OAK 9, BOS 8: A’s rally versus Sox

Jonathan Papelbon has not been a sure thing for the Boston Red Sox this season.

BOS 4, TOR 1: Buchholz debut

When Clay Buchholz gets a definitive spot in the Boston Red Sox pitching rotation it's going to be exciting to watch.

BOS 1, KAN 0: Lester delivers

Boston's bullpen will be thanking Jon Lester.

BOS 5, OAK 4: Drew, Papi blasts lead Sox

During the game yesterday, Oakland Athletics shortstop Orlanda Cabrera was shown on camera asking a teammate "how can you hit that." Carbera was referencing Tim Wakefield's knuckleball that was dancing all around the plate last night.

BOS 4, BAL 0: Reverse, reverse

One day after being dominated by Tommy Hanson, Jon Lester and the Boston Red Sox turned the table on the Baltimore Orioles.

BOS 1, ATL 0: All-Star Lock

Six innings. No runs. Three hits. Sounds like an All-Star caliber start from All-Star worthy pitcher. That pitcher - Tim Wakefield.

BOS 4, NYY 3: 8-0

Still want to trade Brad Penny?

BOS 6, NYY 5: Boston hangs on to improve to 7-0 against Yanks

Two things remained perfect last night at Fenway Park.

New mechanics, reliance on slider hurting Papelbon

There's been no shortage of events this season that have taken us by surprise. David Ortiz, of course, is the big one. But what about Jason Varitek being in double-digit home runs before June? Tim Wakefield being our steadiest starter to date?

Here's one that's taken us by surprise: Jonathan Papelbon looking mortal. His 2.57 ERA is the highest its been as a closer, and superseded only by his 2.67 ERA as a rookie, when he served as a starter and reliever.

His FIP, however, would easily be the highest of his career as it sits at 4.60. He's still striking out well over a batter an inning and is limiting the number of hits he's given up, but it's the free passes that have changed everything.

BOS 3, MIN 1: You’re outtah here!

Home plate umpire Todd Tichenor just skyrocketed up the ESPN umpire ejection fantasy league standings.