Alrfredo Aceves to start today in spite of March Madness

Here's the Red Sox lineup for today's 2:35 p.m. Grapefruit League game against the Cardinals: 

1. Kevin Youkilis, 3B 
2. Jacoby Ellsbury, CF 
3. Dustin Pedroia, 2B 
4. Adrian Gonzalez, 1B 
5. David Ortiz, DH 
6. Cody Ross
7. Ryan Lavarnway, C 
8. Darnell McDonald, LF 
9. Nick Punto, SS 

Pitching: RHP Alfredo Aceves, RHP Daniel Bard, RHP Matt Albers, LHP Justin Thomas

The battle for the 5th starter spot trudges on today with Alfredo Aceves taking the mound. Through two games this season Aceves has only given up two hits in five innings and has yet to surrender a run. I would like to see Aceves in the bullpen with the option to spot start because he pitched so well from that position last season. With the emergence of Doubront and Padilla that decision might be made a little easier but if Aceves continues to excel there may be no denying him the spot. Take a break from the basketball to check up on the gamecast today. Also, take note of Youk in the leadoff spot. There have been enough stories on Valentine not being  afraid to shake things up and with Youk's history of having a high OBP this move could make sense once or twice a week.