BOSTON -- In a game filled with improbable moments, the Red Sox' biggest hero was as unlikely as anyone.

Jed Lowrie began this season playing 53 games in Pawtucket and continued his dream rookie season in the majors by driving in the run that clinched Boston's A.L. Division Series last night at Fenway Park.

Lowrie drove a single into right field that opened the door for Jason Bay to race around and score from second base with the winning run.

``It was a curveball down in the zone," Lowrie said. "I know he's got a good one. I was just able to get the barrel on it."

Lowrie ended the regular season hitting .213 in September, but his strong glove cemented his place as the team's starting shortstop. He said he's never lost his confidence and understands that defense is his main responsibility. Maybe that's why being an offensive hero seemed so satisfying.

``Well, I never really lost my confidence," said Lowrie. ``That's kind of the game of baseball. It's never easy. You know, I felt like I was grinding out at-bats in September. Not a lot to show for it. I came into the playoffs with my confidence still high, but, you know, it's a funny game. You can hit the ball hard and get out, and you can bloop one in and get a hit. So it's just a matter of maintaining a steady approach.''

Lowrie hit safely in all three games of the series he played in and finished hitting .364 (4 for 11).

kmcnamar@projo.com