Conveniently, it’s Lester’s day to pitch but considering his inconsistency at AAA it seems a few weeks early for the call up. There is little reason to rush him.  Even if Hansack/Gabbard/Pauley struggle this team still has 3-4 very capable starters.  And Schilling, the man they are replacing, wasn’t setting the world on fire.  With the question marks surrounding the rotation, this isn’t a bad time for the offense to start clicking. Oh? What’s that? They demolished the Braves 11-0 last night? About freakin’ time. Shutouts are nothing to scoff at; when they happen on consecutive nights against the class of the senior circuit in their ballpark its time for a celebration.

According to the Herald there is no structural damage in Schilling’s shoulder. There is clearly something wrong, and its not cosmetic. The silence in details is curious and frightening. I’d be saddened, but not surprised, if we’ve seen the last of Schilling in a Sox uni. However irritating his Bible thumping schtick grows, he’s put a lot on the line for the team and a fitting exit this is not.

Cancel the family barbeque this Sunday. Josh Beckett (10-1) squares off against Jake Peavy (9-1) in the marquee matchup of the first half at 4:05 EDT. I’m kicking myself failing to realize this was the out of town series to watch instead of repeating the trek to the Trop.