But both Ortiz's potent bat and Wells's unproductive mouth had to compete with other developments, all of which could have a far more lasting impact on the Sox' chances down the stretch:
Top prospect Craig Hansen, whose much-heralded arrival was expected at any moment to shore up the Sox bullpen, instead has been shut down indefinitely with a tired arm. Hansen, the No. 1 draft pick from St. John's, has not pitched for Double A Portland since Friday night. If the fatigue, much like what a pitcher goes through in spring training, does not go away, the Sox may have no choice but to shut him down for the rest of the season.
Center fielder Johnny Damon, who started last night's rout with the 16th leadoff home run of his career, left in the sixth inning after a pitch by Trever Miller struck him in the left hand as he swung and missed at a third strike. The Sox announced that Damon had a bruise and X-rays were negative, but manager Terry Francona said Damon may miss a few games. Add the hand to a list of hurts that includes his shoulder, knee, elbow, eye, and cheek.
Francona said the pitch struck Damon between the knuckles of his left hand.
''I talked to Johnny and talked to Dr. [Thomas] Gill," Francona said. ''He's already improving. That's real good news. You all know, if anyone can play with pain, it's Johnny.
''We'll check with him tomorrow. I don't doubt it's going to be a few games, but that's a hell of a lot better than the rest of the year."
Cast-off second baseman Mark Bellhorn, due to clear waivers today, is set to sign with the archrival Yankees.
Recuperating closer Keith Foulke, whose presence at the back end of the bullpen has never been more urgently required, could not have sounded more mortal in discussing his prospects after two rehab turns for Single A Lowell.
''Maybe I'm just getting old," said Foulke, scheduled to pitch again tonight in Lowell. ''I don't know what the deal is. A few years back I was a 90-93 guy, consistently. That's when I was dominating. That's where I want to be. Hopefully, over the next month or so we can get back there and keep working toward next year."
