Chicago, IL – Darnell McDonald had two hits, including a three-run double, to go with four RBI and two runs scored as the hot-hitting Boston Red Sox slugged their way past the Chicago White Sox, 10-3, for their fifth straight win in the second test of a four-game set.
Reliever turned starter Daniel Bard (2-2) fanned six and allowed three runs -- two earned -- on six hits and one walk over six solid frames.
"It was unbelievable what the bats did out there today," said Bard. "Especially with how cold it was out there tonight. The guys made things really easy for me."
David Ortiz belted a two-run homer and scored twice for Boston, which has outscored its opponents 44-19 during its winning streak.
Paul Konerko smacked a solo homer for the White Sox, who have dropped four straight contests.
John Danks (2-3) took the loss after allowing seven runs on six hits and four walks.
"We're in Chicago and we know it can be cold at the beginning of the season," said Danks. "Usually that's an advantage for the pitcher, but not tonight."
Trailing 3-2 after five frames, the Red Sox surged ahead with a five-run sixth.
With one out, Adrian Gonzalez and Kevin Youkilis worked back-to-back walks and Ortiz singled to load the bases. Everyone moved up a base following Cody Ross' single to left, and after Kelly Shoppach struck out, McDonald lined one into the left-field corner for a bases-clearing double. He then scored on Marlon Byrd's single to center field, making it 8-3.
Ross picked up another RBI single in the seventh and McDonald added a solo shot in the ninth to conclude the scoring.
Chicago took the early advantage with a run in the first. Alejandro De Aza doubled to left field, and came home three batters later on A.J. Pierzynski's double to left field.
The Red Sox responded with two runs in the second. Youkilis led off with a walk and Ortiz stepped up next and belted a two-run homer deep into the seats in right-center field.
The White Sox regained the lead after plating a run in the third and fifth. Alexei Ramirez, who reached on an error, scored on a past ball. Konerko blasted a 3-0 pitch for a solo homer, his fifth of the year, into the left- field bleachers to make it 3-2.
Game Notes
The Red Sox were 6-for-14 with runners in scoring position, while Chicago was 2-for-8 and left five men on base...Ortiz now has four homers and 18 RBI on the season.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.