Boston Red Sox: Brian Johnson pitches complete game shutout
By Tommy Butler
Boston Red Sox RHP Brian Johnson has been through a ton in his career. His performance against the Seattle Mariners will be remembered for years to come.
If you read my recap of Brian Johnson’s first start this year you know how much he’s fought to get to this moment. Boy, how sweet this moment must be for him and the Boston Red Sox.
Coming into tonight’s game, Johnson was 1-0 on the season having won his first start at Toronto. His performance in that game wasn’t too notable, allowing seven hits and four runs in five innings. After the game, he was optioned back to the Paw Sox and has waited for another chance.
Needless to say, he took advantage of this one.
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What a day:
In his post game interview, Johnson was asked whether he felt particularly good while warming up today.
“I felt normal.” was his honest reply.
His stat line of nine innings, five hits, eight strikeouts, no walks and nearly 80% of pitches going for strikes isn’t normal. Not for anyone.
In fact, now 48 games into the season, Johnson’s complete game was the first of the year for any Red Sox pitcher.
In four of his nine innings, Johnson only faced three batters before heading back to the dugout. The most danger was with two down in the 5th with men on second and third.
Johnson is now the most recent Red Sox pitcher to put up nine zeros in their Fenway debut. He takes that title from Pedro Martinez.
All this with his dad in the audience, cheering him on. Sounds like the perfect heartwarming sports novel come to life.
Other highlights:
After the game, Johnson gave credit to his defense for making some great plays. It looked like everyone wanted to be on Sports Center’s Top 10.
Jackie Bradley Jr. had possibly the highlight of the night as he made a layout catch for the second out in the 9th. Bradley also hit his fourth home run of the year, knocking in two to give the Sox a 5-0 lead.
Looking Forward:
With the Red Sox struggling to find a consistent fifth starter, Johnson’s complete game shutout is deserving of a stay in the Majors.
The Sox are now on a six-game winning streak and have shut out the Mariners twice in a row.
Boston finishes their series with Seattle on Sunday and will look to continue their momentum.
Next: New England Revolution: Revs fall to Red Bulls 2-1
The Red Sox, at 27-21 are only two games behind the Yankees for the AL East lead.