At the time of this writing, the following Match Odds/Moneyline were available: Boston Red Sox (1.59, -169) and Pittsburgh Pirates (2.52, +152)
Red Sox are 12-2 mark versus left-handed starters
Pirates are 0-5 in Maholm's last five interleague starts
Boston received a much needed off day Thursday after dropping two of three to San Diego to end its homestand. "Those guys, they have one of the best pitching staffs in the game," Red Sox designated-hitter David Ortiz stated. The Red Sox suffered their first series loss since being swept by the White Sox on June 1, but still hold a half-tame lead over the Yankees in the American League East. Ortiz went 0 for 8 in the final two games versus the Padres, as the offense slowed down after averaging 8.0 runs in its previous 16 contests. This will be no ordinary road trip for Boston, playing nine consecutive games in National League parks, which will eliminated the DH position. "Gonzi has been taking some balls out in the outfield. He's very willing to do it," said Red Sox manager Terry Francona. That's first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, who is expected to leave his natural position to make room for Big Papi.
Red Sox starting pitcher Jon Lester is 9-3 with a 3.70 ERA in 15 starts this season, but is coming in off a losing effort. The left-hander allowed four runs (three earned) and seven hits in a 4-2 home defeat to the Brewers, including three home runs. He has relished his opportunities away from Fenway Park this year, registering a perfect 6-0 mark and 3.12 ERA in nine road outings. Lester will be making his first career appearance against the Pirates.
Continued: Baseball Picks
Red Sox are 12-2 mark versus left-handed starters
Pirates are 0-5 in Maholm's last five interleague starts
Boston received a much needed off day Thursday after dropping two of three to San Diego to end its homestand. "Those guys, they have one of the best pitching staffs in the game," Red Sox designated-hitter David Ortiz stated. The Red Sox suffered their first series loss since being swept by the White Sox on June 1, but still hold a half-tame lead over the Yankees in the American League East. Ortiz went 0 for 8 in the final two games versus the Padres, as the offense slowed down after averaging 8.0 runs in its previous 16 contests. This will be no ordinary road trip for Boston, playing nine consecutive games in National League parks, which will eliminated the DH position. "Gonzi has been taking some balls out in the outfield. He's very willing to do it," said Red Sox manager Terry Francona. That's first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, who is expected to leave his natural position to make room for Big Papi.
Red Sox starting pitcher Jon Lester is 9-3 with a 3.70 ERA in 15 starts this season, but is coming in off a losing effort. The left-hander allowed four runs (three earned) and seven hits in a 4-2 home defeat to the Brewers, including three home runs. He has relished his opportunities away from Fenway Park this year, registering a perfect 6-0 mark and 3.12 ERA in nine road outings. Lester will be making his first career appearance against the Pirates.
Continued: Baseball Picks
