Wow!

Globe photo
What a game last night! I hadn't been able to see much of any of the three games this weekend - between the late, late start on Friday and my busy round of holiday weekend social engagements! - so I set aside last night to soak in the full game experience. Pitcher of margaritas chilled, my online connection humming, NESN coverage, scorecard in hand.

It went way beyond expectations. From the emotional outburst at the return of our original "Dirt Dog" Trot Nixon, to Schilling's seeming return to form, to Youk's inside-the-park-homerun (pictured above), it was amazing. I knew Trot would get a great ovation - but I got a little emotional when they showed his wife Kathryn throwing out the first pitch, surrounded by many of the other wives. The Sox saluted the Nixons for their years of work with the Jimmy Fund - she was always a tireless participant in all of the charitable causes of the Red Sox Foundation.

Schilling took the mound, and showed that maybe Roger isn't the only robust old warrior. He struck out the side in the first, which set the tone for the game. He had a total of 10 Ks last night, his season high. And offense? There were at least 5 doubles in the game, including two by "little Pedroia." And Youks' big hit in the seventh was so much fun! I guess he and Dustin have a little friendly competition going on who is faster. Youk showed up Dustin!

And a victory is always welcome. We've won 4 in a row (and the Yankees have lost 4 in a row). We've got an eleven and a half game lead over second place Baltimore. Yanks and Devil Rays are in the basement, 13 1/2 back.

Tonight is the return from the Disabled List for Josh Beckett. I hope he picks up where he left off - first in the AL in pitching. It ought to be another fun one, as we continue to test potential playoff contenders.

It's only May, it's only May...