It was the Boston Red Sox Daisuke Matsuzaka (1-3), Dice-K, in winning form for the first time in 2012. Dice-K had fine stuff for the Red Sox giving up just one run on five hits and beating the Kansas City Royals 5-1. He also gave up two walks and had six strikeouts. It was the best start that the Red Sox righty has had in a long time. Dice-K, who underwent Tommy John surgery in June, has been through a lot, including stints in the DL, rehab and minor league work.
At the same time as Dice-K was starting his season, David Ortiz was ending his season as he was placed on the DL once again. Ortiz has been struggling with a right Achilles heel strain. It’s uncertain if the Boston slugger will be back. There are options regarding whether he plays again in 2012.
In a 2012 MLB season that has been filled with bad news for Boston, this start by Dice-K was a welcomed experience. He had a total of 13 rehab starts in the minors with eight dedicated to the coming back from Tommy John surgery and the later five related to a neck problem.
With rumors flying about possible off-season trades of Jon Lester, the Dice-K start is big news. It’s hard to say what this Red Sox team will look like next year. But if Matsuzaka can have a few quality starts before the end of what has been a disastrous Red Sox season, that may help Ben Cherington and Larry Lucchino make some solid decisions regarding what they need for next year’s starting pitching.
On the offensive side, Cody Ross went 2 for 4 and had 3 RBI. Other Red Sox who were 2 for 4 last night included Scott Podsednik and Jacoby Ellsbury. Both Ross and Ellsbury had two-out RBI.
Dice-K is scheduled to start again on September 1 against the Oakland Athletics. He could have around four more starts this season. At the same time, there are rumors that the Washington Nationals are showing interest in Dice-K.
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