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Schilling is back to put Red Sox into top spot

Posted on: Wednesday, 20 July 2005, 09:06 CDT

RALEIGH, North Carolina (Reuters) - World Series standout Curt Schilling saved the day for the Boston Red Sox again Tuesday, and it was not in a starting role.

The one-time starter pitched the ninth inning in relief for his first save in 13 years as the Red Sox defeated Tampa Bay to regain first place in the American League East over the New York Yankees.

"It felt good," Schilling told reporters. "It happened quick but it's a process. Whatever they need me to do, I'll do it."

Schilling, troubled by right-ankle surgery, has been placed in the bullpen as part of his rehabilitation.

He retired the side in order in the ninth, including a 94 mph fastball that struck out the Devils Rays' Jonny Gomes.

"This means at some point we'll be able to stretch him out and get him back into the starting rotation," Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein told the Boston Globe.

"I enjoy it," Schilling said of the relief work. "It's a (heck) of a lot of fun and it's a rush. But whatever out they want me to get, I'll get."

The save was Schilling's first since May 3, 1992, when he helped beat the Philadelphia Phillies.

Bronson Arroyo picked up the victory, scattering five hits over seven innings.

Source: REUTERS

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