Sunday, the Boston Red Sox battled the Philadelphia Phillies in interleague play. Similar to his time in Toronto, Philadelphia staff ace Roy Halladay had the difficult task of shutting down the Boston offence. In his career, Halladay has had a sub 500 record against only a handful of teams. The Boston Red Sox have been the biggest thorn in Halladay's side, and Sunday was non-more evident, as he gave up seven earned runs, while the Red Sox cruised to an eight to three victory over the defending National League Champions. Going into the game, the Red Sox had struggled as they currently sit fourth in the American League East, one of the toughest divisions in all of sports. When placing a bet on MLB teams such as the Red Sox, in years past, one could always assume a win.
However, early this season, the Red Sox have struggled out of the gate, with slow starting designated hitter David Ortiz finally rounding into shape. Throughout the early part of the season, the Red Sox starting rotation led by Clay Bucholz and Daise K, has been able to keep the team in games they otherwise should not have been in. The offense finally showed up in the game against Halladay and the Phillies, as Halladay's arch nemesis, Kevin Youkilis was able to go three for five against the big righty, as Youkilis improved his average against Halladay to a whopping 400. In a year in which the Rays, Yankees and Blue Jays all appear stronger, the slow start for the Red Sox may hurt their chances for qualifying for the playoffs. On the other hand, similar to Super Saver at the Kentucky Derby, the Red Sox although starting the season in the back, can assure betting fans that they will be near the front of the pack by the season's end.
