Delcarmen struggled throughout most of the second half of the season, posting a 7.27 ERA since July 19, and he was invovled in a car accident over the weekend.
"I just think all that's happened, it's probably not in his best interest [to pitch during this series]," manager Terry Francona told Boston.com. "It would probably be rushing it a little bit."
While the pitching situation appears to be under control, Boston still has some decisions to make regarding its final two roster spots. The Red Sox must decide between three outfielders to round out the roster: Rocco Baldelli, Joey Gathright and Brian Anderson.
If Baldelli's ailing hip flexor appears to be healed, he is the likely choice to fill one spot. He could be extremely valuable as a right-handed bat off the bench and may earn a spot on the roster even if he is unable to play in the first game or two. Angels lefties Scott Kazmir and Joe Saunders are slated to pitch games three and four of the series, and if Baldelli could potentially spell right-fielder J.D. Drew in those situations, he would certainly be a boon on the roster.
"He's an important bat, especially in this series," Francona told Boston.com. "That's certainly something to think about."
Gathright's potential as a pinch-runner may render him hard to pass up as well.
Boston has until 10 a.m. on Thursday to finalize its roster.
