Lester was impressive

So, let's hope he's up here to stay now. I know he's only beaten the Nationals and the Braves and so our enthusiasm should be tempered a little bit by reality. But Lester is certainly capable enough to handle being the fourth starter.

As for the fifth starter, it looks like the next pitcher to be named is Jason Johnson. Kyle Snyder was optioned to AAA after last night's game in order to make room for Jason. Kyle was effective enough in his one start, but it looks like the Red Sox are willing to keep on looking for the 'lightning strike'.

Jason Johnson was acquired for cash or a player to be named later from the Cleveland Indians. His record is unimpressive, but the Sox are just hoping he can play well (or Snyder can) for about half a season or so, in the hopes that Clement, Wells or DiNardo show up in the park once again.

A veteran of all or part of 10 major league seasons with Pittsburgh (1997), Tampa Bay (1998), Baltimore (1999-2003), Detroit (2004-05) and Cleveland (2006), Johnson has made 32 starts or more in four of the last five campaigns and is a two-time 10-game winner with Baltimore in 2001 and 2003. He is 55-94 with a 4.95 ERA in 229 major league appearances, 213 as a starter.

The 6-foot-6, 225-pounder has won at least eight games in each of the last three seasons, including an 8-13 record with a 4.54 ERA in 33 starts for Detroit last year, matching his career high in starts (2004) and setting a career best with 210.0 innings. The Santa Barbara, CA native led the Tigers pitching staff with 19 quality starts and worked at least six innings in 25 starts.