Hardball Heaven

Scott Kazmir always pitches well against the Red Sox, but last night he was at a different level, taking a one-hitter into the 8th inning and ending up with 10 K's and a complete-game shutout against a pretty potent Boston offense. Final score: D-Rays 3, Sox zip.

Imagine if the Mets hadn't traded Victor Zambrano for Kazmir? This was in the pre-Omar Minaya days - as Omar is quick to remind us - but man, what a horseshit trade. Who was at the wheel for that one? This kid's going to be a great one when it's all said and done. Wonder what his contract status is - we should just collect all the good lefties (Willis, Lilly, Kazmir) that give us trouble.

Anyway, back to the game. Beckett pitched well but was again hurt by the longball. Tampa's runs came on three solo shots, including two from the legendary Ty Wigginton. Not sure what it is about Beckett's fastball, but hitters have been on it this year, especially on the road. Francona actually made the point last night that Beckett supplies most of the power with his velocity. That's a true players manager for you.

The good news is that the Sox can wake up this 4th of July morning, lick their wounds, and know that they didn't lose any ground to the Yankees, who lost 5-2 last night to the Indians. The lead stands at 4 games, 5 over Toronto.

Schilling vs. Casey Fossum today at 4. After being passed over for the All-Star Game (in his hometown area of Pittsburgh no less), the betting here is that Schilling throws a gem.

Happy 230th birthday, America...