Beckett Pitches Well, But Sox Still Fall 6-3 To Rangers

Josh Beckett really only made one mistake - a fastball to Mike Napoli that caught a little too much of the plate resulting in a 2-run home run that gave the Texas Rangers a 3-2 lead they wouldn't relinquish through the remainder of the game. The Rangers added 3 more runs in the top of the 8th to break the game open.

Kevin Youkilis, moved to 6th in the lineup, put Boston on top 2-0 in the bottom of the 2nd inning with his first home run of the year. It really accounted for the only Boston offense of the game. Ryan Sweeney drove in a run with an RBI single in the bottom of the 9th. Jarrod Saltalamacchia ended the game with a sharp line drive to first that resulted in a double play.

Derek Holland started on the mound for Texas. He pitched 7 strong innings allowing just 4 hits (1 of which was the Youkilis home run) while walking 3 and strking out 7.


NOTES - Beckett struck out 7 and walked only 1. It would appear he feels comfortable throwing to catcher Kelly Shoppach.

Former manager Terry Francona apparently has changed his mind and will attend the 100th anniversary of Fenway Park celebration on Friday night against the Yankees.

Jacoby Ellsbury met with the media prior to the game for the 1st time since injuring his shoulder and confirmed that surgery is not needed and once the swelling goes down he'll begin rehab.

Mark Melancon was optioned to AAA Pawtucket before the game; the Red Sox brought up pitcher Junichi Tazawa to replace him.

No game on Thursday. The Red Sox have a free open house at Fenway planned for fans featuring exhibits, autograph sessions with players, and a chance to venture into areas of the park not normally accessible to the general public.