Andrew Miller's disastrous start tonight only underscored the biggest issue for the Red Sox going into the second half and that is starting pitching. The in-house options to fill in for the injured top of the rotation are shaky at best. Miller, Weiland, Millwood, and Doubront are going to have the Sox offense playing catch-up just like tonight. Miller was jettisoned by the Marlins because of control problems. Clearly those have not been solved, as facing patient teams like the Rays has shown. Weiland doesn't look ready for prime-time either. The scouting reports on Millwood say promote him to the majors at your own risk and Doubront has been erratic. Using Aceves as a starter takes a valuable long man from the bullpen.
Theo may be forced to bite the bullet and deal for a SP who can get major league hitters out on a regular basis. Beckett, Lester, and Buchholz can't come back soon enough. Having them healthy is key to the Red Sox success in the second half. Sure, some reinforcement in right field would be nice, but right now, pitching has to be the priority. Red Sox Nation had better hope Beckett indeed makes the start Sunday night.
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