Daily Red Sox Links: Mookie Betts, Rick Porcello, Pedro Martinez

Like this edition of the Daily Links, Mookie Betts looks to start off the season for the Red Sox as their lead-off hitter. (Brian MacPherson; Providence Journal)

It certainly won't be recent acquisition Ryan Hanigan -- or Christian Vazquez, for that matter -- but they make up for it with their value as defensive catchers. (Jason Mastrodonato; MassLive)

None of it will matter if they can't find a strong enough starting rotation, however. But does that require an ace? What The Numbers Say Will Shock You... (Paul Swydan; Boston Globe)

... and if numbers aren't your thing, here's a close reading of song lyrics as a metaphor for the Red Sox offseason ... (Bill Chuck; Boston.com)

... which is good, because the prose part of the conversation seems to be seems to be going around in circles ... (Michael Silverman; Boston Herald)

... though, whether or not that's because of the differences in style between Ben Cherington and Theo Epstein remain unclear. (Braden Campbell; Boston.com)

What is clear, however, is that the team is working diligently to build a bullpen worthy of a champion. (Rob Bradford; WEEI)

Which, speaking of champions/heroes/demigods, the Boston BBWA has given Pedro Martinez the prestigious Judge Emil Fuchs memorial award. (Sam Galanis; NESN)