Dawson Joins 400-Homer Club, and Hot Red Sox Rally in 13th
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BOSTON — Andre Dawson started the Red Sox’s latest victory with his 400th home run and little-known backup infielder Jeff Richardson ended it with a double in a two-run 13th inning.
With help from likely and unlikely sources, the Red Sox came from behind Thursday night for a 4-3 victory over the Cleveland Indians that gave them their best start in 41 years.
The Red Sox, last in the AL East in 1992, lead the division with a 7-2 record, their best start since going 10-2 in 1952.
After Alvaro Espinoza’s sacrifice fly gave Cleveland a 3-2 lead against Paul Quantrill (1-0) in the top of the 13th, Bob Melvin’s sacrifice fly tied the score in the bottom of the inning before Richardson won it on the next pitch off Eric Plunk (1-1) with a drive down the right-field line. However, Richardson could be sent to the minors today because shortstop John Valentin is ready to come off the disabled list.
Boston’s first two runs came on homers by Dawson in the second and Mo Vaughn in the fifth. Dawson is the 25th player to hit 400 homers.
“I’m glad it’s over,” Dawson said. “It took awhile and it’s sweet.”
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