The Jays never put anything together today and missed their chance to sweep Boston, in Boston.
On the Mound:
Shaun Marcum got off to a great start, striking out the side around an infield single in the first, but got into trouble in the 5th, giving up 5 runs. Mike McCoy didn't help things with some poor outfield play, but then J.D. Drew hit a home run to make it a bit of a moot point. Boston is a tough place to pitch but Marcum could have done a better job keeping the ball down. Not the worst appearance (he didn't walk anyone) but all it takes is one bad inning sometime.
At the Plate:
Very little to report and, in fact, no extra-base hits. Mike McCoy did a nice job setting the table from the leadoff spot, reaching base three times. John McDonald had a couple of hits from the 9 spot, and Vernon Wells and Lyle Overbay each singled. Jose Bautista had a rough day at the plate, stranding 6 baserunners including 4 in scoring position. Just goes to show, no one can be perfect every day.
From the Pen:
Brad Mills and Taylor Buchholz pitched the final 2 2/3 scoreless innings. Buchholz needed just 8 pitches to get through the 8th, and 7 of them were strikes.
Jays of the Day: McCoy is closest but not quite there, particularly with the error.
A tepid end, but winning a series in Boston is always cause for celebration. The Jays have the day off tomorrow and are headed back to the Big Smoke where they begin a series against Seattle on Tuesday. Shawn Hill will pitch.
Title from "For Want Of" by Rites of Spring.