His career record is 78-76 with an earned run average of 3.90. In 2009, his record against teams not hailing from the Fenway section of Boston is 5-8 with an earned run average of 4.00; in four starts against the Red Sox he is 2-0 with an ERA of 1.88.In his career against Boston he is 5-1 with an ERA of 2.93.

It is one of those charming, maddening baseball truths: Some pitchers assume powers far greater than they normally realize against certain foes.

So Garza did it again Tuesday night, holding the Red Sox to three hits, two of them solo homers by Kevin Youkilis and Dustin Pedroia, giving the Rays a chance to win 4-2 in 13 innings. Few are even trying any longer to hold Garza up to a light and figure out exactly why he becomes a Hall of Famer against Boston. Today’s postmortems focus on the Red Sox’ bullpen and the need for another (effective) arm; Jon Lester’s wasted effort – six-plus superlative innings; and the fact that the Red Sox have become utter patsies at Tropicana Field.

For those seeking a distraction, there is the continued hum of scandal haunting David Ortiz. Also, one but of good news – Jerry Remy is feeling better and said to be cancer-free, though there is no word on when he might reappear in the broadcast booth.

Tags: David Ortiz, Jerry Remy, Jon Lester, Matt Garza, Rays, Red Sox bullpen