Advertisement

Matsuzaka gets first win, Francona 500th

Share
Associated Press

Daisuke Matsuzaka pitched five effective innings to win for the first time this season and Boston Manager Terry Francona earned his 500th victory Tuesday night as the Red Sox defeated the Tigers, 5-1.

Francona became the third Boston manager to reach that plateau with the Red Sox, joining Joe Cronin (1,071) and Mike Higgins (560).

Matsuzaka (1-3), in his third start since a five-week stint on the disabled list, came into the game with an 8.82 ERA in four starts but gave up one run and six hits with three walks and six strikeouts. The Red Sox helped him with three double plays.

Advertisement

Rookie Rick Porcello (6-4) lost for the first time since April.

Advertisement