Mailbag mlb.com Style..Ian Browne

The entire mailbag can be yours by clicking on the title above, including questions about Schill and 'Tek! So do it, after you read this post. But this question, on a Tuesday in north central Connecticut, where the temperature at 7AM, when I wrote my first Tuesday post (7am.....2.3 degrees F.) is now up to 0---(ZERO). And that ain't up! BBBRRRRR...a too cold March, just for two days. Here's that question, with an informative answer. I'll have a comment after you read this...........

Question:
"I am a diehard Yankees fan, so I probably have no right to be on your Web site, but I have a question. Do you think that there is any chance that your Red Sox will compete with my Yankees this year?"
-- Matt N., Haddonfield, N.J.
Answer:
"As usual, the two teams will be breathing down each other's necks for most of the season. I think the offense is a wash. Both teams are going to hit a lot. The intriguing aspect is the pitching. I believe the Red Sox have an edge in starting pitching because of how many power arms they have. But the Yankees have a much more stable bullpen to open the year, with Scott Proctor, Luis Vizcaino, Kyle Farnsworth and Mike Myers setting up the great Mariano Rivera. It comes down to whether the Yankees can exceed expectations in their rotation, or if the Red Sox can do it in the bullpen. That will probably end up being the difference when it is all said and done."

Peter here, and Ian Browne virtually (Sul!) took the words out of my mouth. A more intelligent answer I cannot imagine. So for once, FOR ONCE, I have nothing to add. The Yank's bullpen shines! Our starting rotation shines. Equalization will be needed. But it's March 6th...there IS time. But the Sox can't wait for the last minute to find the way for our starters' 7 or 8 inning great efforts NOT to be rewarded with a win, a victory, a HOLD for our future nameless closer. Some of you might say I've been stressing on that soon-to-be-known (I hope) closer's name. But it's never too soon. My God, our team is NOT complete without that one guy, talented enough to close games. Not after who we were used to last year...namely, Jonathon Papelbon.
Read the entire mailbag....just click on the post title. And how would YOU answer the above question? I'd love to read and comment! Stay warm, readers in the northeast. Because March it ain't! Soon...50 degrees F. by Sunday.
Thanks for reading, as always. And again, how would YOU answer that exact question? I'd love to know.......