Napoli Drives In Five Runs in Red Sox Win

Mike Napoli had been coveted by the Red Sox for years as an opposing player. He would torment the Sox pitching staff. The Sox signed him to play first base this offseason with that in mind. So far, he’s been exactly what the front office was hoping he’d be.

Apr 17, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter Mike Napoli (12) points to his jersey after knocking in two run with a double in the first inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Napoli would go 2-4 with a double and a grand slam while recording five RBIs in tonight’s (or last night’s since I’m writing this past midnight) 9-6 win vs the Oakland A’s. Will Middlebrooks would also add to the offense with a three run homer of his own.

Felix Doubront was once again a mixed bad. He would walk five batters and sacrifice three hits. But he would also limit the damage to three runs in 6.2 innings, good enough for a quality start and his second win of the season. Clay Mortensen would give up the other three runs in two-thirds of an inning. Junichi Tazawa would pitch two-thirds of an inning in the eighth for his fifth hold. Andrew Bailey would walk a batter but strike out two to notch his fourth save.

With tonight’s win, the Red Sox have now won eight of ten and are tied with the Texas Rangers for the AL’s best record.