THE HIGHLIGHTS: Starter Kyle Snyder allowed only two runs on three hits with one walk and six strikeouts to earn his first victory of the season for Pawtucket. The right-hander began the season in the Red Sox’ bullpen, but was designated for assignment April 5. In his minor-league assignment, he was a key to Pawtucket’s victory last night. He threw only 72 pitches (50 strikes) but had to leave the game early because of a blister on his index finger . . . The ball usually has no trouble leaving the yard at McCoy Stadium, also known as a hitter’s park, and last night was no different. The PawSox got back-to-back homers in the third from George Kottaras and Sandy Madera before Chris Carter belted a three-run shot in the seventh . . . Pawtucket had a 12-2 lead going into the top of the ninth inning, but Durham pushed five runs across in the frame.

KEY TO THE GAME: The PawSox’ bats were silent during the first two games of this four-game set against the Bulls. Pawtucket did not produce a run in those games, so it was important for the club to get off to a good start last night. The PawSox played small ball and pushed across three runs in the first inning to jump-start the lopsided victory. Pawtucket produced three hits, including a sacrifice bunt, and drew a leadoff walk.

PROSPECT TO WATCH: Carter entered last night’s game with one hit in his last 20 at-bats during a six-game stretch. He provided an RBI double in the first inning and added a three-run homer in the seventh. It was his first round-tripper of the season. The 25-year-old outfielder/first baseman is known for his offensive ability, so a performance like last night’s certainly could get him going again.

THEY SAID IT: Carter’s “a guy who has some pop,” said PawSox manager Ron Johnson. “When you get to 100 at-bats without (a homer), it’s been wearing on him. That was huge for him. Of course, the guys gave him the silent treatment in the dugout, which was really cool. I was just afraid he was going to rip my arm out of its socket when he came around third.”

NOTES: Red Sox first baseman Sean Casey will begin his rehab assignment with the PawSox today. He was placed on the DL on April 26 with a right hip strain. Casey, who is batting .346 in 17 games for the Red Sox this season, will DH for the PawSox today and play first tomorrow . . . Red Sox pitcher Bartolo Colon will start for the PawSox on Saturday against Norfolk.