The Red Sox’ rotation waited a long time for the return of their ace — three months, in fact — but Clay Buchholz proved he was worth the wait in his much-anticipated return on Tuesday night.
The right-hander picked up right where he left off before neck and shoulder injuries sidelined him for a good chunk of the season, and he picked up his 10th win in the shortened outing. Limited to a 74-pitch limit, Buchholz tossed five strong innings and held the Rays scoreless on three hits and one walk.
Buchholz also struck out six on the night, and dropped his ERA to 1.61.
Making his first start since June 8, Buchholz showed he is healthy, back to his dominating ways and ready to lead the Red Sox into the postseason, and that is why he is this week’s Amica Pitcher of the Week.