When you think of championships, what comes to mind? For me, the heroics from the regular season that led to the World Series trophy being hoisted up high, comebacks, big wins and the downright dastardly demolition of weaker opponents. Thus far, the Sox are once again beginning to resemble something special.

What I saw against Cleveland was the grit and determination that has brought the Sox the trophy in two of the last four campaigns. From Manny’s rocket (his 493rd career bomb and No. 132 at Progressive Field) to Papelbon’s heat, Boston’s 6-4 victory April 14 was a classic example of what a true team is capable of.

I’d like to congratulate designated hitter David Ortiz on snapping his gut-wrenching 0-for-17 slump during the first-inning of the game.

Manny! For all you fantasy guys out there, Ramirez basically sealed the deal for former Cleveland closer Joe Borowski to hit the disabled list and open the gates for an undoubtedly better option in former Sox farmhand Rafael Betancourt. Grab him!

Boston closer Jonathan Papelbon routinely hit 96 on the gun enroute to his fifth save of the season.

There wasn’t much to complain about, other than another horrible start by starting pitcher Jon Lester. I hope he bought reliever Julian Tavarez a nice steak or something tasty, because the bail he posted for Lester was awesome.

Boston’s April 15, 5-3 win was another presentation of true heroics. A pinch-hit dinger by Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek was the topping on the cake for another victory by the Sox, their fourth consecutive win.

Jed Lowrie, who you know I love, had an unreal debut. He drove in three runs in the contest and truly entrenched himself as a better player than Julio Lugo. Please Terry, use the kid, and don’t discourage him like you’ve done with Ellsbury, please!

When the game concluded and Lowrie headed for the clubhouse, he was greeted by a lineup card and two balls, one being a joke with scribbles and such, the other being the real one. Congratulations Jed!

All in all, I couldn’t be happier with the boys, next up, New York.

Oh, in case you were wondering. I was in Long Island over the weekend with the lady, I had no real computer access, and so that’s why I didn’t post a blurb about the weekend series with the Yankees.

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