Rick Porcello did something on Monday no other Red Sox pitcher has done since the introduction of the designated hitter in 1973. He recorded three RBIs in one game, his second-inning double helping Boston defeat the Washington Nationals, 4-3.
Only 14 Red Sox pitchers since 1973 have recorded even one RBI in a single game.
Facing close friend and fellow Cy Young winner Max Scherzer with the bases loaded, Porcello was behind, 0 and 2, in the count when Scherzer fired a fastball over the plate.
“He got to the top of his windup and I told myself, ‘Start swinging,’ ’’ Porcello said.