Sox are stuck in second

Offense can't get in gear vs. Astros

June 30, 2008|Gordon Edes, Globe Staff

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"I think it's a big series as far as that goes," Shields said. "As far as the fighting and stuff goes, that's behind us. If they want to do something then we'll see what happens. As far as our side goes, we're done with that. We just want to win some games."

Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon threw some high heat days after the brawl, contending there was some unfinished business. Shields said he was "shocked" by Papelbon's comments. Rays outfielder Jonny Gomes, the object of considerable Sox ire for throwing some punches when Crisp was prone, said he doesn't anticipate any carryover.

"I can speak for myself, and I don't think anything is going to happen," Gomes said. "I'm not planning on doing anything. I'm not expecting anything getting done to me. That's just on my end."

Papelbon, meanwhile, had no interest in stirring the pot further. His words were dipped in honey yesterday.

"They've got a good ball club," he said. "They do all the little things. When you have a ball club that has some power in the lineup, that pitches like they do and does the little things like they do, you're going to be successful.

"All the extracurricular activity from June 5 is going to be subdued, because it's a battle for first place. I'm not going to stand here and berate their team. They've got a good team."

Gordon Edes can be reached at edes@globe.com.