Timing is everything, they say. And this bit of news could not have come at a better time.

With the question of who will be moved to the bullpen, when starter Curt Schilling returns, we finally have an answer - Curt Schilling.

Though his ankle is not completely healed, Curt Schilling will make one relief appearance in the minors before returning to the big leagues. (See the Boston Globe's story Closer Inspection) Then he will not join the rotation, instead pitch out of the pen. Now that Keith Foulke is on the DL with a problem knee or two, Schilling will take the closer's role.

Schilling in the pen is tantalizing. I can't imagine a better closer. He is obviously a strikeout pitcher, who can get the job done. I'm excited by this prospect. He should succeed. But for how long? He can't stay there until Foulke returns, can he?

In only his second year with the Sox, Schilling has already done three huge things: 1) Understanding the history of Boston, states his intention of bringing a World Series to Boston; 2.) He does so in dramatic fashion, perhaps ending his starting role with a result of the all-too-mentioned ankle injury; 3.) He steps up to the plate again - recognizing his capabilities and his flaws - to not only accept but volunteer for another new challenge in order to better his club's chances at a repeat title.

This is testament to his good character and team manship. But according to the Globe, some of the Sox players, including Johnny Damon, aren't too psyched about Schilling's new role.
I hope the decision doesn't cause a riff in the clubhouse.

Do I feel bad about bad-mouthing Keith Foulke? Not one bit. If he was having trouble with his "knee" for this long he should have said something to someone. It is ridiculous that it has gone this far. I wish him well and hope that he recovers nicely, quickly. I would also suggest someone get him some counseling to help him through this transitional period. His attitude has - in a word - sucked. The Globe's Jackie MacMullan also thinks Foulke's problems are more than physical.

Mike Timlin has been outstanding in the closer's role thus far. And, Alan Embree pitched to that one guy Wednesday to get his first save of the year.

With all this bullpen movement what else is in store for the roster?

Rumor has it that Kevin Millar has asked to be traded. Apparently he doesn't like his new role. It is strange. Before Millar was even thought to join the Red Sox I was advocating that the Sox take a look. Last year, I could care if he were traded or not. This year, I realize his value as a "clubhouse guy." And just after I make that realization, he wants out. Go figure.

What can you get for him? The Sox could use a starter. Maybe we can make a bid for Florida's A.J. Burnett. How about Papelbon and Millar. Would that do it? We are most likely going to need a centerfielder next year. Unless of course the Sox are willing to pay the big dollars to Johnny Damon, which I would certainly consider if I were them. Anyone have an extra centerfielder?

Anyone need a DH? The Angels are more than set. Oakland is not looking for anyone right now. Seattle doesn't need him and probably wouldn't make a deal with us anyway considering we hosed them in 1997 with Heathcliff Slocumb. Cleveland has a nucleus of young players that should not be dealt if they want to contend in the future. No one in the east will deal with us out of fear. The White Sox are dominant. You can stick a fork in Kansas City, although a pitcher may be easily acquired from them. Detroit isn't looking to pick up aging players. Minnesota doesn't need him.

It will be extremely tough to find any takers. Having said that, I am sure that the Sox are doing all they can to accomodate his request. I wish them lots of luck.

On a lighter note: Did anyone see Manny feigning is discontent with third-base coach for not sending David Ortiz during Manny's double on Wednesday night. It was worth a laugh, at least to Ortiz. I wasn't quite sure he was joking. Perhaps he knew later that inning that he'd make a running blunder himself.

With two outs, Manny on second, bases loaded, a fly ball his hit to shallow left the fielder couldn't quite make the catch but instead of heading to third Manny heads back to second thus getting forced out at third. I didn't find the whole thing very funny at that point.

If Kenny "The Gambler" Rogers decides its in his best interest and that of baseball's to not appear at the All Star game, that would open the door for Matt Clement. According to the Chicago Sun Times, he has publicly apologized. It didn't even look forced. Although it was against his lawyers wishes. With the apology, I bet he makes the event in Detroit. Bummer.

One more thing: You did it! ESPN reports the last two All Star rosters spots went to Chicago WS outfielder Scott Podsednik and Houston's SP Roy Oswalt. Both deserving. Podsednik is one of the reason's for Chicago's success this year. The guy can flat-out run. On more than one occasion this year he has stolen both second and third in the same inning positioning himself for a run.

The decision means both Yankee candidates, Derek Jeter and Hideki Matsui didn't make the squad.

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