Photo Giants notebook: Brower looks forward to Boston series

By Jeremy Harness

June 17, 2004
Boston Red Sox' Manny Ramirez, right, receives a warm welcome in the dugout after hitting a two-run home run in the fourth inning off a pitch by San Diego Padres starting pitcher Ismael Valdez, at Boston's Fenway Park, Thursday, June 10, 2004. The Red Sox beat the Padres, 9-3. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
 



SAN FRANCISCO - As the Giants prepare for the Boston Red Sox to come into SBC Park on Friday, many of the Giants aren't too familiar with the Boston players.

Right-handed reliever Jim Brower has a few fond memories of some of them, particularly Manny Ramirez and Jason Varitek.

Brower spent his first two years in the majors as a teammate of Ramirez with the Cleveland Indians, saying that he was one of the best teammates he's ever had.

"He was a great teammate," said Brower, who picked up the win during the Giants' 8-5 win over Toronto Thursday afternoon. "He's quiet, he goes about his business, but every time I see him, he's always got a smile on his face."

Varitek's isn't quite as pleasant, however. In September 1999, he surrendered his first major-league runs in extra innings on back-to-back solo home runs to the Red Sox. One of those homers was hit by none other than Varitek, and Brower was pegged with the loss.

Tomko to start rehab Friday: Right-hander Brett Tomko, the Giants' regular No. 2 starter, will make a rehab start for Triple-A Fresno on Friday night as the Grizzlies travel to Portland.

Tomko, who is currently on the disabled list with elbow inflammation, would have started Wednesday night's 10-2 victory over Toronto. Kirk Rueter has assumed his spot in the rotation for the meantime.
 

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