McAdam: Lester Will Start Game 1

Sean McAdam reports that "multiple clubhouse sources" have told him that Jon Lester will start the first game of the American League Division Series.

The way the Sox have laid out their pitching for the final week, Lester, who starts tonight in the opener of the Red Sox' series in New York, will make his final start of the season Thursday against the Cleveland Indians. That would allow him a full six days' rest before the projected start of the ALDS against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim on Oct. 8.

[Josh] Beckett, meanwhile, will pitch Monday against Toronto at Fenway, then have five days before starting Game 2 in Anaheim, Calif.

Best pitcher in Game 1. Smart move.