Left-handed pitching prospect Felix Doubront is done in his Double-A debut in Portland.

Meanwhile, in Oakland, the Red Sox have placed shortstop Jed Lowrie on the disabled list with a sprained left wrist.

Doubront pitched 4 1/3 innings (2 H, 2 R, 2 BB, 2 HBP, 7 K) Monday night for the Sea Dogs.

Doubront was cruising through the first two innings (16 pitches, 14 strikes) but then got wild. He loaded the bases in the third inning on two walks and a single, but got out of it.

At 6 p.m., it should be about 51 degrees in Portland. Balmy for April. So the conditions should be fine for the Portland Sea Dogs tp open their season at Hadlock Field.

Surely the temperature will drop as the game goes on. But the good news is that Sea Dogs starter Junichi Tazawa is a control freak - i.e., he throws strikes.

For more on Tazawa, see the the story in today's Press Herald. For more on the Dogs, see the notes

Among those notes is an item on Josh Reddick reaching a "compromise" with the Red Sox about his batting approach.

The Portland Sea Dog made the expected announcement that Junichi Tazawa will be the starting pitched in Thursday's season-opener against Connecticut, at Hadlock Field at 6 p.m.

Tazawa, 22, is the much-hyped right-hander from Japan. He bypassed the draft into the Japanese professional league and signed a three-year, $3.3-million contract with the Red Sox.

Some of other Red Sox prospects are expected to play Thursday in Portland, including first baseman Lars Anderson, shortstop Argenis Diaz, center fielder Josh Reddick and catcher Mark Wagner.

And now, courtesy of the media reports out of Boston, here is tonight's Red Sox lineup:

Josh Beckett looked like he may never lose ... Dustin Pedroia hit the second pitch he saw out of the park ... Jason Varitek is swinging like he means it.

What does it mean?

It means that Boston is 1-0, with 161 games to go.

Welcome to Fenway Park, where the grace is green, the atmosphere light, and batting practice is going on right now. The Red Sox are working out here, before Monday's season-opener.

Among the players interviewed in the clubhouse before practice was veteran pitcher John Smoltz. He talked about his tentative schedule for rehab starts before joining the major league team.

Smoltz mentioned Red Sox minor league affiliates in Greenville, S.C.; Salem, Va.; and Pawtucket, R.I.

"What about Portland?" asked the one reporter who would have the most to gain from a John Smoltz rehab start at Hadlock (guess who?).

Justin Masterson put in his work in a minor league game (4 2/3 IP, 4 H, 2 BB, 6 K, 0 runs) Thursday. The Red Sox continue to say his status (starter or reliever) is not known, while they make sure Brad Penny is ready to start the season.

The minor league exhibition schedule ends a week from today, meaning decisions will be made soon, including the inevitable cuts.

Infielders at the Triple-A and Double-A level are battling for jobs.

All four Red Sox pitchers used in Monday's exhibition game had pitched in Portland last year:

Justin Masterson (3 IP, 6 H, 3 ER, 3 K)
Daniel Bard (2 IP, 2 H, BB, 2 K)
Michael Bowden (3 IP, 4 H, ER, 3 K)
Hunter Jones (1 IP, H, K)

Masterson gave up a two-run homer to the left-handed hitting Travis Snider, the former New Hampshire Fisher Cats slugger.

Two of the three Boston home runs came from former Sea Dogs - Jed Lowrie and Jeff Bailey. Bailey is hitting .469 this spring, Lowrie .441. Chris Carter had the other homer.

See the box on the MLB website.

The Boston Red Sox released a statement late Saturday night that second baseman Dustin Pedroia has been diagnosed with a "minor strain" in his lower left abdominal area. He will be held out of baseball activity for a few days.

The Red Sox said Pedroia should not be out long, but he has been pulled out of the World Baseball Classic.

Boston also announced a press conference today with left-handed pitcher Jon Lester.

Red Sox vs. Yankees. Does it get any bigger than this?

Well, yes it does. ... like when the games actually count.

But for spring training games, it is always fun to watch the annual game with the pinstripes. Mike Lowell will reportedly be playing third base for the first time since his hip surgery, and David Ortiz and Jason Bay are back from the WBC.

NESN has the 7 p.m.game tonight.

The Red Sox roster is about complete, although the temporary replacement for Mark Kotsay's back-up role must be decided ... There sure are a lot of outfielders in camp, which will affect the minor league rosters. See our story in the Press Herald

By now you have heard the Manny spin. The man who wanted a four-year, $100-million deal, "settled" for two years at $45-million. (Boston had two $20-million option years with Manny Ramirez, but Ramirez wanted more and quit on his teammates to get out of the contract)

(One emailer wondered if Manny actually got more than what he would have received in Boston, what with California's tax rate, and the deferred money in the contract).

So he didn't get the gigantic bucks. Manny shrugged and said two years with people who "love me" are better than 8 years in a place where he suffered.

Yes, he used the word suffer.

Reliever Daniel Bard will likely start the 2009 season in Portland, but he could be in Boston before the year is over.

The right-hander, blessed with an easy motion and a 100 m.p.h. fastball, has looked good in spring training so far, recording his second scoreless outing on Monday against the Orioles.

Bard got Nick Markakis and Aubrey Huff to ground out to short, and the struck out Ty Wigginton, looking.

Two Red Sox exhibitions in one day, including a contest vs. college kids, meant playing time for minor leaguers on Wednesday.

Shortstop Yamaico Navarro enjoyed a fine day against Boston College, going 2-for-2 with a home run and double, and two RBI.

Navarro, 21, who had a solid 2008 in both Class A leagues, is expected to begin 2009 in advanced Class A ball. But he could push for time in Portland, likely when Sea Dogs shortstop Angel Diaz, is eventually moved to Navarro can play third base.

No sooner than I write a length piece on a new book on Manny Ramirez (see previous blog), than this news comes in:

Former Portland Sea Dogs catcher John Nathans is suing Jose Offerman for $4.8-million for injuries incurred when Offerman hit Nathans during a brawl on Aug. 14, 2007.

At the time, Natans was catching for an independent league team, the Bridgeport Bluefish. Offerman, who once played for the Red Sox, was playing for the Long Island Ducks. Against the Bluefish, Offerman was hit by a a pitch and went after the pitcher, bat in hand.

Some upcoming events:

The Red Sox are offering vouchers to "cut in line" to buy tickets for Fenway Park.

You can learn scorekeeping from one of the best.

The Sea Dogs are offering their annual "win-win" 2-for-1 ticket deal.

Here are the details:

ESPN's Peter Gammons is reporting that the Boston Red Sox have signed Kevin Youklilis to a four-year contract worth $40-million, with an option for a fifth year.

Also, the Red Sox officially signed Mark Kotsay. To make room on the 40-man roster, reliever David Aardsma was designated for assignment.

In one more move, Boston announced that Sea Dogs outfielder Mickey Hall was sent to Cleveland, completing the trade made last August for pitcher Paul Byrd.

Six players from the 2008 Portland Sea Dogs will be invited to their first major league spring training camp next month, Red Sox farm director Mike Hazen confirmed today.

Pitchers Daniel Bard, Dustin Richardson and Kris Johnson, first baseman Lars Anderson, and outfielders Zach Daeges and Josh Reddick will take part as non-roster invitees.

Two other Dogs already on the 40-man roster, catcher Mark Wagner and shortstop Argenis Diaz, will also be there.

Left-hander Dustin Richardson was hot property this time last year, having dominated Class A in 2007 and then getting an invite to the exclusive Red Sox Rookie Development Camp.

But after struggling in Portland in 2008 (7-10, 6.33), the Red Sox looked for ways to better utilize the 6-foot-6 Richardson, who has a high 80's fastball. Richardson moved from starter to reliever in the Hawaiian Winter League (2.42 ERA), and it looks like he might say there.

Red Sox Players Personnel Director Mike Hazen confirmed that Richardson will "likely work out of the pen this year."

The Red Sox announced that righthanded reliever Beau Vaughan has been traded to the Texas Rangers, as the Player To Be Named Later in the Wes Littleton deal (made Nov. 28).

Vaughan spent almost two full seasons with the Sea Dogs, before getting a late promotion to Triple-A this past August.

He was a goofy character. When David Ortiz came to Portland on a rehab assignment, Vaughan posed as a reporter and asked Ortiz bizarre questions. He dyed his hair often, made outrageous statements and always was ready with his next wisecrack.

Vaughan was also sincere and a loyal teammate. He handled his own struggles in the minors well. He has made 168 career appearances (30 starts) and has a 17-18 record, 3.62 ERA and 23 saves.

The Red Sox latest import from Japan, 22-year-old pitcher Junichi Tazawa, is in Boston and is expected to take part in a press conference today to announce his signing with the organization.

Tazawa will go on the 40-man roster, with a reported three-year deal for $3-million. He is expected to begin his career in the minor leagues.

Could he start in Portland?

The Boston Red Sox added three players to their 40-man roster, including one former Sea Dog (left-handed reliever Hunter Jones) and one current Dog (catcher Mark Wagner), and Class A left-handed starter Felix Doubront.

Clay Buchholz's cruise through the Arizona Fall League hit a bump last week. Buchholz was hit around for 4 1/3 innings (7H, 4 R, 1 BB, 2 K). He has a 2.92 ERA in three starts.

Catcher Mark Wagner is starting to hit in the Arizona league. After a 1-for-11 start, he's 7-for-18, now batting .276. The interest in Wagner is high since Red Sox fans want to know how soon he might be ready for the majors (given the catching questions for Boston).

Another catcher who seems more ready for the majors is Dusty Brown. He's batting .345 in 8 games in the Dominican Winter League.

We will look at the Red Sox catching position in a future blog as we begin a mini-series, looking at the Sox present and future, position by position.

Now here's a look at other Sox minor leaguers in fall and winter leagues:

Do the Angels have to win Game 2 tonight?

Teams have come back from losing the first two games (Red Sox in '03), but if the Halos are indeed going to face a ready-to-go Josh Beckett in Game 3 on Sunday, they better figure out Dice-K tonight.

The Angels beat Daisuke Matsuzaka this season. And, according to the LA Times' Bill Shaikin the Angels will not necessarily be patient against the wild Dice-K.

The New York Yankees are coming to town and the greatest fear for the Boston Red Sox is ... rain.

The forecast does not look good for tonight or Saturday, but we will see (I hope to be checking back later from Fenway).

As for the Yankees, see today's story in the Press Herald.

Before leaving for Boston Monday, I told the boss that I brought my raincoat to protect myself during the champagne celebration.

Josh Beckett vs. Zach Jackson. It's in the bag.

The bag leaked.

Cleveland's 4-3 win was a case of what can happen in baseball. Your ace makes a few bad pitches, some bloops drop in, and a ball hits the umpire. You lose.

"The game never ceases to amaze you," outfielder Jason Bay said. "You see something new on the field every day."

Bartolo Colon is going to pitch for Pawtucket in the International League playoffs Saturday, according to the media reports out of Texas (where the Red Sox are).

Earlier, Terry Francona said Colon would be pitching for either Pawtucket or Portland on Saturday. One obvious reason for choosing Pawtucket is because the PawSox are scheduled to play Saturday ... the Sea Dogs could be eliminated with a loss tonight.

Also, it is highly unlikely that Daniel Bard will pitch again this year, even if the Sea Dogs come back and win this series and advance to the title series. Ben Cherington, Red Sox Vice President/Player Personnel, said although Bard's injury is minor (an irritated muscle in his back), the soreness could cause a change in his delievery, which could cause bigger problems.

Here are the lineups:

Michael Bowden is starting for the Boston Red Sox on the same night that Clay Buchholz is throwing for the Portland Sea Dogs.

Who would have thought that?

Here are the lineups (note: Kevin Youkilis reportedly has the flu; check out the new clean-up hitter):

For a few months, Portland Sea Dogs fans hoped their 21-year-old star pitcher would stay around town for the season.

But Michael Bowden, 21, was too good and, besides, he already got a start on pitching in Double-A last year.

Now Bowden is following in the footsteps of prospects before him, when he makes his major league debut today.

Two stories on Bowden come to mind.:

Former Sea Dogs ace Michael Bowden is getting called up from Triple-A to the Boston Red Sox Saturday, according to a blog by Joe McDonald of the Providence Journal.

McDonald reports that David Pauley will still start Saturday's game.

Josh Beckett came through his exam with Dr. James Andrews just fine, Red Sox manager Terry Francona said during his pre-game press conference, which was televised by NESN. His elbow inflammation is nothing more than that.

Beckett was placed on the 15-day DL, but Francona said Beckett could make his next start a week from tonight in Texas.

Now for tonight's lineups for Boston and Portland:

Both the Boston Red Sox and Portland Sea Dogs have new outfielders, although neither is in the lineup.

Boston, as you have heard, welcomes Mark Kotsay to the roster, after a trade with the Braves (for Lowell outfielder Luis Sumoza). The Sea Dogs have added Jered Stanley, having been called up from low Class A Greenville.

Portland has only two healthy outfielders (Josh Reddick and Zach Daeges), with Bryan Pritz (hamstring) and Mickey Hall (concussion symptoms) out. Stanley, who hit 17 home runs in Greenville, is due in Portland at game time. Infielder Iggy Suarez, who moved to right field Tuesday, gets the start there today.

Here are the lineups:

Tim Wakefield comes off the DL to start for the Red Sox tonight (Chris Smith was sent to Pawtucket to make a spot for Wakefield).

At Hadlock, the Sea Dogs are playing two against New Britain. Dave Gassner and Ryne Lawson go for Portland.

Here are the lineups:

It is still raining over Hadlock Field. It is expected to stop at around 7 p.m. The Portland Sea Dogs game will hopefully start between 7:30 and 8:15 p.m.

For those who remember that nightmarish rainout on Aug. 3 (when the sun was out, but the field was soaked), the Sea Dogs have improved the drainage in right field (basically fixing a pipe that had been blocked).

Here are the Red Sox and Sea Dogs lineups:

It is still raining over Hadlock Field. It is expected to stop at around 7 p.m. The Portland Sea Dogs game will hopefully start between 7:30 and 8:15 p.m.

For those who remember that nightmarish rainout on Aug. 3 (when the sun was out, but the field was soaked), the Sea Dogs have improved the drainage in right field (basically fixing a pipe that had been blocked).

Here are the Red Sox and Sea Dogs lineups:

When the 2006 draft commenced, high school first-baseman Lars Anderson was considered a sandwich pick, or at least a second-rounder.

But, according to Baseball America, his agent was asking for seven figures, which scared teams away.

The Red Sox finally took a shot at Anderson, drafting him in the 18th round and handing over an $825,000 signing bonus.

So far, it looks like a steal.

The Boston Red Sox released Portland Sea Dogs pitcher Kyle Jackson late Tuesday night. Jackson, 25, who first came to Portland for three games in the 2005 season, struggled this year. He had a 5-3 record, but a 6.47 ERA.

Jackson was moved to the starting rotation in hopes of kick-starting his career, but it did little good. In his last seven games (30 2/3 innings), Jackson allowed 29 earned runs.

Jackson was a 32nd round draft pick in 2001, out of Alvirine (NH) High and St. Petersburg (Fla.) College). His best year was 2006 (1.59 ERA in Class A, then 2.45 for Portland). Jackson was placed on the 40-man roster after that. He was taken off the 40-man at the end of the 2008 spring training.

Jackson's place in the Portland rotation has been taken by Ryne Lawson, 23, from lower Class A Greenville

In roster news in Boston, several media outlets are reporting that Mike Lowell (strained oblique) is going on the 15-day DL. Pitcher David Pauley from Pawtucket is replacing him - giving Boston an extra arm after Tuesday's slugfest.

And now for the Red Sox and Sea Dogs rosters:

Hadlock Field is soaked and today's 1 p.m. doubleheader is being delayed until 2 p.m. to give the park a chance to dry out.

Here are today's Red Sox and Sea Dogs lineups:

Manny Ramirez is in the Red Sox lineup (all those rumored trades obviously have not come to fruition, yet).

Meanwhile, here in Manchester, N.H., New Hampshire Fisher Cats Andrew Pinckney is not in the lineup for the completion of a suspended game tonight. Pinckney, who played for the Sea Dogs on June 22, when the game was suspended by rain, could have been in the box score with both teams.

One bit of trivia is that Sea Dogs pitcher Kyle Jackson is on the hook in this suspended game (New Hampshire up 4-1 in the fourth inning). And Jackson is scheduled to start the second game tonight so, yes, he could pick up two losses in one night.

Here are the Sox and Dogs lineups:

Maybe he's not THE big name arriving in Portland on Monday, but it is still big news that Josh Reddick is coming to Hadlock Field.

Reddick, 21, one of the Boston Red Sox top outfield prospects, has been promoted from advanced Class A Lancaster to fill the vacancy created when Bubba Bell went on the disabled list (see previous blog).

Reddick was batting .343 in Lancaster with 17 home runs.

Hadlock Field will be packed Monday to watch David Ortiz. But keep an eye out for Reddick.

David Ortiz just walked in the sixth inning in Pawtucket and was lifted for a pinch-runner (Sandy Madera).

Ortiz went 1-for-3 Thursday with a lead-off home run to right in the fourth inning.

Here in Portland, Sea Dogs starter Dustin Richardson had a two-hit shutout for five innings. But Trenton broke free for five runs in the sixth, and lead 5-1 after six innings.

Daniel Bard relieved with one out in the sixth. He struck out two but not before giving up a run on a single and double.

The Red Sox announced that they have signed their first-round draft pick, pitcher/shortstop Casey Kelly from Sarasota (Fla.) High School.

Kelly had a football scholarship to the University of Tennessee and, with the Volunteers starting practice soon, the timetable to sign Kelly was short.

Earlier the Sox announced they also signed their second-round draft pick, 18-year-old shortstop Derrick Gibson out of a high school in Delaware.

Meanwhile, in Pawtucket, David Ortiz finished batting practice before his first rehab game with the PawSox. According to the Boston Globe blog, Ortiz said he plans to finish his minor league rehab and not join the team on the West Coast trip.

Greetings from Fenway. The sun out in full force and the Sox are taking a rare batting practice before a Sunday afternoon game (Brandon Moss just put one off the Monster).

Manager Terry Francona announced his rotation for after the All-Star Break:
Friday (Anaheim) Clay Buchholz
Saturday (Anaheim) Josh Beckett
Sunday (Anaheim) Tim Wakefield
July 21 (Seattle) Jon Lester
July 22 (Seattle) Daisuke Matuszaka
July 23 (Seattle) Buchholz

As expected, Portland Sea Dogs ace Michael Bowden will not be pitching in the Eastern League All-Star Game next Wednesday in Manchester, N.H. Bowden will appear at the game, but will not pitch.

Bowden's place on the Northern Division roster will be taken by Sea Dogs closer Beau Vaughan (12 saves, 2.56).

Also, Portland outfielder Zach Daeges (.295 avg., .421 on-base percentage) has been added to the roster, replacing Binghamton's Nick Evans, who was called up to the New York Mets.

Outfielders Bubba Bell and Jeff Corsaletti had already been named to the roster.

Bowden follows in the footsteps of other prospects named to the All-Stars, but who did not pitch:

Hello from Hadlock. Watching the Sea Dogs take batting practice, while a worker takes down Justin Masterson's Jersey from the Hadlock Field facade, and puts up Jeff Bailey's.

The facade is where the jerseys hang of former Sea Dogs now playing for the Red Sox. By Friday, Bailey's jersey will be gone, replaced by Clay Buchholz.

Brandon Moss' jersey is still up. And he gets a start tonight.

And now for today's lineups:

Outfielder Mickey Hall is getting better in Portland. Hall, the 2003 second-round draft pick out of high school, has upped his average to .266 in Double-A, after a 2-for-4 day Monday.

Hall also hit his fifth home run, which turned out to be the game-winner in a 5-4 Sea Dogs victory over Reading at Hadlock Field.

Daniel Bard got the win with 1 2/3 innings of relief (2 H, 1 R, 2 BB, 1 HBP, 2 K). But the Hadlock radar run was not working, so fans could not ooh at the 98 m.p.h. fastballs.

Bard pitched a clean seventh, but got in trouble in the eighth, walking in a run. Beau Vaughan bailed him out and finished the ninth for his 12th save.

And now, for your evening pleasure, here is the Red Sox lineup:

It's official: Third baseman Andrew Pinckney, who was released by the Red Sox Friday, signed with the Blue Jays Saturday and was assigned to the Double-A New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

Pinckney played 1 1/2 seasons with Portland and had some of his best games in Manchester. Pinckney, a left-handed pull hitter, called MerchantsAuto.com Stadium, with its large hitter's eye and short right-field wall "my dream park."

Pinckney will get to see his old teammates when the Fisher Cats come to Hadlock Field July 8-10.

Justin Masterson went to 4-1 but failed to go at least six innings for the first time, in Boston's 7-4 win over the Phillies Wednesday afternoon ... Masterson allowed 4 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks (and a hit-batter), striking out 1.

Now for the Sea Dogs lineup tonight:

According to reports out of Philadelphia, Red Sox pitcher Bartolo Colon has been placed on the disabled list with a stiff lower back. He hurt his back Monday while swinging the bat.

Reliever Chris Smith was called up to replace Colon. Smith, a longtime member of the Sea Dogs, has been dominating out of the pen in Pawtucket.

This is Smith's second call-up. He joined the Red Sox for a few days in May, but did not get in a game (He was warming up during the May 19th game, but Jon Lester went a threw a no-hitter).

It is not likely Smith will stay long.

Justin Masterson makes his fourth start with the Red Sox at 1:30.

Here are the lineups for the Red Sox and Sea Dogs.

The Red Sox are one, big happy (though not healthy) family again.

Meanwhile, in Portland, the tarp just came off at Hadlock, and the game should start on time (7 p.m.). Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and about 400 people are already in line (Josh Beckett bobblehead giveaway to the first 1,000 fans)

According to Gordon Edes of the Boston Globe, both Kevin Youkilis and Manny Ramirez said their incident in the dugout Thursday is behind them.

Edes reports that Ramirez said, "Everything's good ... A misunderstanding. Even the best families have them.'' The incident reportedly began after Youklis threw equipment in the dugout and Ramirez made a comment about it.

Sea Dogs fans may have hoped that Brandon Moss would be called up to the Boston Red Sox when David Ortiz went on the disabled list.

But how can you root against Chris Carter, who Boston called up from Pawtucket?

Carter, 25, is in his third year in Triple-A and is getting his first taste of the big leagues. Carter, who was batting .310 for Pawtucket, with 10 home runs and 35 RBI, is the player obtained in the Wily Mo Pena trade last August with Washington.

Carter throws right and bats left. he can play first and the outfield.

Now for the Red Sox and Sea Dogs lineups:

With David Ortiz out of the lineup with a sore wrist, Manny Ramirez moves to the DH spot, and Jeff Bailey gets the start in left field.

Bailey, a former Sea Dog, is with Boston this weekend (presumably, Bailey will go back to Pawtucket Tuesday when Justin Masterson is called up to pitch).

Here are the Red Sox and Sea Dogs lineups today:

Greetings from Manchester, N.H., where the Sea Dogs start a four-game series with the Fisher cats.

As speculated, Red Sox right-hander Daisuke Matsuzaka has been placed on the disabled list (mild strain of the rotator cuff) and first baseman/outfielder Jeff Bailey has been called up from Pawtucket.

Bailey, 29, a favorite alum of the Portland Sea Dogs (2001, '04, '05) made his Major League debut last year in a three-game series for Boston. He played three games, and went 1-for-9 with a home run.

Bailey will stay until Tuesday, when Justin Masterson will be called up to pitch in Dice-K's spot.

Now for the Red Sox and Sea Dogs lineups:

Bartolo Colon pitches for the Red Sox tonight, and Matt Goodson comes off the DL to pitch for the Sea Dogs.

Here are the lineups.

Greetings from Fenway. The tarp is on the field. There is a possibility of "light showers" tonight, according to the Red Sox. But they expect the game to be played.

As expected, the Red Sox sent Chris Smith back to Pawtucket, to make room for tonight's starter, Justin Masterson. Check the end of the blog for tonight's Boston lineup.

Also have some more no-hitter trivia for you, thanks to the Sea Dogs staff and some alert fans.

The Pawtucket Red Sox notes report that reliever Bryan Corey has been traded to the San Diego Padres. He is being traded for future considerations (it won't be much; Corey had an out in his contract anyway. This a deal to give him a chance in the majors, which he was not going to get in Boston).

Replacing Corey in Pawtucket will be Jose Vaquedano, promoted from Portland after recording a 0.41 ERA in 13 appearances.

Replacing Vaquedano on the Sea Dogs roster is outfielder Jered Stanley, who gives Portland a fourth outfielder (with Bubba Bell still limping with a sprained ankle).

Now here's the Sea Dogs lineup for today:

Jon Lester pitches for Boston. Dustin Richardson starts for Portland.

Two left-handers with good stuff, when they command it.

Here's the lineups:

According to Joe McDonald of the Providence Journal, Brandon Moss has already begun his rehab, a week after his appendectomy. He is scheduled to go to extended spring training in Fort Myers today and could be in a rehab game in 10 days.

And now for tonight's lineups from the Red Sox and Sea Dogs ... Manny Ramirez gets a day off in Detroit.

The Red Sox hope to keep it going (as in wins).

The Sea Dogs plan for it to stop tonight (the losses, that is).

Here are the lineups:

Hopefully, the Red Sox are not as tired as the Sea Dogs. Coming back from Trenton, N.J. on Sunday, the bus broke down twice. The Dogs did not get in until 5 a.m.

Here are the lineups for both teams:

Brandon Moss got a chuckle when told the baseball gods were watching him Tuesday night.

Moss entered Tuesday's game when J.D. Drew felt tightness in his quadriceps muscle.

After four innings, it's Toronto 0, Boston 0

Roy Halladay has retired all but one batter he faced (a Kevin Youkilis single), while Jon Lester has allowed only two baserunners, both by walk.

Brandon Moss replaced J.D. Drew in right field in the fourth inning. Have not heard why.

And one Sea Dogs note: Bowie scored four in the second inning to lead 4-0.

Before we get into the news, I thought I'd relate a story from Justin Masterson, on facing Casey Kotchman in the second inning of his start for the Red Sox last Thursday.

This is from my blog last month:

"Will the Rays reach the playoffs?
"Uh, no. They will give the contenders better competition, and maybe win a series or three ... but no playoffs."

I'll stand by that statement for now, but I never figured the Rays pitching to be strong.

David Ortiz is still out of the lineup with his sore knee.

Meanwhile, here in Portland, Justin Masterson has officially re-joined the team, and the local TV folks lined up to talk to him.

For more on Masterson, see today's baseball column.

For more on the last night's minor league performances, see the previous blog.

Here are the lineups for the Red Sox and Sea Dogs:

Clay Buchholz and Michael Bowden combined for 20 strikeouts Saturday.

The two sandwich-round draft picks appear ready to take off.

Two facts were clear from Justin Masterson's start in Boston Thursday.

1. He can pitch.

2. Boston needs bullpen help.

Maybe those two facts will merge into one eventual reality - Masterson to the bullpen.

The Boston Red Sox face Matt Garza of the Tampa Bay Rays tonight. When Garza was still with the Twins, he pitched for the New Britain Rock Cats in 2006. The Sea Dogs beat him 6-4.

And now for the lineups

Charlie Zink is having a good year so far.

The Sox top draft pick in 2007, Nick Hagadone, appears headed for Tommy John surgery

And Mike Lowell will make a minor league rehab appearance - but not in Portland.

As you probably know by now, Masterson got a no-decision after the Red Sox bullpen blew a 3-1 lead, in a 7-5 loss to the Angels.

After the game, manager Terry Francona said Masterson will return to the Portland Sea Dogs rotation.

Boston is expected to bring reliever Bryan Corey back to the majors. Corey had been designated for assignment and initially rejected an offer to pitcher in Triple-A. he then re-signed with the Sox as a minor league free agent and went to Pawtucket.

More later.

If you saw the story in today's Press Herald about Justin Masterson making today's start for the Boston Red Sox, you'll notice a list of pitchers who began their season in Portland and then made their Major League debut the same year.

Of the six, only Clay Buchholz got a win.

Here's that list again:

To make room for Justin Masterson on the Major League roster Thursday, the Red Sox are returning reliever Craig Hansen to Pawtucket after his one appearance Wednesday.

Masterson can also expect to be pitching to Kevin Cash. Red Sox manager Terry Francona said in his televised post-game press conference that Jason Varitek would not start.

Portland Sea Dogs ace Justin Masterson is being called up to the Boston Red Sox and will start Thursday afternoon's game against the Angels, at Fenway Park.

Craig Hansen has been called up from Pawtucket to replace David Pauley on the Red Sox roster.

In news just breaking, Daisuke Matsuzaka has been scratched from his start tonight and will be replaced by Jon Lester, according to Rob Bradford of the Boston Herald. Dice-K is sick, like so many of his teammates.

Can we officially call Coco Crisp the back-up outfielder now?

Crisp is a great centerfielder and a decent, though inconsistent hitter. And he will make a solid starting center fielder for some team ... just not the Red Sox.

Not when they have Jacoby Ellsbury. Ellsbury, the ex-Portland Sea Dogs star, gave another sampling on just how much he can impact a game.

According to reports out of Boston, former Sea Dogs pitcher David Pauley will start for the Boston Red Sox tonight, in place of an ailing Josh Beckett.

Kevin Cash is catching tonight, presumably because Jason Varitek is also still too sick to play.

Pauley made his major league debut in 2006, jumping from Portland to the Sox. He spent all last year with Pawtucket.

In Sea Dogs news, outfielder Jay Johnson did indeed ruptured his Achilles tendon Monday night and is gone for the year.

Here are the Red Sox and Sea Dogs lineups for tonight:

Pitchers Craig Hansen and Daniel Bard, two first-round draft picks who have had their bumps in in their pro careers, are on respective rolls.

Neither has been scored upon.

Jacoby Ellsbury went 2-for-4 Sunday with a run and two stolen bases (total of 6 for the season)

Jed Lowrie batted second on Sunday, going 2-for-4 with two runs and an RBI. In three starts, Lowrie is batting .417 with five RBI.

Ellsbury and Lowrie, who began last season in Portland, still ask how the Sea Dogs are doing. Told Friday about last week's 17-inning win, they wanted all the details, especially Jay Johnson's pitching win.

The Red Sox have won 7-of-8. The Sea Dogs have won 7 straight.

The pitching is good (including Jon Lester, who found the strike zone on Saturday night), the hitting clutch.

Justin Masterson has a 0.95 ERA in 4 starts - 23 K's, 5 BB's in 19 IP. Seems likely he won't be in Portland too long, although I'd like to see him pitch at least through May (April weather usually favors the pitching numbers)

Wihle at Fenway last night and working on my story on David Murphy and Jed Lowrie, I was writing a line about the Red Sox keeping some of their good prospects. Just then Jed Lowrie doubled. Jacoby Ellsbury (another member of the Sea Dogs last year) then walked, as did Dustin Pedroia (Sea Dogs Class of '05).

David Murphy and Kason Gabbard, former members of both the Sea Dogs and Red Sox, receive their World Series rings today when the Texas Rangers visit Fenway Park tonight.

Both Murphy and Gabbard put in time with Boston last year before being traded for reliever Eric Gagne (it seemed like a good idea at the time).

But Murphy and Gabbard are not the only ex-Dogs facing the Red Sox.

Slept in this morning (meaning later than 6 a.m.) and realized those poor Sea Dogs were still on the road to Binghamton, where they will start their game soon.

In case you did not hear, the Sea Dogs won their game over Connecticut in the 17th inning Wednesday night. See the story

The Boston Red Sox placed Alex Cora on the 15-day disabled list with a right elbow strain. The move is retroactive to April 10.

The move had a Domino affect in Pawtucket and Portland.

The Red Sox called up infielder Joe Thurston from Pawtucket. So Pawtucket plucked infielder Jeff Natale from Portland. In turn, the Sea Dogs activated outfielder Jeff Corsaletti from extended spring training.

Joe Borowski said their must have been something wrong with his arm after giving up three runs in the ninth inning. The Indians believed him and put him on the disabled list.

As for tonight's game, former Sea Dogs infielder Jed Lowrie will make his major league debut, as promised. Lowrie is batting eighth and playing third base (Youkilis goes back to first base for tonight).

Jacoby Ellsbury is in for J.D. Drew in right.

Reports out of Cleveland are that Jed Lowrie will make his Major League debut Tuesday against the Indians.

The Red Sox also announced that pitcher Kyle Snyder, who was designated for assignment, has accepted a spot on the Triple-A Pawtucket roster.

Pawtucket certainly enjoyed some individual performances Monday in a doubleheader split with Louisville, paced by George Kottaras (2 home runs, 5 RBI) in the second game.

It is not a secret that the Manchester Fisher Cats would love to have the Red Sox affiliation.

You can't blame them. Watching Red Sox prospects come through Portland has been a blast.

But I don't know how to explain the recent story in the Manchester Union Leader.

David Ortiz is back in the lineup, but Jed Lowrie has yet to get penciled in. Manager Terry francona said it was going to be a challenge to get Lowrie in, but I figured it would happen by now.

Here in Portrland, Justin Masterson makes his third start.

Here are the lineups for your Sox and Dogs tonight:

Manny Ramirez has looked locked in since spring training. He's batting .300 with 12 RBI.

Then there is J.D. Drew (.353), Kevin Youkilis (.341) and Sean Casey (.318).

David Ortiz goes in a slump and Mike Lowell goes on the DL. Others are coming through.

Here is hoping the games get in.

Rain is threatening both the Red Sox and the Sea Dogs. Here in Portland, the mound and home plate area are covered, but Michael Bowden is about to warm up in the bullpen.

Here's the lineups for both games:

That 2005 draft continues to shine, while other drafts are looking good ...

Infielder Jed Lowrie was one of three sandwich draft picks (a sandwich is an extra pick between the first & second round) in 2005. He joined the Red Sox Thursday night, replacing the injured Mike Lowell (sprained thumb).

That means the top four Red Sox picks have made it to the majors - Jacoby Ellsbury, Craig Hansen, Clay Buchholz (tonight's starter) and Lowrie. (Hansen is back in Triple-A, for now)

It is with extreme caution that we point out Craig Hansen's domination so far in Triple-A.

Hansen retired the six batters he faced Wednesday night, two by strikeout.

In three outings (6 innings), he has allowed 0 runs, 1 hit, 3 walks, while strking out 8

Clay Buchholz will keep his major league job a little longer. Bartolo Colon, who has look impressive in recent outings, has been put on the 7-day disabled list with a right oblique strain.

The move affects the Sea Dogs, since Chris Smith has been promoted to Pawtucket to make Tuesday's start in place of Colon.

Justin Masterson will pitch for Portland Tuesday on the regular four days' rest (the Sea Dogs were rained out Thursday), but their starter Wednesday is TBA.

Kyle Snyder is the first reliever to go, as he will reportedly be designated for assignment today, to make room for Josh Beckett's return.

The move makes sense. Snyder is a good guy with potential. But the promise never really materialized. The Red Sox have another long reliever/spot starter (Julian Tavarez).

Snyder walked two in Saturday's 10-2 loss to Toronto. It was a game that could make other decisions easier for the Red Sox.

We start our wrap-up from Thursday night with a note to Clay Buchholz:

While Justin Masterson threw pitched four scoreless innings for the Sea Dogs, Bartolo Colon was throwing a shutout in his outing in Triple-A.

Colon continues to look like the Red Sox No. 5 starter (meaning Buchholz goes to Pawtucket). In the Pawtucket opener in Rhode Island Thursday, Colon pitching five innings, allowing one hit, one walk, no runs, while striking out five. Providence Journal writer Joe McDonald blogged that Colon hit 94 on the radar gun.

Masterson allowed three hits in his four innings, walking none and striking out three.

The Sea Dogs start playing baseball and there is no snow in the forecast.

Granted, the Sea Dogs-Rock Cats game on Friday is almost a guarantee rainout, but tonight the teams should play in New Britain Stadium.

A few other notes of Sox and Dogs nature:

The Red Sox rank No. 4 and No. 2, which eventually may mean No. 1 again.

Got that?

The Red Sox had the fourth highest payroll, according to figures released by the Associated Press (if you like lists, see below). That's a switch from big-spending Boston always being No. 2 behind the big, big spenders in the Bronx. Detroit and the Mets have passed the Red Sox.

As far as No. 2, that's where the Red Sox are ranked by Baseball America when it comes to talent in the farm system.

Returned to Maine to find two jokes. One is the remaining mountains of snow (I'm not laughing).

The other comes from the Boston Dirt Dogs site, announcing that Roger Clemens is re-joining the Boston Red Sox. Appropriate story for April 1.

In other news ...

Was leaning against my family van in a parking lot Saturday morning. Just had breakfast with a friend I was visiting in Palm Harbor, Fla.

A group of bikers motored in and parked. One biker came up to me. He did a quick turnaround so I could see the back of his vest, proclaiming the Maine chapter of some biker club.

He obviously noticed the Maine plates on my wanted to say hello.

"Kennebunk," was all the man said as he extended my hand.

"Standish," I said with a smile. "I go back Sunday night."

Portland Sea Dogs manager Arnie Beyeler joked that his pitcher in Thursday's exhibition looked very good, but the kid is probably moving up.

Yeah, that Beckett kid has a future in the bigs.

Josh Beckett pitched for the Sea Dogs Thursday, allowing one hit and no walks over four innings. He threw 47 pitches and struck out 6.

Was all set to see catcher Dusty Brown make his debut in a major league uniform, and witness another successful journey for a former Portland Sea Dogs player.

But, alas, Brown was optioned to Triple-A Pawtucket this morning (Brown is still in Japan, but is now not eligible).

As expected, the Red Sox put Kevin Cash on the major league roster, and decided that three catchers were too many.

Was looking at this quote from Clay Buchholz's quote from his latest outing, in the first exhibition game in Japan (3.2 innings, 6 hits, 4 runs):

"I left a couple of pitches up over the plate and that hurt."

Got a feeling that Buchholz will be saying that often this year as he continues trying to master command of his fastball.

Also wondering if Buchholz will make the major league team. Sox may want Buchholz getting more work in Pawtucket, rather than being the No. 5 starter.

Just read this quote from Johnny Damon in the Boston Herald:

“I still think I’m a pretty tough person to replace,” Damon said. “I think I’ve been pretty consistent throughout my career - I’m walking into Year 14, and I’ve had two bad years, a couple of OKs and a couple of really good ones. I didn’t have much in the tank last year, but I think time will only tell with Boston."

Can there be any question about Jacoby Ellsbury being the starting center fielder, especially with Coco Crisp still out with a groin injury?

Maybe the injury will help Crisp deal with his back-up role. If he had a great spring, he would not have gone quietly to the bench (and who would have blamed him?).

Is Bartolo Colon going to be needed sooner than thought?

I strongly doubt it, but it makes for interesting news to hear about his progress (Colon makes his exhibition debut Thursday), while other starters are doubtful or out for the opener in Japan on March 25.

No Schilling (shoulder), and maybe no Beckett (back) or Matsuzaka (pending fatherhood).

Maybe Jon Lester.

Another story is out about the productive Red Sox minor league system.

milb.com, the "official" minor league web site is profiling all the organizations.

So we know the Red Sox can hit college pitching ...

After beating Boston College 24-0 and Northeastern 15-0 on Thursday, it was hard to figure out what the Red Sox got out of the two exhibitions.

But there were some highlights from a Sea Dogs/Red Sox point of view

Talked to Sea Dogs manager Arnie Beyeler yesterday. He said it was hot in Fort Myers (I felt his pain).

Actually, Arnie said he was looking forward to getting up here, even if it means indoor workouts while the snow melts. The skipper is ready to go.

But who will he be bringing with him to Portland? Beyeler said the competition for jobs is great.

Some thoughts, as the Fort Myers training facility starts to get busy.

When the Sox signed Curt Schilling, it was called a good gamble because the base pay was only $8-million (I can't believe I just wrote ONLY), and Schilling is certainly a gamer in the post-season.

But it still was a gamble, and the Sox lost this one.

Before I pass on the the latest Red Sox ticket info, let me repond to the comment on the last blog - yes, the Red Sox ticket process features a lot of jumps through hoops. And the tickets are incredibly expensive.

But, despite the complicated/pricey process, the Red Sox continue to set attendance records. I suppose that's a lesson for Economics 101. If the market supports the prices, why not charge them?

I'm still getting over the crush at Dunkin Donuts on Thursday, with a throng cramming in to see Jacoby Ellsbury (see the Press Herald for a story on Ellsbury's visit).

I came home last night to a pleasant surprise - the Baseball America Prospect Handbook had arrived. Here is a list of BA's list of the Red Sox top 30 prospects.

Tickets to most of the Boston Red Sox home games in 2008 will go on sale this Saturday at 10 a.m., by both phone and internet (no box office sales until February).

Last December, tickets to selected games in April and May, plus combination packages, went on sale. This Saturday, most of the remaining tickets go on sale (except the home opener, Yankees games, Monster seat and Right Field rooftop seats).

One item I did not get into my Sunday column was a note on Craig Hansen, the once-touted relief pitcher who is still a question mark.

Hansen underwent nasal surgery to help him sleep better. Farm director Mike Hazen said the surgery required a lot of time for recuperation, but that Hansen is now throwing and getting ready for spring training.

But will Hansen REALLY be ready.

Hard not to notice Dustin Richardson at the Red Sox Rookie Camp this week.

For one thing, he is 6 feet 6. For another, it was somewhat of a surprise he was there. He had only pitched four games in Class A Lancaster (a good four games, at 4-0, 2.74 ERA).

Kris Johnson, another top prospect, had been in Lancaster all year. He was not at the Rookie Camp. Red Sox Farm Director Mike Hazen explained that Johnson was "just below" the cut-off mark. The program had a maximum of 12 players.

Baseball America and a few late Christmas cards arrived in the mailbox today. The BA issue features the top 10 prospects of the American League East teams.

Here are the top 10 Red Sox prospects, according to BA:

Some thoughts as the Hot Stove League has cooled down (for now):

One of the latest rumors about the hunt for Johan Santana is that the Twins want Clay Buchholz in any trade with the Red Sox. Boston's answer should be easy. No. Period.

Buchholz shows the potential to become a right-handed Santana. He's only 23 and won't be demanding $25-million a year anytime soon.

When the Red Sox got squeezed out of the Carolina League atfer the 2006 season - when the Wilmington Blue Rocks booted them - they had to move their advanced Class A team across the country to windblown Lancaster, Calif.

But the Red Sox figured out a way to get back into the Carolina League - they bought a team.

With the Red Sox deciding to begin the playoffs Wednesday, they will only need three starters - Josh Beckett, Curt Schilling and Daisuke Matsuzaka.

So how many pitchers will Boston put on the playoff roster? Surely, Tim Wakefield will go to the bullpen as the use-whenever-needed guy.

And with Julian Tavarez subbing for Curt Schilling today, does that give a hint about the rotation (is Schilling the No. 2 starter ... and is Tavarez not going to be needed in the playoffs?)

Boston will try again to clinch the division title tonight. The AL playoffs could be set IF Boston wins, New York loses and either the Indians win or Angels lose.

Besides the division title, the focus tonight is on Daisuke Matsuzaka. Is this guys going to be worth of a No. 2 starter's role? In his last seven starts, he has averaged 5 innings and 5 earned runs.

Didn't I warn you about those Devil Rays? They are a hungry team (see link below).

When Scott Kazmir deals like he did on Monday, how much do the Mets keep on cringing at one of the worst-ever trades.

Overlooked in the Red Sox 1-0 loss was the performance of Curt Schilling. That was a comfort, considering the Matsuzaka implosion.

My son (the college boy at Loyola) called from Camden Yards last night, excited. He just saw his first David Ortiz home run in person.

Then he called back in the third inning. He got to witness the Daisuke Matsuzaka meltdown up close.

Oh well, at least he gets to watch Beckett today.

But what to do with Dice-K?

Daisuke Matsuzaka pitches tonight at Camden Yards and if ever a pitcher needed to face the Baltimore Orioles, it is Dice-K. The Orioles are in collapse mode, and Matsuzaka could use a dominating start after throwing clunkers in three of his last four outings (18 earned runs in 17 and 2/3 innings).

Memo to Red Sox Department of Player Projections (cc: Bill James):
Whatever secret formula you used to project that J.D. Drew would be a smash at Fenway Park (let alone worth a five year, $70-million contract), can you take another look.

Maybe someone did not get the math right, moved a decimal over or something.

Something to think about while waiting for the Sea Dogs to start the playoffs, Clay Buchholz to come out of the bullpen, and the Red Sox decision about Jacoby Ellsbury once Manny Ramirez returns.

Driving back from the Sea Dogs' downer in New Britain, I listened to the Red Sox on the radio Monday night. When it was 10-1 I almost went to the tape player ... oops.

Oh well, Red Sox fans, a win is a win. Boston leads the Yankees by seven and, with 24 games to play, their magic number is 18 (the combined # of Red Sox wins and Yankee losses for Boston to clinch.

I don't know who will be done sooner this year: Clay Buchholz or the Portland Sea Dogs.

Both should be going for a whle longer, but the Red Sox seem firm in their resolve to limit Buchholz's innings, and the Dogs seem determined to self-destruct.

The buzz continues about Clay Buchholz. In Boston, reports are that Terry Francona and Theo Epstein are still talking about what to do with him.

The D-word (Development) is being thrown around, meaning they are not going to over-use the latest whiz kid. But maybe there can be a bullpen role for him in the playoffs. How can you leave that arm off the roster?

Fun night to keep track of three games. Watched the Sea Dogs live, followed the Fisher Cats on the internet, and kept sneaking peaks of Clay Buchholz on TV, pitching against Baltimore.

You surely know about Buchholz's no-hitter. As for the Sea Dogs, they lost. But so did the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. That makes Portland's magic number to rwach the playoffs down to 3.

I'm sure I'll be blogging more on Buchholz, but here's a question:

The Tampa Bay Devil Rays stifled the Yankees with their rookie pitcher - former Sanford Mainer Andy Sonnanstine.

Now the Yankees and Red Sox, those two teams loaded with high-price veteran talent, rely on their rookie pitchers today.

Nothing is official regarding Clay Buchholz (the Red Sox love holding off these announcements), but all signs point to Buchholz starting Saturday's game at Fenway Park.

Meanwhile, the Sea Dogs lost Friday night and now lead the New Hampshire Fisher Cats by a half-game for the last playoff spot.

Major League teams can expand their rosters Saturday and call up anyone on their 40-man roster. Who will the Sox bring up?

Let's start with the obvious: Pitchers Jon Lester and Clay Buchholz, and outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury. Lester is scheduled to pitch Sunday.

Here are other candidates: Pitchers Devern Hansack, Craig Hansen and Travis Hughes; catchers George Kottaras and Dusty Brown, infielders Royce Clayton, Chris Carter and Bobby Scales, and outfielder Brandon Moss.

Daisuke Matsuzaka could not do it. Neither could Josh Beckett. Will Curt Schilling take the stopper role for the Boston Red Sox this afternoon and beat the New York Yankees?

While the Yankees beat the Red Sox two best pitchers, they still remain six games behind Boston. Closing to five would be a boost, especially if it means a sweep of the Red Sox and their Big Three on the staff.

For Schilling, this is not only a chance to come through for the sake of the team, but a chance to prove that he is still a big-game pitcher and not just an old guy hanging on.

Just think if the Yankees had moved to 2 or 3 games behind the Red Sox, instead of 7, after Johnny Damon's homer beat Boston last night.

Some fans would have been screaming that Boston should have re-signed Damon (the same ones who screamed about Pedroa Martinez).

But over-paying veteran players seems to be a tend of the past (okay, J.D. Drew is an exception).

But it is definitely the case with pitching. And it is why the Red Sox are not going to throw big money (if anything) at Curt Schilling to keep him next year.

When the Yankees closed to four games behind the Red Sox, you could sense the return of the New England angst over their team. People talked about history and curses and all that.

I usually answered with one word: Pitching.

While I do not pretend to guarantee anything in baseball, I have learned from those in the know that one ingredient is especially needed for winning baseball: pitching.

Justin Masterson pitches for the Sea Dogs today in Manchester. Big day for the Dogs (who are tied with New Hampshire) and Masterson, who was speculated (by Sports Illustraed) to be headed for a September call-up to Boston.

Who else could be called up? Shortstop Jed Lowrie was a possibility, until they signed Royce Clayton.

But if you really want to see a shortstop, there is a 17-year-old in Lowell.

If you are a Red Sox fan, you had to like the long ball on Friday. The bashes lasted into Saturday morning, when Carlos Guillen launched a 3-run homer in the 11th to push the Tigers past the Yankees 9-6.

That puts New York 6 1/2 games back. Boston's magic number is 28.

Other home runs of note included two by David Ortiz and one apiece from Jason Varitek and Kevin Youkilis (who looks like he is coming out of his slump) in the Red Sox sweep of Chicago.

And there were two more homers to mention:

The Boston Red Sox sent Jon Lester down to the Portland Sea Dogs, and recalled lefty reliever Javier Lopez from Pawtucket. (See the Red Sox press release below).

Lester is expected to start for the Sea Dogs Monday at Hadlock Field against the Trenton Thunder. The reasong for Lester going to Portland instead of Pawtucket, reportedly is because Clay Buchholz is already set to pitch Monday for Pawtucket.

It sure does help the Sea Dogs in a key game.

Josh Beckett is pitching for the Red Sox tonight, in Chicago against White Sox left-hander John Danks (6-11, 5.30 ERA). Sounds like trouble for the Boston 9.

The glaring concern for the Boston Red Sox continues to be a lineup that fails to score runs. Ask Daisuke Matsuzaka about it. He threw a two-hitter over six innings and lost Wednesday night to the Devil Rays, 2-1 (so the Yankees are back to five games behind after beating the Angels).

In the past three months, he has given up three runs or less in 12 starts.

The addition of minor league first-baseman Chris Carter is interesting. Are the Red Sox simply stockpiling or preparing for Mike Lowell's exit?

That persistent Angels lineup, which was a problem for the Red Sox over the weekend, came through against the Yankees late Monday night (into Tuesday morning). Rookie catcher Ryan Budde upped his average to .167 with the game-winning RBI in the 10th inning.

With Dustin Pedroia and Mike Lowell coming thorugh for Boston (not to mention Tim Wakefield), the Red Sox bumped their lead back to five games

David Murphy made it back to the major leagues Friday night, as a Texas Ranger.

Aaron Bates will be the latest prospect donning a Sea Dogs uniform.

And, um, about that trade for Mr. Gagne ...

Interesting Red Sox boxscore from Wednesday night (well into Thursday morning). There was second baseman Dustin Pedroia (3-for-5), first baseman Kevin Youkilis (1-3), right fielder Brandon Moss (getting his first Major League hit), starting pitcher Jon Lester and closer Jonathan Papelbon (26th save).

All former Sea Dogs.

Now, we ask, what to do about Lester?

Before we catch up with issues like the trade (where did Kason Gabard go?) or the rear view mirror (who is that, only five games back?), I have a question about this Saturday's games at Fenway Park.

Are you going? The Futures at Fenway minor league doubleheader (with the Sea Dogs playing the second game) is billed as a chance to see baseball at Fenway Park without breaking the bank or finding a scalper.

So, are you going? Send me a note (either a comment here, or email me).

And now back to the issues:

Just a thought or two before vacation officially starts.

Jed Lowrie became the third high profile prospect to be promoted from Portland to Triple-A Pawtucket, following outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury and pitcher Clay Buchholz.

While Lowrie has played shortstop all year, he played the last two games at second base, the position he played in college. It's likely that Lowrie will play both middle infield spots for Ron Johnson.

Justin Masterson seems too good to be true, both as a person and a pitcher. His positive energy cannot be denied, and neither can his numbers in Portland so far (4-0, 1.04). There are a couple of stories on him in today's Press Herald.

Masterson was the third pitcher chosen in the 2006 draft by the Red Sox (in the second round). The top Red Sox pick, Daniel Bard, is having, as they say in the minor league business, "a developmental year."

There is outrage over J.D. Drew, and worry over Julio Lugo. And yes, we want them to be more consistent. But we are also constantly reminded, it's the PITCHING.

What a wonderful feeling to see Jon Lester take a major league mound again. After giving up two runs in six innings, Lester is back on his way to becoming an established big league starter.

But will he stay with the Red Sox?

Obviously, the big story today is the return of Jon Lester. The Red Sox did not announce it until yesterday, having listed Julian Tavarez as the starter.

Lester's promotion meant a move for one of the Red Sox relievers, so the Red Sox waited until Sunday to make the move.

Joel Pineiro, once thought to be a potential closer before Jonathon Papelbon returned, was let go. But the Red Sox bullpen marches on. That's another big story.

It is all a waiting game. Jacoby Ellsbury, David Murphy and Brandon Moss play in Pawtucket, waiting for their call to the big leagues.

With three teenagers and one dad in waiting to read the latest Harry Potter book, guess who is fourth in line? And I bought the darn book!

You can read more about Ellsbury, Murphy and Moss in Today's Sunday Telegram. Meanwhile, here are some more muggle thoughts on baseball:

For all the concerns over Julian Tavares, who pitches tonight, along with the buzz over Kason Gabbard and Clay Buchholz, and the continued hope for Jon Lester, the Boston Red Sox rotation is pretty well set.

Remember when Kason Gabbard first came to the Portland Sea Dogs in 2004? He had just turned 22, but he seemed constantly injured. Gabbard, a left-hander, did not look like he would make it out of Double-A.

It is mid-July. Do you know where your Red Sox and Sea Dogs are?

Julian Tavares takes his 5-7 record and 4.97 ERA to the mound tonight for the Boston Red Sox. Tavares got the starting job in late March when Jonathan Papelbon was moved back to the closer. Did anyone think Tavares would hang on this long as a starter?

He has not exactly shined, but he has kept the Red Sox in games. However, in his last 3 starts, Tavares is 0-3. He did not make it out of the fifth inning in two of those games, and not out of the sixth in the other.

Still trying to adjust my eyes from the fog in Norwich. Man, that was a strange night.

Now, onto the second half. The Sea Dogs need to improve, but it should be easy for the Red Sox, right? Well ...

Good day for a couple of shortstops on Sunday. Could Julio Lugo, a .197 hitter, be turning it around, like former .190 hitter Jed Lowrie?

Lugo went 3-for-3 with the Red Sox on Sunday, belting a home run, and recording two RBI. Alas, his average raised to .197. But it's a start.

Lowrie enjoyed a 3-for-6 day with the Sea Dogs on Sunday, swatting two home runs (one right-handed and one left), with four RBI. Lowrie, who was batting a mere .190 two months ago, is now at .307, with 7 home runs and 44 RBI.

One interesting thing about Lowrie is that he was hitting .303 this time last month. In other words, since his early struggle and initial hot streak, he has stayed the same.

Lowrie has not experienced any droughts. He works constantly and makes adjustments when necessary (a key ingredient for any hopeful prospect).

While it may be fun to watch the Red Sox pound lousy pitching (i.e. the Devil Rays), it might be more comforting to Red Sox Nation if they did better against good pitching (something they will obviously see in the post-season).

Did it say it all about the investment into J.D. Drew that a rusty Kevin Youkilis pinch-hit for him last night? Still, look for a better second half by the big money man.

Check out today's baseball column in the Sunday Telegram, looking at the potential moves through the minor league system.

I'll check in later after the Sea Dogs game.

Back in March, in Fort Myers, Fla., the bus was late picking up the Red Sox minor leaguers for an exhibition that day in Sarasota. Jeff Bailey grumbled about it, and then caught himself.

"I remember first coming up and being around older players always complaining. And now listen to me," he said, a smile quickly back on his face.

And now for the top news:

Jacoby Ellsbury's is back in Pawtucket, but not after making an impression (see Terry Francona's comments in the previous blog)

Curt Schilling is on the shelf indefinitely.

Clay Buchholz appears headed for Pawtucket after another ace is promoted to Portland.

Is Devern Hansack re-joining the Red Sox?

Red Sox sign their top pick, and a potential star from the Dominican

Interesting to note Jacoby Ellsbury playing left field in Wednesday's game, in place of the resting Manny Ramirez. Normally that is Wily Mo Pena's role.

Ellsbury, who swatted an opposite-field RBI double (on a 97 mph fastball), may be more than just a temporary fill-in on the roster.

Meanwhile, signs point to a prolonged stay for Curt Schilling on the disabled list.

Watching Carlos Pena launch his 19th home run last night against Jonathan Papelbon makes you wonder if Pena would be a good fit to return to the Red Sox next year.

Think it's time to try Jacoby Ellsbury in the lead-off spot for the Red Sox? Don't hold your breath. It's likely the Red Sox are easing Ellsbury in, batting him down in the order. And with Lefty Scott Kazmir pitching for the Devil Rays tonight, Ellsbury might not even be in the lineup.

If Ellsbury is in the lineup tonight, then that is sure sign of confidence in the kid (and a sure sign that Wily Mo Pena is fading in Boston's plans).

Why not put Ellsbury in and see how he does against the tough lefty?

The Sea Dogs and Boston Red Sox will hold a press conference today. The expected subject of the conference is an extension of their affiliation beyond the 2008 season.

Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein watched Clay Buchholz pitch on Saturday at Hadlock Field. It was a night when Buchholz threw a no-hitter for five innings, even though he didn't have his usually-dominant curveball.

Epstein is also reponsible for yanking Buchholz after five innings, giving Buchholz a break and a chance to prepare for the All Stars Futures Game next Sunday.

Here is what Epstein had to say:

The Boston Red Sox promoted Jacoby Ellsbury to the majors and he is scheduled to be in tonight's lineup.

Ellsbury takes the roster spot of relief pitcher Joel Pineiro, who went on the disabled list.

Ellsbury becomes the 40th man on the 40-man roster.

Meanwhile, the Sea Dogs lost reliever Chris Smith to Pawtucket (taking Ellsbury's spot). The Sea Dogs picked up pitcher TJ Nall, who the Red Sox got after the Nationals released him.

Hadlock Field is sold out tonight, with Clay Buchholz pitching.

The Texas Rangers come to Boston with their awful pitching.
Coco Crisp seems to be coming around. Maybe even Drew.
Could Schilling come to Portland next month?

Congratulations to former Sea Dogs outfielder Brandon Moss for making the Triple-A All Star Game. Moss is batting .294 with 13 home runs and 54 RBI for Pawtucket.

He can be streaky, but if Moss keeps this up, he is certain to at least get a September call-up, which will be his first time in the majors.

Was there a problem with Jon Lester Monday night, or is he just bummed out?

Driving home from Manchester late last night was made easier by listening to the Red Sox game in San Diego.

Obviously, Dice-K is the story, but I found the performance of another pitcher just as interesting. Manny Delcarmen pitched to two batters (both outs) in the seventh inning of a one-run game.

Note: Get used to seeing the "other Manny" around.

Hello from Manchester, where it's raining at MerchantsAuto.com Stadium (doesn't that name just roll off the tongue?).

So the Sea Dogs game will be delayed, if its played at all.

Meanwhile, in San Diego, the word is that David Murphy has been called up to the Red Sox (at least temporarily, until a pitcher is called up to replace the DL'd Curt Schilling on Tuesday).

According to lineups posted on the web, Murphy is not in the lineup, even though J.D. Drew is also sitting. Wily Mo Pena is in right.

Before the Red Sox call up a pitcher to replace Curt Schilling, it looks like they will bring up an outfielder today from Pawtucket.

The outfielder, likely David Murphy (but possibly Brandon Moss) would play until Tuesday, when the Sox will need another starter.

Since The Curt has not updated his own blog for a week (a trend that can't continue), we'll keep up our Schilling focus.

The last blog had a comment (thank you, Roland) on Schilling, declaring him a has-been. Roland also said that Boston should trade Schilling, like it traded David Wells last year.

Let's think about that.

Some thoughts while we wait on the status of Curt Schilling's shoulder. He underwent an MRI yesterday in Boston (the Boston Herald reported that the test reported no damage).

It seems obvious that the Red Sox need to shut Schilling down, at least for a start. Boston has several options to replace Schilling, who is scheduled to start Sunday.

Akron Aeros pitcher Jeff Stevens throws a pitch behind Portland Sea Dogs batter Jay Johnson. Is Sea Dogs manager Arnie Beyeler mad? No. He applauded the pitch.

Just got the news that J.D. Drew is batting leadoff for the Red Sox tonight. Drew has a .429 average (3-for-7) against Colorado starter Jeff Francis, so maybe Terry Francona sees something there. Hey, it can't hurt.

Drew, Josh Beckett and company will have to come through tonight, or the Yankees, who already won today, move to within 7 1/2 games.

Meanwhile, I'm watching Clay Buchholz loosen up for his start at Hadlock Field. A good night for baseball.

Did anyone really think the Yankees would be terrible all year? The lineup is too good. The pitching, which I still think is suspect, has hit a nice stretch.

New York has gained six games on the Red Sox, and now sit 8 1/2 back. That is still a lot, but it is only June (just like last month when we reminded you that it was only May).

The Yankees have Andy Pettitte going tonight.

Terry Francona made his first tweak of the lineup, putting Dustin Pedroia at the leadoff spot, and batting Julio Lugo ninth.

Applause to Francona for the move. And give it up for Lugo, for how he handled it.

Meanwhile, in Pawtucket, Jacoby Ellsbury went 2-for-5 last night, with two runs and two more stolen bases (now 17).

It is great when a team can draft a college player who is nearly ready for the majors (like Jacoby Ellsbuty, picked in the first round in 2005). Maybe University of Washington left-handed pitcher Nick Hagadone will be another.

But don't discount the high school kids. Boston drafted more high schoolers than college kids in this past draft, including 6 of the first 8 picks.

Things are looking better for the Yankees fifth starter (Roger Clemens) than the Red Sox No. 5 (Jon Lester, eventually)
Meanwhile, some Sox minor Leaguers are California Dreamin' and Bryce Cox is finally off the DL.

With Mike Timlin coming back to the Red Sox, J.C. Romero becomes the first reliever to go, as Boston designated him for assignment ... Who will be moved when Jon Lester comes back. And will that move signal a promotion for Clay Buchholz?

As expected, The Red Sox went after mostly high school kids in the early rounds of the 2007 draft ... Meanwhile, some previous draft picks continue to improve in the minors.

Clay Buchholz looks ready for Pawtucket, if not Boston.
Michael Bowden, 20, is already impressing in Double A.
And Josh Beckett pitches Sunday night for the Red Sox.

Maybe after a blowout loss to the Yankees, Red Sox fans need something to smile about (the obvious suggestion is to check the AL East standings).

The Red Sox upper tier minor league teams provided some sparks Friday night.

Bumped into former Sea Dogs reliever Ryan Cameron during the Reading Phillies' visit to Hadlock Field this past weekend. "Still trying to get people out," he said with his usual smile.

Cameron, 29, is like a lot of players. They show potential, are good enough to hang around, but have not found a way to make it to the majors, let alone stay there. Another example is Scott Youngbauer.

J.D. Drew could not have picked a better time to have a good game than Sunday. His effort (2-for-4 with two runs and an RBI) comes as Cleveland visits Fenway Park. Of course, the highlight of the Indians appearance is the return of Trot Nixon to Fenway Park.

Every team has players who are a spark, players you cannot help but root for. Portland Sea Dogs middle ifielder Iggy Suarez is such a player. Outgoing and upbeat, Suarez is plugging along through the Red Sox minor league system.

Check out his take on facing Roger Clemens in today's Maine Sunday Telegram.

One update from Pawtucket, where the former Portland outfielders continue to shine. After last night's game, David Murphy is batting .306, Brandon Moss .304, and Jacoby Ellsbury .299.

George Streinbrenner is focusing in on his scapegoat. It looks like Roger Clemens will miss Fenway afterall, and Friday night was a good one for some of the Red Sox prospects.

The New York Yankees have announced that Roger Clemens will make another minor league start, Monday with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. If he is then declared major league-ready, Clemens would make his next start at Fenway Park next Saturday.

Waterfront Park is buzzing with media from New York and Boston, plus the locals, as well as yours truly.We all wait for Roger Clemens. The Sea Dogs are getting caught up in the atmosphere. While the Trenton Thunder took batting practice, the Sea Dogs watched from their dugout.
Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein is supposed to be here.

What happens if Rogers Clemens gets knocked around tonight by the Portland Sea Dogs, a team which has scored a total of one run in the past two games?

If Clemens struggles with Jeff Corsaletti, Jed Lowrie and Cory Keylor, how can he expect to succeed against Lugo, Youkilis and Ortiz?

Today, Kason Gabbard make his first start for Boston this year. Jon Lester is nearing his. And did you know what Aaron Bates did last night?

Gabbard, who went 1-3, 3.51 in seven appearances last year, starts today as the Red Sox fill their pitching need after two doubleheaders in three days. If Gabbard does well, he could get Friday's start in Texas, although Julian Tavarez will also be ready.

It is going to be a fun matchup when Roger Clemens, 44 and Michael Bowden, 20 face each other in the Portland Sea Dogs' Wednesday game in Trenton. And did you catch that California League score last night?

The speculation out of Boston is that Kason Gabbard will make the Friday start for the Boston Red Sox. He would be going on only three days' rest, but was limited to five innings in a Pawtucket start Monday.

Jacoby Ellsbury enjoyed a 3-for-6 night Tuesday in Pawtucket's 15-6 win over Durham, with two stolen bases, two runs and an RBI. In the past three games, Ellsbury is 6-for-14 and his now batting .292 in Triple-A. Others are shining, too.

Blogged earlier that pitching prospect Michael Bowden might be getting close to a promotion and, presto, he is joining the team in Altoona today. Have not heard of the corresponding move, yet.
Meanwhile, the Red Sox have a wait-and-see approach with Josh Beckett and the small tear (or is it an irritation?) on his right middle finger. While Beckett sat in the clubhouse, working a crossword puzzle with a bandage on his finger, manager Terry Francona said "we'll let the healing process begin and see what pace it's going." Francona said there are plans in place if Beckett cannot make his start Friday, but was not ready to tell them.

Here's a quick look at some Red Sox minor leaguers, before heading to Fenway tonight for the Dice-K vs. Nate Robertson match-up.
Michael Bowden continues to impress in Advance Class A Lancaster.

While the Red Sox celebrated their improbable win over Baltimore Sunday, the Portland Sea Dogs quietly sat in their clubhouse, after being swept in a four-game series by the Binghamton Mets. Portland led Sunday 6-1 after three innings. But, like the Orioles, the Sea Dogs had pitching problems and lost 12-6. Among the trouble spots were seven walks and three hit batters.

Despite an 8-5 loss to the Binghamton Mets, the Sea Dogs game Friday remains special because of the performance of Clay Buchholz, with his 11 strikeouts, including eight straight.
"He is something else," said Mets right fielder Caleb Stewart, who struck out twice against Buchholz. "He's going to be in the majors for a long time."

Former Sea Dogs starter Devern Hansack was sent back down to Pawtucket after making one appearance for the Red Sox. Lefty reliever Javier Lopez was promoted to Boston.
Meanwhile, Clay Buchholz is starting tonight for the Sea Dogs. But how long will he be in Portland?

By now you've heard of the meltdown experienced by former Sea Dogs relievers Craig Hansen and Manny Delcarmen for Pawtucket (blowing a 14-6 lead in the ninth. The Boston Herald's Steve Buckley talked to the pair about it.

It seemed liked a minor deal when the Red Sox traded Sea Dogs reliever Scott Shoemaker to Texas for left-handed starter Daniel Haigwood. But Haigwood, 23, showed promise Monday night in Portland's 4-1 win over Trenton.

Almost called it a night without updating the blog. It became official about three hours ago. Jacoby Ellsbury is being promoted to Triple-A Pawtucket. Jay Johnson flew in today from Lancaster, Calif. to take Ellsbury's spot in Portland. No word yet on a corresponding move in Pawtucket.

How long will Jacoby Ellsbury stay in Portland? It can't be much longer. When you are batting .449 after a month (granted, with lots of rainouts), then there is little left to prove. One very good website, www.soxprospects.com, speculated that Ellsbury could be in Pawtucket in two weeks. I'm thinking it could be sooner.
Of course, that leads to more thoughts ...

Jon Lester left after three innings of his Pawtucket start with a cramp in his left forearm ... Daniel Bard, the 2006 first-round draft pick, went on the disabled list with a strained triceps muscle ... and do you remember Jorge De La Rosa?

The belief is that Jon Lester will be optioned to Pawtucket after his start there tonight. See the Providence Journal story.

If Lester is added to the Pawsox rotation, who goes? Kason Gabbard, David Pauley, Devern Hansack are all on the 40-man roster. Runelvys Hernandez was signed in the off season and has a 0.68 ERA. Abe Alvarez, who was removed from the 40-man roster, could be the odd man out. Alvarez, a second-round pick, is 1-3 with a 6.41 ERA.

Clay Buchholz and Michael Bowden have been watched closely since both were picked in the supplemental round of the 2005 draft. The B&B boys shined Tuesday night with a combined 13 shutout innings, 18 strikeouts and no walks.

Just a quick note to explain why the blog will be semi-active this week. The Thomas family activated Keira Eve to the roster this morning at 5:16 a.m. She was due in May, but decided to report early to camp, weighing in at 8 pounds, 7 ounces.

Alex Cora is batting .357 with a couple of game-winning hits. Dustin Pedroia is batting .158, with no RBI. No wonder why Cora was in the lineup today during the Red Sox 7-5 win over the NYY. But don't think Pedroia is going away.

Of all the scenarios for a Red Sox-Yankees game, I don't know who figured out that Kyle Snyder would be the winning pitcher, Hideki Okajima would get the save, and Coco Crisp would tie the game on a triple off Mariano Rivera. But that was not the only baseball being played.

The Portland Sea Dogs game with Trenton today has been postponed because of the weather. The game is scheduled to be made up as part of a doubleheader Tuesday at 6 p.m. (that is hopeful thinking) ... Meanwhile, the Red Sox have pushed back the starting time for today's game from 10 a.m. to noon, with their fingers crossed.

With Carl Pavano (stiff forearm) and Mike Mussina (hamstring strain) going on the disabled list, the Yankees are expected to call up lefty Chase Wright from Double-A Trenton, according to the New York papers, and the Yankees website.

My car broke down on the Maine Turnpike, on my way to Fenway this morning, but at least I did not miss anything. Today's rainout actually sets up the Red Sox rotation nicely for the Yankees series next weekend. Meanwhile, the Sea Dogs will welcome the Yankees Double-A Trenton Thunder Monday through Wednesday.

Here is wondering when Charlie Zink will make his first start, and other gripping topics for followers of the Sea Dogs & Red Sox.

Garrett Guzman just jacked a two-run homer in the first inning for the New Britain Rock Cats, for a 2-0 lead over the Sea Dogs toight. Things went well for Pawtucket and Devern Hansack today, and we have the make-up dates from the snow.

Well, at least the other Red Sox minor league teams are playing. Starter Devern Hansack and closer Craig Hansen looked fine in Pawtucket's 5-1 win Friday.

Clay Buchholz showed some of his potential in a major league exhibition game start Thursday. Meanwhile, Jonathan Papelbon gave the Red Sox a scare, when he showed a slight limp after covering first base.

With the theory that you can never have too much pitching, Triple-A Pawtucket has a roster filled with starting pitchers, which makes you wonder if some of them might get bumped down to Portland.

Ever since Manchester, N.H. got an Eastern League team, it has been no secret that it covets the Red Sox affiliation, which currently belongs to Portland. So the story about the Sea Dogs' potential new clubhouse is of interest to readers in New Hampshire. The story is in the Manchester Union Leader

The sun is bright over Tampa Bay, as the sea gulls fly over the adjoining Progress Energy Park (also known at Al Lang Field). Not a bad way to spend the morning as I give you the Red Sox lineup for today, as well as one Sea Dogs reminder.