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11/27/2003 Archived Entry: "MLB News: Schilling to Red Sox"
MLB News by Eric Gartman
The Arizona Diamonbacks are trying to deal ace right-hander Curt Schilling to Boston in exchange for pitchers Casey Fossum and Brandon Lyon, as well two minor leaguers. By trying to acquire Schilling, Boston is sending a clear message that they intend to win the World Series next year. Boston's offense was tops in the majors last year, but its pitching faltered behind Pedro Martinez. With Pedro and Schilling leading the staff and backed by a potent offense, the Sox hope they win the short postseason series much like the Diamondbacks did in 2001, behind Schilling and Randy Johnson. The Sox have a better offense than those D-Backs did, however. It may not be realistic for the Sox to expect the same kind of production as last year from Bill Mueller and David Ortiz, but there is little doubt their hitting will still be strong. The move serves two purposes for the Diamondbacks. First, it frees them of Schilling's $12 million contract for next season, while acquiring two youngsters with potential for long, productive big league careers. Fossum did not develop like the Sox hoped he would last year, but at age 26, he still has time, as most lefties blossom fairly late. Randy Johnson himself was never a dominant pitcher until age 29, and didn't win his first Cy Young until he was 31. Lyon also has potential to be a solid reliever. And as for Schilling, what can the Red Sox expect from him? Well, he is 37 years old, and coming off and injury-marred season in which he started only 24 games. Moreover, his record was a mediocre 8-9. But Schilling's ERA was a mere 2.95, and he recorded 194 strikouts in only 168 innings. With good run support, he easily would have won 15 games. In fact, according to the Bill James win shares system, he gained an impressive 15 win shares. Its clear that Schilling did not lose his touch in 2003. The Red Sox think he may be their ticket to their first championship since 1918, and there is good reason to think they may be right.
