Lined up for Game 1

Everything is lined up for Rick Porcello, who started last night, to make his next start in Game 1 of the American League Division Series on Thursday.

Could he also start in Game 4 of the ALDS, leaving David Price on regular rest if there is a Game 5?

It could be a tantalizing idea for Farrell to consider. All year Farrell has marvelled at not only how consistent Porcello has been on the mound, but how much better the Red Sox seem to play when he pitches. They’re 24-8 when he starts while averaging about seven runs per game.

Eduardo Rodriguez and Clay Buchholz figure to battle for the No. 3 and/or No. 4 spots in the playoff rotation and both are likely to get a start in the ALDS, if four games are needed. In his career, Porcello has never started on three days rest.

Farrell said he is not planning on changing the rotation to bring back his Game 1 starter in Game 4, but he sounded as if he was thinking about it.

“The only scenario that might alter that is if we get into a weather situation where you’ve got to use a starter that you weren’t intending to,” Farrell said. “I can’t say today that we’re sitting here with Game 1 starter coming back on short rest. Again, that may change based on extra innings, weather-related situations but as of now, no.”

Assuming all four starters are used, it would leave Porcello to start Game 5, if needed, while Price is well rested for potential use out of the bullpen. Price pitched three innings of relief for Toronto during last year’s playoffs and allowed three runs.

Price is tentatively scheduled to start tomorrow.