Projo Sox Blog

By Joe McDonald
Journal Sports Writer

BOSTON _ The Red Sox players couldn't pack their bags quick enough after Thursday's night historic 8-7 come-from-behind victory over the Rays in Game Five of the American League Championship Series.

The game was one for the ages, but as soon as it was over the Red Sox players were concentrating on Game Six at Tropicana Field Saturday night.

"We feel good," said closer Jonathan Papelbon. "We've got momentum. That's what you need."

Boston didn't feel so good about its chances through the first six innings on Thursday night at Fenway Park, trailing by seven runs would do that to a team. Quicker than you can say "Jack Robinson" the Red Sox pulled out an incredible victory before boarding a charter to St. Pete.

"There was a time when it was looking pretty bad," said rookie Jed Lowrie. "This team is resilient and we proved that (Thursday)."

The last thing the Rays wanted to do was allow the Red Sox a chance to get back into this series. Unfortunately for Tampa, that's exactly what it did.

"They haven't done anything, yet," said Sox' Dustin Pedroia. "We get to continue to play and we have to get down there and play good. (James) Shields has pitched great at that ballpark all season long, so we have to find a way to get to him."

The Sox' bullpen came up big in Game Five and rookie reliever Justin Masterson earned the victory.

"It's definitely a confidence booster," he said. "Even though we have a day off, we gained a lot more confidence than we already had. I know we're excited to get down there and play Game Six."

 Tags  ALCS Red Sox

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