And the Streak Hits Five--Peter

Well, Jenn, as I'm sure you know by now, the frustration continued tonight. However, after falling behind 8-2, the Hose at least got their bats moving and got to within 180 feet of tying it in the 9th. Jake got to second, and Martinez was on first, but they were stranded by Youk, who was K'ed for the final out. We started with the Bucky of May on the mound,getting charged with the first seven of the Jays' runs. After that, things were pretty even for the rest of the game leading to the Sox 8th. Eight men went to the plate and we picked up a quick five spot to pull within one. Laser came on in the Jays 9th and was perfect, following Billy Wags perfect 8th. But we couldn't quite get it done.
On the bright side (how can there be a bright side in a five game losing streak?), Papi continues to hit, getting his 34th double and 96th ribbie (still a legitimate shot at 100), while Youk got his 35th two bagger, JD went 3-4, including a home run and Jake swiped number 67. In fact, Papi is now athis season high in B.A. at .240. Shows you just how far down he was early on. I think, Jenn,that he was having problems then not because he suddenly couldn't hit, but because he was still working the rust off from the wrist surgery of last year. In fact, I think there are still some signs of that rust, but, fortunately, not anywhere near the amount he had to work through in the first half of the year. I don't know if I'd bet on a 30 HR year, though he still has an outside chance, but with five games left, it's tight. Better bet is getting 100 ribbies, and that's no sure thing. He needs four in five games. The Stripes came from behind again to win their game, so now, not that it makes any real difference, we're 10.5 back. The real concern is this streak as we prep for the post-season. Not a good time to go in the tank. Not at all!