The Ace is Back

Last spring was filled with struggles and injuries for Josh Beckett, 2009 is different. With Jon Lester knocking on the door for opening day starter the pressure was on for Beckett to regain is '07 form. So far this spring he has delivered. Red Sox pitching coach John Farrell breaks down his spring so far:

"First and foremost, he's come in throwing the ball with power, with command," said Farrell. "The nagging injuries that plagued him a year ago have not been evident at any one point and time. I think we're seeing him not only build arm strength but build endurance. Again, he was pitching ahead in the count -- 13 out of 15 first-pitch strikes. I thought he did a great job doubling up with his curveball and his changeup. Some of the goals and objectives that we've set out for this camp, he's accomplishing."

If Beckett has an '07 like season for the Sox this year the AL East better look out because the rotation is looking good with pitchers like Masterson, Penny, Buchholz, and Smoltz ready to step up when they are needed. Now if we could get Wake back to form.....