Because some matchups sound all-too-much like court cases. Or MMA events. Both work in this case, I'd say.
With their win last night, the Red Sox pulled back to within a game of the New York Yankees, who fell flat against Jered Weaver in the vicinity of Los Angeles. They also picked up a run on the Rays, who showed that Clay Buchholz had nothing to be ashamed of by giving up seven runs to the Mariners. Thanks, Andy Sonnanstine!
The Red Sox have been the streaky sort, so hopefully that four game losing streak just touches off another long winning streak. The high water mark is seven, with a typical good showing being around five. Of course, right now, they should probably just focus on getting a win before the Lackey - Anderson matchup tomorrow. Everyone looking forward to that one?
1. Jacoby Ellsbury, CF
2. Dustin Pedroia, 2B
3. Adrian Gonzalez. 1B
4. Kevin Youkilis, 3B
5. David Ortiz, DH
6. Carl Crawford, LF
7. Jed Lowrie, SS
8. J.D. Drew, RF
9. Jason Varitek, C
It's a typical 2011 Beckett lineup with Tek taking over behind the plate.
Hopefully it'll also be a typical Beckett start, all things considered.
The A's will return fire with Trevor Cahill, the young righty who will hopefully be allowing runs today.
Though it is perhaps not his usual style...
Go Sox!