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Beckett tries to get Red Sox rolling against Jays

Apr 16, 2011 - 2:47 PM (Sports Network) - Josh Beckett tries to follow up a spectacular effort his last time out when the Boston Red Sox continue their four-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park.

Beckett scattered two hits over eight scoreless innings and struck out 10 to beat the New York Yankees on Sunday. It was the 11th career double-digit strikeout game for Beckett, but his first since July 27, 2009.

"I feel good about my outing, yes," said Beckett, who had allowed three runs in five innings in his first start. "I went eight innings. I saved the bullpen a little bit. We still have a long way to go."

Toronto, though, has given Beckett fits. The right-hander has posted a 3-6 mark to go along with a 7.03 ERA in 14 starts against the Jays.

Beckett will once again be in the role of stopper, as Boston's struggles continued in the opener of this set on Friday. Aaron Hill went 3-for-4 and drove in the final run in Toronto's four-run seventh inning, propelling the Blue Jays to a 7-6 victory.

The loss dropped Boston to 2-10, matching the worst start in club history. It's the fourth time the team has been in this position, but the first since 1996.

Corey Patterson hit a two-run triple for Toronto, which snapped a four-game losing streak with an 8-3 win at Seattle on Wednesday.

Brett Cecil (1-1) was credited with the win after allowing three runs on two hits and four walks in his six-inning start.

Bobby Jenks (0-1) gave up four runs in the seventh while recording just one out behind starter Clay Buchholz, who also struggled on the hill and failed to get through the sixth.

Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis each homered for Boston.

"We're in a tough division. To come back now it's going to take all year long," Jenks said. "We need to get on it now if we're going to turn this thing around."

Getting the call for Toronto today will be left-hander Jo-Jo Reyes, who is 0-1 with a 5.23 ERA on the year. Reyes was banged around by the Oakland Athletics for five runs in just 3 1/3 innings in his first start, but did not get a decision. He pitched well his last time out against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, but received the loss nonetheless, as he surrendered just an earned run in seven innings of work.

Reyes lost his only other start to the Red Sox, allowing three runs (one earned) and six hits in seven innings.

The Red Sox were 12-6 against the Blue Jays last season.