So, I have been pretty busy this past week catering to the needs of the newest Red Sox fan, my son, Luke Edward. He arrived on August 25 and until Monday, I've had very little opportunity to witness a game.

So needless to say the Sox went on a tailspin winning only 2 games during that stretch. Without Schilling, Lester, Papelbon, Ortiz, Wily Mo, Gonzo and Tek how were the Sox to compete?

It's a wonder they were able to win any games during that stretch.

But now that I'm again plastered to the television, Boston has taken two from Chicago. It's a start.

The correlation can not be more clear to me. I have to keep watching.
Now, most of Red Sox nation believes the chances of making the playoffs are gone. I still believe, though a miracle is needed, they still have an outside shot.

The team is now near full strength. Taking two from Chicago may be just what the doctor ordered.

Is it over? The writing is on the wall but by no means does it read "The End."

While the playoffs look like a longshot at best, I can't help but keep some hope that the rest of the league will falter. Ever the dreamer.

However, time is running out. And we need some significant help.

What makes the situation even more grim, Anibal Sanchez, who was traded in a deal that brought the Sox Josh Beckett, pitched a no-hitter last evening.

I had witnessed him in Portland and knew he was talented, but a no-hitter his first year in the bigs? Amazing!

Meanwhile, the struggling Sox were getting smoked by Chicago. Figures. Luckily, Beckett wasn't on the mound last night.

Add to it that Hanley Ramirez, Sanchez' Florida teammate, is a major contender for the NL Rookie of the Year Award and you have to wonder if this will go down as one of the worst trades in Boston's history. I'm hoping not, but the argument could be made.

FoxSports.com's Ken Rosenthal writes trading away Arroyo, Meredith and Sanchez has not worked out to Sox advantage.

It's still too early to tell, Ken. It is my contention that pitchers moving from the A.L.to the N.L. will have early success. Hey, they face ptichers for one. Talk to me next year.

The Red Sox give props to Sanchez.

Ironic isn't it. As Boston struggles with the second highest payroll in the league, Florida with virtually no money is in playoff contention.

The Marlins are only 2 1/2 games back in the wild card race; the Red Sox six game back. Florida's young team has potential and could be a force as early as next year. This year even if they make the playoffs, I doubt they'll advance past the first round.

It's nice to see former Sea Dogs making a difference.

I'll still be cheering my Sox. Luke hasn't been much help yet - give him a little time. He is adjusting to his new surroundings. Besides in another 20 years he could be a huge contributor.

If Boston fails, I'll be supporting the under-Dogs.

Other news:
Tim Wakefield could return as early as next week. We could use the help for sure.

Speaking of rotation help...
SI.com is suggesting Jon Papelbon be a starter next year. Hmm. I've always thought he'd be a better starter, but we'll see how he recovers from this injury.

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