Taking the Devil Out of Angels--Sox Split; End Loss Streak

Well, yesterday became a day/night doubleheader when Tropical Storm Andrea paid a quick wet visit on Friday to the Boston area. Friday's game was postponed almost a half day before the first drops even arrived. That's how heavy a rain was expected. So, come Saturday morning at the Fens, the Angels picked up right where they were when last facing the Hub Hose--they won, extending a team streak over the home heroes to seven. It's not that the Hose weren't in the 9-5 loss; they had their chances. It's just that even though they had double digits in the LOB category, they couldn't seem to get the timely hit that would have made the difference. On the plus, Jake had a good game, including a pair of swipes to up his league leading total to 23. The Dustman also had a solid game, but the one extra needed hit, delivered at the right time never came.
On to the night game. Totally different situation and outcome. Leading three zip after just two innings, and well covered by Bucky's always excellent pitching, the Hose found themselves up 4-2 after the Halos' half of the 6th. It's a lead, but with a lineup including Trout, Pujols and Hamilton, a two run lead, especially at Fenway, is never something comfortable. Starting their half of the 6th, the Hose quickly scored a run, leaving a man on and Papi quickly settled the issue. One swing, cheap seats, and the lead was a more than comfortable 7-2. It's not out of reach, but for any long time followers of this site, you all know my theory--if you lead by at least five runs, you can never be caught by a single swing of the bat. That score became the final and the various stats rose accordingly. Bucky now leads the AL in W-L at 9-0, tied for the MLB lead, and has a 1.72 ERA. the pen was also admirable in holding things to that score. Papi's HR was his dozenth of the season, and he increased his RBI total to 45, having earlier added a run with his 13th two bagger of the year. That leaves him two behind team leader Nap in that category. With his pair of hits, Dusty is 4th in the AL batting race. All in all, a good game, and heading for the home stand finale this morning before the Sox take flight for Florida and the Rays.