TORONTO, Sept. 21 (UPI) -- Daisuke Matsuzaka combined with two relievers on a three-hit shutout Sunday in the Boston Red Sox' 3-0 win over the Toronto Blue Jays.
The veteran right-hander improved his record to 18-2 this season by walking just two batters, fanning six and throwing 69 of his 109 pitches for strikes.
Hideki Okajima hurled a scoreless eighth and closer Jonathan Papelbon earned his 40th save this season.
Dustin Pedroia hit an RBI single in the top of the first. Designated hitter David Ortiz launched a two-run homer in the third.
Jacoby Ellsbury had three of the seven hits and scored twice for the Red Sox, who trail American League East-leading Tampa Bay after splitting their last 10 games.
Vernon Wells had two of the three hits for the Blue Jays, who sank to 8 1/2 games back of Boston in the AL wild card chase.
The losing pitcher was starter Scott Richmond (0-3).
