

“I’m trying to get a little more consistent. I’ve had some good power numbers. I just want to get my average higher and have good quality at bats.”

He comes to the PawSox at a time when they are in need of outfield support. For the last two weeks Pawtucket has been without two of the better hitting outfielders in the International League in Jonathan Van Every and Chris Carter, both sidelined with strained oblique muscles. (Van Every returned to the PawSox line-up tonight) Combined the pair has hit 48 home runs and driven in 141 runs, production difficult to replace.

“You don’t want to be short going down the stretch” said PawSox Manager Ron Johnson, “We kind of battled with that the last few days of the road trip. “I’m really pleased we were able to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Lane was drafted by the Houston Astros in the sixth round of the 1999 draft. He has played parts of six seasons in the Major Leagues, with the Astros and San Diego Padres. In 497 big league games he compiled a .241 average with 61 home runs and 189 RBI’s. His best year came with the Astros in 2005 when he helped lead Houston to the National League pennant by going .267 with 26 homers and 78 RBI’s in 145 games. He also played in all 14 post season games in the Astros’ run through the postseason.

Being in the Yankee organization this season Lane knows of the importance of the rivalry between New York and Boston. And it may be to Pawtucket’s advantage if it faces Scranton in the International League playoffs.

“It’s a little different to go from one to the other but it just seemed like the best fit for me” he said.

With the PawSox in the midst of a playoff run, there is no doubt his experience, ability, and potential will do nothing to hurt the club.

“He’s a guy whose got major league experience and I can’t see how he’s not going to help this club”, said Johnson.

Game 131- Chiefs vs. PawSox, August 19, 2008

The PawSox return home to McCoy tonight (7:05pm) for a brief three-game series with the Syracuse Chiefs. Scott Richmond (0-2, 2.53 ERA) will pitch for Syracuse. He'll be opposed by Charlie Zink (13-4, 2.89 ERA) for Pawtucket.

I am at McCoy tonight. Here is a preview...

Syracuse Chiefs (61-55)

LINE-UP

Wayne Lydon RF
Buck Coats CF
Danny Sandoval 3B
Russ Adams 2B
Hector Luna DH
Travis Snyder LF
Kevin Melillo 1B
Brian Jeroloman C
Pedro Lopez SS

The Chiefs enter the game in fourth place in the IL's North Division 16 1/2 games behind Scranton/Wilkes Barre.

Richmond makes his first start for the Chiefs since July 22nd. He spent the last three weeks with the Blue Jays, where he made three starts with a record of 0-2 and a 5.06 ERA. Richmond has made five starts for the Chiefs, surrendering 9 earned runs while striking out 31 and walking six.


Highly touted Blue Jays outfield prospect Travis Snyder makes his first appearance at McCoy. In 9 games with the Chiefs he is hitting .375 with a homer and 9 RBI's. Snyder was Toronto's number 1 draft pick in 2006.

Pawtucket Red Sox (77-53)

LINE-UP

Josh Wilson SS
Joe Thurston 2B
Jason Lane RF
George Kottaras C
Dusty Brown DH
Keith Ginter 3B
Gil Velazquez 1B
Jeff Corsaletti LF
Jonathan Van Every CF

Pawtucket edged closer to clinching a playoff berth even though they did not play last night. Toledo's loss to Richmond puts the PawSox magic number at 4. They are still in second place, 2 1/2 games behind Scranton in the IL's North Division. The PawSox hold a 8-5 edge on the Syracuse thus far this season.

There were two roster moves made today. The biggest is that the Red Sox have signed OF Jason Lane, who opted out of his contract with the Yankees over the weekend. In 97 games for Scranton he batted .236 with 16 homers and 51 RBI's. He is a welcomed sight for PawSox Manager Ron Johnson, who has had to field a team decimated by injuries...

"You don’t want to be short going down the stretch", said Johnson, "We kind of battled with that the last few days of the road trip."

"I'm excited to come here and get some bats and help this team win." said Lane before the game.

The other official move is the arrival of reliever Marcus McBeth. He was acquired off waivers from the Cincinnati Reds. In 24 games with Triple A Louisville he had a 1-1 record with a 6.20 ERA. McBeth was 3-2 with a 5.95 ERA in 23 appearances with the Reds in 2007. Johnson said that McBeth may see action as early as tonight.

Elsewhere on the injury front, Davern Hansack has been placed on the disabled list after big hit by a batted ball off his right forearm Sunday in Buffalo. Johnson said the injury is just a contusion and he doesn't think Hansack will miss more than one start.

Jonathan Van Every is back in the line-up after missing the last couple of weeks with a strained oblique. Chris Carter also did some throwing today and appears to be making progress in his recovery from an oblique injury. No word as of yet on when he will return to action.

Zink makes his return to the PawSox after making his Major League debut one week ago for the Red Sox. Zink's last Triple A outing came on August 8th, a no decision against Charlotte. He pitched seven innings, giving up three runs on six hits. He had one of his best outings of the year against the Chiefs July 3rd when he pitched a complete game, 2-hit shutout in the PawSox' 3-0 win at McCoy.

Al lot going on here tonight...check back as we provide updates throughout the game.

Game Wraps- August 18, 2008

Even though the PawSox were off, there was other action from around the International League last night...

Brandon Jones belted two homers and accounted for all the runs as the Richmond Braves shut out the Toledo Mud Hens 3-0. BOX

The Norfolk Tides scored six runs in the third inning and held on for a 8-7 win over the Charlotte Knights. BOX

It was an exciting contest in Indy with the Indianapolis Indians getting the last laugh, nipping the Durham Bulls 9-8. BOX

Buffalo scored four runs in the fourth inning, enough for a 5-1 win over the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs. BOX

The Louisville freight train became slightly derailed last night as the Columbus Clippers scored three runs in the bottom of the ninth to come away with a 7-6 win over the Bats. BOX

The Day at Fenway

Since there is no PawSox game tonight I thought I would share with you some of the photos I took at the Futures at Fenway experience on August 9th. Some of these photos I posted before...others may be new to you...Enjoy!

The Scene on Yawkey Way

Games for the kids...

PawSox autograph session

Paws and Sox in the house

Pre-game banter between RJ and Gary Disarcina

Charlotte players await the start of action

Pre-game warm-ups