--C Jason Varitek set a new major league record in catching the fourth no-hitter of his career. Varitek had previously been behind the plate for a 2001 no-hitter by Hideo Nomo, a 2002 no-hitter by Derek Lowe, and a 2007 no-hitter by Clay Buchholz in addition to the no-hitter spun by LHP Jon Lester. Three other former big league catchers caught three no-hitters.
--2B Dustin Pedroia stole his sixth base of the season on Monday night, and has successfully stolen eight bases since last being caught on Aug. 29, 2007. The reigning A.L. Rookie of the Year worked on improving his overall foot speed during off-season workouts at the API facility in Arizona, and the extra effort seems to be paying dividends. --RHP Chris Smith was optioned to Class AAA Pawtucket after Monday night's game, and RHP Justin Masterson was recalled from the minors for a start with the Sox on Tuesday evening. Masterson has struggled with an 0-3 record and a 7.45 ERA since making a spot start against the Angels at Fenway Park on April 24. Overall, Masterson has utilized his combination of power sinker, slider and change up to compile a 1-3 record and 4.23 ERA at Class AA Portland this season.
--LHP Hideki Okajima said that after a Monday afternoon bullpen session his sore left wrist felt healthy enough to pitch, and the reliever was available if needed during Monday night's game. Manager Terry Francona voiced some hesitancy in using Okajima, but the Sox's premier set-up man should be back to his normal workload beginning Tuesday.
--LHP Jon Lester, in addition to pitching the 18th no-hitter in Red Sox history, also hit career highs in several categories, including pitch count (130 to shatter his previous career high of 116) and strikeouts (nine). The no-hitter was also the first complete game of the 24-year-old lefty's career.
BY THE NUMBERS: 11 of 14 -- The number of inherited runners that LHP Hideki Okajima has allowed to score this season through last weekend.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "How am I going to win a Gold Glove if they take me out in the eighth (inning)? I think I'm the best ever to play left field in Boston." -- OF Manny Ramirez talking to the Boston Herald about his defensive prowess while patrolling left field at Fenway.
