Most. Infuriating. Game. Ever.

Sox: 6 Rays: 7

Let me just say that I don't expect the Red Sox to win every game and win the World Series every year. It's not the loss itself that infuriates me as much as the way they lost, after having a lead for the first time in the series until THE INNING FROM HELL. Dice-K has a pretty good outing, despite struggling with command in the first two innings, but with his high pitch count, he can only go 5, meaning the balance of the game was entrusted to a very untrustworthy bullpen. Just when I thought they were getting it together, they are struck with strike zone amnesia and it takes THREE pitchers to record an out in the 7th. Oki pitched the 6th and only allowed one hit, but the three-man disaster crew of Delcarmen, Hansen, and Aardsma proceeded to blow the Sox' three run lead because they couldn't find the zone to save their lives. This bullpen really needs to be re-worked if the Sox are going to remain competitive in the second half. Paps has been solid, for the most part, but no one else, save for maybe Lopez, is even close to reliable.

Is it just me or does Tek seem exhausted lately? Maybe he didn't recover fully from his illness and that's contributing to his troubles at the plate. Perhaps he needs some days off to get some R&R. As he gets older, he's probably going to need more than one day off in the rotation. Next year, perhaps the Sox should find another catcher for Tek to start grooming as his successor. The most promising prospect seems to be Mark Wagner, but he's still just in AA. Trading for one is a possibility, but they could end up with just a rental.

Well, the Sox head into New York with serious downward momentum. Can they turn it around on enemy territory and start clawing their way back to the top, or will this road trip be the biggest debacle yet? These next four games will be a true test of the team's fortitude and resilience. I will root for the Sox, win or lose, because they are my team, but it sure would be nice to come away from da Bronx with some victories.

LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!! THEY SHALL RISE AGAIN!