36-16: Matsuzaka struggles in loss

I guess two series sweeps in a row is asking too much. The Cleveland Indians salvaged game 3 of the series tonight, shelling the Red Sox for 18 hits in an 8-4 victory.

Daisuke Matsuzaka (7-3) struggled for the second straight start, going only 5 2/3 with 109 pitches. Dice-K was very ineffective, allowing 12 hits on his watch, including 5 doubles and a home run to Grady Sizemore in the 6th.

The Red Sox had their chance in the 7th inning, when they loaded the bases with three consecutive singles with no outs, but they failed to produce anything. The offensive efforts of Mike Lowell (2-4 with a double and a home run) were not enough in this one. Somewhat comfortingly, Kevin Youkilis singled, making his hit streak now 22 games. Dustin Pedroia continues hitting, as he went 2-4 tonight.

The Indians got three hits from DH Travis Hafner and four from former Red Sox prospect Kelly Shoppach (part of the trade for Coco Crisp) to lead the way, but the whole lineup contributed on this night. Shoppach was considered the successor to Jason Varitek before he was traded away.

Speaking of Tek, I sure hope Tito starts resting him a little more than he is right now. The Captain has been known to wear down over the course of a season before, and especially with everyone healthy and throwing well, it might be nice to throw in Doug Mirabelli every once in a while, to rest those 35-year old knees.