Good Start In Cleveland

Victor Martinez had a successful return to his old stomping grounds in Cleveland, and he went 2-for-4 as the Red Sox beat the Indians, 4-1.

The Good Dice-K was also on hand, as Mr. Matsuzaka pitched eight strong, shutout innings. He gave up just 4 hits, walked only 2, and struck out 5. He lowered his ERA to 4.59.

Marco Scutaro had three doubles in the winning cause. Jonathan Papelbon was unavailable, as he was placed on the bereavement list for a family emergency (no details were given). He is scheduled to be back on Thursday.

The Red Sox also activated Boof Bonser off the 60 day-DL to take Papelbon's place.

Daniel Bard was the closer last night, and he gave up a home run to Austin Kearns and a single, but shut the door on the Indians in the ninth.

And while the game was going on, the MLB Draft was going on. The Red Sox selected Ball State infielder Kolbrin Vitek as their first round pick, number 20. He agreed to a contract and will probably start the season at Lowell.

The Sox also had two additional picks after the first round and selected two other college players: Middle Tennessee outfielder Bryce Brentz with the 36th overall pick and LSU righthander Anthony Ranaudo at No. 39.

The draft continues with the second round today.