7
4
Final
Rays 7, Red Sox 4
barry chin/globe staff
The Red Sox failed Friday night to move above .500 for the fourth time this season, in a game that including a benches-clearing confrontation.
The reliever had a rocky start, but has become one of the steadiest performers as the Red Sox try to right their season.
On baseball
Ortiz means more to the Red Sox than the average player, and he should be treated that way. A new deal would make him feel more appreciated.
Red Sox notebook
Matsuzaka, who said recently he wasn’t close to returning to Boston, will begin another 30-day rehab assignment.
Minor League notebook
The Red Sox seem content to allow the hot-hitting outfielder to stay at Single-A Salem and continue to mature.
Owner Hal Steinbrenner refuted a report that the team would be sold. “I expect that the Yankees will be in my family for many years to come,” he said.
Baseball roundup
After the final out, closer Chris Perez let out a primal scream and punched the air in celebration.
From the archives | May 25
Nomo struck out 14 and waked none, just a month after throwing a no-hitter, as the Red Sox beat the Blue Jays 4-0 in 2001.
Track the latest updates from the Globe’s daily roundup of Red Sox news.
Most teams believed he was finished, but the outfielder belted a home run in the eighth inning to help the Sox win, 6-5.
Ortiz means more to the Red Sox than the average player, and he should be treated that way. A new deal would make him feel more appreciated.
SPECIAL SECTION
Explore 100 years of Fenway ParkThe Globe honors the park’s centennial with memories of how it has become an icon for baseball and New England.
