Beckett's Roommate

Josh Beckett was with the Kane County Cougars in 2000. His roommate was Kelley Washington. Washington is playing wide receiver for the New England Patriots. Beckett is waiting to see if he gets to pitch in the World Series.

The Boston Herald had this story from Karen Guregian yesterday.

Washington familiar with Beckett’s drive

Washington played Single-A ball with Beckett eight years ago for Kane County (Ill.) of the Midwest League, and they roomed together for a couple of months. After getting to know Beckett and seeing him play, Washington always envisioned the right-hander having success in big games.

His friend hasn’t disappointed.

“Ever since he was 18 years old, he’s always been good like that,” Washington said. “I always pictured him doing things like that in his career, and he’s doing it.”

Beckett faced the Timber Rattlers twice in the 2000 season. The first time was on April 12 at Elfstrom Stadium...and I didn't get to see it.

At the time, I was still the play-by-play announcer for the Green Bay Gamblers. The Gamblers were in the playoffs and that had a priority in my agreement with both teams. What did I miss?

Beckett pitched five shutout innings, allowed two hits, walked three, and struck out five. But, he got a no decision.

The second time was on July 2 in Grand Chute. Hockey season had been over for a long time and I did not miss this one.

The starting pitcher for the Rattlers that day was JJ Putz. Putz outpitched Beckett and three other Cougar pitchers in a 2-0 win.

Beckett pitched 4-1/3 innings and again struck out five. He gave up four hits, but two of those hits were solo homers and he took the loss. Shawn McCorkle hit a two out homer in the first inning for a 1-0 lead. Justin Leone homered with one out in the fourth inning and that was all Putz needed.

JJ pitched a complete game, 7-hit shutout with one walk and seven strikeouts.

That day, Kelley Washington went 0-for-4 with a strikeout and he made the final out of the game.