Thursday's Starter? Theo, Red Sox Still Looking
BOSTON (CBS) – The Boston Red Sox are not sure who their starter will be on Thursday if a one-game playoff is needed with the Tampa Bay Rays.
In fact, that starter may not even be on the team yet.
According to a tweet by Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal, Theo Epstein is still looking to possibly make a deal to land a starter for the potential playoff.
Read: Game 163 Scheduled, If Necessary
One of the potential targets is Kansas City left-hander Bruce Chen, who is scheduled to pitch Wednesday night against the Minnesota Twins. Chen has had a solid 2011 season for KC, posting a 12-8 record with a 3.98 ERA. He went 5-1 in August, but is just 2-3 in September.
A 12-year veteran, Chen is 60-58 over his career.
The Red Sox would have to give up something for one game out of Chen or anyone else they acquire, showing just how little faith they have in their own $15-million dollar man John Lackey.
Roche Blog: Game 162, Will Red Sox Get In?
The fact Boston would have to surrender a prospect for a pitcher to start just one game, what would be their most important of the year, just emphasizes their lack of depth in the starting rotation.
It is also likely Epstein would have to acquire a starter before Wednesday's game, without actually knowing if Boston will need him.
If no starter is acquired, the Red Sox could send Lackey to the mound. Tim Wakefield is also an option, but the knuckleballer would be pitching on three days rest.
