7 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 4 K

W, 5 G

Forced to choose between these two sets of characters in a vacuum, I’d be tempted to take the latter — a five game divisional lead.  In context, the clear choice is an excellent performance from a 23 year old lefty in his emotional home debut.  There are certain games every season that catalyze a team, be it a brawl or an August sweep at home by a rival, I’m just glad I was lucky enough to see Tuesday’s contest.

I really have no idea how good Jon Lester is.  Examining his 2006 and 2007 game logs, his inconsistency is apparent.  That inconsistency isn’t indicative of future performance in any way, its very possible that he figured out what was plaguing him and has worked to correct it.  At least he hasn’t regressed.  I’m sure cancer and its treatment effects a body in innumerable ways, but he has returned to where he once was, capable of shutting down a major league offense for 7 innings.  The important thing to take away from last night’s game is that Lester is no worse than the pitcher he was last year.

The Best Bullpen in Baseball (BBB) almost blew another one.  It was important to win in regulation and save Okajima for another day.   Eric Gagne looked a little more comfortable in his new role.  I still like the deal.  Oh, and Kason Gabbard left his start in the second on Monday with stiffness in his forearm.  Don’t come cryin’ Texas.

I know you paid a lot for those seats and you’d like to get your money’s worth, what are you waiting for?  STAND UP.  The game is on the line.  I haven’t been to Fenway in a while, but is this what it’s come to?

1:05 EDT: Diasuke Masuzaka faces Andy Sonnanstine (1-8, 6.35, 1.40) for the sweep.  Watch out for Clay Buchholz on Friday.

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