Red Sox Blank Tigers 1-0, Take ALCS Lead

Facing Justin Verlander proved to be a tough task for the Boston Red Sox, but facing John Lackey and a Boston bullpen was a tougher task for the Detroit Tigers.

Locked in a scoreless game in the 7th innings, Red Sox catcher Mike Napoli hit a solo homerun off of Verlander, giving Boston a 1-0 lead they would never relinquish.

As a result, Verlander's performance was wasted. He struck out 10 batters, including 6 in a row in the 2nd and 3rd inning, gave up 4 hits, and pitching 8 complete. His surrendered run is his first of this postseason. Despite that, Detroit's offense couldn't muster anything off of Red Sox pitching, and Verlander earned the loss.

John Lackey pitched 6.2 innings for Boston, allowing 4 hits. Red Sox pitchers Craig Breslow, Junichi Tazawa, and Koji Uehara kept the shutout intact with outstanding bullpen production.

With the win, Boston takes a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven ALCS.

Game 4 is tomorrow night in Detroit. The Red Sox will throw Jack Peavy, while the Tigers will counter with Doug Fister. First pitch from Comerica Park is set for 7:00.