The American League squeaked out a 4-3 win last night over the National League to continue it’s dominance over the senior circuit. Boston Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon picked up the win with New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera saving it for him.
Jason Bay went 1-for-2 in the game as the starting left fielder while Kevin Youkilis had a single as a pinch-hitter late in the game. Josh Beckett and Tim Wakefield didn’t play in the game.
Beckett was only available if there was an emergency last night since he had just pitched on Sunday. And Rays and AL skipper Joe Maddon stated that he would use Wakefield if the game went into extra innings. Wakefield was of course diplomatic about it but many feel he should have gotten to pitch last night.
Wakefield is 42-years old and was at his first All-Star Game in his 17-year career. Depending on whether or not he plays next year, this could have been his first and last All-Star appearance. Now I do understand Maddon’s reasoning after what happened last season but the least thing he could have done was thrown Wakefield a bone and let him pitch even if it were to one batter.
It’s just a shame Wake didn’t get to play. I’m pretty sure Maddon might get booed now when the Rays return to Fenway Park in September.
Two days I’ll never forget [Jason Bay – Full Count]
Keeping up with Sox’ current events [Boston Globe]
Another wild outing for Papelbon, but the stars still shine on him [Providence Journal]
Ichiro Suzuki backs Daisuke Matsuzaka, WBC [Boston Herald]
A high honor for Bay, Wakefield [Boston Globe]
Jonathan Papelbon walking on heir [Boston Herald]
AL extends All-Star streak [Boston Globe]
Tim Wakefield gets presidential [Boston Herald]
Five Sox bests and worsts [Boston Globe]
Tip your cap to HBO for Ted Williams documentary [Boston Herald]
Wakefield: All-Star Experience ‘Overwhelming’ [Full Count]
Rivera gives Papelbon cherished memory [RedSox.com]
Five Things We Learned: For Wakefield, No Pitches, Plenty of Smiles [Rob Bradford – WEEI.com]
For more slices of Boston Red Sox goodness, head over to the Boston Globe, Boston Herald, and Providence Journal websites.
