So far, with Matsuzaka sidelined, manager Terry Francona has used both Tim Wakefield and Alfredo Aceves in starting roles and both have shined. But what's the long-term plan for the Sox?
Wakefield is an aging knuckler, who may not be able to put together an entire summer without fading. In 2009, Wake put together an All-Star first half before succumbing to injury and appearing in just four games after July. Aceves is a 16-2 lifetime pitcher but has started just eight of 73 games dating back to 2008.
Another option the Sox have is to bring up a young arm. Felix Doubront, for example, has big league experience and would fill in nicely. He was, however, dealing with injury in spring training and got a late start this year. He's started five games in Triple-A Pawtucket and has a 1.59 ERA.
The team could also track down a veteran to fill the void. With the mid-season break just a month away, teams may start to look forward to dishing away older loose ends for prospects and the Sox have plenty of chips to deal.
Who should take Daisuke Matsuzaka's spot in the Red Sox' rotation?customer surveys
Wednesday, June 1: Which AL East team will be in first place at the end of June?
