Red Sox Pitcher Clocked At 111 MPH (While Driving Drunk)

That would be Sidd Finch territory, if it was the speed of his fastball and not the speed of his pickup truck.

Drake Britton, the Red Sox 23rd-round selection in the 2007 draft, was scratched from his scheduled spring training start on Sunday. No explanation was given, but we're guessing this is at least related: Britton was arrested early Saturday morning after being pulled over doing 111 mph in a 45-zone. But he did not slow down without a fight— this sounds like some

With the officer in pursuit, Britton, according to the report, swerved between vehicles, eventually driving off the road, over a curb, down a decline and then drove through and knocked down a fence. Britton attempted to drive into the woods before finally coming to a stop. The officer approached Britton and decided he did not pose a threat. When the officer asked for an ID, Britton turned over his Bank of America Visa card. Britton admitted to drinking and the officer observed slurred speech, bloodshot watery eyes and the strong odor of alcohol.

Britton refused a breathalyzer test, but was booked on counts of reckless driving, driving under the influence, and property damage. The Red Sox released a brief statement this afternoon, saying, "This is a matter that the Red Sox take very seriously, and it is being addressed. The club will not make further comment on this matter."

Britton finished last season in double-A Portland.