21.   What these Sox have now is starting pitching, and pitching depth.

22.   Neither Fernandez nor Smith allowed an earned run during the tour, epitomizing the pitching depth that makes Team USA another version of the Atlanta Braves.

23.   Tampa Bay will likely turn to its minor league system for some pitching depth.

24.   Teams playing only opposition that can match their own starting pitching depth.

25.   The Philadelphia Phillies claimed right-hander Hideo Nomo on waivers Thursday from Milwaukee, which would add some pitching depth if they can meet his salary demands.

26.   They picked him up thinking he could add pitching depth for their Triple-A farm team.

27.   And indeed their diminished pitching depth showed.