The AL-leading Red Sox stuck it to the Indians, 4-2, as Josh Beckett continues the best season-opening run by a Boston pitcher since Roger Clemens started 14-0 in 1986. Beckett had spent 15 days on the disabled list with an irritated middle finger, but mystified Cleveland to the tune of three hits and two runs in seven innings.
Kevin Youkilis had his ninth multi-hit game in a row with a home run and an RBI double. Catcher and mother-hen figure Jason Varitek also homered for the Sox, who now lead the AL East division by 11.5 games. Cleveland, meanwhile, remains at the top of the AL Central. (More Boston Red Sox stories.)