[Nick Soulis]

Series #9
Preliminary Round



1949 Cleveland Indians
Record: 89-65
Finish: 3rd in AL
Manager: Lou Boudreau
Ball Park: Cleveland Stadium
WAR Leader: Bob Lemon (7.0)
Hall of Famers: (8)
https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/CLE/1949.shtml

1963 Boston Red Sox
Record: 76-85
Finish: 7th in AL
Manager: Johnny Pesky
Ball Park: Fenway Park
WAR Leader: Carl Yastrzemski (6.6)
Hall of Famers: (2)
https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/BOS/1963.shtml
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In a best-of-seven playoff series that transported fans back in time, the 1963 Boston Red Sox clashed with the 1949 Cleveland Indians, producing a riveting display of baseball prowess and timeless competition. With each game teetering on the edge, the Red Sox emerged victorious, clinching the series 4 games to 1.

Game 1: A Pitcher's Duel Sets the Tone

The series opened at Cleveland Stadium with a classic pitcher's duel that set the stage for the battles to come. The 1963 Red Sox eked out a 5-3 victory over the 1949 Indians. Bill Monbouquette, who would later be named the series MVP, pitched a stellar 8.2 innings. Dick Radatz, in relief, secured the save. There were no home runs in this game, highlighting the pitching prowess on display.

Game 2: Indians Strike Back

Game 2 saw the 1949 Indians responding with a vengeance. Bob Lemon pitched a complete game gem, allowing just three earned runs as the Indians won 4-3. Larry Doby's home run provided the offensive spark for Cleveland. The series was now tied, promising more thrills to come.

Game 3: Walk-off Heroics at Fenway

The action shifted to Fenway Park for Game 3, where the 1963 Red Sox prevailed in dramatic fashion. Lou Clinton emerged as the hero, delivering a walk-off home run in the ninth inning to secure a 5-4 victory. This game showcased the resilience of the Red Sox, who rallied from a three-run deficit to take the series lead.

Game 4: A Slugfest and Extra Innings

Game 4 was a slugfest that went into extra innings, showcasing the determination of both teams. The 1963 Red Sox came out on top with a 6-5 win in the 10th inning. Hank Edwards played a starring role for Boston, with a home run and three RBIs. Satchel Paige, the legendary pitcher, unfortunately walked in the winning run in the 10th inning. This game was a rollercoaster of emotions for both sets of fans.

Game 5: Radatz's Heroics and a Walk-off

The series reached its climax in Game 5 at Fenway Park. Once again, it was Dick Radatz who shone, winning his third game in relief as the Red Sox triumphed 3-2 in 11 innings. The game-winner came from Russ Nixon's sacrifice fly, sending the Red Sox to victory and sealing their series win.

MVP and Outstanding Performances

Bill Monbouquette was named the MVP of the series for his exceptional pitching performances throughout. Notably, he delivered 9.2 innings in Game 5, allowing only one earned run. Radatz's three wins in relief underscored his invaluable contribution to the Red Sox's success.

1963 Boston Red Sox Win Series 4 Games To 1

Series MVP:

(1-0, 18.1 IP, 8 BB, 10 K, 1.96 ERA, 9.2 IP in clinching game)