Beckett’s Bug Results In Another Missed Start

Whatever type of bug Josh Beckettis suffering through right now, it is certainly getting the better of the Red Sox starter.  As a result, Beckett is forced to miss his second straight start that was scheduled for this Saturday in Pittsburgh against the Pirates. 

The former World Series MVP last started a game on June 15 against Tampa Bay.  It was a thing of beauty as Beckett went the distance only giving up 1 hit and striking out 6.

He has an overall record of 6-2 with a sparkling ERA of 1.86.  He is currently on pace to set career bests in ERA and WHIP and had it not been for 6 no decision contests, Beckett could easily be leading the Majors in wins.

Providing Beckett is strong enough to make his next start, that would come on Monday against Cliff Leeand the Philadelphia Phillies. 

So perhaps this missed start will be good for Beckett and the Red Sox.  Red Sox fans I’m sure  would unanimously take Beckett against Cliff Lee rather than Andrew Miller. Not knocking Miller, it’s just hard to not be confident when Beckett is on the mound, especially this year the way he has turned it around.

Also, the way Cliff Lee has performed during the month of June (4-0 in 4 starts while only allowing 1 earned run, including 2 straight complete games), Beckett is the best option to go toe-to-toe with Lee and give the Red Sox the best option of beating the perennial All-Star.

There is a concern with Beckett coming off a two week layoff.  His track record after long stints of rest isn’t the greatest and the way Lee is throwing lately, this may be a tall order for anyone, let alone Josh Beckett.

But that’s why they play the games.

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