Beckett vs Wang

Well I called the first game. New York won. But Boston blowing a 7-2 lead in the 8th is more Boston losing then New York winning. And it was Boston’s two best relievers, Okajima and Papelbon who lost it. One has to start to question how reliable they are this last part of the season to give up six runs in one inning.

“It came apart in a hurry,” Red Sox manager Terry Francona said.

In baseball luckily everyone gets second chances, tonight Boston’s second chance is Beckett versus Wang. Both are going for baseballs first 19 game winner. Wang has won his last five starts. In that time he has a 2.04 ERA in that time. Beckett has been very good recently going 8-1 in his last 10 starts with a 2.66 ERA.

Game 2 Starters	Record	HR	BB	K	ERA	WHIP
Josh Beckett	18-6	14	36	173	3.27	1.14
Chien-Ming Wang	18-6	8	52	91	3.69	1.27

It ought to be an even match up. I give the edge to Beckett and almost Beckett alone. A long solid outing against the Yankees, one that a bullpen can’t blow. Boston’s offense is still hot and can put up some runs against Wang and the bullpen. Of course Chamberlain will be available tonight. Having yet to allowed an ER, Boston will have to put this rookie to the test.

Hot List

• David Ortiz lifetime against Wang: 12/27, 3 2B, 2 HR, 8 RBI
• Eric Hinske lifetime against Wang: 10/22, 4 2B, 2 HR, 3 RBI
• Manny is 13/22 against Wang if he is available

Against Beckett Lifetime:

• Jason Giambi: 5/13, 2 HR
• Robinson Cano: 6/15, 3 XBH
• Melky Cabrera: 7/19 for a .368 avg

Tags: Chien-Ming Wang, David Ortiz, Hideki Okajima, Joba Chamberlain, Jonathan Papelbon, Josh Beckett, Red Sox

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