Porcello first in Majors to 18 victories

BOSTON — After another dazzling performance during the Red Sox’s 9-4 win over the Rays on Monday night at Fenway Park, Rick Porcello stands alone as the only Major League pitcher to have 18 wins this season.

Recently, the righty’s starts have been stoppers. Six out of Porcello’s last seven wins have come after a Red Sox loss. Boston is 20-7 in Porcello’s starts, including 12-2 in his last 14.

The 27-year-old doesn’t pride himself in leading the Major Leagues right now, even if he is in the conversation for the American League Cy Young Award. Instead, Porcello credits his dynamic team for his accomplishments.

“I think it means we have a heck of a team really,” said Porcello, who allowed just three runs, fanned seven and walked none for the second consecutive start. “When you look at the way our offense is built and the quality at-bats that they have, the runs that they put up. I don’t think anybody really talks about our defense. For me, it’s just go out there and try to keep the game under control, and that’s really all I’ve tried to do and here we are.”

Porcello is the only Red Sox pitcher to begin a season 13-0 at …

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