Sox news and notes 5/3

Hideki Okijima was named the AL Rookie of the Month for April.  Okajima allowed only five hits in 12 appearances during the month and finished with a 0.61 era, one save and 19 k’s.  Okijima throws a sneaky fastball, a curveball and a changeup that has surprised some of Boston’s coaches.  Along with the other Sox signing from across the Pacific, Dice – K,  the Sox staff is one of the best in the majors this year.

Some what of a coincedence that while in town the Sox had talks with the A’s over starter Rich Harden who is currently on the DL. The A’s reportedly asked about Wily Mo Pena and pitching prospect Clay Bucholz. The Sox have been hesitant to trade away pitching prospects and with the injury to Mike Piazza in last nights game the A’s certainly need a hitter to replace him. Letting Pena go for another starter may not be a bad move, the only concern being Hardens health.

Julian Tavarez says the Sox don’t need Roger Clemens. “I don’t think we need him.” “I don’t think we need him. We don’t need him,” insisted Tavarez. “We’ve got some young guys down there who can do it, too. We’ve got Kason Gabbard, Jon Lester, a guy who is 22 years old who can bring it. This guy is going to be a Sandy Koufax some day.” I didn’t realize Tavarez was now GM. Clemens, if in top form, would be a welcome addition to any staff at this point.

Speaking of Julian Tavarez several teams may make a run at him soon. Tavarez would have value to several teams, particularly National League clubs looking for a middle reliever or a starter. The Mets, Cardinals, Phillies, Rockies, Marlins, and Reds would all be candidates.

Jon Lester’s start last night in Pawtucket was cut short by a cramp in his forearm. Lester allowed three hits and two earned runs, while walking three and striking out four. H threw just 63 pitches, 39 for strikes, before being removed from the game. “Obviously, I’m frustrated,” said the 23-year-old, who successfully battled lymphoma over the offseason. “It’s one of those things that happened. It happened for a reason.” Lester said he felt his arm tighten after throwing a pitch in his final inning.“It was in the third inning,” said Lester, who indicated he had never experienced a similar problem. “I threw a pitch and it tightened up. It was a freak thing. I hope it’s not a setback. Like (manager Ron Johnson) said, it’s just a cramp. In five days hopefully, I’ll make another start and we’ll go from there.”