Projo Sox Blog

BY JOE McDONALD
Journal Sports Writer

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- It was no surprise today when Rays manager Joe Maddon announced James Shields will be Tampa's ALCS Game One starter Friday night against the Red Sox.

"You can probably ask any pitcher in here and they'll say they want to be in that situation," he said. "I'm excited. I like to take on these challenges. We'll see how it goes, but I'm pretty excited to pitch in this series."

The 26-year-old right-hander finished the regular season with a 14-8 record and a 3.56 ERA, while holding opponents to a .254 average. Most Red Sox fans will remember what Shields did back in June at Fenway Park when he hit the Sox' Coco Crisp. A bench-clearing brawl ensued and another chapter in the recent rivalry was written.

"I guess it was meant to be," he said of the ALCS matchup. "The Red Sox are a good team and they played well against Anaheim. We're looking forward to the game on Friday. . . We're living in the moment."

Shields said today he's not concerned about the past; he's only looking forward to a victory and possible trip to the World Series.

"I feel alive and ready to go," he said. "It's time for business."

He said he also knows the Red Sox are a dangerous offensive team, especially in the postseason. He's 2-4 with a 5.23 ERA in eight career starts versus Boston. Both his victories came this season as he went 2-2 with a 5.85 ERA in four outings against the Sox.

 Tags  ALCS James Shields Rays

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