Five things about John Lackey

Chad Finn, Globe Staff

5. He's about as dependable as it gets

In every season from 2003-07, Lackey made exactly 33 starts. He hasn't been quite as dependable the last two seasons, making 24 starts in 2008 and 27 last season while getting a late start to both seasons. In 2008, he missed the first six weeks with triceps tendonitis, and last season he began the year on the disabled list with inflammation in his throwing elbow. Still, he is one of just six pitchers to win 11 or more games each season from 2004-09, joining Sabathia, Johan Santana, Javier Vazquez, Jason Marquis, and Derek Lowe.
In every season from 2003-07, Lackey made exactly 33 starts. He hasn't been quite as dependable the last two seasons, making 24 starts in 2008 and 27 last season while getting a late start to both seasons. In 2008, he missed the first six weeks with triceps tendonitis, and last season he began the year on the disabled list with inflammation in his throwing elbow. Still, he is one of just six pitchers to win 11 or more games each season from 2004-09, joining Sabathia, Johan Santana, Javier Vazquez, Jason Marquis, and Derek Lowe.
Globe Staff Photo / Jim Davis