Josh Beckett of the Boston Red Sox, who has been plagued by injuries for much of the season, will have his first start in the 2008 baseball playoffs pushed back. Last season, Beckett was the undisputed ace of the pitching staff as the Red Sox went on to win the World Series. This season? The picture this postseason isn’t so clear.

As of now, Beckett will be pushed back to Game 3 of the opening series against the Los Angeles Angels. In Game 1 Jon Lester will starter, while Daisuke Matsuzaka will get the start in Game 2.

This injury for Beckett is being called a strained oblique. He got hurt during a bullpen session recently and the muscle has tightened up on him. Although some internet rumors have Beckett being sidelined much longer, all indications from Boston point to Beckett being ready to go by Game 3.

In Beckett’s postseason career, he’s been unbelievable. In ten starts in the playoffs, Beckett has a 1.73 ERA and a record of 6-2. For the Red Sox to have a chance to come out of the competitive American League playoffs, they’ll need Beckett at his best.

Photo: Newscom

Post from: Knuckle Curve