Realistically, they both pitched on Wednesday so who knows what to make of it. Oliver threw 24 pitches (15 strikes) while Bootcheck threw 21 pitches (12 strikes). We could, hypothetically, throw out Oliver or Bootcheck to try and get us five innings while tossing the other one out there after him to salvage the final four -- should it be a blowout. It'd limit the bullpen innings while giving us a decent chance at a win.

Then again, Santana might not be the worst choice. He is improving down in Triple-A. His 3.2-to-1 strikeout to walk ratio has improved from his 2.1-to-1 strikeout to walk ratio in the majors this season. He played three games at a high altitude stadium, thus why his stats look bad. Would I like him to revert back to 2006 form? Of course. If he has an April 16th flashback, I'll be upset. I'll settle for a June 15th start right about now. Problem is, this won't be the Dodgers that he's facing. And his 0-2 record along with a 12.38 ERA and 2.38 WHIP in Boston during his career leaves me little hope at a victory in this game. But, that's why they play the games.

As for the poll question, he'll just do better than last time. It won't be much better. This will be his ninth game pitched this season in the majors without Jose Molina behind the plate and the first since he was traded. As far as I am concerned, that can only be a good thing. In those nine starts when Molina wasn't the catcher and Napoli was behind the plate for Santana, Ervin went 2-5 with a 5.43 ERA and 1.64 WHIP. He also lost to Boston without Molina there, giving up 5 ER in four innings. It'll either be hit or miss with him. For our sake, let's hope it's miss -- when the Red Sox are swinging.

"Im on yur mound, losin yur day gamez"

My guess of what Mike will say to Santana:
"Ervin, this is a big game for us, give us your best shot."

This is the kind of game that can either make you manager of the year or breed lots of internet bulletin board grumpiness.