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Boston Red Sox's Jason Bay hits a two-run home run against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the sixth inning during Game 1 of their MLB American League Divisional Series playoff baseball game in Anaheim, California, October 1, 2008. REUTERS/Danny Moloshok

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Jason Bay is trying his best to escape comparisons with Manny Ramirez, the temperamental left fielder who was shipped out of Boston just as he arrived.

Although the more Bay shines, the more validity he brings to the comparisons.

Bay's hot bat has helped carry the Red Sox to a 2-0 lead over the Los Angeles Angels in their best-of-five American League Division Series.

His two home runs, five hits and five RBI in his first postseason experience have put Boston on the verge of sweeping the Angels on Sunday in Fenway Park.

"I'm not trying to be Manny," Bay told reporters after his team's 7-5 victory on Friday.

"I understand the comparison so I have to acknowledge it but it's been nice to get off to this start and make it less of an issue."

When the Red Sox sent mercurial All-Star Ramirez to the Los Angeles Dodgers on July 31, it was Bay they received in return in a three-way deal via Pittsburgh and it did not take long for the 30-year-old Canadian to show his worth.

STEADY DEFENSE

In 49 games he provided steady defense to go along with nine home runs and 37 RBI.

His season totals, including his time in Pittsburgh, equate to a .286 average, 31 homers and 101 RBI, making him one of eight players to record 100 runs, 100 RBI and 30 homers in a year they were traded.

"You get a couple of hits and it helps you relax," Bay said. "Rather than going up (to the plate) waiting for something to happen you're making something happen."

Any concern that Boston fans may have had about Bay's abilities has long been eradicated.

"He's a great player, he's fun to watch," said fellow outfielder JD Drew. "I think he just had to get used to answering all the questions.

"He's handled it well and he's a big part of this team."

Bay's understated personality belies Boston's scrutinizing baseball culture but it is clear he has the game built for the bright lights.

"He's as cool as a cucumber," said reliever Jonathan Papelbon. "He's got ice water in his veins."

"He's not trying to be Manny Ramirez," said second baseman Dustin Pedroia. "He's Jason Bay and that's all we ask of him."

(Editing by Tony Jimenez)