IMO, he's not looking to lose the series 4-2 or 4-3. He's looking to win it...period.
To win this series, in Tito's mind, they have to "steal" one (not that beating Byrd really is a great steal, but...), otherwise Schill and Dice don't get the extra rest that Tito and Farell think they need in order to have a shot.
I understand the philosophy of win today andworry about tomorrow, well, tomorrow. However I also undertsand Francona's thought process (although I may not totally agree) and I think you've got to respect it. He's a lot closer to the situation than any of us.