--3B Mike Lowell was removed from the 15-day disabled list and collected three hits -- including a solo home run in his first at bat -- in his first game action since Aug. 12. Lowell showed quickly on Friday night just how much his offense, steady defense and leadership presence had been missed while he was shelved on the DL. "It definitely gives me a boost," said Lowell of his solid performance in his first game back from a long layoff. "I think you're curious. I didn't really think I would be totally lost, but there's a certain amount of uncertainty just because you haven't seen live pitching in three weeks."

--RHP Josh Beckett was activated from the 15-day disabled list and exceeded expectations that he would throw somewhere between 55-70 pitches in his first game since Aug. 17. Beckett threw 80 pitches and was dominant with all his pitches despite a noticeable reduction in velocity throughout the game. The 28-year-old ace reported no problems after the game, and is scheduled to make his next start Wednesday night at Fenway Park against the Tampa Bay Rays. "It's definitely a nice stepping stone and easier to go out the next start and not worry about it," said Beckett to reporters.

--RHP Tim Wakefield was scheduled to make his 500th career appearance for the Red Sox on Saturday. The venerable Wakefield became only the 23rd pitcher in Major League history to pitch in 500 games -- and make 350 starts -- for the same team. Former RHP Bob Stanley is the only Sox pitcher with more career appearances (643) than Wakefield in franchise history.

BY THE NUMBERS: 455 -- Number of consecutive home sellouts for the Red Sox as of last Wednesday's afternoon game at Fenway Park. The Sox sellout streak tied the Major League record set by the Cleveland Indians from 1995-2001.

QUOTE TO NOTE: "We're in a good position. I feel like if I can just play good baseball these last few weeks, hopefully we're in the playoffs, we can get hot and see if we can do something special again." -- 3B Mike Lowell.