I liked this line from Chris Snow’s report this morning:

Lilly — who fanned 13 Red Sox last Aug. 23 while hurling a three-hit shutout — has been granted membership in the ‘’Rodrigo Lopez Club,” a collection of non-aces who pitch like Cy Young winners against the Red Sox.

It’s true. Just as they did last night, the Sox always struggle against Lilly. You may recall this game from last summer, or even Game 3 of the 2003 ALDS - a game Oakland never should have lost.

Since we try to take the long view here I should note that Bronson Arroyo was pretty good last night. He only allowed 6 hits. The Red Sox are in an enviable position because the things that need fixing have clear and ready-made solutions. Kevin Millar sucks but Roberto Petagine and John Olerud are close to ready in Pawtucket. Boston has lacked consistency through the back end of their rotation, but Curt Schilling continues to work his way back. The bullpen has coughed it up a few times, but there’s Matt Mantei itching to see some high-lev innings.

The lesson? Hang in. The Sox are very good. The problem is if they wait (or are forced to wait in Schill’s case) to address some of the aforementioned problems, it could be too late. The American League East features four very good baseball teams and the margin of error New York and Boston have enjoyed in seasons past no longer exists.

Wade Miller against Toronto’s intriguing youngster, Gustavo Chacin, tonight at the Rogers Centre.