Game 115- Yankees vs. PawSox, August 2, 2008

The PawSox begin what is likely to be their most meaningful stretch of games of the season beginning tonight as they play the first of six straight games against the second place Scranton Wilkes/Barre Yankees. Game one tonight (6:05pm) at McCoy features RHP Alan Horne (2-3, 5.63) pitching for Scranton. He'll be opposed by RHP Devern Hansack (5-9, 4.05) for the PawSox.

Unfortunately I am unable to be at the park for any of the next two games at McCoy. I have a family commitment tonight. And tomorrow, instead of watching these guys

I have tickets to see these guys...

EMC Club, no less. So I hope you understand. Here is a brief look at tonight's contest...

Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees (70-45)

The Yankees arguably have been the hottest team in the International League over the last few weeks. Since the All-Star break the Yankees are 13-4 and are coming off a four-game sweep on the road in Syracuse.

Horne makes his ninth start of 2008 for the Yankees. He had a rough last outing, losing Monday at Rochester. He pitched only one inning, giving up five runs and walking five.

Pawtucket Red Sox (70-44)

The PawSox have a 9-7 record since the All-Star break and are coming off two consecutive come-from-behind victories against the Rochester Red Wings. The PawSox still have the best record in the International League and have the best home mark of any IL club.

After a disappointing start to the season Hansack has been one of Pawtucket's most consistent starters of late. In his last eight starts he is 3-1 with a 1.90 ERA. He received a no decision in his last outing Monday at Toledo. He gave up three runs on seven hits in six innings of work in the PawSox' 5-4 loss to the Mud Hens.

Off the field the Red Sox have acquired Indianapolis infielder Josh Wilson. Wilson played in 97 games with the Indians, hitting .276 with 5 homers and 32 RBI's. Defensively he can play the two middle infield positions. The PawSox are still one man short of their 24 man roster limit. It is still unknown if they will look to add another pitcher after Chris Smith was promoted to Boston yesterday to fill the spot left by the trade of Craig Hansen. More than likely when David Aardsma returns from the disabled list Smith will likely be sent back down to Pawtucket.