That was then
Ten years ago today the Boston Red Sox won their second straight game against the Toronto Blue Jays. They didn’t know it at the time, but the winning streak would last five games. Well before The Trade, things were going well enough.
That game was started by Pedro Martinez, won by Anastacio Martinez, and saved by Keith Foulke.
Manny Ramirez hit a home run. David Ortiz and Mark Bellhorn scored runs. Kevin Youkilis played in his fifth major league game.
Ted Lilly struck out 10 in 5.2 innings but his bullpen failed to deliver on the “Ted Lilly always beats the Red Sox” curse.
This is now
Tonight, the Red Sox will play the Toronto Blue Jays in an attempt to prevent losing their seventh straight game.
Jon Lester, who was nearly traded prior to the 2004 season for A-Rod, will be playing the role of ace that Pedro did so well a decade ago.
David Ortiz is still on the team, the sole remaining player from the 2004 club.
Opposing the Sox will be Mark Buehrle, a veteran in his own right.
Ten years ago things went well enough for the Red Sox. Maybe tonight that echo of a boxscore will penetrate Fenway Park and end the current slump.
Or their talented players will do what talented players do – win.