Curt Schilling's Career at End; Buchholz's Begins

Confidential, speculative information emanating from the Red Sox trainer's room fortells of a grim future for former ace Curt Schilling, who at 41 will be lucky to pitch ever again, let alone be effective.

With Schilling's rehabilitation going painfully slow, his anticipated demise opens the door for 23-year-old Clay Buchholz, who despite some rough going in the early spring stands a good chance to hold off John Lester, 24, and veteran Bartolo Colon, 34, for the fifth starter's spot.

Ordinarily, Buchholz would be headed for Triple A Pawtucket, with no chance for a big-league shot until later in the year. But Schilling's two failed shoulder surgeries -- plus his holding off on a recommended third such operation -- potentially finishes his status as a front-line starter, and likely may end his career altogether, secondary sources close to the Red Sox medical staff and trainers told MLBnewsonline.com.

Expect these projections to be affirmed by August 1 or earlier, and no later than the end of September.