Red Sox lose another in Chicago, 3-1
Final Score: Chicago White Sox 3, Boston Red Sox 1
The Red Sox dropped their second game in a row, losing the first two out of three to their Chicago cousins, the White Sox. White Sox starter Jose Quintana had a no-hitter through the first six innings before David Ortiz broke it up with a broken bat single. The Red Sox would manage just one run in the game, giving starter Felix Doubront his second loss of the season.
Bright Spots:
- Doubront struggled mightily in the beginning of the season but seemed to have found his groove of late, throwing six efficient innings while giving up two runs.
- Many have doubted Jacoby Ellsbury’s ability to repeat his 2011 campaign, and though he has been off to a very rough start as of late there are some signs that he may be turning things around. Ellsbury went 1-3 in the game with an RBI, which is a good sign for the slumping center fielder.
Downers
- The offense has been a big strength for the Red Sox as of late, but last night they fell flat in Chicago. The Sox managed just four hits in the game, while the White Sox surged forward to put three runs on the board, rolling over their Boston cousins.
- Jonny Gomes and Will Middlebrooks have both been slumping so far on the season, which continued into Tuesday night’s game as they went a combined 0-7.
Starting Pitching Rewind
Despite being stuck with the loss, Doubront had what easily could be considered his best start this season. Walks have been Doubront’s Achilles Heal, as he has thrown far to many 30-pitch innings which have sapped his arm strength. Doubront threw just 85 pitches last night, walking two and striking out three while surrendering two runs. Over the last seven days Doubront has a 3.25 ERA which is a very good sign as the Sox could benefit from a boost to their pitching staff.
Quote of the Game:
“Working every day. I’m seeing the results,” Doubront said. “Everything is going in the right direction right now. Just looking forward to my next outing.”
Looking Ahead:
The Sox will wrap up the series on Wednesday night. Clay Buchholz will take the mound, giving the Sox a good chance to avoid the sweep. The Sox will then head home to Fenway to face the Cleveland Indians as Indians manager Terry Francona makes his return to Boston.
