Kazmir to start Game 5

Instead of Shields.

With a 3-1 lead over Boston in the best of seven ALCS, the Rays have changed their pitching rotation and will start LHP Scott Kazmir in Game 5 on Thursday rather than James Shields.

Kazmir has pitched well at Fenway in the past, and Shields has not. Plus, the Rays would have the benefit of Friday's off-day if they have to go deep into the bullpen before a potential Game 6. Shields would start that game on Saturday at the Trop, where he has pitched very well.

The reason why the Rays would have to go deep into the bullpen is because Game 2 was not a abberation; Kazmir can barely go five anymore. Of, course the unspoken reason is that the Rays don't want to waste Shields in a game where Dice K will carry a non-no into the seventh, as in Game 1. Let Shields pitch Saturday at home against a lesser foe.

I'm just as shocked as you Bosox fans about the last two games at Fenway. I was just hoping the Rays wouldn't get swept.