So much for John Lackey’s streak of avoiding “disasters.” After a meltdown in the sixth, Lackey is on the line for the loss with fewer innings and more runs to his name than in any game since he gave up seven in 2.1 against Toronto in early July.
The Rangers’ attack happened quickly, really. Or at least it did at first. Nine pitches into the sixth, and Texas already had three singles, making it 3-0. One walk later, and Napoli was out of the game with the bases loaded. In came Felix Doubront, and away went any hope the Sox had of a win. A single, a walk, and a sacrifice fly doubled Texas’ tally, and then Josh Hamilton added three more with a triple, leaving the score at 9-0.