As Chris Snow points out in the Globe (now behind an annoying free registration), last night’s performance is what the Sox were expecting when they signed David Wells. Showing the pinpoint control that has been the hallmark of the latter stage of his career, Wells allowed only 4 batters to reach base (just 1 walk) while striking out 5. Wells lasted 8 innings, a feat he’s achieved only 3 times in 2004.

Wells’ performance certainly wasn’t wasted by the Sox offense, who exploded in the latter half of the game for 8 runs. Former Sox (and f0rmer every other team in baseball) pitcher Bruce Chen pitched a quiet 4.2 IP before balking in the first run of the game. That opened the flood gates, as the Sox touched him up for 3 more in the sixth on a Jason Varitek home run, and another in the 7th before he was lifted for Steve Reed. Reed continued his struggles for the Os, giving up 3 runs in just an inning pitched.

Manny Ramirez continues his obsession with hurting every pitch thrown in the strike zone, going 2 for 2 (a single and a huge double) with 2 walks. Captain Varitek, doing everything in his power to make it hard for me to argue his signing was short-sighted, pitched in with a single and his three run homer. The Sox offense drew another 7 walks as they shake off their early season impatience.

Tonight the Sox send Matt Clement up against Rodrigo Lopez, winner gets first place in the AL East.