In the tough AL East you need to score runs. In my opinion the lack of consistent offense was the major weakness in the 2009 Red Sox roster. Looking closer at the offense, it was the lack of a consistent middle-of-the-order guy to compliment Youk & Bay. Thank goodness for Victor coming over for the final 2 months or we would not have made the playoffs.
David Ortiz was non-existent for half a year. Since his hand injury in 2008 Big Papi has not been the same guy who came up with big hits when needed. He is certainly not the 50 home-run player of 2006. Also, his steroids issue did nothing to help his on-field performance in 2009.
Mike Lowell is coming off hip surgery. He put together a very good 1st half with regular play until his hip acted up. Being platooned in the 2nd half, Lowell never really adjusted to that role & his numbers reflected it. He also hit into many, many double plays with his lack of speed.
The good news is both Ortiz & Lowell are in the final year of their current contracts in 2010. That usually means both will be working hard in the off-season to have a good contract year. It's just human nature to play well for next contract.
We need them both to stay healthy & return to form in 2010. Both will be on the roster as no one will pick-up their big contracts.
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