The Sox series in Philadelphia doesnt start until tonight, but Bobby V. and the boys have already notched an early victory: No Roy Halladay!
The Phillies ace went eight strong in last nights win over the Cubs, and thus wont take the mound this weekend at Citizens Bank Park.
Good for the Sox? Yes, good for the Sox. Any time you dodge a meeting with a future Hall of Famer, you have to feel thankful. You have to. But on closer inspection, HOW thankful should Boston be?
First of all, Docs 3.22 ERA is impressive, and easily better than anything the Sox staff has to offer. But I was surprised to find that his 3.22 ERA actually ranks last among Philadelphias five starters.
Cliff Lee (who pitches on Sunday) leads the staff with an ERA of 1.95. Cole Hamels (who takes the mound tonight) is next at 2.28. Joe Blanton (who will go on Saturday) ranks third at 2.95. And recently DL-ed Vance Worley comes it at No. 4 at 3.07.
Then theres Roy, and his bulbous 3.22.
While were on the topic of pointlessly degrading one this generations greatest pitchers, theres this: Despite all his ridiculous success, Halladay hasnt been as dominant as youd think against the Red Sox.
Boston Red Sox
He has a record of 14-15 in 39 starts against Bostoncompared to an 18-7 record in 38 starts against the Yankees. The Sox are one of only four teams against which he has a losing record, and there are only three teams against which he has a worse career ERA (4.39).
So, should the Sox really be thankful that they'll miss out on Roy Halladay this weekend?
In a word: YES.
But maybe not as much as you'd think.
Rich can be reached at rlevine@comcastsportsnet.com. Follow Rich on Twitter at http:twitter.comrich_levine