After all the talk about seats being available for the first game of Thursday's double-header, I couldn't see one empty seat (at least on the television). The Boston Globe reports it was the largest crowd in 14 years for a mid-week day game. That might have something to do with the 420 extra bleacher seats. Kudos to the Red Sox organization for finally finding a way to seat fans in centerfield during day games. I've been waiting a long time for this. I often thought this section was wasted during the day. In the past, fans were not allowed to sit in these seats because the the ball might get lost in the backdrop of white T-shirts (typical attire on a hot summer day.) On Thursday, Projo.com reports Crowd in Conig's Corner dons green T-shirts. This is a well-overdue experiment. I say that fans should only wear the green during Red Sox at-bats however. Talk about home-field advantage.

What a game to see! I'll say it again, it's all about the pitching. Although the streak ended in the second game, the pitching staff amassed 32 shutout innings. There is none better right now. The bullpen still hasn't given up an earned run in 32 1/3 innings in 11 games. Amazing.

The pitching staff looks to be completely healthy, too. Byung Hyun Kim returned to the mound, with Boston's faithful welcoming him like a lost son. Kim didn't disappoint, leaving the game after reaching 70 pitches with a 3-0 lead. He won the game after stellar performances from Tim Wakefield and MIke Timlin. He also did not flip fans off - a good sign. The Boston Herald's Tony Massarotti writes For now, fans have gotta hand it to Kim. My advise to Kim: the fans have given you the benefit of the doubt, tread lightly.

The Boston Globe has complete coverage of the double header in its article: Nomar is not expected back now until June 1. A June 1 return would be most beneficial. The team continues to win without him and Nomar may need the extra time. Trot however could be back anytime. He will certainly add some offense and his defense in right field will be welcome as well.

These two sweeps have been a complete team effort with a different hero stepping up each night. Will the streak continue?

Today, the Sox take a flight to Texas to meet up with the Rangers. The Rangers may be the surprise team of the 2004. After trading their best player (Alex Rodriguez) to the Yankees, no one thought this team would compete. However, they have a 13-9 record and are tied with the Angels for the AL West lead. The Dallas Morning News' Kevin Sherrington writes "The kids are alright on their own" Perhaps playing with A-Rod was more of a hardship than it is with Alfonzo Soriano (official profile). The team is batting a league high .316. Another reason for team's success may be the play of its young third baseman, Hank Blalock (official profile. ESPN's Tim Kurkjian writes Blalock is a special player and a Throwback, dude. I agree, he is someone to watch.

Like Tampa Bay, the Texas pitching staff is a little suspect. The team ERA is over 4.00 and the team whip (hits+walks/innings pitched) is 1.43. Despite the numbers, MLB.com reports the Rangers are ready for the Sox. Tonight Ryan Drese (official profile) gets the start for Texas against Bronson Arroyo. So far, Drese is pitching extremely well.

Pedro will go up against Joaquin Benoit on Saturday and on Sunday Wakefield will take his normal turn in the rotation versus R.A. Dickey. MLB.com reports that Dickey has bounced back his last two starts . I'm not sure but I think the R.A. stands for "Runs Allowed." I expect the right-hander to get shelled by the Red Sox in the Texas heat.

Although both teams are playing great baseball right now, the Sox have the advantage. Boston's fifth starter is better than any the Rangers have to offer. Another sweep, I'd be surprised but it is not out of the question. For now, I'm riding high and feeling good in the neighborhood. Go Sox!

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