Opening Day Preview - Red Sox/Phillies (3:05 E.T.)

The fresh grass, new red clay, and Spring finally in the air. 

Its a great day to be an American (as always) and a Boston sports fan as the Red Sox take on the Phillies at 3:05 this afternoon. 

Starting Lineup 
1. Mookie Betts CF
2. Dustin Pedroia 2nd 
3. David Ortiz 1B 
4. Hanley Ramirez LF 
5. Pablo Sandoval 3B 
6. Shane Victorino RF (DISGUSTING) 
7. Xander Bogaerts SS
8. Ryan Hanigan C
9. Clay "Ace" Buchholz SP 

The lineup looks to be pretty formidable from top to bottom. Aside from Christian Vazquez being replaced by Ryan Hanigan, and Napoli not at first, this looks to be the roster that the Red Sox envisioned in the off season. Last season is something that is in the past and every team, except for the Cubs (Regrets, Lester?) have a clean slate and are ready to start a new season. 

It is extremely ironic that the Red Sox will be facing future-Red Sox- ace, Cole Hamels, in the season opener. Hamels may try and prove to the Red Sox that he is worth whatever they have to give up in order to get him today. Hamels and the Phillies should be the slight favorites, but that could change very quickly with this Red Sox lineup. 

The Red Sox look to be a contender in the American League and, if they can add a pitcher by the Deadline (the Phillies' starter today), could compete for the World Series. 

Are you ready, Red Sox fans? 

Opening Day is here! 

By Pete Packowski @Pete_BBS