After a tumultuous 2010 campaign, Beckett has returned to being an ace for the Sox. Entering Sunday, the Texan has a 2.27 ERA, which is good for second in the American League behind the Angels' Jered Weaver, who started this year's All-Star Game.
That mark is well below his 3.84 career ERA and far better than the 5.78 ERA he racked up in 21 starts a year ago. He's allowed zero or one run in nine of his 17 starts this season, including a stretch of five consecutive such starts in May.
With a rotation that is facing some injury issues, Beckett's importance to the Red Sox can't be overstated.
Shields, meanwhile, has been just as effective for the Rays this season, although the Sox did touch him up for six runs in six innings on Saturday.
Shields has seven complete games to his credit so far, mostly because of his ability to keep opposing hitters at bay.
"Big Game" James has a 2.60 ERA in 19 starts this season. That number spiked following Saturday's loss to the Sox, but given his nasty stuff, it wouldn't be shocking if that number dipped drastically before the end of the season. And perhaps the Rays will need it in order for them to stay in contention.
Saturday, July 16: Is Johnny Damon a Hall of Famer?
Will Josh Beckett or James Shields end the season with a lower ERA?
