After pitching two complete games Martin Perez pitched a total of 9 2/3 innings in his next two starts. Today he will face a Red Sox team which only managed one hit last night. Yeah, I wouldn't envy him.
This will be the second time Perez has faced the Red Sox this season. In his first outing he lasted 6 1/3 and gave up 8 hits and 4 earned runs. Keep in mind that was when the Red Sox offense was being described as being anemic. During that game Mike Napoli was a perfect 3 for 3 while AJ Pierzynski and Grady Sizemore both went 2 for 3. Since then the Red Sox have typically done a much better job scoring runs (not last night obviously).
On the mound for the Red Sox will be Jon Lester. Lester is coming off one of his best starts where he only gave up one hit while recording 15 strikeouts against the Oakland A's. Yes the Oakland A's who are averaging just under 5 runs per game. Although his 3-4 record doesn't show it, Lester is pitching well this season. If he can keep it up his bank account is guaranteed to grow exponentially next season when he signs his next contract. So far this season Lester has thrown 58 strikeouts while only walking 10 batters. Last season Lester didn't do so well against the Ranger. In his two starts he only lasted 6 innings and gave up 4 home runs while walking 6 batters. While I don't think he'll hit double digit with his strikeouts tonight, I think he'll get the win and bring the Red Sox back to 500.
Red Sox Lineup
- Pedroia, 1B
- Victorino, RF
- Ortiz, DH
- Napoli, 1B
- Gomes, LF
- Bogaerts, SS
- Ross, C
- Middlebrooks, 3B
- Bradley Jr, CF
On a side note, while Clay Buchholz and Red Sox fans probably aren't thrilled with his start last night. It's better to have a crappy game when your offense is nonexistent than lose 2-0.
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