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The Boston Red Sox scored five runs over the first three innings en route to defeating the Atlanta Braves 8-4. The Red Sox were led by third baseman Will Middlebrooks had a solo homer among his three hits and drove in two runs. Middlebrooks was in the lineup once again for Kevin Youkilis who is on the trading block.
Braves starting pitcher Randall Delgado failed to get out of the second inning and gave up six hits and two walks which led to four runs. The poor start is what doomed the Braves from being able to comeback after trailing 4-0. The relief pitching for the Braves was not too much better as they gave up another four runs.
The Red Sox had a solid start by Franklin Morales who shut down the Braves bat by throwing six inning, giving up only three runs and striking out eight batters.
The one bright spot for the Braves was center fielder Michael Bourn who had three singles, two stolen bases and two RBI.
For more on the Braves, head over to Talking Chop and check out Over the Monster to read the Red Sox fans' perspective. Baseball Nation is your source for news and analysis around Major League Baseball.