When Theo Epstein was basking in his Caribbean retreat last off-season, setting up the players on the Red Sox like some multi-million dollar chessboard, last night is what he pictured. A late September night, playoffs on the line, and his two big-money signings come through with huge hits to win the game. And for the icing on the cake, his much-maligned deadline acquisition gets the “W.”
This one had nuts-in-the-vice ending written all over it. After leading the entire game, the Rays take the lead with one mighty swing by Carlos Pena. The Yankees had already won their marathon and a loss would send the Red Sox back to the land of a one-game lead in the East. But Captain Tek and the Sox had other ideas. A lead-off Varitek home run in the ninth tied it, and a two-run shot by Julio Lugo later in the inning would be the game-winner. JD Drew had already earned his keep earlier in the game with a home run and a two-run double. Enter Papelbon, and welcome to the playoffs.
October baseball in Boston is now a certainty this year. While the Sox did hang out on the carpet of the Trop for a few extra high-fives, they know their work is not done. History has shown that just getting to the post-season gives you a shot at winning it all, but the Sox have a division title within their grasp. Not to mention a shot at best record in the AL and the perks that come with it.
Tim Wakefield takes the mound today to try and recapture his dominance over the Rays. In doing so, he would chip another game off the magic number. We’re watching you, Timmy.
