Is Buchholz Trade Bait?

A lot of sports shows are bantering around Clay Buchholz's name as trade bait. One report had Hanley Ramirez coming back to the Red Sox from the Marlins in exchange for Buccholz & possibly Ellsbury. Is that a good deal?

Where young pitching is such a scarce commodity I would hold onto Buchholz. The kid did pitch a no-hitter in 2007, so you know his stuff can be electric. During last year Farrell & Co. changed Clay's delivery mechanics. Any coach will tell you that it takes about 3,000 repetitions done correctly to build muscle memory before a change becomes habit & a player doesn't have to think about it. Buchholz did pitch well in the Arizona Fall League to get his total innings up for the year.

Hanley Ramirez would add more offensive pop to the line-up. But Hanley did not blossom as expected in his first stint with the Sox. What's to say it would be different this time?

Let Youk, Pedroia, Bay, Ortiz , Drew & Lowell do the heavy lifting when it comes to offense. Ellsbury & Lowrie can contribute as they figure things out in the big league. That should be enough offense to get into the playoffs where it's all about pitching.

I'm for holding onto Buccholz.

Brad Penny Coming to Town

The Red Sox are ready to ink a low-cost, incentive-laden deal with pitcher Brad Penny. Penny was injured for the Dodgers most of last season, but was a 15+ wins & 200 innings arm when healthy. He is also an ex-teammate of Josh Beckett from his days with the Marlins.

Penny can be a good insurance policy or a number 4-5 starter for the Sox. Similar to Batolo Colon last year, he may contribute to some valuable wins over the course of a 162-game season & allow some mid-season rest to the pitching staff. Penny will have to make the transition from NL to AL as he has spent his entire career in the National League.

Since the Red Sox were unable to add a big bat they are doing the next best thing by getting pitching help. An extra reliever & an extra starter can't hurt.

Patriots End Season Like Red Sox

Just one more win.

One more win & the Patriots make the playoffs. One more win & the Red Sox are back in the World Series.

Both teams saw their rosters go through key injuries during the season. The Patriots lost Tom Brady in the first game against Kansas City. The Red Sox never saw one pitch from Curt Schilling & Josh Beckett was hurt most of the season. The DL & IR lists were littered with many name players from both teams -- Tedy Bruschi, Rodney Harrison, Adelius Thomas, David Ortiz, Mike Lowell, JD Drew. Given all the injuries, both teams performed well above expectations.

Other players were given their chance to step-up & took advantage of it. Cassel, Mayo, Merriweather are now recognizable Patriots. Youk stepped into the clean-up spot. Lowrie became an everyday shortstop. Ellsbury became a base-stealing threat. And Lester became a starting ace.

Both teams have a lot to look forward to in the next campaigns. It's fun to be a New England fan these days as the Patriots, Red Sox, World Champion Celtics & Bruins are winning with regularity.

Extreme Home Makeover in the Bronx

The Yankees continue their own bailout plan spending as they ink an 8 year, $180 million deal with Mark Teixeira. Teixeira joins the new money given to CC Sabathia & AJ Burnett. The Yankees better sellout that new stadium to pay for these guys.

I was OK either way with how the Sox persued Teixeira. Now that it's over, I hope that Mike Lowell returns to health & has a monster year. Keep JD Drew & Big Papi healthy as well & we can compete with anyone in the AL East.

Sometimes the deals that don't get made are the best ones.

Boras Losing His Magic?

Scott Boras has free agents stacked up like planes at Logan in a snowstorm. Maybe Scott the super agent has started his descent.

Number 1 big commission free agent -- Mark Teixeira -- hasn't signed with any team yet. Lately, teams like the Red Sox & Angels have withdrawn their offers. They had enough of the Boras act of playing one team against another. They called his bluff.

Number 2 big commission free agent -- Manny Ramirez -- is backseat news. No team is going to offer multiple years for a 36-year old troublemaker who wants A-Rod money. Sounds like Manny has been all expense & no income so far.

Jason Varitek is somewhere way down the line in the Boras plan of triage. Again, no takers on Varitek yet.

Has Scott Boras lost his luster? Maybe the MLB GM's have had enough of his methods to get overpayment for players he represents. A recession is a good way to weed out the poor performers. So far, no one is buying what Boras is selling. No salesman of the year award.

Red Sox Call Boras' Bluff

It's time for Scott Boras to show his hand. John Henry & Co. called his bluff Thursday night & let the media know that the Sox were out of the Teixeira sweepstakes. Maybe Teixeira was educated to the art of negotiation as he was present at the meeting.

No matter where Teixeira ends up, he will be set financially for life. On the other hand, like you, I have family and friends who are just hoping to hold onto their jobs until after January 1st. Athletes (and their agents) live in a different world.

I applaud the Red Sox for drawing a line in the sand. Enough is enough. The Red Sox exodus may actually bring the price down now for Teixeira.

Red Sox Bid On Teixeira

According to various sources, the Red Sox have formally offered a bid on Mark Teixeira for at least 8 years. The Nationals & Angels have also offered 8 year contracts, while the Orioles have remained with their 7- year offer. No bites from the Yankees at this point.

I think Teixeira would be a great addition if the Sox get him. If not, I think Mike Lowell will do a great job at 3B for the next 2 years.

Health was more of a culprit last year than not having the right players. If Lowell, Drew & Ortiz are healthy, you have veteran players that know how to win in the playoffs.

Add the coming-of-age of Youk, Pedroia & Bay with newcomers Ellsbury & Lowrie and we have a solid starting line-up. You have to assume that Varitek will be back for another year or two.

We are good either way the Teixeira deal goes.

New Red Sox Logo

Do we need a new Red Sox logo consisting of 2 red socks?

Maybe we do if it will spur more merchandise sales so we can afford Mark Teixeira & others.

Red Sox merchandising paved the way for the $100 million needed to bring Dice-K on board. Our new Japanese friends of Red Sox Nation - both in the US & abroad - are helping to pay the freight. How else can we compete with the Yankees when old Fenway hold 34,000 + versus the newer, bigger stadiums seating 50,000 & 60,000?

Most fans think this new logo is much to do about nothing. The current ownership, however, knows better.

No Catchers Yet

Jason Varitek is still unsigned. Kevin Cash was let go yesterday. Who's going to catch this year?

Actually, you could see both Varitek & Cash back with the Sox. Varitek is not finding much of a market out there for an aging catcher who has offensive issues. Cash may still re-sign a minor league deal & be available for duty with Tim Wakefield.

It's interesting to see the way that Theo is approaching this crucial position. Maybe he is keeping the checkbook open for Mark Teixeira first, then dealing with the catching situation afterwards.

Burnett Joins Yankees Rotation

AJ Burnett is the latest multi-million arm to join the NY Yankees rotation. Burnett is now featured in a rotation that includes CC Sabathia, Joba the Hutt & Chen-Ming Wong. Quite an imposing 1-2-3-4 -- assuming everyone stays healthy.

The Yankees starters are now posed to match-up with the staffs from Boston & Tampa Bay. The Steinbrenner boys are spending what they need to get back to the playoffs. It would be sad to begin the new Yankee Stadium in the same way as the left the old one -- out of the playoffs.

Other than the Orioles, the AL East will be a battlegound division in 2009.

Sabathia to the Yankees

The AL East will be even more competitive next year as the Yanks shore up their starting pitching with the signing of CC Sabathia. It remains to be seen if Sabathia will perform to the level of his $160 million contract.

Next up for the Yankees rotation could be a signing of AJ Burnett or Derek Lowe. They may makes offers to both in the hopes of getting one.

In the meantime, the Red Sox focus is on the re-signing of Jason Varitek. They are also very involved in the 4-team Mark Teixeira sweepstakes. Besides the Sox, it looks like the Angels, Nationals & Orioles are all making offers for Teixeira's services.

I can't see the Sox going for more than 5-year deal under the present ownership, but you never know. Some reports say the length of contract for Teixeira could be 8 to 10 years at a minimum of $20 million per year.

Regardless of Teixeira, with more pitching the Yankees will be a threat again in the AL East.

Winter Meetings Start

Where do you stand on the Sox roster? Do they need to make a move?

I know there is talk about Teixeira coming & Lowell going. Not that Lowell isn't making a good salary, but he did stay with the Sox for 3-years instead of signing somewhere else for 4. I seem to remember a World Series MVP award in 2007 too.

When the Red Sox are healthy they have as good a starting 9 as any team -- Ellsbury, Pedroia, Ortiz, Youkilis, Drew, Lowell, Bay, Lowrie, Varitek. It wouldn't both me if Theo made no moves.

Even with pitching, at some point you have to give the young arms in the minors a chance. Wakefield is a nice insurance policy, but Buchholz is one arm for the future. There are 2 or 3 other Pawtucket & Portland arms ready to contribute this year to go along with Beckett, Lester & Dice-K.

The Sox have a nice mix of old & young with playoff experience. The Red Sox will be a contender for several years, whether or not they pull the trigger on a Teixiera, Peavy, Sabathia, Lowe or other free agents.

Boston Is Home to Pedroia

The Boston Red Sox & Dustin Pedroia will be together for the next 6 years with an option for a 7th. The $40.5 million deal keeps Dustin in a Red Sox uniform through the 2014 season. Both sides are happy, a "win-win" if you will.

Any baseball fan has to love the little guy & his style of play. He is excellent on both sides of the ball & has shown himself to be very durable through a long 162-game season. It's great to see that his hard work has paid off with a big contract. Pedroia is an excellent example of a positive role model to kids of all ages.

Depending upon what happens in the Mark Teixeira sweepstakes, I hope the Sox do the same type of deal for Youk.

Sox Set to Sign 3rd Japanese Pitcher

Junichi Tazawa may become a teammate of Dice-K & Oki in the Red Sox organization. The 22-year old pitcher from Japan is another young arm that may pay future dividends. As we have seen, to win a World Series it's all about pitching.

You have to applaud the Red Sox scouts for finding these young prospects. A friend of mine mentioned that he knows a scout that wrote 1000 reviews on individual prospects last year. These guys are the true unsung heroes.

No Movement on Varitek

Supposedly, the Red Sox made a 1-year offer to Jason Varitek. According to Scott Boras, there was no offer and no talks have started yet with the Red Sox.

It will be interesting to see how this situation works out. On redsox.com Boras is saying that many teams would like a catcher with a .600 winning percentage behind the plate. I can't see the Sox offering #33 anything near the crazy deal that the Yankees are now locked into with Posada.

As long as we're not talking offense, I think Kevin Cash is a good receiver with a good arm. He seems to mix-up pitches pretty well, maybe not quite as well as Varitek. But Cash is someone who could be more than just Tim Wakefield's catcher every 5th day.

Let's see if money wins out or if Varitek will take less to retire as captain of the Red Sox.

Give Thanks, Fans

It's that time of year when we give thanks for all we have. As we apply this sentiment to the Red Sox, here's what I'm thankful for.

1) Thanks for a great 2008. With so many injuries to key players, I never thought that we would get to within one win from returning to the World Series.

2) Thanks for Jon Lester, Kevin Youkilis & Dustin Pedroia. All 3 had breakout years & are now entrenched as the backbone of this team.

3) Thanks for getting rid of Manny Ramirez. I hope he & Scott Boras find no suitors for the "Manny being Manny" act.

4) Thanks for Curt Schilling. He ended the 86 year curse with a bloody sock & will never be forgotten for the magic of 2004. Winning another World Series in 2007 was just icing on the cake. Too bad his arm surgery didn't get done in Spring Training. We could have used him against Tampa Bay.

5) Finally, thanks to the new ownership of John Henry & Co. We made the playoffs in 4 out of 5 years since you bought the team. Improvements at Fenway Park, particularly the monster seats, make it a unique place to watch a game. The community involvement of the team make the Red Sox a true blessing to many beneficiaries of their generosity.

We have much to be thankful for this 2008. I hope you & your family enjoy the holiday.

Coco Off to KC

The Red Sox get a proven bullpen arm in Ramon Ramirez from the KC Royals in a trade for Coco Crisp. This leave the door open for Justin Masterson to return to starting games, if needed.

I give Coco a lot of credit for his performance last year amidst rumors of a trade right from the start of Spring Training. His bat got hot in the 2nd half of the season & his defense was solid all year long. Coco performed like a true professional & will get a chance to play everyday for the Royals.

The Red Sox are banking on Jacoby Ellsbury to figure out his swing & become an everyday player next year. Obviously, Theo & Co. feel he is up to the task.

Good luck, Coco.

Pedroia Is AL MVP

Congrats to Dustin Pedroia for his MVP season in 2008. He deserves this award for his "take no prisoners" style of play.

A Rookie of the Year & an AL MVP for his first two seasons in the bigs is not bad for the little guy from Arizona. Size doesn't matter. Heart & hussle do.

Don't you wonder what the follow-up act will be for next year?

E - I - E - I - O

In my last posting about Mark Teixeira I knew something looked off. In checking I see that I spelled his name wrong. I used "Tiexiera" instead of the correct spelling of "Teixeira." You have to admit - it's a tough name to spell.

Just in case Mark somehow becomes a Red Sox I committed the spelling of his last name to memory by reciting the song "Old McDonald Had a Farm." Remember what comes next - E -I - E - I - O! His last name has 2 "E -I" letters in it.

I can't be the only one having trouble with his name, so all you others can use my memory device too. "Old McDonald had a farm. E - I - E - I - O." Teixeira - Teixeira - Teixeira. Write it on the blackboard 10 times like in grade school.

That's my tip for today.

Tiexiera Rumors Continue

Can Mark Tiexiera find a new home in Boston? Possible from my standpoint. Here's how.

1) It comes down to finding 3 spots for 4 players -- Tiexiera, Lowell, Youk & Big Papi. Lowell, Youk & Tiexiera can spell each other at first & third. Youk can also move to the outfield on occasion to keep all 3 in the lineup.

2) All 3 can also spell Big Papi at DH once in awhile. It wouldn't hurt to let Ortiz sit against tough lefties every now & again.

3) Both Lowell & Ortiz are coming off of injury-plagued seasons. Regular rest might make everyone more healthy come playoff time.

4) While not in this equation (sort of) let's not forget J.D. Drew's problems of staying on the field. Again, Youk could play outfield like he did 3B this season. Late innings he can move back to 1B.

I know I'm dreaming because of the salaries involved with 4 everyday players. I wouldn't be so quick to move a player like Mike Lowell to make room for Tiexiera. Lowell is playoff tested & an MVP of the 2007 World Series.

I'd like to see a way to add Tiexiera without subtracting. Let's see if Theo can take care of this for me.

Is Julio Headed to the Tigers?

Julio Lugo for Dontrelle Willis or Nate Robertson? Maybe.

All 3 players are coming off horrible years. With Cora as an able back-up for Lowrie it may make sense to take a shot on another lefty in the rotation to join Jon Lester. Even with Buchholz on the horizon, you can never have too much starting pitching.

Of the 2 arms I think Robertson is younger & I would take him. Willis never made the transition from the NL to the AL.

Yankees Buy Pitching

C.C. Sabathia - Derek Lowe - A.J. Burnett.

The Yankees are expected to make offers to all 3 free agent pitchers. Since the pin-stripe offense was down last year maybe better pitching is the way Hank Steinbrenner sees his team with a new stadium get back into the playoffs.

Sabathia is a horse in the regular season, but never seems to have his best stuff in the playoffs. Lowe is playoff tested with the Red Sox in 2004, but was unable to come through for the Dodgers in 2008. Burnett has been injury-plagued while in Toronto, but did have a solid 2008 season. I guess the youth movement in New York was a bust, so it's back to Daddy's old way for Hank of buying veterans to win a championship.

The Red Sox and Rays continue to win with kids from the farm system. Seems like Hank is under the gun to put fans in his new stadium - now. In a down economy I'd hate to see Goldman Sachs foreclose on Hank & the Yankees. Wouldn't that be something!

Free Agency Starts Friday

Are the Red Sox going to pull the trigger on a major deal? Probably not.

Big names in the free agent class of 2008 include Mark Teixeira, C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett, Jason Giambi, Jake Peavy &, of course, Manny. The only one of that group that may make sense is Teixeira, but he will have an expensive pricetag.

In recent years the youth movement has been a blessing for the Red Sox. Seeing how the Tampa Bay management got Longoria & other young guns to sign multi-years deals, maybe it would be better for Theo & Co. to lock-up Pedroia, Youk, Bay & Papelbon for the next several years.

I still think that the best help for the Sox in 2009 will come in the form of healthy players. A healthy Mike Lowell. A healthy J.D. Drew. A healthy David Ortiz. If we can keep those 3 guys on the field, our starting nine is as imposing as any in baseball.

Pedroia Earns First Gold Glove

Dustin Pedroia received his first Gold Glove for his defensive work at 2B this year. That goes along with his Rookie of the Year & World Series ring from 2007. Not a bad first two seasons in bigs for the little guy. There is still the possibility of an MVP Award as well.

Youk got snubbed for a Gold Glove at 1B this year because of all the games he needed to play at 3B while Mike Lowell was out with injuries. Another MVP candidate, Youk did great work on offense & defense this year. His flexibility allowed the Sox to keep winning when the line-up card looked like a MASH unit. Youk received the Henry Aaron Award in October.

Pedroia & Youkilis are now the heart & soul of the Red Sox team. They deserve any & all awards coming their way.

Is There a Spot for Ex-Yankees?

The Yankees let Jason Giambi & Carl Pavano go the way of free agency. Mike Mussina filed for free agency today. Should the Red Sox try to sign any of these guys??

My thoughts are:

Giambi - no. He is either a DH or 1B from a position standpoint & we have guys there now. I think he would be too expensive as well.

Pavano - maybe. If he would take a Colon type of deal with incentives, both sides may have nothing to lose. He might be a low-cost additional starter. The Sox would need to make sure his arm is healthy.

Mussina - no. He is too old & probably looking for too much money coming off his best year in the last ten.

I think that the Sox will look for improvement without spending a fortune in a 2009 year which is forecasting less revenue because of the economy. Maybe getting the current players healthy is the best off-season activity right now.

Voting Day: MVP

Since we are choosing a new President today I thought that it might be appropriate to vote for the Red Sox MVP as well.

We have many deserving candidates. The two major parties would be represented by Dustin Pedroia & Kevin Youkilis. The Independent & Libertarian parties might best be represented by Jon Lester & Jonathan Papelbon. Maybe Papelbon is more aligned with of the Out-in-Space party.

Most sportswriters put Pedroia & Youk as 2 of the top 3 candidates in the race for AL MVP. You couldn't go wrong by selecting either one. They both had great years.

If I was to pick one, I would vote for Youk due to his versatility. The Red Sox would not have weathered the injuries to Mike Lowell & the loss of Manny without the contributions of Youk. It's great to have two young players around with this type of MVP caliber.

Schilling Files for Free Agency

It's time to say good-bye to Curt Schilling. With his filing for free agency & his intent to pitch a half season in 2009 the Red Sox will let him go.

Many, many critics of Schilling do not like his outspokenness on topics within & outside of his sport. I never minded whatever he had to say since he is entitled to his opinion like everyone else. But I did like his bulldog approach to pitching & you can't argue with the results of 2 World Series rings.

Curt will always be remembered for the bloody sock in the 2004 ALCS against the Yankees. I saw a picture of his ankle after his surgery to hold down a tendon. Ugly is a kind word for it. It's amazing he was ever able to pitch again.

Too bad the Sox did not allow Schilling to get his arm surgery earlier in Spring Training. He might have been available by the playoffs. Hindsight is always easy.

I will miss Curt Schilling. I'll remember him as a key player who helped the Sox to their first World Series win in 86 years.

Sox Sign Wakefield for 2009

Tim Wakefield will be a Red Sox again in 2009. The Red Sox exercised their option to sign him for $4,000,000.

Wakefield is a solid #4 or #5 starter who can eat up innings and give you 10+ wins a year. Lately, Wake has been plagued by some nagging back injuries, but he managed to finish this past season with 150+ innings. When he gets into a groove Wakefield is unhittable at times.

Someone very happy to see Wake re-sign is Kevin Cash. Cash is Wake's personal catcher, so it looks like Cash will be back as well.

Wakefield's signing gives the Sox another year to get Clay Buchholz settled down before taking a regular turn in the rotation. Wake will join Beckett, Lester & Dice-K to form a great starting staff.

Good move to re-sign Wake.

2009 Version of Big Papi

Do we give Big Papi a pass this year for turning into A-Rod in the playoffs? Of course we do.

Hip, knee, wrist -- all injuries that take something out of your natural swing. I'm looking for Ortiz to have a monster year in 2009. He has a great eye at the plate. Plus he will be more comfortable with Youk, Bay & Drew surrounding him.

If not every fan - like my anonymous commentor - has given up on Lugo yet, we certainly can't give up on Big Papi. I think he has several more good years in him. I don't see free agents like Adam Dunn or Ken Griffey, Jr. being a plus on this team.

Phillies Win

Let's give the Phillies their due for beating a very hot Tampa Bay Rays team. It would have made for a better Cinderella story had the Rays completed the series with a win, but the people of Philadelphia haven't had much to cheer about in a long time. So congrats to the Phils & the Rays for 2 great seasons.

One sports writer said that the Boston series may have taken too much out of the Rays. Similar to the Yankees - Red Sox when they play. There may be some truth to that. But, as one of my blog commentors said, let's see if the Rays can do it again next year.

10 days & counting now until free agency begins. The big names out there are C.C. Sabathia, Jake Peavy, Ken Griffey, Jr. & Mark Texeira. Our biggest free agent is Jason Varitek who will probably resign with the Red Sox fairly quick. There needs to be a meeting of the minds on how much & how long. Neither side wants the other to leave.

Will Coco, Ellsbury &/or Lugo be used for trade bait? I say no, but you never know. It should be an interesting hot stove.

Did Selig Blow Game 5?

I read a newspaper article today that expressed my thoughts about the World Series.

- It slammed Selig for starting these World Series games so late. Viewers on the East coast have to stay up until 1:00 - 1:30 to watch an entire game. Kids don't get to see the Series at all.

- It slammed the TV media for requiring managers to do "in game" interviews. These interviews are a waste of time. No manager or pitching coach ever comes on & says their team is doing poorly or is going to lose. Let the coaches coach during a game.

- Finally, it slammed Selig for even starting Game 5 under the poor weather conditions in Philly. I guess Selig had to appease FOX so that their ratings wouldn't suffer.

The point of the article is that the fan always pays. It's commercial after commercial in-between innings, so much so that you miss the 1st pitch sometimes. It's late nights. It's higher ticket prices.

Baseball needs to do something for their fans soon, or risk seeing stadiums with more vacant seats. This sport is not immune from the economic slowdown.

The Case for Julio Lugo

Julio Lugo has been a less than "as advertised" addition to the Red Sox. The Sox have had a revolving door of shortstops over the past several years since Nomar's departure. Julio is the only one to last more than one year.


The expectation was that Lugo would be a leadoff threat to hit near .300 every year & steal several bases on offense. His defense was average at best, but the thinking was his offense would make up for it. In Year One his batting average was down, but his RBI were in the 70-80 range which made up for the poor average. His fielding was average and the Red Sox were able to win a World Series with him at short. In fact, Lugo played very well in the series on both sides of the ball.


Year 2 was a different story. The RBI did not come this past year. The batting average was still low. On defense Julio accounted for 50% of all the Sox errors. In July Lugo sustained a major leg injury that kept him out of the lineup for the rest of the year. His replacement, Jed Lowrie, started getting those key RBI & played a solid shortstop. At one point the Red Sox defense went from middle of the pack to top of the pack with Lowrie at short. Lowrie's bat, however, peetered out at the end of the year & into the playoffs. Jed did get the ground ball through the infield to beat the Angels in the ALDS.


Lugo has 2 more years on his contract at $9 mil a year. Theo says that the Sox are glad to have 2 players at short. At this point Theo & Co. can keep both or try to move Lugo by splitting his salary with another team.

Here's the questions for this week:


- Should the Sox move Lugo?


- Is Lowrie ready for a 162-game schedule?


- Is there another shortstop out there?


- Does resigning Cora figure into this scenario?

I know one of my brothers is all for moving Lugo. I think it depends on what you can get in return.

I look forward to your thoughts this week.

3 No-Hitters Goes International

I'm proud to say that we had our first international visitor to this blog. My stat report shows that we had a visitor view the blog from the country of Turkey. I assume that our visitor is an American soldier stationed there who also happens to be a Red Sox fan.

If I am correct & our visitor logs on again, please know that we hope you stay safe & come home soon. Thank you for your service to our country.

Varitek Re-Signing Still Hot Topic

I've had several people talk to me about the resigning of Jason Varitek being the top off-season priority for Theo & Co. I had one in-depth comment from "crue4ryan" with many facts about other catchers who might be available & why we should stick with Varitek. (See previous posting.)

The general consensus that I put together from everyone so far is:

1) We want Varitek back. No doubt about that.

2) No sweetheart deal like Posada's. Too long & too expensive.

3) Length of contract should be 2-3 years.

4) Money should be between a low of $5 mil to a max of $8 mil per year.

Varitek makes no bones about wanting to finish his career in Boston. So, as long as Mr. Boras doesn't get crazy, calmer heads should prevail & a contract get worked out before the Christmas holiday.

I appreciate everyone's thoughts. Drop a comment if you want to be heard on re-signing Jason Varitek.

The Case for Jason Varitek

If you read the Red Sox website, Theo & the players are all saying the right things about Jason Varitek. He works hard, studies to be prepared & handles the pitching staff well. Youk said it would be a shock not to see Varitek in the locker room in Fort Myers next year. Offense is obviously the weak point.

On the negative side is Scott Boras, the agent for Varitek. While the Sox seem to negotiate with Boras pretty well (a la Dice-K & others) the fact that there are not a lot of quality catchers out there will definitely be a bargaining point in favor of Boras - Varitek. Theo, however, is not interested in a Posada-type deal for similar length of contract or money.

So let the fun begin. If I'm Theo, here's my offer to Varitek:

- 2 years guaranteed, $8 million a year

- club option for 3rd year, $8 million again

Let me know what you would offer the Captain if you were Theo. I believe that Varitek's last contract was 4-years, $10 million a year.

Hot Stove Begins Soon

It won't take long for the end of 2008 to fade & thoughts will turn to 2009. There will be several interesting topics for discussion over the next four months.

- Will Jason Varitek reach an agreement on a new contract?

- Will the MASH unit of Ortiz, Lowell & Drew all require off-season surgery?

- Will Julio Lugo be on the roster come Spring Training?

- Is Curt Schilling all done?

- Will Mark Kotsay be offered a contract?

- Does Paul Byrd fit into the future plans?

- Will Wakefield & Timlin call it a career?

- Will Manny sign with the Yankees?

These & many more questions will be bantered about during October, November, December & January before the boys report to Fort Myers in February. It will be a fun hot stove season.

I look forward to your comments.

A Job Well Done

The goal of every MLB team is to win the World Series. However, sometimes coming in second is still a great accomplishment. That's how I feel about this season.

The Red Sox gave their fans more than expected this year. Other than Jon Lester, every starting pitcher spent time on the DL. Big Papi missed 1/3 of the season. J.D. Drew missed 2 months. Both were playing hurt. Mike Lowell was out during the year & for the better part of the post-season. Hard to replace all those contributors from the past, especially Lowell at the plate. I still think the Red Sox have the best starting 9 when everyone is healthy.

Game 5 was a magical comeback for the ages. Game 6 was a grind-it-out win. Game 7 was just one big hit short with men on base. You can only comeback against good teams so many times.

As one of my blog commentors said, Tampa Bay seems to be a team of destiny this year. You knew Game 7 was not going well when a little ground ball by Baldelli finds a hole to produce a run. It's a game of inches & we couldn't find any holes tonight.

Good year by the Red Sox players. Good luck to the Rays in the World Series.

Nothing Like a Game 7

You can't get more suspenseful. One game to go to the World Series.

If you are the Rays, you have one game to turn things around. The big choke in Game 5 by the bullpen & lack of offense in Game 6 have your team in a tailspin.

If you are the Red Sox, you have one game to win & head back to the World Series to defend your crown. Winning two in a row at the Trop would take away the 8 out of 9 losses during the regular season.

Fans from both sides are getting their money's worth. Watch for both managers to have quick hooks tonight & unload every pitcher necessary to get a win.

One key for me is the inconsistent defense shown lately by the Rays. Longoria in Game 5. Bartlett in Game 6. Gabe Gross in right in the last 2 games. I think the pressure is getting to them.

Get ready, Red Sox fans, for another long night of baseball. There will be many tired eyes at work on Monday.

Deja Vu All Over Again

Beckett, Okajima, Masterson & Papelbon provided the pitching. Youk & Varitek provided the power. Game 6 goes to the Red Sox 4-2. Now onto Game 7.

Those who answered "yes" to our poll question are correct. This series is going to 7 games. And it's another ALCS series comeback to the credit of the Sox who just won't give up.

Don't you feel good for Varitek? His one hit is a home run that puts the Sox ahead to stay. And how about Coco getting on base 4 times? He's a guy that was benched last year for lack of offense.

Momentum has definitely changed. The World Series is 1 win away. But winning 2 in a row at the Trop will be no easy task.

I look for a blowout win for the Sox as the Rays crack under the pressure of a Game 7.

Talking Heads Pick Tampa Bay

The national media is still picking the Rays to finish off the Red Sox. Let them.

The TBS announcers pulled out stat after stat about who did what in the regular season. Hello, boys! This isn't fantasy baseball. The only stat that matters now is how a pitcher feels on Saturday or how a hitter feels on Saturday. It's why you play the game.

How many times did we hear that when Longoria knocks in a run the Rays almost always win? How many times did they say when Tampa is up by 5 runs in the 7th they never lose? Wrong on both counts, weren't they?

I heard a speech once by Mike Eruzione, captain of the 1980 US Olympic Hockey team. He said on paper the US team should have never won the Gold Medal. But it's the intangibles that define a team -- your hustle, your work ethic & most of all your heart.

The Sox showed a lot of heart on Friday. They proved all the experts wrong. Let's hope the intangibles take them to another win on Saturday.

Feel Good Friday

Didn't you go to work with a little more zip in your step today? Or maybe you went to school with a smile on your face?

A Red Sox win makes everything right with the world. Even better is a huge come-from-behind win in the playoffs.

Pump out your chest, fans. Our boys just won't go down easy. They make you believe again that anything is possible.

Beckett Due

There is no question that Josh Beckett does not have the velocity of 94-95-96 anymore. However, 91-92-93 with good location to compliment a good curve & change may be enough to keep the demoralized Rays in their current funk.

Maddon was quick to comment that his team will put this Game 5 behind them. No, no. Not so fast, Joe. As a player, you know that you just blew a chance to go to the World Series. Now the shoe is on the other foot. If the Rays get behind, they will have hitters that are pressing. And the bullpen knows that they can give it up.

The message for the Sox in Game 6 is clear. Get "Big Game" James out of there early & let's get to their shaky bullpen.

Rays Bubble Bursts

As Casey says,"it ain't over till it's over."

The fans of Red Sox Nation were treated to another October gem last night in Game 5. Instant classic -- I'd say so.

It's seemed like a night for the lefties -- Coco, Kotsay, Big Papi & J.D. Drew twice. Jon Papelbon & Justin Masterson closed the door for the final 3 innings. Meanwhile, the Rays bullpen imploded.

My contention all along is that the Red Sox have already overachieved this year by making the playoffs & beating the LA Angels of Anaheim in the first round. They just had too many injuries to overcome & suspect starting pitching to go this far. And yet they have. And here we go with another Game 6.

The sleeping giants on offense for the Sox are awake now. The Rays are coming back down to earth. Are the sun, the moon & the stars aligning again?

Youth 3, Experience 1

The ALCS was billed as a match-up between the youth of Tampa Bay & the experience of Boston. So far, youth has come out way ahead.

Longoria, Upton & Company have performed at the highest level thus far in the ALCS. The Rays starting pitching of Shields, Garza & Sonnanstine have shutdown the Red Sox offense. Only Kazmir has been touched up by the Sox bats.

Dice-K will try to spin another gem against Shields in Game 5. Then it will be up to Beckett & Lester to redeem themselves from their first game losses. If not, we will be spectators & not participants in the World Series.

Let's see if the Sox can pull it together in Game 5.

No Pitching Equals No Wins

I feel like I'm writing a eulogy for a dead team. Down 3-1 now to the Rays the Red Sox will need to pull another rabbit out of their playoff hat. Giving up 9 or more runs per game in each of the past 3 consecutive losses to Tampa Bay is a recipe for disaster.

However, no team is ever as bad or as good as they appear. Law of averages suggests that the Red Sox pitchers cannot continue to give up 9 runs per game. It also suggests that the Red Sox hitters will start to have their balls find holes.

Maybe the day off is coming at the right time. It may cool of the Rays. If the Sox can get some momentum going in Game 5 & eke out a win, you never know what can happen. Dice-K will need another big performance as in Game 1.

I'm ready for a day off. It's been tough to watch lately.

Recipe for Game 4

Tampa Bay demolished the Red Sox by a score of 9-1 in Game 3. The Sox were outhit, especially by the long ball, & outpitched. Their few opportunities to score runs just didn't materialize via a key hit.

Recipe for Game 4:

1) Forget Game 3. It's history.

2) Get a lead early & keep it.

Cash will catch Wakefield, so we don't need to worry about Varitek at the plate. I'd give Coco a start in center since Ellsbury is so cold. I'd start Lowrie at short instead of Cora for a better bat.

Other than one long ball, Drew has been ineffective at the plate. Ortiz has been absent from the offense as well. Both of these guys need to figure into the offense starting tomorrow. It can't be Pedroia - Youk - Bay every game. It's nice to see that Kotsay has hit the ball hard just about every time at the plate.

If Drew can't go, I'd put Casey at first & move Kotsay to RF. Casey is good for at least one hit every game.

It's time to shake things up a little with the non-productive parts of the order. I wouldn't mind seeing Casey hit for Ortiz & give him a day off to clear his head.

We did come back from 3-0 against the Yankees & 3-1 against Cleveland last year. But you can't go that route too many times before getting burned. We need a win in Game 4.

Jon Lester's Time

It's another coming out party.

Dustin Pedroia has followed-up a Rookie of the Year season with an MVP season.

Kevin Youkilis has gone from an anywhere-in-the-order hitter to clean-up hitter with a power stroke.

Jed Lowrie has made the jump from the minors to play steady defense & contribute timely RBI for the big club in just over half a season & the playoffs.

And maybe the biggest change is Jon Lester's evolution from cancer survivor & middle-of-rotation starter to the Sox's ace. Once you survive cancer there is no pressure. So Lester is the perfect starter for Game 3 this afternoon. I'm confident that he will give the Red Sox a much needed 2-1 lead in games & take back the momentum of the series.

If Dice-K & Lester can each win 2 games, we go to the World Series. I'm still expecting a back & forth 7-game ALCS with the Sox winning 4-3.

The Pedroia-Youk-Bay Show

The 2008 playoffs are certainly different than 2007. Just look at who's doing what this year.

2007 -- Manny, Big Papi, Beckett, Schilling, Lowell

2008 -- Pedroia, Youk, Bay, Lester, Dice-K

It's mind-blowing to see the change in one year. The cast of characters & the roles that they bring to the team have changed immensely.

2008 is now the offensive team of Pedroia, Youkilis & Bay. You may get spot contributions from Big Papi, Drew & Lowrie, but the #2, #4 & #5 spots in the order have been the most consistent.

2008 pitching staff is now anchored by Lester & Dice-K, along with Masterson in the pen. Pap is still the closer & a good one.

It goes to show you how quickly things change from year-to-year. Without the youth movement & some key trades the Red Sox would be at home this year like the Yankees.

Where is David Ortiz?

Big Papi -- where are you? It's hard to be slumping during the playoffs because every at-bat is more noticeable.

With Mike Lowell out, J.D. Drew questionable (especially when a lefty pitches) & Beckett not pitching Beckett-like, I guess Big Papi feels the need to stay in the lineup. One positive is that Ortiz still has a good eye at the plate & draws a walk or two every game. With Youk & Bay hitting well behind him the Big Guy has actually become a table-setter for them.

If you have ever seen a Red Sox game in person, you know that Ortiz is a presence when he walks into the batter's box. He would scare me if I was pitching. One mistake could cost you a run. The Rays respect that & are still pitching carefully to him.

Ortiz is just one in a long list of players who are physically beat up at this time of year. Now in his 30's like Lowell & Drew the marathon of 162 games plus playoffs begins to add up on a body. It was Ortiz' knee last year that had to be operated on & rehabbed in the off-season. This year it will be his wrist.

Don't count him out, yet. There are still more games to go. Big Papi will find a way to contribute, even if it's just getting on base & scoring runs instead of knocking them in.

Francona Pulls a Grady Little

Game 2 of the ALCS had a little of everything, in fact too much to re-hash today. My beef is about how long Francona stuck with an ineffective Beckett who gave the lead back to the Rays 3 times before his exit in the 5th inning.

It was reminiscent of Game 7 in 2003 when Grady Little stuck with Pedro after he got hammered by the Yankees. We all know how that one turned out.

As a pitcher, you know when you're going good or struggling. You may not like an early hook from a manager, but the question for the manager becomes "do you want to win or not offend a star."

Just like in the Pedro incident, prior to the inning, I would have told Beckett that if anyone gets on, you're coming out. That way there are no surprises. Yes, I would have let him go out to start the 5th, but the leash would have been much shorter.

Think back to Game 1 when Tito let Dice-K start the 8th. That was a bit odd with the whole bullpen available & could have cost the Sox an opening game win.

In the big picture the Sox did what they had to do -- get a split at the Trop. Game 2 was certainly winnable, though, & I hope it doesn't come back to bite us.

Red Sox Drop Rays at Trop

It only happened once this year that the Red Sox won at the Trop. Make it 2 now as the Sox start the ALCS with a stunning 2-0 win. The loss in Game 1 now takes home field advantage away from the Rays.

As I watched the game from the 7th inning on, the TBS announcers kept mentioning how badly the Rays outscored the Red Sox in late innings. That was the regular season, boys. None of that happened last night.

Dice-K was superb. Oki got a big out with Pena on a 3-0 pitch. Masterson got his usual double play ball. And Pap was lights out in the 9th. The offense did just enought against Shields to scratch out 2 runs for the win. Lowrie had a big sac fly for the 1st run & Youk drove in the 2nd run on his 3rd hit of the night.

A great win for the Sox. A terrible loss for the Rays who lost their late inning magic -- at least for 1 game. It was a great statement game & assures a split in Tampa Bay. Let's see if the Sox can make it 2 in a row behind Beckett tonight.

Finally, does Jhonny Gomes still bother anyone else besides me? His mohawk is ugly & he looks like he's just waiting for another fight. Just my prejudice I guess...

Dice-K Gets Game 1

Dice-K gets to start the best of 7 ALCS tonight against the Tampa Bay Rays. His last outing in the ALDS against the Angels was a short 5 innings. Maybe the extra rest will keep him strong & sharp tonight.

His counterpart in James Shields has pitched well against the Sox & just about every other team in the league. Shields also has the comfort of knowing that the Sox have lost 8 out of 9 at the Trop this year.

Who's pitching will step up? Who's offense will get the key hits? Just like the Angels series, it may come down to a missed bunt or one throw to the plate. Strap in & get ready for a great series.

I like the Sox in 7 games.

Manny Ramirez

Like a lot of Sox fans, I'm mean when it comes to ex-Red Sox players. I'm glad that Johnny Damon & the Yankees are out. I'm glad that Pedro Martinez & the Mets are out.

It's too bad that Manny & the Dodgers are in. I hope that the Phillies sweep the Dodgers in 4 & they send Manny packing for the season. Joe Torre has had a little taste of what Francona has had to put up with for 5 years. How do you treat Manny & his hair differently than the other 24 players & still not sacrifice control of your team?

I was in a restaurant after the Manny trade. On their sideboard it had a drawing of Manny & in Spanish it said"Good luck Manny in LA. Thanks for everything." I wanted to barf.

If you or I show up for work & do nothing all day, we get fired. In a perfect world, that would have happened to Manny. The Red Sox should have fired him & withheld his pay. Maybe that would have got his attention & had him come back down to Planet Earth.

But Manny lives in a different universe. He gets to set the agenda. He gets his wish that the Red Sox not pick-up his options. He gets to play hard for 2 months, even run out ground balls, so he can make $25 million or more for the next 3 or 4 years. It's a crime.

I guess what irked me the most was his comment during the first press conference in LA. Manny wanted to thank all his loyal fans in Boston. Wake up, people! Let me translate his comment for you. I want to thank all you fans who let me do whatever I wanted -- knock down a member of the Red Sox management for not getting me 200 tickets at a moment's notice; pick a fight with Youk in the dugout; not play hard or run out my hits if I didn't feel like it; take 3 straight pitches for strikes against the Yankees. The list could go on & on.

In this economy the average person is hoping to keep their job. The average guy is wondering how he will pay his heating bill this winter. The average family is trying to pay their mortgage, keep their home & save for their kids to go to college. Remember that when you hear about Manny signing his next contract & getting his way.

Manny is a shining example of the "me" culture in sports & once again shows how talent makes everything else OK.

ALCS Don'ts

Do you have pet peeves? Of course you do.

There are several things that will irk me in the Rays series & interfere with my enjoyment of the ALCS. Here they are...

- If FOX shows the brawl footage over & over again with Coco & Shields. It's over & done with. Let it go. Stop re-living something that happened 5 months ago. Stay in the present.

- If we see anymore "head cases" waiving to the camera during the game with their cell phone in the ear. Having been at Fenway & annoyed by those idiots around home plate, I know how exasperating it is to the real fans around them. Sit down. Watch the game. Cheer. Do you think that your 5 seconds of air time is going to change you life or get you a better date? Idiots.

- If FOX shows so many commercials between innings that we miss the first pitch. I think Ortiz hit a home run last year that they had to show on replay because they were late coming back from a commercial. The TV network knows to the second how long the break is in-between innings. Yet they have to show that one extra 30 -econd commercial & run over.

What's the chances of changing any of the 3 items above? Probably none, but it's good to get them off my chest.

Jon Lester's Rise to #1

My mom passed away in 2007. She was a big Red Sox fan.

When the news broke that Jon Lester had cancer she immediately said he would beat it & pitch again. I asked her why she thought that way. Mom just said that she knew it. Since mothers always know best I never argued.

After the first round of the playoffs & the 2008 regular season I guess Mom was right. Jon Lester has gone from a #3 or #4 starter who might go 5 innings to the #1 starter & closer of the Red Sox staff. His stuff is electric. Lester reminds me of a bigger version of Scott Kazmir. We will get to see both in the upcoming ALCS.

Nice to see good things happening to a good person like Jon Lester.

COMMENTS -- send your opinions to 3nohitters@gmail.com.

Angels Lose Series

Don't get me wrong. I think the Red Sox achieved a great series win over a tough Angels team with Varitek, Bay & Lowrie coming through in the 9th inning for a 3-2 win.

Didn't you think, though, that the Angels really lost it? Shoddy play in the field game after game led to unearned Red Sox runs. Never getting the big hit, except for Napoli in Game 3, when they needed it. Lots of whining over umpire calls. I especially thought that Torii Hunter was way over the top with his emotions, something you rarely saw from him in Minnesota.

In the end it was Varitek's tagout on Willits that turned things around in the 9th. Next thing you know it's a bloop double by Bay & a seeing-eye groundball by Lowrie. Game over. Series over. Onto Tampa Bay.

Congrats to the players, coaches & management on going further than all the experts predicted. In an injury-riddled year I think that making the final 4 is an amazing accomplishment.

COMMENTS - please send your thoughts to 3nohitters@gmail.com.

Lester - Lackey Round 2 Tonight

Game 1 was a nail-biter when Jon Lester outdueled John Lackey. Can Lester work his magic again?

Both pitchers are working on 3 days rest which could effect the velocity of pitches. However, shorter rest sometimes makes your breaking balls better because you don't overthrow them.

It should be another interesting game. The Angels are definitely one of the best 6 teams still standing. Good to know that the Rays - White Sox series is going to a Game 4 as well. No team should have more rest than another if both ends tonight.

I'm looking for Pedroia & Ortiz to find some holes tonight. The offense has been limited to Ellsbury, Youk & Bay, plus one big contribution from J.D. Drew. It would be nice to get the 7-8-9 batters to deliver with RISP.

Get ready for another late night. The Angels are a great test for the Sox.

COMMENTS can be sent to 3nohitters@gmail.com.

Angels Stay Alive

Halloween is coming up soon, but let's hope that this game doesn't come back to haunt the Red Sox. After a colossal blunder by Howie Kendrick with the bases loaded that plated 3 runs the Angels fought back for a 5-4 win in extra innings.

Concerns for the Red Sox:

1) Never let a team who won 100 games get life back in a short series.

2) Josh Beckett showed signs of rust & was average at best.

3) Mike Lowell continues to be a liability in the field & at the bat.

4) David Ortiz has gone cold at the plate again.

Beckett & Lowell, the 2 ex-Florida Marlins who were such a key for the playoff run last year, are struggling this year. Ortiz looks uncomfortable at the plate. In addition to these 3, Pedroia has hit the ball hard, but has nothing to show for it. And J.D. Drew is always questionable.

Francona will have several decisions to make when filling out his lineup card today. The fans at Fenway make a difference, as Kendrick can tell you, so I look for the fans to help the Sox close out the series today. We need to end it.

COMMENTS can be left at 3nohitters@gmail.com.

Cub Fans Wait Another Year

The Chicago Cubs did it again. They lost in the first round of the playoffs. Their fans have to wait another year to break the longest World Series curse in baseball.

I had a coach who would tell our team during tournaments that it is easier to win once you have been a winner. And, on the flip side, it takes a lot of hard work & extra work to get out of a losing streak.

We Red Sox fans know the history of losing quite well during the 20th century. It took a bloody sock, a fortuitous bounce & other crazy happenings for the Red Sox to win in 2004. Maybe the sun, the moon & the stars will align for the Cubs next year.

Don't give up, Cubbie fans. 2008 is just another memory now. Spring training for 2009 is only 4 months away.

9th Inning Belongs to Sox

In Game 1 the Red Sox added 2 runs in the 9th to break up a nail-biter & beat the Angels 4-1. Again last night, J.D. Drew's 2-run homer provided the difference in 9th as the Sox take a 7-5 win in Game 2. Like the Phillies, Dodgers & Rays, the Sox now have a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-five opening round of the playoffs as they return home to Fenway.

Huge performances for me last night...

1) Obviously, the J.D. Drew homer after Ortiz almost knocked one out before him. K-Rod may be feeling the need to pack his bags after this season & take the Manny shuffle out of town.

2) The play of Kevin Youkilis at 3B in the 9th with a great bare-handed field & throw of a bunt by Torii Hunter for the first out. Then, his reaching into the camera well of photographers to snare a foul ball for the 2nd out. Mike Lowell couldn't have played either ball any better.

3) Jonathan Papelbon coming on in the 8th inning to limit the damage to one run, then returning to close the 9th for a 2-inning save.

I question Francona's use, or non-use, of all his weapons in the bullpen. It's as if Delcarmen & Lopez don't exist except to warm-up. Why have Okajima start the 7th? Why have Masterson start the 8th? Unless there are sore arms we don't know about, why not go for the best matchups? Hard to complain, though, when you are 2-0 in road wins.

Look for Josh Beckett to have a solid outing on Sunday & wrap this series up.

Can Dice-K Go Deep?

It's a hard act to follow what Jon Lester did on Wednesday. I know something about that since I was a #2 pitcher most of my playing career. My advice for the Dice-man is to pitch his own game. Do what he does best.

We have a rested bullpen. With a day off everyone is available -- Lopez, Masterson, Delcarmen, Okajima & Papelbon. Even if Dice-K pitches 5 scoreless & out, we should be able to handle it.

On the offensive side I look for Pedroia, Youk, Drew & Ortiz to get more involved. We got a win without a lot of production for #2, #3, #4 & #5. It was basically the Ellsbury & Bay show in Game 1.

I still think Mike Lowell should take the next game off. His liabilities are too overwhelming.

Look for another nail-biting, low-scoring affair.

Red Sox Bring Angels Down

Last night's opener was a game of role reversal. The speed & timely hitting of the Red Sox brought down the high-flying Angels in Game 1 of the ALDS.

Did I mention Jon Lester? The trio of Lester-Masterson-Papelbon shutdown the Angels offense & outpitched Lackey & Co.

Here's my takeaways from last night.

1. Jacob Ellsbury is back offensively. He is money in the outfield too. Coco doesn't make that catch in the 8th with his glove on the left hand. Baseball is a game of inches.

2. Big Papi got a big RBI in the 9th by hitting one through the shift. That may settle him down for the rest of the series.

3. Jon Lester is the Sox ace, at least for the rest of the post-season. He & Varitek had a great game plan that kept Angels' hitters off-balance the whole game. He threw cutters & curveballs in hitters' counts 2-0, 3-1, 3-2. That's confidence.

4. I take Jason Bay over Manny any day. Bay looked horrible in his first 2 AB's against Lackey, but drives the ball out of the park in his 1st post-season game. Nice adjustment.

5. Jed Lowrie recovered after a costly error to make several nice plays & chip in a hit. His first playoff game is out of the way now & he too should settle in.

6. Mike Lowell should not be playing. I applaud his tenacity, but his running ability is non-existent. I'm surprised that the Angels did not bunt a few balls down his way to test him. He did make a big putout when Guerrero thought he was Ellsbury & was out at third on a dumb running play.

The Sox showed their experience last night as a playoff tested team. I bet all the experts who picked the Angels are re-thinking their pick.

Unlikely Heroes in October

It was Mark Bellhorn & Derek Lowe in 2004. It was Ellsbury, Pedroia & Youkilis in 2007. Who will emerge as this year's heroes during the 2008 playoffs? I have a few thoughts on this topic.

On the pitching side I look for Javy Lopez & Justin Masterson to get some key outs. Lopez may see lefty match-ups against Shone Figgins, Garrett Anderson & Mark Texeria. Masterson will need to neutralize righties Vlad Guerrero & Tori Hunter.

On the defensive side I look for subs Sean Casey & Mark Kotsay to play a key role at 1B & to contribute with RISP on offense. Jeff Bailey is another guy that is capable of a big pinch-hit at crucial points in games.

These are my 5 guys that I expect to contribute more than anticipated.

Lester in Game 1

If you needed a Plan B to starting Josh Beckett in Game 1 of the playoffs, it's nice to have Jon Lester. Many felt that Lester was the Sox #1 starter all season & now he gets a chance to prove it.

The Sox have had success in the past against Lackey, just not this year. Look for the playoff run in 2007 to pay-off in 2008 for players like Youk, Pedroia & Ellsbury who all had big offensive numbers in the post-season last year. Experience is the 26th player on your bench.

I'm predicting the Sox in 4.

Lowell, Drew Question Marks

The Red Sox will be in LA-LA-land on Tuesday to start their defense of last year's World Series crown. Will Mike Lowell & J.D. Drew be part of the roster?

If most fans had to pick one, Mike Lowell is the logical choice. Lowell has shown that he is willing to play through his injuries. If, however, Mike becomes a liability in the field or he can't run hard on the bases, then his usefullness to the team becomes compromised. LA is a team that bunts a lot also.

Sean Casey is the logical choice to start at 1B & Youk moves over to 3B. That gives the Sox another decent bat in the lineup. Later in the game, Cora can go into SS for defensive purposes, moving Youk back to 1B & Lowrie over to 3B. That plan has seemed to work most of the year.

If Cora comes up in an offensive situation with runners on base, you have the option of using Bailey or Carter as a PH & then enter Kotsay at 1B, moving Youk & Lowrie back to their original positions.

Tito will need to use his whole roster to beat an Angels team that has power & speed. I think the pitching edge goes to Boston, but low-scoring affairs will abound. It will depend on which offense gets hot first or who delivers on the few occasions with RISP.

History shows that the Red Sox have a knack for stepping it up in the playoffs, especially against the LA Angels of Anaheim.

Johnny Pesky Night

Johnny Pesky was sitting in the lobby of our team hotel in Fort Myers during Spring Training a few years ago. I was coaching a college softball team playing in a tournament over Spring Break. Even at 7:00 AM, he was very gratious with his time & most accomodating for pictures. Like every day, Johnny was getting ready to go to City of Palms Park for the daily Sox workout.

We had a break in our schedule that allowed the girls to attend one such workout. After they got a few autographs from players at the end of practice, I could see Johnny sitting on the bleachers & holding court for many Red Sox fans. I overheard him talking about Ted Williams & others from his era. The seniors in the crowd really enjoyed his insights into those days.

It was great to see a legend like Johnny Pesky give of his time so freely to others, strangers really. I'm glad that his number will be retired along side of his good friend, Ted Williams. Johnny has been a great ambassador for the Red Sox for his entire lifetime. Congrats, John!

Yankees - Red Sox One Last Time

It's been 5 years since the Yankees beat the Red Sox in Game 7 of the ALCS in 2003. The Red Sox have won 2 World Series rings since then & the Yankees have won nothing. 2008 is a low water mark by Yankees standards. The Bronx crew is out of the playoffs for the first time in 13 years.

The Yankees have gotten much older. The days of bringing in high-priced free agents to buy a ring are over. Home grown talent has been the winning ingredient for the past few years. 30+ players like Mussina, Pettite, Posada, A-Rod, Jeter, Giambi, Damon, Abreau & Rivera are showing their age. All of these players have had less than average years. It's the equilavent of the Patriots defense. They know what to do, but sometimes they just can't get there in time.

The Red Sox have a continuing youth movement that is the envy of all Major League teams. Lester, Papelbon, Delcarmen, Masterson, Buchholz, Youkilis, Pedroia, Lowrie & Ellsbury are all products of the Red Sox farm system. While getting younger the Sox continue to win at the same time. Each young guy seems to fit-in perfectly. That's not an accident.

What will Hank Steinbrenner do this off-season? The Yankees young talent has not panned out, particularly in the pitching department. Hank will probably go after CC Sabathia to bolster the starting rotation. Abreau & Giambi may not be re-signed. It will be fun to watch the Yankees scuffle to field a team that can compete with Boston, Tampa Bay & Toronto next year.

Lester, Bullpen Sharp in 6-1 Win

Jon Lester earned his 16th win. Masterson, Okajima, Papelbon pitched scoreless relief. The Cleveland Indians look like they are ready to end the season.

Francona is still evaluating his bubble players while keeping the regulars sharp. Ortiz had a day off, but Youk added a few more hits, including another HR. He is closing in on 30 homers for the season to go along with his 111 RBI. Kotsay & Lowrie are finding their swings again.

The Yanks come in for the final 3 games on a rainy weekend. Who would have thought that this seies against New york would be meaningless? It has to be a humbling experience for long-time vets like Jeter, Riviera & Posada to be going home in September. The curse of A-Rod lives.

Lester's Final Regular Season Start Tonight

Jon Lester started the 2008 year in Spring Training as the Sox #3 or #4 starter. His young career was plague with inconsistency, high pitch counts & a bout with cancer. Now 6 months & 15 wins later, Lester could be viewed as the Sox legitimate #1 starter.

Lester gets his last start & tune-up for the playoffs against the Indians tonight. I'm sure the Yankees are happy not to see him this weekend as Lester mowed down the Yankees in New York & at Fenway earlier this season.

It's great to see good things happen to a nice kid like Lester who has faced so much at such a young age. In every interview Lester sounds mature beyond his years. When you come close to losing everything, you appreciate all you have that much more.

Beauty Contest Results in 5-4 Win

Stay tuned for more of the same over the last 4 regular season games. Players like Paul Byrd, Mark Kotsay, Chris Carter & Jeff Bailey will see playing time to help Tito determine his playoff roster. All 4 played well last night with Bailey & Kotsay delivering the game-winning run.

How about the return of J.D. Drew! Most sportscasters think he has dogged it with his back injury, especially Michael Felger on CSN. On "Red Sox This Week" I heard Dan Roach say that, despite Drew's emotionless state when compared to other players, he does want to get back on the field badly. So who knows? He ran the bases, played the outfield & seemed OK. It will be interesting to see how his back is doing today.

Mike Lowell may make an appearance in the Yankees series, just to get a couple of at-bats. My brother mentioned to me that one bunt or soft hit ground ball may pull his hip out of joint again. I guess you wait & see how that whole situation plays out.

If Drew & Lowell make it back for the playoffs, you have a solid offensive lineup from batters #1 through #7. If Lowrie & Varitek do anything in the #8 & #9 spots, it's gravy. The Sox are much better with these 2 on the field.

Roster Spots in Playoffs Up for Grabs

What's the significance of the last 5 games? For several players it will mean the difference of receiving a playoff check or not.

Who's on the bubble? I think it's names like Tim Wakefield, Paul Byrd, Mike Timlin, David Aardsma, Dan Ross, Jeff Bailey, Chris Carter & Mark Kotsay. The last 5 games may be a showcase for each of these players to prove why they should make the 25-man playoff roster.

The bigger names to watch are J.D. Drew & Mike Lowell. Will either be able to play this week? If so, how much? Would Theo & Terry gamble on keeping a roster spot open for either one?

These remaining games are not about winning the division. They are about determining the playoff roster & setting up the pitching assignments for LA. Get ready, Red Sox fans, for some interesting picks or exclusions. You can't take everyone.

We Win, Yanks Out

The Red Sox clinched a playoff spot last night &, at the same time, eliminated the Yankees from playoff contention to end their streak at 13 consecutive post-season appearances. The times are a-changing...

From Spring Training to Japan & now 92 wins later, here are my top 10 reasons why the 2008 Red Sox have had an improbable road to the playoffs.

10) No Curt Schilling all year. If the Sox management had let Schilling get his surgery during Spring Training, he might be available now for the playoffs. Bad choice.

9) Julio Lugo going on the DL was a blessing in disguise. With Lugo at short the Sox were one of the worst fielding teams in the AL. Without him they are now #1 in defense.

8) Coco Crisp was rumored to be on the trading block all Spring. Look how valuable Coco has become with the injury to J.D. Drew.

7) Jed Lowrie, another rookie from the farm system, gets his shot & makes the most of it. Excellent defense at SS, 3B or 2B. 44 RBI in 3 months of work. Even in his current slump, Lowrie's defense has remained steady.

6) The farm also produced Justin Masterson's & his 2008 debut to the big team. Justin was a more-than-adequate fill-in starter during the 1st half & has now morphed into a go-to late innings reliever over the 2nd half. He wasn't on the radar in the Spring.

5) Jacoby Ellsbury saw the highs & lows of his first full 162 game season. Stealing bases at a record clip in the 1st half, Jacoby is now adjusting to the adjustments other teams are making to him. He catches anything near him in the outfield. Now his offense is coming back around as well.

4) David Ortiz & his wrist caused him to miss about 1/3 of the season. Who would have thought that J.D. Drew would keep the team afloat in his absence? Since Big Papi's return it is as if Drew & Ortiz have changed places. Drew is unlikely to see any further action in 2008 due to his back problem. Meantime, Big Papi is producing again out of the 3-hole.

3) Kudos to Theo & Company for getting rid of Manny & bringing in quality baseball players to the team in return. Jason Bay, Paul Byrd & Mark Kotsay have all contributed to big wins in the 2nd half.

2) Kevin Youkilis has emerged as a power hitter at the right time. Who would have thought that Youk would be the HR leader on the team this year with guys like Manny, Ortiz & Lowell in the lineup? His versatility in the field & versatility in the batting order make him a huge staple in the Red Sox lineup.

1) The emergence of Dustin Pedroia & Jon Lester top my list of Sox stories in 2008. Pedroia went from good & solid to great & solid. Lester went from an OK middle rotation starter to a #1 starter. Pedroia threw in 200+ hits & Lester pitched a no-hitter for good measure.

It's been a great ride from March through September for Red Sox fans. It has been an improbable path to the playoffs. The rest of the season is gravy.

No Cigar Yet As Sox Lose 4-3

Hold the celebration just yet. The Sox fell short against the Indians 4-3 at Fenway last night. The magic number remains at 1.

There were some bright spots in the loss. David Ortiz continued his recent power surge with another home run. Kevin Youkilis contributed 3 hits. Masterson & Okajima pitched well in relief.

Varitek, Kotsay & Lowrie continued to slump. After the first 5 batters it was a very weak hitting 6-7-8-9 part of the order. Getting Lowell &/or Drew back for the playoffs would help the offense immensely.

The Nation waits to see if tonight is the night.

Sox Inch Closer to Playoffs

This weekend went better than I expected. 2 out of 3 wins in Toronto against a tough pitching staff is a great effort on the road.

Dice-K remained masterful in yesterday's 3-0 win with several shutout innings. Perhaps the best news of the day was the re-emergence of Jacoby Ellsbury's bat with 3 extra base hits yesterday. When Ellsbury gets on base the Sox are a much better offensive team.

It would be a nice touch to see Josh Beckett pitch & win the playoff clincher at Fenway tonight against Cleveland. While the Rays have dominated the headlines most of the year it has been an unusual path, to say the least, for the Red Sox to put together another 90+ win season. More on that after they clinch.

Sox Lose to Jays 6-3

Red Sox Nation will have to wait another day to clinch a playoff spot with a loss to Toronto today.

I have to say that I didn't see the game. In fact, I will be traveling tomorrow, so I'll have to listen to the game on the radio. I actually like the radio pre-game show more than NESN's pre-game which tends to get repetitious.

In between innings, I'll have to make a quick check on the Patriots-Dolphins as well. It's been a great 21st century so far to be a sports fan in New England.

Let's hope Dice-K can pitch 5-6 strong & we win the series. Wrapping up a playoff spot would be huge with a week to go.

Playoff Roster Mania

If the season ended today, the Boston 9 would play the LA Angels in round one of the ALDS. The Rays would take on the White Sox.

If I were Tito & Theo, here's my picks for the 25 man roster.

Starting Pitchers: 4
Josh Beckett, Jon Lester, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Tim Wakefield

Bullpen: 7
Paul Byrd, David Pauley, Javy Lopez, Hideki Okajima, Justin Masterson, Manny Delcarmen, Jon Papelbon

Catchers: 2
Jason Varitek, Kevin Cash

Infielders: 6
Kevin Youkilis, Dustin Pedroia, Jed Lowrie, Sean Casey, Alex Cora, Mike Lowell

DH: 2
David Ortiz, Jeff Bailey

Outfielders: 4
Jason Bay, Coco Crisp, Jacoby Ellsbury, Mark Kotsay

Left off the roster would be notables such as J.D. Drew, Mike Timlin & Bartolo Colon. In a short series like the best of 5, you need as much versatility as possible. I think the pitching staff & roll players are key. We'll see how close my picks come when the playoff roster is announced.

Lester & Dice-K Can Seal A Playoff Birth

Wouldn't it be nice to sweep the Jays in Toronto & earn a playoff birth without counting on losses by Minnesota? We have the right starting pitching to do so.

Lester has put together a breakout year. No longer a 3-4-5 starter, Jon Lester has turned into one of the best lefties in the AL. He will be matched against Roy Halladay again which will be a good test for him. Lester knows the game will be low scoring, so he needs to be at his best.

Dice-K is our super starter for 5 innings. You can expect a high pitch count which drives everyone crazy. But at the same time, you can expect to start the 6th innings with 0 or 1 run on the board for the Jays. The Dice-man gets it done with lots of help from the pen. I hope he picks up the dinner tab for the relievers on a regular basis.

Ending the playoff dilemma this weekend will give the Sox a free week to rest guys & lineup their starters for the post-season.

Big Comeback for Sox in Toronto

It was a seesaw battle. 2-0, the 2-1 for the Jays. 3-2 Sox, then 3-3. Finally a 4-3 win on a fielder's choice.

How many fans were screaming at their TV when Byrd gave up the tying run at 3-3 after the Sox finally took the lead 3-2? It was one of those back & forth nights. But beating A.J. Burnett is no easy feat, so we'll take the win. As has been his M.O. recently, Papelbon didn't pitch a clean 9th, but got 3 outs before the Jays scored the tying run.

My game balls for last night go to Paul Byrd & Sean Casey. Byrd made it through 6 innings & only gave up 3 runs. He is usually good for giving up 4 runs. Sean Casey got the huge double off the RF wall & drove in 2 RBI to give the Sox the lead 3-2. Casey is proving to be a valuable fill-in for Lowell just as he was earlier in the year.

Magic number is down to 2.

Did Maddon Outcoach Francona?

The Sox have lost the last 2 series against the Rays. I believe that part of the reason is the use of situational players & pitching changes at key points in the last 6 games by Joe Maddon. Conversely, other than last night, I didn't see the same pholosophy by Terry Francona.

First example. Rays pinch hit a right-handed hitter to bat against Lopez. Francona counters with a right-handed reliever. Maddon switches again to a left-handed pinch hitter who I believe got a hit in the series at Fenway.

Second example. Garza is winning 8-3 last night in the 4th inning with 2 outs & needs just 1 more out to qualify for a win. Next hitter was Big Papi who had hit 2 homers off Garza & there were 2 on base. Maddon takes out Garza & comes in with Balfour who usually pitches in the 7th or 8th. Ortiz flies to deep center for the 3rd out. Game over.

On Tuesday night Francona had the option of using Oki to face Navarro. This move would turn Navarro around to hit right-handed which is his weaker side. Instead, he left Masterson in. I believe it was due to the fact that he didn't trust Okajima with the bases loaded not to walk the winning run home. In my book you can't manage scared.

I hope the players & coaches have learned through the last 2 series what not to do against the Rays should they see them again in the playoffs. You always learn more for your losses than your wins.

No Pitching Equals No Win

Tim Wakefield gave up 3 home runs. Devern Hansack gave up a couple of runs. Javy Lopez looked like a poor version of "Dancing With the Stars" on a weak ground ball which led to a run. All this happened in the 1st 3 innings, taking the Sox out of the game early.

David Ortiz continued to pound the ball with 2 HR's. He accounted for all 3 RBI in a lineup with no Mike Lowell & no Jason Bay. J.D. Drew has been on the shelf so long that he will probably miss the playoffs at this point. Bay will be back for the series in Toronto.

It doesn't get any easier as the Sox face A.J. Burnett & Roy Halladay in the first two. Minnesota is playing poorly & continues at 7 games back in the Wild Card. The last road trip of the year ends in Toronto. I'd like to see us win 2 out of 3, but 1 out of 3 is more probable.

Enjoy the day off today, fans, as it will be an interesting weekend in Toronto.

Wake's the Man Tonight

Tim Wakefield has an excellent record when pitching at Tropicana Field. But this year's edition of the Rays is not like past years.

If the Sox can get 5 or 6 strong innings from Wakefield, the bullpen is fully rested & ready to go. Maybe the bigger question is whether Matt Garza can pitch effectively, working on only 3 days rest.

Last night is behind us now. We can still come out of Tampa Bay tied for the AL East lead. Taking 2 out of 3 would be a great accomplishment & send a message that we can win on the road.

Rays Eke Out 2-1 Win

I appreciate a well pitched, low scoring game like tonight. Even though we came out with 1 less run, here's what I liked about the Red Sox in game 2.

1) Mike Lowell is a profile in courage to the rest of the team. When someone plays hurt, visibly hurt, that player picks up everyone else's play. Using effort as the measuring stick, Mike Lowell gets an "A+" in my book.

2) Josh Beckett is once again the ace of the staff. His first 2 outings back from the DL have been sensational. Play this type of game again in any of Beckett's future starts & he goes back out there in the 9th. He has his bulldog attitude back.

3) Congrats to Jason Bay on his new daughter. Maybe we have a different outcome tonight if his bat is in the line-up.

4) Jacoby Ellsbury's speed is a game-changer as evidenced by his 2 infield hits. He also indirectly caused an error by Longoria at 3B when Longoria bobbled a Pedroia grounder because Ellsbury was running at 1B.

5) Big Papi just missed launching a home run for the 2nd straight night. Ortiz is getting his swing back at the right time.

I see a lot of positives going forward. Let see if Wake can get us even again on Wednesday before we leave Tampa Bay. Wake has a history of pitching well there.

Big Papi Starts Power Surge

My brother came in the house & said who hit home runs for the Red Sox. I said it's easier to tell you who didn't! 6 home runs led the way to an easy victory against the Rays & put the Sox in a statistical tie for the AL East lead.

The first inning 3-run homer by David Ortiz was the biggest hit of the night for me. It showed the Rays that the Red Sox could capitalize on mistakes by Kazmir & not let him wiggle off the hook. It also showed to Big Papi himself that, despite his injured wrist, his power stroke is still there. The rest of the runs were gravy.

Tampa Bay is one of the worst venues to see a ballgame. Jason Bay's catwalk HR is one example why. Like the Metrodome in Minnesota, a park that allows fair balls to strike objects during a game has problems. At least everything worked to the Red Sox favor last night.

One more win & we can leave Tampa Bay no worse than with a share of the AL East lead. Look for Beckett to have a big game tonight.

Dice-K's Turn to Shine

Not that every start in a pennant race isn't important, but the Dice-man has a chance to start the big series against the Rays with a win. He is matched up against Scott Kazmir who, like Daisuke, has trouble going deep into games.

The Rays batters are pretty patient as are the Sox. Like their last head-to-head battle, fans can expect a low-scoring affair that will come down to each team's bullpen. Take away Timlin & Papelbon lately & the Sox pen has been excellent.

Fasten your seat belt for 3 playoff-type games to start the week. I say the Sox win the 1st 2 & game 3 is a toss-up.

Enough With Jed Clampett

If you watch Channel 7 Boston sports, you'll see a new sports reporter -- Larry Ridley. Larry is driving me crazy with his colloquialisms. The most irritating one for me is his constant referral to the Beverly Hillbillies song ' there once was a man named Jed" when talking about Jed Lowrie.

It's as if Chris Berman from ESPN was reincarnated with his nicknames for all of the football players in the NFL on his 2 minute summary of games. Can we just get a normal summary without all the ad lib??

I like Steve Burton & Dan Roche from Channel 4 WBZ. I watch Mike Lynch & Mike Downing on Channel 5 for the Patriots weekly show. Joe Amorosino on Channel 7 is OK to me as well.

I think Larry is trying too hard to be too original or too unique, however you desctribe it. Simple is better for me, Larry.

Red Sox Take 3 Out Of 4

Red Sox win. Patriots win. It's a good Sunday in New England.

Great, great starting pitching by Jon Lester again led the way in this win. Jon Papelbon could use a few days off as every pitch was up in the zone as he was touched up for 2 runs today. If not for a bad out call at 2B on Lyle Overbay, we may be talking about a loss. Don't be surprised to see Masterson get the call to close, if needed, on Monday.

1 game back, 2 in the loss column as the Sox get ready for 3 in Tampa Bay. I would expect 3 more low scoring games that could go either way. Our starters line up well with Matsuzaka, Beckett & Wakefield going to the hill. 2 wins would put the Sox in a statistical tie for 1st place. The Rays have 15 games left while the Sox are down to 13.

It's a great finish to the regular season. Don't be surprised to see more Sox fans than Rays fans in Tampa Bay. I say the Sox take 2 out of 3.

Great Comeback and Great Family Night

It took a swinging bunt by Jacoby Ellsbury to push the winning run across in the bottom of the 8th. The Sox keep the wolves at bay with a 7-5 win over the Jays, assuring a split of the series. The Wild Card contenders like Toronto, Minnesota & Chicago could gain no ground as the final games of the regular season continues to tick, tick away. It's interesting that the Yankees are out of the discussion altogether at this point.

While there were many contributors to last night's win -- Ellsbury, Pedroia, Sox bullpen to name a few -- I experienced one of those nights where the Red Sox hit home on a personal level. My wife and I hosted my 3 brothers, sister, sister-in-laws, brother-in-law & a significant other for a family get-together. 12 of us in all.

We had the Sox on TV on mute while the festivities were going on, even though we all kept an eye on the score. Once our night was over, no one left as we watched the last 3 innings together as a family. We saw a great come-from-behind win. But it was an even a better night for our family to be together with the Sox.

I think this scenario happens a lot in New England homes. It's why the Red Sox Nation is so unique. They are imbedded as part of the family.

Game 2 to the Jays

I hate it when I'm right.

I thought the Sox would win on Friday night & that it would be difficult for them to earn a split on Saturday. So far I'm right on the money as Toronto got even in Game 2 with an 8-1 drubbing of the Sox. Burnett was tough. (I'm not a fan of his big tattos on the left arm & behind the neck.)

Colon will have to come up big in the nightcap.

Who's Off the Playoff Roster?

Let's be positive & assume the Sox will make the playoffs. Tito has some very interesting decisions to make on personnel for the first series which is a short 3 out of 5.

Mike Timlin. Paul Byrd. Tim Wakefield. Julio Lugo. J.D. Drew. Mark Kotsay. Kevin Cash. Sean Casey. Alex Cora. Mike Lowell. David Aardsma. Bartolo Colon.

Don't be surprised to see several of these names left off the playoff roster. Drew has not made it back for his back injury. Lowell was limping around the bases last night. Lugo is still on the DL. Health is definitely an issue with these 3.

The remainder of the squad will be molded around the first round opponent -- LA Angels or White Sox / Twins. Either Byrd or Wakefield could be the long man out of the pen, but not both. Cora may be in if Lowell is out. Kotsay may be in if Drew is out. And on it goes.

With a doubleheader today Francona will get a good look at everyone & start shaping his thoughts as the season winds down. It will be an interesting choice of 25 players.

Wakefield Huge in Series Opener

Nice pitchin', Wake! I never liked pitching in the rain because the ball always felt like it weighed 5 pounds. I guess a knuckleball is waterproof though based upon last night's results.

With Hurricane Ike beginning to batter the coastal area of Galveston, Texas (God bless to all in its path) the Red Sox had their own Hurricane Wake who beat up on the Toronto lineup for a 7-0 win. He made a hot team, hitting over .300 in September, look pathetic with their swings last night. It was just the performance the Sox needed to start this series.

Jed Lowrie continues to make John Henry & Co. forget the name of Julio Lugo. Lowrie is just another in a long line of minor leaguers coming to the big team & performing at a high level. Jed is closing in on 50 RBI in just half a season & plays great "D" at SS or 3B.

So far my prediction for this series is right on. I thought the Sox would take Game 1. The pitching match-ups on Saturday do not favor the Sox, so I'm hoping for a split. I anticipate Jon Lester outdueling Roy Halladay in the series finale.

Let's see if my crystal ball is accurate.

New Poll Question: Will Sox Catch Rays?

OK Red Sox fans. Let's see who thinks the Sox will catch Tampa Bay for 1st place.

There are 16 games left in the season & 3 are head-to-head in Tampa Bay next week. With rain outs everywhere last night there will be a lot of doubleheaders today.

One thing to note is that the Rays have 18 games left & very few off-days. I think the grind & pressure of the last 2 1/2 weeks will get to them. The Sox have been through all this before.

Go ahead & vote your conscious on the new poll question. I'm interested to see the results.

Weekend Strategy Againsts Jays

Toronto has had Boston's number most of this season. We showed a glimmer of turning it around by winning 2 out of 3 in Toronto on the last visit in August.

The best game of the series should be Sunday when Lester faces Halladay. My money is bet on Lester to get a low-scoring win at home.

The pivotal game for me happens tonight with Wakefield facing off against former NH Fisher Cat David Purcey. If Wakefield stays away from walks & home runs we should win that game as well.

Saturday's doubleheader is a toss-up. The Jays have seen Byrd a lot & will score off him. I don't expect too much from Bartolo Colon. A.J. Burnett & Jessie Litsch have the edge in pitching in these 2 games. A split on Saturday in high-scoring affairs would be OK.

Best case for the Sox is 1 win each day to take the series 3 out of 4. Worst case is a 2-2 split. A win tonight would go a long way to setting the tone for the weekend.

That Look is Back

Did you see the camera shots of fans around Fenway Park last night? Did it remind you of anything?

I saw men, women & children with that wrinkled forehead, like a major migrane headache was coming on. It was a look that I remember all too well -- the pre-2004 fan look.

Fans saw opportunity after opportunity slip away last night & eventually saw a loss occur. It was reminiscent of the Sox of old, the Sox who never won the big game, the Sox who broke your hearts, your parents' hearts & your grandparents' hearts.

But fear not. We know how to win now as evidenced in 2004 & 2007. This is the 1st series loss in 6-weeks since the Manny trade. All things considered, this has been an excellent season-long performance by the Bosox & we are well positioned to go back to the playoffs.

162 games is a long season. We are coming down the stretch with healthy players & a strong bench. Remember -- we are the defending World Series champs. Been there. Done it. Keep the faith, fans. Keep the faith.

Red Sox Blow Another One

It was a playoff atmosphere this week at Fenway with the 3-game series against the Rays. Every game featured great pitching & runs scoring at a snail's pace. Each game could have gone differently given the number of runners left in scoring position by both teams.

Here's a few of the things that I hope the Sox take away from this series.

1) The Rays are for real.

2) Our best 3 starters can match-up with their best 3 starters.

3) The offense needs to deliver with RISP as we won't get that many opportunities.

4) Don't pitch Papelbon 3 days in a row.

5) Don't pitch Timlin - period.

6) Use Sean Casey as the 1st pinch hitter instead of letting him collect splinters on the pine. Why have him if you're not going to use him? His OBP is over .400.

7) Don't pinch run Coco for Lowell with 2 outs unless you're going to have him steal. We could have used both players later in last night's game. Instead Lowell & Coco are out for the rest of the game in the 6th inning.

8) Don't pitch Timlin - period.

9) Don't pitch Timlin - period.

It doesn't get any easier for the Sox & Rays. The Rays go to New York while the Sox host the red-hot Blue Jays for 4 games in 3 days. I don't like the pitching matchups with Wakefield, Byrd & Colon going in the 1st 3. Best thing is we should miss Halladay since he pitched last night.

This week has been two nights of opportunity lost. I'll take a 2-2 weekend against the Jays which should keep the Sox in a comfortable lead in the AL Wild Card as games wind down.

Letter to Pap (a/k/a Cinco Ocho)

Dear Pap:

You have a tremendous talent for getting big outs in the 9th.

However, with Major League hitters, you need to throw more than one pitch. Did you listen to the post-game interview with Johnson? He said he put a good swing on your 3-1 pitch, fouled it off & figured he had the timing down on your fastball. He definitely had the timing down on your 3-2 pitch when he knocked it out for a home run in RC.

After Farrell came out to talk to you (which was after you gave up 2 more hits & the lead) you started throwing your slider & split more. You also got the last 2 outs.

Don Orsillo asked Jerry Remy in the booth about your reliance on just the fastball lately. Jerry said he noticed fewer sliders & splits, but brushed it aside. I think Don was right on. No matter how hard you throw, if a hitter knows what's coming, he's going to put a good swing on it.

As a pitcher, you know that some days you have 1, 2 or all 3 pitches working for you. Monday you had an electric fastball & you threw it in unhittable places. Last night your command was off on your fastball & velocity may have been down a little since it was your 3rd appearance in 3 days. You could tell something was off when you got behind hitters in the count.

Go to your other pitches a little more to at least throw the hitter's timing off. It's all about interrupting a hitter's timing. It's all about using what's working that day.

You're a winner, Pap. I know you'll make the adjustment going forward. We all learn by our mistakes.

Tom Brady Down & Out

Even though this is a Red Sox blog, I would be remiss if there wasn't a mention about Tom Brady's season-ending injury.

We have been spoiled by season after season of excellence in the 21st century. 3 Patriots Super Bowl wins. 2 Red Sox World Series wins. 1 Celtics NBA Championship. During this stretch Tom Brady has been at the helm of the local team with the most rings. He will be missed.

I remember the Patriots coming out from under the big American flag on the Green Monster after their playoff run. All Boston sports share a common connection to excellence. Tom has been the Curt Schilling for his team with a remarkable run of 135 consecutive starts.

A sports career is fickle when it comes to injuries. Just ask Jim Rice about his broken arm in 1985.

Like all of New England, I wish Tom a quick recovery.

Steve's Comment on Rays Series

My friend Steve is still having trouble getting his comments onto my blog. It could be operator malfunction!

Today he writes:

"They (Red Sox) could take 3 out of 3 if the Dice-man can keep the walks down tonight. Beckett vs. Kazmir will be a tough matchup tomorrow. Problem is Josh will be on a strict low pitch count, and then the middle relief comes into play."

Thanks, Steve.

If you encounter trouble while trying to leave a comment, go to 3nohitters@gmail.com & I will be sure to get them onto this blog for you.

Running Goofs Keep Game Close

Kevin Youkilis gets thrown out going to 2nd in the 1st inning, taking a big run off the board as the next batter, Jason Bay, homers.

Mark Kotsay gets thrown out at 2B trying to advance on a throw to 3rd from the outfield.

Coca Crisp gets picked off & is out by a mile trying to steal second.

These were 3 big outs that kept the Rays in last night's game by keeping the score to 3-0. If Rocco Baldelli launches one over the Green Monster in the 8th with men on 2nd & 3rd, it's a tie game. Good thing Pap was up for the challenge & struck him out instead.

In a close game you need to balance aggressiveness with common sense. The Sox were just a little to aggressive on the bases last night for me. In at least one case, it cost a big insurance run.

I hated running into outs as a coach & still do as a fan. On the plus side, though, it didn't come back to bite the Sox.

Jon + Jonathan = Win

Recipe for beating the Rays:

- Start with Jon Lester throwing 7 2/3 innings of shutout ball.

- Add Jonathan Papelbon to get out of trouble in the 8th & pitch a scoreless 9th.

- Throw in 3 1st-inning runs with contributions from Big Papi, Jason Bay & Coco Crisp.

- Cook for 3 hours & you have a 1/2 game difference for the AL East lead.

This game had all the earmarks of a playoff classic with Boston coming out on top. A win tonight puts the Sox back in 1st, maybe to stay.

Fans get treated to another great pitching matchup tonight with Kazmir vs. Dice-K. Let's see if the Sox keep rolling or the Rays stop their skid. I'm betting on the Sox.

Lester Gets the Ball

Jon Lester gets to start game #1 tonight against the Rays. Could we get anyone better?

Lester has owned the Yankees this year & silenced their big left-handed bats. I expect the same tonight with Pena, Hinske & Co. The Sox are so tough at Fenway & so hot right now that the karma is there at the right time.

Don't expect the Rays to lay down. A sweep by the Rays in Boston (highly unlikely) would give Tampa breathing room & just about assure them a playoff spot.

As a viewer, I hope NESN doesn't show the Crisp-Shields fight a million times over the next 3 days. It may make for good theatre, but it time to give it a rest & move on.

Enjoy these 3 games.

Sox Gain on Rays Again

It's down to a 1 1/2 game lead for the Rays over the Sox. The Rays had a disaster in Toronto getting swept in all 3 games. By contrast the Sox took 2 out of 3 in Texas.

With the top 3 Sox starters going against Tampa Bay this week there could be a change in the AL leader board by Wednesday night. Tampa is coming in cold & the Red Sox are hitting their stride.

Nice workmanlike effort in a win by the Sox today. HR's by Jason Bay & Big Papi paced the offense. Shutout ball pitched by Paul Byrd against a good hitting line-up.

I predict 2 out of 3 wins against Tampa Bay at Fenway. That would put us just 1/2 game back with 15+ to go.

Sox, Tampa, Twins All Lose

No one gained on anyone yesterday. Sox lost to Texas. Tampa Bay lost to the Blue Jays in 13 innings. Twins lost to the Tigers. It would be nice if Paul Byrd could manufacture a win against the Rangers today to keep a series win on the road going for the Sox.

At worst the Sox will be 3 1/2 back of the Rays when therir 3 game series gets underway at Fenway tomorrow night. With the 1, 2, 3 starters in the form of Lester, Dice-K & Beckett going for the Sox we should expect to take the series.

Keep your eye on the Wild Card. The Yankees won last night in Seattle, so they inch closer to the Twins in the Wild Card race.

September is a great month to be a fan.

"Comments" Section Under Repair

Dear Blog Readers:

I understand that my "Comments" sections is experiencing technical difficulties. It will soon be repaired. In the meantime, feel free to leave your thoughts at 3nohitters@gmail.com for the time being.

Steve from Manchester, NH left the following comment on the Pedroia post:

With Dustin hitting so well, Ortiz is starting to see more pitches. I love the comment by Ozzie Guillen last week. "It's the first time I ever intentionally walked a jockey."

Thanks, Steve. Keep the comments coming. We're in for a great ride down the stretch in September.

Sox Rolls Behind Beckett & Lowell

Josh Beckett pitches 5 shutout innings. Mike Lowell drives in 4 runs with a 3-5 night at the plate, including a 1st at-bat homer. Tampa Bay loses in Toronto. Can things go any better for the Red Sox?

Now just 2 1/2 games back in the AL East race the Sox have won their last 4 in a row while the Rays have dropped 3 out of 4. The head-to-head series in Boston on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday could see a shift in the AL East leader if things continue on their current track.

I feel for Josh Beckett since I have experience with an arm injury during my pitching days. It is such a relief to get back on the mound & perform well. All the doubts are gone. The amazing thing, as Jerry Remy said, was the accuracy & control of Beckett after not pitching for weeks.

Mike Lowell was smiling like a 20-year old kid after the game. His injuries seems to be in the rear view mirror as well.

The only missing piece of significance remains J.D. Drew. Let's hope his BP goes well today & he makes an on-field appearance soon. We need everyone to make a serious run in the playoffs.