Sox Start Season w/Win Over Yankees!

Well, it's now not only Spring; it's BASEBALL!! SOX BASEBALL!! The Hose opened the 2013 campaign today in Steinbrenner's replication of the House That Ruth Built, and won going away against the Stripes' ace, Sabathia! Final score was 8-2, although the Sox sent CC to an early shower after just five innings, having already gotten more than they needed to win. The win was crafted by a well oiled combination of Sox vets, new free agents and one very good rookie. The Hose had a total of 13 hits, of which five players each had multihit days, starting at the top of the order with Jake (3 hits including a ringing triple and a pair of ribbies), and continuing down the lineup. Free agent signee Shane Victorino had a pair of hits and three ribbies; the Dustman had a pair of hits, as did Gomer, while Iglesias had a trey. Finally, we get to the sensation of the Spring. Jackie Bradley, JR., who before today never played above Double A ball, didn't get a hit, but showed excellent plate discipline by working three walks and picking up what it is hoped will be just the first of a very many RBI's. He also made a great catch early in the game, going back on a well hit drive ball to rob the Stripes of at least one run, possibly more.
The Sox pitching also looked a lot different from a year ago's start with Lester pitching a sharp five innings, getting 7 K's, while only surrendering a pair of runs on 5 hits. The pen took over from there, shutting down the Evil Empire for just a lone hit and a pair of freebies over the final four innings.
Most experts are picking the Sox to finish in the lower reaches of the division, but, if today's effort indicates anything, it points to a possible solid season with who knows what results in September or, wouldn't it be nice, October?
Papi didn't play as his achilles is still sore, but he said he's feeling well enough to try running in the next few days, and, if that works out, possibly a rehab assignment in a week. Great start! GO SOX!!