Lester’s shot at 20 goes dim

But in a season in which little has gone the way the Red Sox expected, Lester’s quest went awry as well. He was out of the game in the fifth inning, having surrendered eight runs.

By the sixth inning, the game was delayed for 21 minutes because of a power outage. The offseason just can’t come soon enough for the Red Sox, who were beaten, 8-2.

“One of those days,’’ Lester said. “Bad day to have one of them.’’

Lester (19-9) saw his earned run average rise from 2.96 to 3.25 as he allowed the eight runs on nine hits and five walks. The deciding shot was a fourth-inning grand slam by Paul Konerko, the first Lester had ever given up.

“That’s one of those things that’s hard not to realize,’’ said Lester, who had faced hitters with the bases loaded 66 previous times. “Hopefully, I give up a couple more. That means I’m pitching a long time. You move on.’’

Lester acknowledged that winning 20 games was on his mind throughout the day. But he did manage a few smiles after the game.

“It’s more disappointing not making the playoffs,’’ he said. “Would it have been nice? Yeah, I’m not going to lie to you. But regardless of all that we didn’t make the playoffs. We didn’t meet our goal this year and that’s more disappointing.’’

Lester came into the game having won his previous six starts while posting a 1.76 ERA.

With Cy Young Award votes due next week, Lester was seen as a possible compromise for those who could not decide whether to award New York’s CC Sabathia for his 21 victories or Seattle’s Felix Hernandez for his overall statistical excellence.

But last night was a struggle as Lester lacked command of his fastball and the Chicago hitters worked their way into favorable counts. The eight earned runs were one short of his career worst.

As Lester cast away his chance, John Danks (15-11) cruised through six innings for the win, giving up two runs.

The Red Sox finished 1-6 against the White Sox. They now return to Fenway Park for three games against the Yankees to conclude the season.

That Lester’s pursuit of 20 victories meant something to his teammates became evident to manager Terry Francona Wednesday night when he made out a preliminary lineup for last night’s game.