Pitchers Dual

Solid is the only word I can use for the game last night in Bostons 2-1 win over Toronto. Both pitching staffs brought the A-game to the mound, with Buchholz going 8 innings and Marcum going 7 innings. After last nights fiasco with the bullpens being burnt up, Boston needed a solid outing, and they wish was granted.

Papelbon did not get the save opportunity last night as he has been used way more than what Terry Francona would like to see. Papelbon has been in the last 3 previous games and the plus side to that, Boston has won all 3 previous games.

Boston is 6-4 in the last 10 games. A plus for those following the division race, and yes I used the words, "Division Race". It is always close with any ball club, however in this division, EVERY game counts.

Tampa Bay leads the AL East with a 15-5 record, the best record in MLB as of know. In the same division that has the best record, it also has the worst record in MLB with the Baltimore Orioles at 4-16. Boston is 10-11, tied with Toronto now after winning the past 2 games. The Yankees and Boston are both 6-4 in the last 10 games, New York is only 2.5 games behind division leading Rays.

Boston has been switching around the lineup as of late, and it has went in favor. Varitek who has been demoted to backup catcher has an amazing .357 BA, with 4 Hrs, in 28 at bats; something every team wish they had in a bench player. Jeremey Hermida has been coming up big along with Bill Hall, both players filling in nicely with newly signed Mike Cameron and Jacoby Ellsbury on the Disabled List.

Boston will face off against Toronto tomorrow evening when Jon Lester (0-2) faces Brett Cecil (1-0). Lester has been less than stellar this year posting a 6.23 era. Hopefully the last couple of games can give Lester some insight on locating the strike zone for a good outing.