Big Papi Gets Big Deal

by Andy Liakos
2006-04-12

Josh Beckett takes the mound for the second time this season, getting another win, and representing nicely in Boston for the Red Sox home opener. After today's win against Toronto, the Red Sox have now gone five in a row, solidifying their current first place standings in the American League East.

It's like every time you watch a game, there is a new star in the lineup. Today's win came from both the usual suspects, and some more surprising sources. Mike Lowell went 4-4 today, Adam Stern knocked in two runs, and Big Papi went yard with a solo-shot. So far, even the replacements have stepped up big, and Tito is far from worried about the depth and longevity of his 2006 club.

And now for something completely different. David Ortiz has decided to extend his tenure in Boston throughout the 2011 season. Ortiz, who has been under the club's control since 2003 , decided that he wanted at least four more years. He signed his extension yesterday, where he will be owed the amount of $48 million over four years. With all of the uncertainties and personnel changes over this past off season, it's nice to know that Papi won't be dawning pinstripes anytime too soon.

Coco Crisp will be on the DL for at least a couple of weeks with his broken finger. He'll be in a splint for the next ten days after which the severity of the injury will be re-evaluated. No worries in Boston as long as Rule 5 draft pick, Adam Stern is healthy. He killed in the World Baseball Classic for team Canada, and he wants to do the same for the Red Sox. Stern had a solid double today, knocking in a pair of runs and insuring the team's 5-3 win over the Jays.