Eduardo Rodriguez will take the mound for the second to last time this season, taking on the Rays in Fenway park.
Frankly, for Rodriguez there's not much to these last two starts. Yes, it could leave his season skewed positively or negatively, perhaps dramatically so depending on just how good or bad they are, but at this point it's all just statistics. And while statistics are important, two games' worth will not be enough to change the narrative on Rodriguez this season. Or, at least, they shouldn't.
The fact is that, at 22, with just 48 innings at Triple-A, Eduardo Rodriguez made his way to the majors this year and more than held his own. 109 innings in, his ERA is under 4.00, and he has a solid-if-unspectacular K:BB ratio. This despite a season that has seen him deal with rookie issues like tipping pitches. There is no rotation spot to be gained or lost here--Rodriguez should be a lock for 2016, barring some sort of trade, and it's not particularly close.
That being said...another couple good games would be appreciated. If only for appearances' sake.
First pitch is at 7:10 p.m. ET with broadcasts on NESN and WEEI.