9/1: Lester takes the hill

GAME NOTES: Jon Lester is suddenly the Sox's new ace with Josh Beckett having given up a horrifying 10 home runs in his last three starts. This is a crucial series, as the outcome of the series will likely dictate the Rays' playoff chances the rest of the way.

Sox September 1st Call-Ups

With September now underway, the Red Sox have called up five players to fill out the Major League roster. Called-up were Junichi Tazawa, Chris Woodward, Joey Gathright, Brian Anderson, and George Kottaras.

While Tazawa is the easy favorite to make an impact for the big league club, every stolen base and late inning defensive substitution will put the Sox that much closer to the playoffs.

Analysis inside...

Byrds, Laundry Lists, and the Sox’ Week Ahead

With a familiar face back in the fifth starter's spot, everyone is asking, what does Paul Byrd have left in the tank? Is the 38 year old up to the task, or will his middling stuff finally catch up with him?

Wakefield gets a shot...

Penny lands on the West Coast...

Boston prepares for Tampa...

The Byrd, news, analysis, and more inside...