Originally published Thursday, April 16, 2009 at 12:00 AM

AL | Tim Wakefield takes no-hitter into 8th inning

When Tim Wakefield stopped by Terry Francona's office Wednesday morning, he already realized the Boston Red Sox were staggering. They had lost six...

When Tim Wakefield stopped by Terry Francona's office Wednesday morning, he already realized the Boston Red Sox were staggering. They had lost six of seven while struggling to hit, and their bullpen was gassed after pitching 11 innings last night.

"I understand the circumstances of today," Wakefield recalled telling his manager. "No matter what, don't take me out."

Francona never even had to consider it. His 42-year-old knuckleballer helped the Red Sox get a whole lot better with one of the best performances of his long career.

Wakefield took a no-hitter into the eighth inning in a masterful display of his unusual art, finishing with a four-hitter Wednesday in Boston's slump-snapping 8-2 victory over the Oakland Athletics.

Meanwhile, Boston right-hander Daisuke Matsuzaka went on the 15-day disabled list with a mild right shoulder strain after his second straight poor start to open the season.

Boston right-hander John Smoltz, 41, is headed to Florida in another step in his recovery from surgery to his right shoulder.

Baltimore: Right-hander Alfredo Simon (elbow) and third baseman Melvin Mora (left hamstring) were put on the 15-day disabled list by the Orioles, who anticipate being without the rookie starting pitcher for a much longer period.

Detroit: The Tigers paid tribute to Mark Fidrych with a moment of silence and a special video before the game against the Chicago White Sox.

New York: Yankees right fielder Xavier Nady will be put on the disabled list with a right elbow injury and could be sidelined for an extended period.

Seattle Times news services

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