For the first time in 18 years, a major-league pitcher has reached the 300 strikeout plateau. And on top of that,
Chris Sale tonight became only the second pitcher in Red Sox history to collect 300 Ks. The other guy was
Pedro Matrinez in his ridiculous 1999 season. The lanky lefty ace mowed down 13 Birds—the last, fittingly, Portland, Maine native (and young Red Sox fan)
Ryan Flaherty. There were many other interesting twists in this game—but the history made by Sale overwhelms it all. Both
Mookie Betts and
Deven Marrero launched 2-run HRs. And,
Hanley Ramirez, back in lineup, had three hits and three RBIs in
the 9-0 win. Also,
Dustin Pedroia broke out of a long slump with a two-RBI hit. But this night belonged to Sale. Boston maintains its three-game advantage over
The Evil Ones with just 10 left to play. And, if
Tito's Tribe wins tonight, the Sox will have clinched a playoff spot.
(Getty Images)
