Random Thoughts (August 29, 2009)

Once considered the strength of the team, starting pitching once again looks to be a sore spot for the Red Sox. Josh Beckett suffered his third consecutive poor start last night. Beckett was the favorite to capture the A.L. Cy Young before this recent slump but now the Sox would settle for seven quality innings from their ace in his next start at Tampa. Tim Wakefield, who pitched brilliantly in his return from the disabled list on Wednesday, will miss his scheduled start against the Rays in Tampa on Tuesday because of stiffness in his back. Problems with his back were the reason the 43-year-old went on the DL back in July. The Red Sox also sent rookie pitcher Junichi Tazawa to the club's Rookie-Level Gulf Coast affiliate. Tazawa lacked consistency with Boston as a starter so maybe they are hoping he help them down the stretch out of the bullpen. If that isn't the case, it seems wierd they would demote him all the way to the Rookie-Level team. With Wakefield hurt and Tazawa back in the minors, the Sox will probably turn to recently signed veteran Paul Byrd, who was with Boston at the end of the 2008 season. As the Rangers and Rays chase the Red Sox for the Wild Card, they will need better pitching. A struggling Beckett and a loss of Wakefield for an extended period would be a major blow to the team's postseason hopes. Daisuke Matsuzaka, who was out of shape and ineffective during the spring (1-5, 8.23 ERA), could end up playing an important role for the team. If Beckett can straighten himself out and Matsuzaka returns to his 2008 form (18-3, 2.90), the Sox will be in great shape. If not, Boston will be watching from the golf course in October for the first time since 2006... Apparently there is no reason to worry about Tom Brady's right (throwing) shoulder after absorbing a solid hit from Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth during last night's 27-24 preseason win in Washington, D.C. Brady looked to be in 2007 form in the first half, completing 12-of-19 passes for 150 yards and two touchdowns. Brady looked very comfortable in the pocket and both touchdowns landed safely in the hands of his top target, Randy Moss. The biggest issue for the Patriots was their defense. Redskins quarterbacks Jason Campbell and Colt Brennan combined for 290 yards and one touchdown. The Washington ground game also produced 116 yards on 31 carries. Another problem area for Team Belichick is the backup quarterback. Kevin O'Connell was abysmal, going 3-of-10 for 18 yards with two interceptions. The Pats final preseason game is this Thursday at Gillette Stadium against the Giants. Even if he is at 100% health, don't expect to see Brady play as the team figures out if any of the current backup quarterbacks can get the job done... There are still roster moves to be made but I am once again looking forward to rooting for Gary Guyton. The second-year linebacker will be a difference maker in 2009... Enjoy Clay Buchholz tonight...