Kevin Youkilis was the star performer in a match between Red Sox and Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park yesterday.
Youkilis delivered an Ortiz-like performance, going 3-for-4 with a home run, two doubles, two runs and four RBI in a 7-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays. He matched his single-game high for RBI, which he has accomplished two other times (both during the 2004 season).
According to Youkilis:
I found out right before the start of the game, but it was no big deal. I hit all over the order usually so it was not a big deal. But it doesn’t matter where you hit in the order. It’s just a spot in the order and when you dissect it all, it’s a great lineup one through nine.
If you go out there and have good at-bats you’ll have success on this team.
Speed at the top of the order allowed the Sox to take a quick lead on Rays starter Scott Kazmir, who was making his 2008 debut. Jacoby Ellsbury singled up the middle and Dustin Pedroia followed with a walk. The two table-setters orchestrated a double steal and Youkilis brought home Ellsbury with a sacrifice fly to deep center.
The double steal came into play for Youkilis again in the eighth. Julio Lugo and Ellsbury simultaneously stole third and second before Youkilis delivered a RBI double down the left field line for the Sox’ final two runs. The Red Sox registered five stolen bases for the first time since July 3, 2002, at Fenway Park.
It’s most definitely a positive when you have guys that can run the bases and take the extra base. It’s never been a real big thing here with the Red Sox, it’s kind of a new thing and it’s an added thing.
said Youkilis.
The sweep was sweet revenge for the Red Sox, who were swept by the same Rays last week at Tropicana Field. In the three games in St. Petersburg, Fla., the Sox scored a total of five runs. They came back to score 26 runs in three outings against the Rays at Fenway Park.
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