BOSTON –– Josh Beckett‘s outing against the Rays could have ramifications on the roster.
If the right-hander doesn’t experience any issues with his right thumb, Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine could send down one of his relievers –– there are 13 pitchers on the club –– in favor of an extra utilityman.
“It could be more of a resolvable situation, but I’m still holding my breath making sure Josh is fine,” Valentine said. “I was happy one time through the rotation, I was happy with the health and the ability of the starting staff. The extra pitcher was really protection against that situation.”
With Darnell McDonald, Nick Punto and Kelly Shoppach as the only backups on the bench, Valentine could benefit from the extra depth. When asked if the situation was difficult, the Red Sox skipper shrugged it of.
“I don’t know that it’s always the number of guys,” Valentine said. “It’s the abilities of the guys on the bench and how they all work into the big picture. Three is one less than four, for sure.”
After a monster spring, Pedro Ciriaco could be a candidate for a call up. In Triple-A Pawtucket, the infielder has continued to post strong numbers, batting .333 with two RBIs to go along with two steals.
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