Red Sox Breeze Past O's: Buchholz Pitches a Gem

BOSTON - It was almost two years ago, on the same pitching mound that Clay Buchholz stood last night, when he pitched his very first career no hitter in just his second Major League start. From that point on, it has been nothing but inconsistency for the young potential ace. But as of late, Buchholz is proving to be Boston's number three pitcher for the post-season.

Buchholz had a very disappointing year last season for the Sox. He only made it through 15 starts and posted a 2-9 record with a 6.75 ERA. Boston's front office planned on having Buchholz solidify the rotation and take on the fifth pitcher in the rotation, but he failed to do so.

This year seems to be the complete opposite for Clay and the Red Sox. Buchholz dominated in Triple-A ball for the Pawtucket Paw Sox this year before being called up. Ever since Buchholz was called up on July 12, he has posted an impressive 5-3 record with a 3.92 ERA with opponents batting a .254 against the 25 year old.

Last night, Buchholz played as advertised. He pitched seven scoreless innings and only allowed three hits. He struck out five and only walked one batter.

In Buchholz's last 3 starts he has only allowed four runs over 21.1 innings.

After a sub-par road trip for the Sox, the struggling bats seemed to wake up against the lowly Orioles.

Boston scored 10 runs and belting 6 homers against Baltimore. Dustin Pedrioa had his first multi-home run game of the year and Kevin Youkilis, Alex Gonzalez, J.D. Drew, and David Ortiz joined him with one homer a piece.

Boston is looking strong for the remainder of the season. With the A.L. East crown much out of reach while standing nine games behind New York, Boston is now looking to increase their two game lead over the Texas Rangers in the A.L. Wild Card.

The American League Wild Card race will be a tight until the finish, hopefully Buchholz can help Boston hang tight over the Rangers.