After taking two of three this weekend from the Milwaukee Brewers, the Boston Red Sox continue interleague play Monday evening as they welcome the San Diego Padres for a three-game series. Tonight, Red Sox fans will have their eyes on the starting pitcher, here's why:
The Red Sox will send out left hander Andrew Miller to the mound, who will be making his Boston debut. Miller was called up early Sunday from AAA Pawtucket, where he posted some pretty good numbers. The Red Sox obtained him from the Florida Marlins last offseason pretty cheaply because they believe him to be a work in progress. They believe the work is complete, now let's see if it pays off.
The Padres will counter with a left hander of their own in Wade LeBlanc, who's still looking for victory number one on the season since spending some time on the disabled list. LeBlanc last pitched on June 14 against the Rockies, when he lasted only four and two third while giving up three earned runs on seven hits.
As you know, these teams made a certain trade this winter. Tonight, Adrian Gonzalez will be reunited with all of his former Padre teammates, and the Red Sox will be able to see own work in action, as Anthony Rizzo will be playing first base tonight for the Padres. Certainly someone to keep an eye on.
The Red Sox' lineup isn't what you would call a very strong one, at least at the bottom. With all the injuries and everything, we are being forced to have to deal with Darnell McDonald hitting sixth in the order, playing left field. Mike Cameron is in right field tonight with the left hander on the mound, batting ninth. Jason Varitek will get the call with the newcomer Miller on the mound, batting eighth. At least one through five is the same, here's how we stand tonight:
1. Jacoby Ellsbury, CF
2. Dustin Pedroia, 2B
3. Adrian Gonzalez, 1B
4. Kevin Youkilis, 3B
5. David Ortiz, DH
6. Darnell McDonald, LF
7. Marco Scutaro, SS
8. Jason Varitek, C
9. Mike Cameron, RF
(Miller is making his first start this season, so no stats)
T.V.: NESN
Radio: WEEI 850 AM
Go Sox! (and Anthony Rizzo, to an extent)