It seems the Sox are scoring in bunches. Whether you think that's good or bad, it's happening and -- for at least the last two games -- it is working.
A big five-run second inning propelled the Sox to a 6-4 win over the Orioles on Thursday night. Daisuke Mastuzaka earned his 9th win of the season with his work.
Dice-K pitched really well until the O's had their own big sixth inning. After not allowing a run through five, he gave up four runs in the sixth. He came out of the game with two outs in the 6th. He wound up walking just one batter, though, and struck out six.
J.D. Drew busted a recent slump by going 3 for 4. David Ortiz had two RBI while Adrian Beltre hit a solo home run -- 25th of the season. (Sidebar: Can you believe Beltre is pushing 30 home runs? After his slow start, I'm shocked.) Mike Lowell was the only other Sox with multiple hits, as he racked in two.
Scott Atchison -- like the amazing bulldog of a pitcher he is -- pitched two scoreless, hitless innings while striking out three. His ERA now sits at 3.97 and his WHIP at 1.22. Hideki Okajima also earned an out. (Yay! An out!)
Jonathan Papelbon pulled in his 35th save as he closes in on 40. If he saves 42 games this year, it'll be a career-high. It wasn't the easiest of saves, though, as Paps gave up two hits, but did strike out two back-to-back to finish the game.
Friday? It's a Sox v. Sox battle meaning ... Manny is back.
Should we get excited, or no?