mlb roundup \ Monday’s other games

April 21, 2009 at 12:00a.m.

Red Sox 12, Orioles 1

BOSTON — A couple of slumping sluggers broke out on Patriots’ Day for the Red Sox. Dustin Pedroia went 4-for-6 with three run-scoring singles and David Ortiz had a two-run triple to lead the Red Sox, completing a four-game sweep of the Orioles on Monday. “I would like to be able to swing like Pedroia. He doesn’t have to worry about mechanics,” the big slugger Ortiz joked about the MVP second baseman who hits in front of him. Ortiz entered the game hitting just .170 with one extra-base hit. He also doubled in the first inning on Monday to go 2-for-4 and knock his average up to .196. “It felt good today,” he said. “I’ve been working with my mechanics. I’ve been a little late with pitches, which is something I usually don’t do.” Pedroia, who has also started slowly this season and entered the game hitting .235, had simple advice for Big Papi. “He’ll be all right. He swung the bat well today,” he said. “It’s a long year. Six hundred at-bats. The season isn’t 50 at-bats.” Red Sox manager Terry Francona kept Ortiz in the lineup against a left-handed starting pitcher. Jason Varitek hit a solo homer and Jacoby Ellsbury had three hits to highlight Boston’s season-highs in runs and hits (15). The win was the fifth straight for the Red Sox, who won their sixth consecutive Patriots’ Day game; and 27th in their last 33 at Fenway Park against Baltimore.

Reds 4, Astros 3

HOUSTON — Joey Votto’s two-run double in the seventh inning lifted the Reds over the Astros. Trailing 3-2, Paul Janish and Willy Taveras singled before Votto’s hit helped the Reds win for the third time in four games. Bronson Arroyo (2-1) allowed three runs and nine hits in seven innings. Arthur Rhodes got out of a bases-loaded jam in the eighth by striking out Hunter Pence. Francisco Cordero then pitched the ninth for his fifth save in five tries. Geoff Geary (0-2) took the loss.

Associated Press