Yardwork: Josh Beckett Dominates & Joe Maddon Gets Tossed
By Tim Ryan
White Sox 6, Rays 1 — Joe Maddon responded to being ejected from the game by ejecting all of the umpires. At 1-8, regardless of the reason for freaking out, it was most certainly time to freak out. Gavin Floyd retired 16 of the first 18 batters he faced, struck out eight, and was the victim of one unearned run. The Rays have scored just one run in six of their eight losses. Brutal. Manny-free Tampa heads to Boston for a three-game set and the exclusive rights to last place.
Phillies 3, Braves 0 — Cole Hamels shook off a terrible outing against the Mets and pretty much dominated for seven scoreless innings. Poor Derek Lowe. In three starts, he’s pitched 18 2/3 innings and given up a total of three runs. Someone gift this man with a little run support.
Cardinals 6, Giants 1 — The Cards avoided the sweep thanks to… Kyle Lohse? Yup, eight innings of one-run ball. Barry Zito wasn’t so great, especially the five walks. He looks as disappointed as you are.
Rockies 6, Pirates 5 — The Pirates have slipped to 5-5. Could this be their last day at .500? Actually, they’re off today, so is tomorrow their last day of enjoying a .500 or better record? Is the dream already over? Was there ever even a dream? The Brewers are coming to town, so Pirates fans can probably expect a beating.
Rangers 3, Orioles 0 — The Rangers got homers from Adrian Beltre and Ian Kinsler and that’s all they would need. Of all the impressive things I’ve seen from the 6-3 Orioles so far in this young season, I think the most captivating piece of information is the fact that Kevin Gregg has made three appearances and has yet to give up a run.
Indians 6, Mariners 4 — The Cleveland Indians have won seven straight baseball games. Seriously. To be fair though, they were facing Erik Bedard, who’s been quite generous thus far.
Angels 3, Blue Jays 1 — Jered Weaver struck out a career high 15 over 7 2/3 innings, and he needed to do just that because Mike Scioscia had used all seven of his relievers in two of their last four games. That bullpen will be completely ravaged by July.
[Photo via Getty]