DETROIT -- Kevin Cash had a very good night offensively and defensively.

Cash, who serves as the personal catcher for knuckleballer Tim Wakefield, not only helped the Sox’ pitcher author eight innings of shutout ball, but also chipped in with a 3-for-4 performance at the plate.

“He did a great job,” said manager Terry Francona. “He swung the bat, ran the game and gave us a lot of positive energy. That’s why he’s here.”

Cash’s offensive performance, which included a double, marked his second three-hit game in his last three starts. He boosted his average to .361.

“It’s nice to contribute,” said Cash, a career .167 hitter in 126 big-league games coming into this season.

“I don’t want to be just a guy who plays every five days. I don’t want to be just Wake’s catcher. This is a great offensive team and I want to contribute, too,” said Cash, who is batting .423 (11-for-26) over his last eight games.

-STEVEN KRASNER