Red Sox RHP Matsuzaka scratched from start

Sep 26, 2008 - 11:59 PM BOSTON (Ticker) -- With rain falling and wet conditions expected throughout the game, the Boston Red Sox have scratched righthander Daisuke Matsuzaka from his scheduled start on Friday against the New York Yankees.

Matsuzaka went to the bullpen to stretch in anticipation of an 8:05 p.m. EDT start but quickly returned to the clubhouse.

Expected to pitch one of the first three games of the American League Division Series next week, the Red Sox apparently did not want to risk Matsuzaka getting hurt on the wet field.

Righthander David Pauley will start in his place. The 25-year-old Pauley has no record and a 9.31 ERA in five appearances - one start - this season.