Projo Sox Blog

ATLANTA _ There's a reason why the Red Sox decided to take a chance on Brad Penny.

When healthy he can be dominant and he's proved that this season for Boston. The right-hander will make his 15th start for the Sox when they close out a three-game series against the Braves Sunday afternoon at Turner Field. Penny enters the game with a 6-2 record and a 4.93 ERA.

Since he's been pitching so well, the rumor mill has been churning that the Sox were going to trade him because of the pitching depth they have in the organization. With Daisuke Matsuzaka on the disabled list for the second time this season, and newcomer John Smoltz just being added to the rotation, Penny's performances have been key.

"We didn't sign him to trade him," said Red Sox manager Terry Francona. "We signed him to win. He's worked hard, and I think it's only going to continue to get better. . . He's handled it pretty damn good."

Francona has said he didn't know Penny too well before he signed with the Sox. Now the manager loves having him around.

 Tags  Brad Penny Red Sox Terry Francona

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