Fourth Of July Battle Between Baltimore And Boston

The Baltimore Orioles have finally toppled the Toronto Blue Jays from the top of the AL East. They now will look to put some distance between themselves and the Blue Jays but have a familiar foe in their way.

The Boston Red Sox are eight games behind but are hardly ready to call it a season, however, they have some distractions from the game in some internal business drama regarding their ace pitcher.

Jon Lester will take the mound today against the Orioles. Lester is the Red Sox best picture but could be the free agency’s best pitcher come the end of the season.

Thus far, Lester has refused to address his contract situation in the media and is not likely to start anytime soon. He remain focused on winning games, which is what he will need to do to beat the Orioles.

Lest is having a career year, one that will see his stock rise (and his pay day) regardless of what happens at the end of the season. He has a 2.92 ERA with a career-best 3.97 K/BB ratio.

Lester is coming off a strong start against the New York Yankees. He managed to outdo up and comer Masahiro Tanaka for the 2-1 win. Lester pitched eight innings, allowing five hits and one run.

Miguel Gonzalez will oppose Lester. Gonzalez will be looking to regain his footing, as he has not had a good start since returning from injury on June 17. Since coming back he has a sloppy 6.14 ERA. In his last three outings he has given up an average of five runs and has not lasted over five innings.

The Red Sox are the favorites to win this one with a moneyline set at -165. The game starts at 1:35 p.m. ET.