THE HIGHLIGHTS: The PawSox pounded out 11 hits but left 10 runners stranded. Pawtucket’s only offense came when it pushed three runs across in the third inning en route to the victory at McCoy Stadium. After taking a three-run lead, Pawtucket starter David Pauley did the rest. The right-hander improved to 3-2 with a solid six-inning performance. He allowed two runs on five hits with two walks and five strikeouts. “It was good to get some quality work in and get a quality outing,” said Pauley. “It was good confidence-wise, and I felt good.” Red Sox players Alex Cora and Sean Casey continued their rehab with the PawSox yesterday. Cora (elbow) went 1-for-4 and Casey (hip) 2-for-4. They both will be back in the lineup tonight, and are expected to rejoin Boston in Minnesota tomorrow.

KEY TO THE GAME: The PawSox’ bullpen. After Pauley left, Chris Smith worked two perfect innings and recorded two strikeouts. The right-hander was outstanding, keeping the Durham hitters off balance. Bryan Corey earned the save with a 1-2-3 ninth inning, including two strikeouts.

PROSPECT TO WATCH: PawSox catcher Dusty Brown continues to impress with his defensive skills. He has a cannon for an arm, and yesterday threw out a potential base stealer. He’s 6-for-20 thus far. The 25-year-old, who is in his first full season at Triple A, went 2-for-4 day with a RBI.

THEY SAID IT: “Chris Smith was outstanding, which is very exciting for me,” said PawSox manager Ron Johnson. “I have a lot of history with this kid. I had him in Double-A Portland . . . His stuff is so crisp right now. Those two innings of relief were dirty.”

NOTES: To say Brandon Moss is a gamer would be anunderstatement. The Red Sox outfielder, who had an emergency appendectomy, last Saturday night, has already begun his rehab. He’s been at McCoy the last two days, running and riding the stationary bike. He will leave for Fort Myers, Fla., tomorrow to participate in extended spring training, and if all goes well he should be able to play for the PawSox on May 18.

jmcdonal@projo.com