Which two teams competed in the 2008 American League Championship Series (ALCS)?

The 2008 American League Championship Series featured the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox. The Rays were the AL East Division champions and the second seed, while the Red Sox were the wild-card team.

What was the final outcome of the 2008 ALCS, and how many games were played?

The Tampa Bay Rays won the 2008 American League Championship Series against the Boston Red Sox by a margin of four games to three. The series went the full seven games.

What significant historical achievement did the Tampa Bay Rays accomplish by winning the 2008 ALCS?

By winning the 2008 ALCS, the Tampa Bay Rays secured their first-ever appearance in the American League Championship Series in franchise history. This marked a major milestone for the team, which had previously never finished above .500 or reached the postseason.

What notable record did the 2008 ALCS set regarding home runs?

The 2008 ALCS set a record for the most combined home runs in a league championship series, with the two teams hitting a total of 26 home runs throughout the seven games. This indicated a high-scoring and powerful offensive display from both sides.

Who was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 2008 ALCS?

Matt Garza, a pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays, was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2008 American League Championship Series. He played a crucial role in the Rays' victory.

What were the dates during which the 2008 ALCS took place?

The 2008 American League Championship Series began on October 10, 2008, and concluded on October 19, 2008.

Which network broadcast the 2008 ALCS games?

The 2008 American League Championship Series was broadcast on TBS. MLB International also provided coverage.

How did the Tampa Bay Rays perform in spring training prior to their successful 2008 season?

Heading into the 2008 season, the Tampa Bay Rays had very low expectations. Pitcher James Shields joked that the goal was simply not to lose 100 games, and veteran Cliff Floyd contemplated retirement early in spring training. The team had a payroll of $43.8 million, the second lowest in the majors, and faced long odds to win the AL pennant.

What were the betting odds for the Tampa Bay Rays to win the AL pennant and World Series before the 2008 season?

Before the 2008 season, the Tampa Bay Rays were given 125-to-1 odds to win the American League pennant and 300-to-1 odds to win the World Series, reflecting their historically low expectations.

How did the Tampa Bay Rays manage to win the AL East division in 2008, considering their low payroll and previous performance?

The Tampa Bay Rays achieved an improbable victory in the AL East, surpassing the much higher-payroll New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox. This success marked the franchise's first time finishing above .500 and reaching the postseason in their 11-year history.

Which team did the Tampa Bay Rays defeat in the American League Division Series (ALDS) to advance to the ALCS?

The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Chicago White Sox in four games in the American League Division Series to earn their spot in the 2008 ALCS.

What significant roster move did the Boston Red Sox make during the 2008 season that impacted their performance?

During the 2008 season, the Boston Red Sox traded superstar outfielder Manny Ramirez to the Los Angeles Dodgers. In return, they acquired outfielder Jason Bay, a move that proved to be a catalyst for the team's strong finish and postseason qualification.

How did the acquisition of Jason Bay affect the Boston Red Sox's performance in the latter part of the 2008 season?

The acquisition of Jason Bay served as a wake-up call for the defending champion Boston Red Sox. After the trade, the team posted a 34-19 record and successfully qualified for the postseason as a wild-card team.

Which team did the Boston Red Sox defeat in the ALDS to reach the 2008 ALCS?

The Boston Red Sox defeated the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in four games in the American League Division Series to advance to the 2008 ALCS.

What was the score of Game 1 of the 2008 ALCS, and where was it played?

Game 1 of the 2008 ALCS was played at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. The Boston Red Sox defeated the Tampa Bay Rays with a score of 2-0 in a pitcher's duel.

Who were the starting pitchers in Game 1 of the 2008 ALCS?

In Game 1 of the 2008 ALCS, Daisuke Matsuzaka started for the Boston Red Sox, and James Shields started for the Tampa Bay Rays. Matsuzaka held the Rays hitless until the seventh inning.

What was the score of Game 2 of the 2008 ALCS, and what notable event occurred?

Game 2 of the 2008 ALCS saw the Tampa Bay Rays defeat the Boston Red Sox 9-8 in 11 innings. The game featured seven home runs, tying an LCS record, and lasted 5 hours and 27 minutes.

Who was the winning pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays in the marathon Game 2 of the 2008 ALCS?

David Price, who was the Rays' top draft pick in 2007, was credited with the win in Game 2 of the 2008 ALCS. He pitched effectively in relief during the extra-inning contest.

What was the score of Game 3 of the 2008 ALCS, and how did it impact the series lead?

The Tampa Bay Rays won Game 3 of the 2008 ALCS against the Boston Red Sox with a score of 9-1. This victory gave the Rays a 2-1 series lead.

Who was the starting pitcher for the Red Sox in Game 3, and how did he perform?

Jon Lester was the starting pitcher for the Boston Red Sox in Game 3. He struggled against the Rays' lineup, allowing multiple runs, including a three-run homer to B.J. Upton, contributing to the Rays' decisive victory.

What was the score of Game 4 of the 2008 ALCS, and what was the series standing afterward?

The Tampa Bay Rays routed the Boston Red Sox 13-4 in Game 4 of the 2008 ALCS. This win gave the Rays a commanding 3-1 series lead, putting them one game away from the World Series.

Which Rays player had a notable performance in Game 4 of the 2008 ALCS, going 5-for-5 with two stolen bases?

Carl Crawford of the Tampa Bay Rays had an outstanding offensive performance in Game 4 of the 2008 ALCS, going 5-for-5 at the plate with two stolen bases.

Describe the significant comeback by the Boston Red Sox in Game 5 of the 2008 ALCS.

In Game 5, the Boston Red Sox mounted a historic comeback, overcoming a 7-0 deficit against the Tampa Bay Rays to win 8-7. This comeback was the second-largest in postseason history at the time and the largest ever for a team facing elimination.

Who hit the walk-off single for the Red Sox in Game 5 of the 2008 ALCS to complete their comeback?

J. D. Drew hit a walk-off single in the bottom of the ninth inning to win Game 5 for the Boston Red Sox, completing their dramatic comeback from a seven-run deficit.

What was the score of Game 6 of the 2008 ALCS, and what did it mean for the series?

The Boston Red Sox won Game 6 by a score of 4-2 against the Tampa Bay Rays. This victory forced a decisive Game 7 to determine who would advance to the World Series.

Who was the winning pitcher for the Red Sox in Game 6, and who recorded the save?

Josh Beckett earned the win for the Boston Red Sox in Game 6 of the 2008 ALCS, pitching five innings and allowing two solo home runs. Jonathan Papelbon closed out the game for his second save of the series.

What was the final score of Game 7 of the 2008 ALCS, and which team won the series?

The Tampa Bay Rays won Game 7 of the 2008 ALCS against the Boston Red Sox with a score of 3-1, clinching the series victory and their first American League pennant.

Who was the starting pitcher for the Rays in Game 7, and what was his contribution?

Matt Garza started Game 7 for the Tampa Bay Rays. He delivered an MVP performance, allowing only one run and three hits over seven innings, helping the Rays secure the win.

Who recorded the save for the Rays in Game 7 of the 2008 ALCS?

David Price, who had made his major league debut just over a month prior, recorded his first Major League save in Game 7 of the 2008 ALCS, closing out the series win for the Rays.

What was the total attendance for the 2008 ALCS, and what was the average attendance per game?

The total attendance for the 2008 ALCS was 265,926 spectators, with an average attendance of 37,989 per game across the seven contests.

What happened to the Tampa Bay Rays after winning the 2008 ALCS?

After winning the 2008 ALCS, the Tampa Bay Rays went on to lose the World Series to the Philadelphia Phillies in five games.

How did the Rays' success in 2008 influence their performance in subsequent seasons?

The 2008 ALCS victory marked a turning point for the Rays. Led by Andrew Friedman and Joe Maddon, they became an innovative team that consistently won at least 90 games from 2010-2013, despite having one of the lowest payrolls in baseball.

What significant collapse did the Boston Red Sox experience in September 2011, and how did it involve the Rays?

In September 2011, the Boston Red Sox suffered a historic collapse, losing a nine-game lead and failing to make the postseason after a 7-20 record in the final month. This allowed the Tampa Bay Rays to overtake them and secure a wild-card spot.

In which later postseason series did the Red Sox avenge their 2008 ALCS loss to the Rays?

The Boston Red Sox avenged their 2008 ALCS loss to the Tampa Bay Rays by defeating them in the 2013 American League Division Series in four games. The Red Sox went on to win the 2013 World Series.

What role did Kevin Cash play for the Red Sox in 2008, and what is his later connection to the Rays?

Kevin Cash was a backup catcher for the Boston Red Sox during the 2008 season. He later became the manager for the Tampa Bay Rays starting in 2018, earning manager of the year honors in 2020.

What were the combined home run totals for the Rays and Red Sox in the 2008 ALCS?

The Tampa Bay Rays hit 14 home runs, and the Boston Red Sox hit 12 home runs during the 2008 ALCS, for a combined total of 26 home runs, setting a record for a league championship series.

Which Rays player hit multiple home runs in Game 2 of the 2008 ALCS?

Evan Longoria hit two home runs in Game 2 of the 2008 ALCS, contributing significantly to the high-scoring affair. Dustin Pedroia also hit two home runs for the Red Sox in that game.

What was the significance of the Rays winning Game 7 of the 2008 ALCS after blowing a lead?

The Rays became the first team since the 1992 Atlanta Braves to win a seventh game of a championship series after having previously blown a 3-1 series lead, highlighting their resilience.

Who was the crew chief for the umpiring crew in the 2008 ALCS?

Tim McClelland served as the crew chief for the umpires during the 2008 American League Championship Series.

Which umpire had to be replaced during Game 6 of the 2008 ALCS, and why?

Umpire Derryl Cousins was struck by a foul ball in the second inning of Game 6 and had to leave the game due to a bruised collarbone. He was replaced, and the game continued with a five-man umpiring crew.

What technical issue affected the television broadcast of Game 6 of the 2008 ALCS?

During Game 6, TBS experienced technical difficulties, causing viewers to see a rerun of 'The Steve Harvey Show' instead of the live game for a portion of the first inning. The network later apologized for the transmission problem.

How many times did the Red Sox win the World Series between 2004 and 2013?

The Boston Red Sox won the World Series three times between 2004 and 2013, specifically in 2004, 2007, and 2013.

What was the combined record of the Tampa Bay Rays and Boston Red Sox in the 2008 ALCS?

The Tampa Bay Rays had a record of 4 wins and 3 losses in the 2008 ALCS, while the Boston Red Sox also had 3 wins and 4 losses, as the Rays won the series.

Which Rays player hit a home run in Game 7 of the 2008 ALCS to provide insurance runs?

Willy Aybar hit a home run in the seventh inning of Game 7 of the 2008 ALCS, extending the Rays' lead to 3-1.

What was the performance of the top three hitters in the Red Sox lineup against Rays starter Matt Garza in Game 3?

In Game 3, the Red Sox's 3-4-5 hitters (the top three batters in the lineup) went 0-for-9 against Rays starter Matt Garza, indicating Garza's effectiveness against Boston's key offensive players.

How many ALCS appearances did the Red Sox make in the six seasons leading up to and including 2008?

The Boston Red Sox made their fourth appearance in the ALCS in the last six seasons, and their ninth appearance overall, leading up to and including the 2008 series.

What was the final score of Game 5 of the 2008 ALCS, and who won?

The Boston Red Sox won Game 5 of the 2008 ALCS against the Tampa Bay Rays with a score of 8-7, completing a significant comeback.

Who was the losing pitcher for the Rays in Game 7 of the 2008 ALCS?

Jon Lester was the losing pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 7 of the 2008 ALCS, as he started the game for the Red Sox and took the loss.

What was the combined number of hits for both teams in the 2008 ALCS?

Across the seven games of the 2008 ALCS, the Tampa Bay Rays recorded 61 hits, and the Boston Red Sox recorded 57 hits, for a combined total of 118 hits.

How many errors did each team commit during the 2008 ALCS?

The Tampa Bay Rays committed 6 errors throughout the 2008 ALCS, while the Boston Red Sox committed no errors, playing a clean defensive series.

What was the final score of Game 1 of the 2008 ALCS?

The final score of Game 1 of the 2008 ALCS was Boston Red Sox 2, Tampa Bay Rays 0.

2008 American League Championship Series Wiki: The 2008 ALCS: A Defining Showdown

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Series Overview

The Matchup

The 2008 American League Championship Series (ALCS) was the third postseason meeting between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox. The Rays, emerging as a surprise contender, held home-field advantage against the reigning World Series champions.

Historic Performance

This series is renowned for its offensive fireworks, setting a record for combined home runs in a League Championship Series with 26 total blasts. It culminated in a dramatic Game 7, showcasing the resilience and competitive spirit of both clubs.

The Outcome

After a hard-fought seven games, the Tampa Bay Rays emerged victorious, winning the series 4 games to 3. This marked the franchise's first American League pennant and their inaugural appearance in the World Series.

The Contenders

Tampa Bay Rays

The Rays' 2008 campaign was a remarkable "worst-to-first" transformation. Entering the season with low expectations and the second-lowest payroll in MLB, they defied all odds. Under manager Joe Maddon, they secured their first-ever AL East title and playoff berth, culminating in their first ALCS appearance.

The Rays' journey was characterized by a young, energetic core and innovative management. Despite facing established powerhouses like the Yankees and Red Sox in their division, they consistently performed above expectations, finishing the regular season with a 97-65 record.

Boston Red Sox

The defending World Series champions, managed by Terry Francona, navigated the regular season with characteristic grit. Despite a mid-season trade that sent away superstar Manny Ramirez, the Red Sox secured the AL Wild Card spot. Their experience and postseason pedigree made them formidable opponents.

The Red Sox demonstrated their ability to adapt and perform under pressure. The acquisition of Jason Bay bolstered their lineup, and they finished the season 95-67, setting up a classic rivalry clash in the ALCS.

Series Dynamics

Venue and Dates

The series commenced on October 10, 2008, at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, and concluded on October 19, 2008. The games were broadcast nationally on TBS.

Offensive Barrage

A defining characteristic of this ALCS was the sheer volume of home runs. The two teams combined for a record 26 home runs across the seven games, highlighting powerful offensive performances from both sides.

Game 5 Comeback

Game 5 at Fenway Park featured one of the most dramatic comebacks in postseason history. The Rays built a 7-0 lead, only for the Red Sox to rally for an 8-7 victory, powered by key hits from David Ortiz and J.D. Drew, extending the series and showcasing Boston's championship mettle.

Game-by-Game Breakdown

Game 1: Boston 2, Tampa Bay 0

A pitcher's duel saw Boston take an early lead in the series, with Daisuke Matsuzaka outdueling James Shields. The Rays were held hitless until the seventh inning.

Team	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Boston	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	1	0	2	7	0
Tampa Bay	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	4	0

WP: Daisuke Matsuzaka (1-0)
LP: James Shields (0-1)
Sv: Jonathan Papelbon (1)

Game 2: Tampa Bay 9, Boston 8 (11 Innings)

A high-scoring affair that broke ALCS home run records. The Rays ultimately prevailed in extra innings, tying the series at one game apiece.

Team	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	R	H	E
Boston	2	0	1	0	3	1	0	1	0	0	0	8	12	0
Tampa Bay	2	0	2	1	3	0	0	0	0	0	1	9	12	0

WP: David Price (1-0)
LP: Mike Timlin (0-1)
HR: BOS: Pedroia 2 (2), Youkilis (1), Bay (1); TB: Longoria (1), B.J. Upton (1), Floyd (1)

Game 3: Tampa Bay 9, Boston 1

The Rays offense exploded at Fenway Park, with Matt Garza delivering a stellar performance. Tampa Bay took a 2-1 series lead.

Team	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Tampa Bay	0	1	4	0	0	0	0	3	1	9	13	0
Boston	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	1	7	0

WP: Matt Garza (1-0)
LP: Jon Lester (0-1)
HR: TB: B.J. Upton (2), Longoria (2), Baldelli (1), Pena (1)

Game 4: Tampa Bay 13, Boston 4

The Rays continued their offensive dominance, routing Boston with 14 hits, including multiple home runs. Tampa Bay moved to the brink of the World Series with a 3-1 series lead.

Team	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Tampa Bay	3	0	2	0	1	5	0	2	0	13	14	3
Boston	0	0	1	0	0	0	1	2	0	4	7	0

WP: Andy Sonnanstine (1-0)
LP: Tim Wakefield (0-1)
HR: TB: Pena (2), Longoria (3), Aybar (1); BOS: Cash (1)

Game 5: Boston 8, Tampa Bay 7

In a stunning turnaround, the Red Sox mounted an incredible comeback from a 7-0 deficit to win 8-7, avoiding elimination. This game is etched in postseason lore for its dramatic rally.

Team	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Tampa Bay	2	0	3	0	0	0	2	0	0	7	8	1
Boston	0	0	0	0	0	0	4	3	1	8	11	0

WP: Justin Masterson (1-0)
LP: J.P. Howell (0-1)
HR: TB: B.J. Upton (3), Pena (3), Longoria (4); BOS: Ortiz (1), Drew (1)

Game 6: Boston 4, Tampa Bay 2

Facing elimination, the Red Sox relied on strong pitching from Josh Beckett and timely hitting to force a decisive Game 7, tying the series 3-3.

Team	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Boston	0	1	1	0	0	2	0	0	0	4	10	0
Tampa Bay	1	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	2	4	1

WP: Josh Beckett (1-0)
LP: James Shields (0-2)
Sv: Jonathan Papelbon (2)
HR: BOS: Youkilis (2), Varitek (1); TB: B.J. Upton (4), Bartlett (1)

Game 7: Tampa Bay 3, Boston 1

In the deciding game, Rays rookie pitcher Matt Garza delivered an MVP performance, limiting the potent Red Sox offense. The Rays secured their historic pennant with a gritty 3-1 victory.

Team	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Boston	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	3	0
Tampa Bay	0	0	0	1	1	0	1	0	X	3	6	1

WP: Matt Garza (2-0)
LP: Jon Lester (0-2)
Sv: David Price (1)
HR: BOS: Pedroia (3); TB: Aybar (2)

Composite Series Statistics

Series Totals

A summary of the key statistics across all seven games, highlighting the offensive prowess and pitching performances.

Team	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	R	H	E
Tampa Bay Rays	8	1	11	2	6	5	3	5	1	0	1	43	61	6
Boston Red Sox	3	1	3	0	4	3	6	7	1	0	0	28	57	0

Total Attendance: 265,926
Average Attendance: 37,989

Legacy and Impact

Rays' Ascent

The 2008 ALCS victory marked a pivotal moment for the Tampa Bay Rays. It signaled the arrival of a competitive franchise that would continue to achieve success with innovative strategies and a focus on player development, becoming a model for smaller market teams.

Red Sox Rivalry

The series further intensified the burgeoning rivalry between the Rays and Red Sox. While Boston would achieve further championship success, this series represented a significant step in Tampa Bay's rise as a legitimate contender in the American League East.

World Series Appearance

Following their ALCS triumph, the Rays advanced to the 2008 World Series, where they faced the Philadelphia Phillies. Though they ultimately lost the series in five games, their journey was a testament to their remarkable season.

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References

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The 2008 ALCS: A Defining Showdown

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Series Overview 🏆

⚾ The Matchup

🔥 Historic Performance

➡️ The Outcome

The Contenders 🤝

🌟 Tampa Bay Rays

👑 Boston Red Sox

Series Dynamics 📊

🏟️ Venue and Dates

💥 Offensive Barrage

🤯 Game 5 Comeback

Game-by-Game Breakdown 📝

0️⃣ Game 1: Boston 2, Tampa Bay 0

9️⃣ Game 2: Tampa Bay 9, Boston 8 (11 Innings)

1️⃣3️⃣ Game 3: Tampa Bay 9, Boston 1

1️⃣3️⃣ Game 4: Tampa Bay 13, Boston 4

8️⃣ Game 5: Boston 8, Tampa Bay 7

4️⃣ Game 6: Boston 4, Tampa Bay 2

3️⃣ Game 7: Tampa Bay 3, Boston 1

Composite Series Statistics 📈

📊 Series Totals

Legacy and Impact ⏳

🚀 Rays' Ascent

🔄 Red Sox Rivalry

🏆 World Series Appearance

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 References

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Series Overview

The Matchup

Historic Performance

The Outcome

The Contenders

Tampa Bay Rays

Boston Red Sox

Series Dynamics

Venue and Dates

Offensive Barrage

Game 5 Comeback

Game-by-Game Breakdown

Game 1: Boston 2, Tampa Bay 0

Game 2: Tampa Bay 9, Boston 8 (11 Innings)

Game 3: Tampa Bay 9, Boston 1

Game 4: Tampa Bay 13, Boston 4

Game 5: Boston 8, Tampa Bay 7

Game 6: Boston 4, Tampa Bay 2

Game 7: Tampa Bay 3, Boston 1

Composite Series Statistics

Series Totals

Legacy and Impact

Rays' Ascent

Red Sox Rivalry

World Series Appearance

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice