Banged-up ballplayers

The recent outbreak of illness among Sox players has wreaked havoc upon the starting lineup and rotation; Daisuke Matsuzaka missed his start against the Angels, Jason Varitek didn't play at all against the Angels (and didn't get a hit against the Rays), and Manny Delcarmen was affected during the game when he was dizzy on the mound. Furthermore, Kevin Youkilis has had back problems, and Josh Beckett missed a start with neck stiffness. Oh, and Monday is the Sox' first off-day since April 7. It's no stretch to say this team is in dire need of a break.