Projo Sox Blog

By Joe McDonald
Journal Sports Writer

BOSTON _ When Red Sox catcher Kevin Cash is moving his glove around like the second hand on a clock, that's a clear indication that Tim Wakefield's knuckle ball is dancing out of control.

Not only was Cash having trouble catching the Dancing Dandy Saturday night, the balls were hitting his mask, arms, chest protector and shin guards. Believe it or not, that's a good sign.

Wakefield was outstanding. He worked seven innings and allowed only one run on two hits, while striking out six and walking only one.

After the game Cash told Red Sox manager Terry Francona that Wakefield was so good it was as though he was pitching inside a dome.

"That was the best he has pitched outside (a dome)," said Cash. "His knuckleball was as effective tonight than it was at any point this year. I botched my share of pitches tonight, thankfully there weren't too many men on base."

The Red Sox gave Wakefield plenty of run support, including a six RBI night for Kevin Youkilis.

Youk crushed a grand slam in the seven-run fourth inning, added a sacrifice fly in the fourth inning and added a RBI single in the eighth inning for a career high six RBI.

"I was just trying to get a good pitch to hit right there," said Youkilis. "It was 3-1 and I got a good pitch and I tried to drive something to the outfield. Off the bat it felt good and I'm just glad it got out of here. . . It feels good. I'm just trying to put it together and stay as consistent as I can. I'm just trying to improve each game."

 Tags  Kevin Cash Kevin Youkilis Red Sox Terry Francona Tim Wakefield

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