Dice-K was not treated well in Manchester, NH. The Portland Sea Dogs starter gave up 5 runs in 2 innings to the NH Fisher Cats as crowds of Red Sox fans packed MerchantsAuto.com stadium.
Hard to tell what this means on the road back to Fenway for the Dice-man. I believe he is scheduled for a Triple-A start later this week. After that, he gets re-evaluated & can certainly be part of the September call-ups.
The Sox rotation - this week - consists of Lester, Beckett, Buchholz, Byrd & Tazawa. Who would have thought this for September 1st? Tim Wakefield made a great start against the White Sox, but looks headed back to the DL unless his back responds to a cortisone shot today. Dice-K has suffered from "WBC" arm & has not been a factor all year.
Let's hope Dice can put it together & get back in the rotation by mid-September. We need all hands on deck for this last month.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Kazmir to Angels
As the Red Sox invade the unfriendly confines of the Trop in Tampa Bay, they won't have to worry about facing Scott Kazmir anymore. In an unusual move, the Rays sent Kazmir to the Angels for 2 draft picks.
Scott Kazmir, a young kid still barely 25, was the one & only quality pitcher for the Rays rotation in his early years. He was among the league leaders in strikeouts at 20 years old. Kazmir always seemed to pitch well against the Red Sox, so we are not sad to see him go.
The Rays PR people are saying that the move was made to save $22 million in salary over the next 2 years. Others, outside of Tampa, are saying that the Rays have waived the white flag in the Wild Card race. I'm not buying the white flag theory, especially with Shields & Garza still in the rotation. The Rays like to keep their payroll down, so I'm going with dropping a big salary.
The Angels, obviously, hope that Kazmir can lend an arm in the playoffs to help beat the Yankees & Red Sox. Time will tell.
Scott Kazmir, a young kid still barely 25, was the one & only quality pitcher for the Rays rotation in his early years. He was among the league leaders in strikeouts at 20 years old. Kazmir always seemed to pitch well against the Red Sox, so we are not sad to see him go.
The Rays PR people are saying that the move was made to save $22 million in salary over the next 2 years. Others, outside of Tampa, are saying that the Rays have waived the white flag in the Wild Card race. I'm not buying the white flag theory, especially with Shields & Garza still in the rotation. The Rays like to keep their payroll down, so I'm going with dropping a big salary.
The Angels, obviously, hope that Kazmir can lend an arm in the playoffs to help beat the Yankees & Red Sox. Time will tell.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Sox Finish Sweep of Jays 7-0
Paul Byrd was crafty for 6 innings as he worked around 3 walks & allowed just 3 hits. He gave the Sox a great fill-in performance in their 7-0 win against the Blue Jays. Jays batters were off-balance most of the day against Byrd.
The long awaited debut of Billy Wagner took place in the 8th, the inning where the Sox may use him for the remainder of this season. Wagner gave up 1 hit, but struckout 3 in his 1st inning of work as a non-closer for the Sox.
The win today closes the month of August at 16 wins & 12 losses. Now the Sox start the final month of the regular season on the road with 3 in Tampa Bay & 4 in Chicago. The Rays lost today widening the gap in the Wild Card race. A good trip to Tampa may put the Rays out of the race completely.
The long awaited debut of Billy Wagner took place in the 8th, the inning where the Sox may use him for the remainder of this season. Wagner gave up 1 hit, but struckout 3 in his 1st inning of work as a non-closer for the Sox.
The win today closes the month of August at 16 wins & 12 losses. Now the Sox start the final month of the regular season on the road with 3 in Tampa Bay & 4 in Chicago. The Rays lost today widening the gap in the Wild Card race. A good trip to Tampa may put the Rays out of the race completely.
Buchholz Stands & Delivers
Clay Buchholz was impressive last night, going 8-1/3 innings of 1 run ball in a 3-2 win over the Toronto Blue Jays. He had command of all his pitches, something missing in previous starts.
I had the pleasure of attending the game last night. It's amazing to me how well the field drained after a full day of heavy rains. The grounds crew did a great job of getting the field ready.
Also amazing was how full the stands were on an "iffy" night. 37,000 + clapped & shouted the Red Sox to another victory last night. I sat next to a couple from California who moved to Rhode Island 10 years ago. He is a Red Sox fan, she was a Yankees fan. Other than directing us to look at the standings (which I said I couldn't see), she was rooting for the Red Sox to win.
Live baseball is always a great treat if you can get out to a game. Young & old, male & female, the Sox appeal to all.
I had the pleasure of attending the game last night. It's amazing to me how well the field drained after a full day of heavy rains. The grounds crew did a great job of getting the field ready.
Also amazing was how full the stands were on an "iffy" night. 37,000 + clapped & shouted the Red Sox to another victory last night. I sat next to a couple from California who moved to Rhode Island 10 years ago. He is a Red Sox fan, she was a Yankees fan. Other than directing us to look at the standings (which I said I couldn't see), she was rooting for the Red Sox to win.
Live baseball is always a great treat if you can get out to a game. Young & old, male & female, the Sox appeal to all.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Game On Saturday Night?
My buddy Gaff & I are heading to Boston tonight for the Red Sox game versus the Blue Jays. The weather report says 100% precipitation & I won't be happy if we get there & the game gets rained out.
We will produce a podcast on the way down & one on the way back. We'll see how our thoughts going in are right, or wrong, on the podcast on the way out.
Stay tuned for more...
We will produce a podcast on the way down & one on the way back. We'll see how our thoughts going in are right, or wrong, on the podcast on the way out.
Stay tuned for more...
Varitek Blocks Home In Win
OK, I'm one of the guys that likes Jason Varitek on the bench more than on the field. I think the combination of Lowell, Youk, Victor & Big Papi give us more offense & a better chance to win a game.
In the interest of fairness you have to applaud the block of home plate last night by Varitek to save an important run. In a 6-5 comeback win against the Blue Jays that block was the play of the game to me.
Varitek was in perfect position to take a great relay throw from Gonzalez. The runner arrived a tad before the throw, but Varitek held his ground, kept his left foot anchored in front of the plate, took the throw, then went back & tagged the runner. Text book catching 101.
Varitek & Martinez make a good catching tandem. As it stands now, Victor will catch 3-4 times a week & play 1B or DH the other days. Varitek will catch the other 2-3 days which seems to be a perfect mix. Both get rest & stay fresh.
I give Jason Varitek his dues for contributing to an important win last night that lengthened the Wild Card lead over both the Rangers & Rays.
In the interest of fairness you have to applaud the block of home plate last night by Varitek to save an important run. In a 6-5 comeback win against the Blue Jays that block was the play of the game to me.
Varitek was in perfect position to take a great relay throw from Gonzalez. The runner arrived a tad before the throw, but Varitek held his ground, kept his left foot anchored in front of the plate, took the throw, then went back & tagged the runner. Text book catching 101.
Varitek & Martinez make a good catching tandem. As it stands now, Victor will catch 3-4 times a week & play 1B or DH the other days. Varitek will catch the other 2-3 days which seems to be a perfect mix. Both get rest & stay fresh.
I give Jason Varitek his dues for contributing to an important win last night that lengthened the Wild Card lead over both the Rangers & Rays.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Big Start for Beckett
Josh Beckett has not been Josh Beckett-like lately. He has given up long balls at an alarming rate over his past 3 starts. 5 in all to the Yankees in his last start alone.
For the Sox to go anywhere - as far as making the playoffs & then to advance - we need the 2007 version of Josh Beckett that we saw for most of this June & July. When Beckett is right he has unhittable stuff. The key is the ability to locate his fastball - in & out, up & down. The fastball sets up his curve & change.
Every start in a pennant race is a must-win in late August & September. But Josh is our #1 & we need him to suck-up innings & win every time he takes the mound now. I think he's ready for the challenge.
For the Sox to go anywhere - as far as making the playoffs & then to advance - we need the 2007 version of Josh Beckett that we saw for most of this June & July. When Beckett is right he has unhittable stuff. The key is the ability to locate his fastball - in & out, up & down. The fastball sets up his curve & change.
Every start in a pennant race is a must-win in late August & September. But Josh is our #1 & we need him to suck-up innings & win every time he takes the mound now. I think he's ready for the challenge.
Brad Penny Released
As expected, Brad Penny was given his release when Billy Wagner was added to the 25-man roster. Penny's numbers had been going downhill at a critical point in the season. He became expendable when Tim Wakefield showed no ill effects from his stint on the DL.
I think Brad Penny gave the Sox several excellent starts in the first half of the season. At the same time Penny has fully rehabbed his shoulder & is again throwing mid & upper 90's on a regular basis. He should catch on with another team pretty quickly.
Unlike the Smoltz experiment, Penny's was more successful. I know -- Smoltz struckout 9 for the Cardinals. Did you see the pitches the Padres batters were swinging for? Big difference in hitting styles in the National vs. American League. When Beckett & Lester were struggling early it was Penny & Wakefield that provided most of the wins.
Thanks, Brad, for keeping us in contention. Good luck wherever you land.
I think Brad Penny gave the Sox several excellent starts in the first half of the season. At the same time Penny has fully rehabbed his shoulder & is again throwing mid & upper 90's on a regular basis. He should catch on with another team pretty quickly.
Unlike the Smoltz experiment, Penny's was more successful. I know -- Smoltz struckout 9 for the Cardinals. Did you see the pitches the Padres batters were swinging for? Big difference in hitting styles in the National vs. American League. When Beckett & Lester were struggling early it was Penny & Wakefield that provided most of the wins.
Thanks, Brad, for keeping us in contention. Good luck wherever you land.
Can Wagner & Pap Co-Exist?
Billy Wagner is 15 games shy of 400 saves. He came to Boston for one reason -- to win a World Series ring. Wagner stated yesterday that he would like the opportunity to again close & try to reach the 400 saves plateau.
Jon Papelbon recently recorded his 30th save for the 4th season in a row. He is one of the few closers to ever reach that milestone in his first 4 seasons. Yes, he has had a number of dirty saves this year & his pitch count is up. But, in the end, there is only one stat that matters & Pap is 30 out of 33 in saves. He also has 25 scoreless innings in the playoffs to his resume.
I think this is a great situation. You know can shorten the game to 7 innings with Wagner in the 8th & Pap in the 9th. Wagner will want to prove he still has game after Tommy John surgery so another club will pick up his services as a closer next year. Pap will now be motivated to show that he is the closer of this team now & for the near future.
Any motivation & any player that helps the Red Sox win in September is a good move.
Jon Papelbon recently recorded his 30th save for the 4th season in a row. He is one of the few closers to ever reach that milestone in his first 4 seasons. Yes, he has had a number of dirty saves this year & his pitch count is up. But, in the end, there is only one stat that matters & Pap is 30 out of 33 in saves. He also has 25 scoreless innings in the playoffs to his resume.
I think this is a great situation. You know can shorten the game to 7 innings with Wagner in the 8th & Pap in the 9th. Wagner will want to prove he still has game after Tommy John surgery so another club will pick up his services as a closer next year. Pap will now be motivated to show that he is the closer of this team now & for the near future.
Any motivation & any player that helps the Red Sox win in September is a good move.
Tazawa Gives Up 9
The Sox dropped the finale to the ChiSox 9-5. Junichi Tazawa was roughed up for 9 runs in 4 innings. He is a promising young pitcher, but not ready for prime time yet. Tazawa should get a couple more starts before Dice-K is ready to return.
On a positive note J.D. Drew had 2 more homers & Alex Gonzalez added another of his own. Drew has been as productive in the #8 hole as he has been anywhere else in the lineup this year. Maybe that's a good spot for him. Drew usually gets on-base & can help turn the lineup over.
The Sox start today 6 games behind the Yankees & 1-1/2 games ahead of the Rangers. My prediction for the Sox was to finish the month of August 5 games or less behind the Yankees & still in front in the Wild Card. With Beckett & Lester scheduled to pitch against Toronto this weekend we have a good shot at those benchmarks.
On a positive note J.D. Drew had 2 more homers & Alex Gonzalez added another of his own. Drew has been as productive in the #8 hole as he has been anywhere else in the lineup this year. Maybe that's a good spot for him. Drew usually gets on-base & can help turn the lineup over.
The Sox start today 6 games behind the Yankees & 1-1/2 games ahead of the Rangers. My prediction for the Sox was to finish the month of August 5 games or less behind the Yankees & still in front in the Wild Card. With Beckett & Lester scheduled to pitch against Toronto this weekend we have a good shot at those benchmarks.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Ellsbury & Gonzalez Contributing
Two guys that get lost in the Red Sox lineup are Ellsbury at the top & Gonzalez at the bottom.
Jacoby Ellsbury has played flawless in CF all year. He should be up for a Gold Glove Award by the time the season is over. He has also broken a 30+ year old record for most stolen bases in a season, previously held by Tommy Harper. In this latest stretch of games Jacoby has had multiple hit games, getting on base & driving in runs. He has become the offensive threat at leadoff that the Red Sox were hoping for.
Alex Gonzalez is no stranger to the defensive side of the ball. He was sure-handed in 2006 for the Sox & still is in 2009. Alex has played errorless ball at SS since rejoining the Red Sox. He has also contributed at the plate, even a few HR's like the one last night. Theo may a great pick-up as opposed to Guzman from the Nationals.
Both Ellsbury & Gonzalez are contributing to big wins down the stretch.
Jacoby Ellsbury has played flawless in CF all year. He should be up for a Gold Glove Award by the time the season is over. He has also broken a 30+ year old record for most stolen bases in a season, previously held by Tommy Harper. In this latest stretch of games Jacoby has had multiple hit games, getting on base & driving in runs. He has become the offensive threat at leadoff that the Red Sox were hoping for.
Alex Gonzalez is no stranger to the defensive side of the ball. He was sure-handed in 2006 for the Sox & still is in 2009. Alex has played errorless ball at SS since rejoining the Red Sox. He has also contributed at the plate, even a few HR's like the one last night. Theo may a great pick-up as opposed to Guzman from the Nationals.
Both Ellsbury & Gonzalez are contributing to big wins down the stretch.
Two More Late Wins
On Tuesday it was Victor Martinez & Jason Bay. Last night it was the Big Papi show of old. Two bigs wins 6-3 & 3-2 over the White Sox. The Sox picked-up a game on the Yankees & added a game to their Wild Card lead over the Rangers.
Give Francona credit, yes I said credit, for a great late-inning move on Tuesday. He pinch-runs Nick Green for Varitek & pinch-hits Victor for Alex Gonzalez. That produced a game tying run before a Jason Bay homer put the Sox ahead to stay.
I was one of the doubters last night as to why Big Papi was playing instead of Lowell. But Ortiz delivered 2 homers, the last his 1st walk-off in 2 years. Also, you can't say enough about the effort of Tim Wakefield. 7 innings, 1 run. How about Victor catching Wake flawlessly?
There may be some moaning & groaning about playing time, but so far so good since the final results have been wins. We need wins to make the playoffs.
Give Francona credit, yes I said credit, for a great late-inning move on Tuesday. He pinch-runs Nick Green for Varitek & pinch-hits Victor for Alex Gonzalez. That produced a game tying run before a Jason Bay homer put the Sox ahead to stay.
I was one of the doubters last night as to why Big Papi was playing instead of Lowell. But Ortiz delivered 2 homers, the last his 1st walk-off in 2 years. Also, you can't say enough about the effort of Tim Wakefield. 7 innings, 1 run. How about Victor catching Wake flawlessly?
There may be some moaning & groaning about playing time, but so far so good since the final results have been wins. We need wins to make the playoffs.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Sox Offense Scores 12
Another double-digit run producing night for the revitalized Sox offense. This time an even dozen runs led to an opening game 12-8 win over the visiting Chicago White Sox.
Neither starter was effective last night. Jose Contreras made a huge error on a simple ground ball by David Ortiz that opened the flood gates in the 3rd, culminating with a 3-run blast by Mike Lowell. Clay Buchholz was ineffective as well with poor command. He was unable to get out of the 5th inning after giving up his own 3-run blast to Paul Konerko.
The continuous offensive production by Mike Lowell keeps the contraversy going as to whether he should be included in the player rotation with David Ortiz & Jason Varitek. For my money I say keep Lowell on the field & rotate Big Papi & Varitek.
Neither starter was effective last night. Jose Contreras made a huge error on a simple ground ball by David Ortiz that opened the flood gates in the 3rd, culminating with a 3-run blast by Mike Lowell. Clay Buchholz was ineffective as well with poor command. He was unable to get out of the 5th inning after giving up his own 3-run blast to Paul Konerko.
The continuous offensive production by Mike Lowell keeps the contraversy going as to whether he should be included in the player rotation with David Ortiz & Jason Varitek. For my money I say keep Lowell on the field & rotate Big Papi & Varitek.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Billy Wagner to Boston?
Interesting move, Theo. The Sox are still tinkering with their roster. To me that means management believes the Sox will be in the playoffs.
Besides the recent addition of two starters, Victor Martinez & Alex Gonzalez, the Sox have put in a waiver claim on Billy Wagner. (I'm not counting Paul Byrd as he is more of a Plan Z than Plan B.) Wagner could add a 2nd lefty to the bullpen with some gas. We won't know for sure until Tuesday whether or not this deal goes through.
In his hayday Wagner was able to bring-it around 100 mph. In his first relief appearance after Tommy John surgery Wagner pitched a scoreless inning of relief & hit 96 on the gun. How bad can that be to add a lefty to the pen? As Pap said, I guess it depends on who gets moved out. With September call-ups around the corner the Sox could move Bard or another reliever back to Triple-A for a week.
I like it.
Besides the recent addition of two starters, Victor Martinez & Alex Gonzalez, the Sox have put in a waiver claim on Billy Wagner. (I'm not counting Paul Byrd as he is more of a Plan Z than Plan B.) Wagner could add a 2nd lefty to the bullpen with some gas. We won't know for sure until Tuesday whether or not this deal goes through.
In his hayday Wagner was able to bring-it around 100 mph. In his first relief appearance after Tommy John surgery Wagner pitched a scoreless inning of relief & hit 96 on the gun. How bad can that be to add a lefty to the pen? As Pap said, I guess it depends on who gets moved out. With September call-ups around the corner the Sox could move Bard or another reliever back to Triple-A for a week.
I like it.
Yanks Bomb Beckett
Josh Beckett gave up 5 home runs in an 8-4 defeat at Fenway to the Yankees. The Yankees leave Beantown adding a game to their AL East lead after taking 2 out of 3 over the weekend. The Red Sox are 10-11 so far in the month of August.
Beckett has given up 10 long balls in his last 3 starts. Cause for concern? I say no. You can't have 34 perfect starts in a season. Josh will figure it out & come back strong against Toronto on Friday. Meantime, the Chicago White Sox come to town for a big 4 game series. Time to get re-focused on Ozzie's crew.
The good news to me is that the Sox offense scored plenty of runs off Burnett on Saturday & they got Sabathia out of the game early last night after scoring 4 off him. A good Beckett & a good Lester can convert those games into wins.
Finally, I think Beckett could have called it quits after 6 innings, but he stayed out there for 2 more to save the bullpen. That's a small thing that may go unnoticed by most fans, but not his coaches & teammates. Maybe a rested bullpen translates into a few more wins against the White Sox.
Beckett has given up 10 long balls in his last 3 starts. Cause for concern? I say no. You can't have 34 perfect starts in a season. Josh will figure it out & come back strong against Toronto on Friday. Meantime, the Chicago White Sox come to town for a big 4 game series. Time to get re-focused on Ozzie's crew.
The good news to me is that the Sox offense scored plenty of runs off Burnett on Saturday & they got Sabathia out of the game early last night after scoring 4 off him. A good Beckett & a good Lester can convert those games into wins.
Finally, I think Beckett could have called it quits after 6 innings, but he stayed out there for 2 more to save the bullpen. That's a small thing that may go unnoticed by most fans, but not his coaches & teammates. Maybe a rested bullpen translates into a few more wins against the White Sox.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Beckett Versus Sabathia in Finale
This game has the makings of another Red Sox-Yankees classic. After clubbing each other with 31 runs on Friday & 15 runs on Saturday, you would think that this matchup would be more of a pitcher's duel.
More times than not, though, overhyped games rarely live up to their billing. ESPN will be showing Joe Morgan clips from the '70s as usual. Fans get the honor of staying up late Sunday night with an 8 PM start time. But, on paper, it really should be a playoff-like game with #1 starter vs. #1 starter.
The Red Sox could certainly used the win. Go get 'em, Josh!
More times than not, though, overhyped games rarely live up to their billing. ESPN will be showing Joe Morgan clips from the '70s as usual. Fans get the honor of staying up late Sunday night with an 8 PM start time. But, on paper, it really should be a playoff-like game with #1 starter vs. #1 starter.
The Red Sox could certainly used the win. Go get 'em, Josh!
Wakefield Back on Wednesday
Tim Wakefield will take Brad Penny's next start on Wednesday against the Chicago White Sox. No decision has been made about Penny for the future.
Wake has been on the DL for about a month with a bad back & ailing calf muscle. He pitched well enough in Triple-A on Friday to get his rotation spot back with the big club.
Wake's comeback is not a minute too soon after Penny laid a big egg on Friday against the Yankees. But, as Lou Merloni said yesterday, don't throw any pitchers away just yet. Let's keep everyone around -- just in case.
A few quality starts by Wakefield, who is 11-3 this year, would certainly help down the stretch.
Wake has been on the DL for about a month with a bad back & ailing calf muscle. He pitched well enough in Triple-A on Friday to get his rotation spot back with the big club.
Wake's comeback is not a minute too soon after Penny laid a big egg on Friday against the Yankees. But, as Lou Merloni said yesterday, don't throw any pitchers away just yet. Let's keep everyone around -- just in case.
A few quality starts by Wakefield, who is 11-3 this year, would certainly help down the stretch.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Youk Has Career Day
It couldn't have come at a better time. Kevin Youkilis made the most of his opportunities today, crushing 2 homers off A.J. Burnett & finishing the day with 3 hits & 6 RBI.
Youk had been quiet lately, but not today. Today, he hit like a cleanup hitter. Victor Martinez & Jason Bay on either side of Youk definitely help him to see more pitches to hit.
This extended line-up looks better & better each time it is roled out, even with Lowell sitting today. With Sabathia going tomorrow, maybe Francona will sit Ortiz & use Lowell as the DH since the word is Varitek will be catching again tomorrow. Victor & Youk need to stay in the 3-4 spots.
Let's just put a winning lineup out there & take the series.
Youk had been quiet lately, but not today. Today, he hit like a cleanup hitter. Victor Martinez & Jason Bay on either side of Youk definitely help him to see more pitches to hit.
This extended line-up looks better & better each time it is roled out, even with Lowell sitting today. With Sabathia going tomorrow, maybe Francona will sit Ortiz & use Lowell as the DH since the word is Varitek will be catching again tomorrow. Victor & Youk need to stay in the 3-4 spots.
Let's just put a winning lineup out there & take the series.
Red Sox Strike Back At Evil Empire
A day after a crushing defeat, the Boston Red Sox struck back at A.J. Burnett & the Yankees with a 14-1 drubbing of the AL East leaders. This win sets up a classic matchup tomorrow as Josh Beckett & C.C. Sabathia each try to win the rubber game.
Burnett was tagged early & often, giving up 3 home runs & 7 earned runs in 6 innings. Youk went yard twice & Big Papi added a 3rd to left central which left Burnett talking to himself on the mound. A.J. was not up to the task of winning a key game against a revitalized Red Sox offense that scored 14 today & 11 yesterday. Burnett may remember that when we see him in the ALCS. Yes, I said it, ALCS.
Tazawa, on the other hand, exceeded all expectations. He worked around 8 hits over 6 innings & got key outs when he needed them. You can ask more of a kid in a Yankees-Red Sox series. It must have been a redemption of sorts for Tazawa after giving up the 15th inning HR to A-Rod at Yankee Stadium. Tazawa may have made a case to keep him as the 5th starter.
Big, big win after a depressing loss. It makes for great drama on Sunday night. There really is no other rivalry in sports like Red Sox & Yankees.
Burnett was tagged early & often, giving up 3 home runs & 7 earned runs in 6 innings. Youk went yard twice & Big Papi added a 3rd to left central which left Burnett talking to himself on the mound. A.J. was not up to the task of winning a key game against a revitalized Red Sox offense that scored 14 today & 11 yesterday. Burnett may remember that when we see him in the ALCS. Yes, I said it, ALCS.
Tazawa, on the other hand, exceeded all expectations. He worked around 8 hits over 6 innings & got key outs when he needed them. You can ask more of a kid in a Yankees-Red Sox series. It must have been a redemption of sorts for Tazawa after giving up the 15th inning HR to A-Rod at Yankee Stadium. Tazawa may have made a case to keep him as the 5th starter.
Big, big win after a depressing loss. It makes for great drama on Sunday night. There really is no other rivalry in sports like Red Sox & Yankees.
Ellsbury, Remy Brighten A Bad Night
After my last article on Brad Penny, I need to say something positive about last night.
- Jacoby Ellsbury tied a 36-year old record last night with his 54th steal of the season. He will certainly break the record in the coming days. Almost unnoticed, Ellsbury has been getting on base with frequency & driving in important runs. Correspondingly, the Sox offense has been much better when Jacoby is productive in the leadoff spot.
- The Sox offense put up 11 runs last night, good enough to win in 99 out of 100 games, just not last night. Even Varitek hit a late inning homer. No question that this is an much better lineup with Victor catching & Varitek or Papi on the pine. Lowell, who also homered, needs to stay in the lineup.
- Nice to see Jerry Remy back in the booth. He seemed to be his old self. Maybe that was just what the doctor ordered.
OK, that's might best "glass half full" that I can muster after a humiliating defeat.
- Jacoby Ellsbury tied a 36-year old record last night with his 54th steal of the season. He will certainly break the record in the coming days. Almost unnoticed, Ellsbury has been getting on base with frequency & driving in important runs. Correspondingly, the Sox offense has been much better when Jacoby is productive in the leadoff spot.
- The Sox offense put up 11 runs last night, good enough to win in 99 out of 100 games, just not last night. Even Varitek hit a late inning homer. No question that this is an much better lineup with Victor catching & Varitek or Papi on the pine. Lowell, who also homered, needs to stay in the lineup.
- Nice to see Jerry Remy back in the booth. He seemed to be his old self. Maybe that was just what the doctor ordered.
OK, that's might best "glass half full" that I can muster after a humiliating defeat.
Penny, Bowden Give Up 15 Runs
Question -- how can you score 7 runs off Andy Pettitte, score 11 in the game overall, & not beat the Yankees?
Answer -- when the Yankees are beating the crap out of Penny & Bowden for 15 runs in 6 innings.
If last Friday's comeback win against Texas with a 6-run 9th was the biggest win of the year, this was the biggest loss of the year. Opening game goes to the Yankees 20-11.
Maybe Penny's locker was located too close to John Smoltz's. After the game Penny said he feels good & thinks he can pitch productively for the Sox. Really? His ERA is 9.11 in his last 5 starts. Personally, after a crushing loss like Friday's, I don't want to hear how good Brad is feeling. I'm not feeling good. I couldn't sleep after his stinko performance.
Bowden was no better. I will say that bringing a kid who had been a starter into an inning with runners on 1st & 3rd is not a good situation. Tito could have gone to Delcarmen & let Bowden start an inning clean. But Bowden didn't have it last night either. He was sent back to the PawSox after the game.
Wakefield & Dice-K better speed up their rehab starts. We need them.
Answer -- when the Yankees are beating the crap out of Penny & Bowden for 15 runs in 6 innings.
If last Friday's comeback win against Texas with a 6-run 9th was the biggest win of the year, this was the biggest loss of the year. Opening game goes to the Yankees 20-11.
Maybe Penny's locker was located too close to John Smoltz's. After the game Penny said he feels good & thinks he can pitch productively for the Sox. Really? His ERA is 9.11 in his last 5 starts. Personally, after a crushing loss like Friday's, I don't want to hear how good Brad is feeling. I'm not feeling good. I couldn't sleep after his stinko performance.
Bowden was no better. I will say that bringing a kid who had been a starter into an inning with runners on 1st & 3rd is not a good situation. Tito could have gone to Delcarmen & let Bowden start an inning clean. But Bowden didn't have it last night either. He was sent back to the PawSox after the game.
Wakefield & Dice-K better speed up their rehab starts. We need them.
Friday, August 21, 2009
August Ends With 10 At Home
The Red Sox started August with 14 out of 18 games away from Friendly Fenway. They are 9-9 for the month.
Now the tables will turn as the Sox finish out the month with 10 games at home. Even though the Boston nine plays much better at home than on the road, the competition remains tough. Starting tonight, 3 games against the Yankees who hold a 6 1/2 game lead over Boston in the AL East. Next up is the Chicago White Sox, a contender in the AL Central, who are in for a 4-game set. Then the Blue Jays come to town for 3 more to finish off the month.
On one of our podcasts I said that if the Sox pull within 5 or less games of the Yankees & keep the Wild Card lead, that would be a good close to August. And I still think they can. To do that, however, the Sox will need an 8-2 or 7-3 homestand. 6-4 or 5-5 won't do it.
Think positive, fans. I am. Home cooking, plus the Fenway fans, will get us through these next 10 games in 10 days.
Now the tables will turn as the Sox finish out the month with 10 games at home. Even though the Boston nine plays much better at home than on the road, the competition remains tough. Starting tonight, 3 games against the Yankees who hold a 6 1/2 game lead over Boston in the AL East. Next up is the Chicago White Sox, a contender in the AL Central, who are in for a 4-game set. Then the Blue Jays come to town for 3 more to finish off the month.
On one of our podcasts I said that if the Sox pull within 5 or less games of the Yankees & keep the Wild Card lead, that would be a good close to August. And I still think they can. To do that, however, the Sox will need an 8-2 or 7-3 homestand. 6-4 or 5-5 won't do it.
Think positive, fans. I am. Home cooking, plus the Fenway fans, will get us through these next 10 games in 10 days.
Lester, Drew Too Much for Jays
Jon Lester pitched 8 innings of 1-run ball. J.D. Drew went 4 for 4, 2 homers, 3 RBI out of the 8th spot. At times last night it looked like men against boys. Toronto didn't help their cause with 3 errors in the field.
Last night's 8-1 win completes a big 3-game sweep of the Jays away from Fenway. The offense looks much better with 2+ homer runs in each of the last several games. The "dream" lineup last night featured Ortiz, Lowell & Drew hitting #6, 7 & 8. You may get a few guys out, but it's unlikely to get all 8 in a row. Everyone seems to be swinging a good bat right now.
Next up -- NYY. Let's see if the offense stays hot against Pettitte, Burnett & C.C. I'm predicting that we win 2 out of 3.
Last night's 8-1 win completes a big 3-game sweep of the Jays away from Fenway. The offense looks much better with 2+ homer runs in each of the last several games. The "dream" lineup last night featured Ortiz, Lowell & Drew hitting #6, 7 & 8. You may get a few guys out, but it's unlikely to get all 8 in a row. Everyone seems to be swinging a good bat right now.
Next up -- NYY. Let's see if the offense stays hot against Pettitte, Burnett & C.C. I'm predicting that we win 2 out of 3.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Jerry Remy Coming Back
Jerry Remy is scheduled to be back in the broadcaster's booth on Friday night when the Yankees come to town. The Rem Dawg has been a fixture in the booth for the past 20 years. My question is why come back at all this year.
Jerry has been through a lot. Cancer. Depression. Family issues with his son. Why not just take the extra time & skip the last 6 weeks of the season? Maybe it's not that simple.
Anyone involved in sports knows how "antsy" you can get waiting for that next game. Maybe Jerry needs to do this for his own mental health. Maybe he needs to find out if he can get back into his old lifestyle.
Whatever the reason for the comeback I give Jerry a pass. He's earned it. He deserves to get back to what he loves to do.
Good luck, Jerry!
Jerry has been through a lot. Cancer. Depression. Family issues with his son. Why not just take the extra time & skip the last 6 weeks of the season? Maybe it's not that simple.
Anyone involved in sports knows how "antsy" you can get waiting for that next game. Maybe Jerry needs to do this for his own mental health. Maybe he needs to find out if he can get back into his old lifestyle.
Whatever the reason for the comeback I give Jerry a pass. He's earned it. He deserves to get back to what he loves to do.
Good luck, Jerry!
Buchholz Finally Wins
The 3rd time was the charm for Clay Buchholz. His 3rd quality start in a row produced a big victory for the Sox over Roy Halladay & the Blue Jays 6-1.
Buchholz pitched out of trouble in the 4th & 6th innings before the bullpen finished up the game with 3 scoreless innings of relief. Nice pitching effort by the staff after the Blue Jays scored 9 runs the night before.
The offense keep the long ball alive with Ortiz, Bay & Victor all going yard. The biggest hit of the game may have been Alex Gonzalez' seeing-eye ground ball up the middle to score Kotchman with the 2nd run. As it turns out, that was the winning run.
With the Texas Rangers blowing another lead last night & losing to the Minnesota Twins the Sox are now 1 game ahead in the Wild Card. Jon Lester goes for the sweep today.
We need this last game in Toronto before the Yankees come to town for the weekend. Penny & Tazawa are scheduled to pitch the first 2 games, so the weekend looks "iffy" with the pitching match-ups. But the match-up wasn't in our favor last night & look what happened.
Buchholz pitched out of trouble in the 4th & 6th innings before the bullpen finished up the game with 3 scoreless innings of relief. Nice pitching effort by the staff after the Blue Jays scored 9 runs the night before.
The offense keep the long ball alive with Ortiz, Bay & Victor all going yard. The biggest hit of the game may have been Alex Gonzalez' seeing-eye ground ball up the middle to score Kotchman with the 2nd run. As it turns out, that was the winning run.
With the Texas Rangers blowing another lead last night & losing to the Minnesota Twins the Sox are now 1 game ahead in the Wild Card. Jon Lester goes for the sweep today.
We need this last game in Toronto before the Yankees come to town for the weekend. Penny & Tazawa are scheduled to pitch the first 2 games, so the weekend looks "iffy" with the pitching match-ups. But the match-up wasn't in our favor last night & look what happened.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Is Big Papi Out of Slump?
For a guy that wasn't in the starting line-up, David Ortiz hit pretty well last night. A bases-loaded double on a tough pitch from Romero & a solo home run to right center for a total of 3 RBI. He was one of several Sox batters that brought their hitting shoes to the Rogers Centre & scored 10 runs. They needed all of them in a 10-9 win.
When Pedroia comes back from being a new dad the Sox have a strong 1 thru 8 in the line-up with Varitek out & Gonzalez hitting 9th. The player rotation used by Francona should see Varitek with less time if Big Papi keeps contributing out of the 6th or 7th hole. Varitek has an injured neck which may keep him out anyway.
A contributing Ortiz, MIA for the bulk of this season, can be a great catalyst for the Sox down the stretch. Like Buchholz with the passing of the trade deadline, maybe Ortiz can relax now that the steroids issue has been addressed & is behind him (for now).
We need positive signs. I'll believe that Big Papi is coming out of his slump as my sign for today.
When Pedroia comes back from being a new dad the Sox have a strong 1 thru 8 in the line-up with Varitek out & Gonzalez hitting 9th. The player rotation used by Francona should see Varitek with less time if Big Papi keeps contributing out of the 6th or 7th hole. Varitek has an injured neck which may keep him out anyway.
A contributing Ortiz, MIA for the bulk of this season, can be a great catalyst for the Sox down the stretch. Like Buchholz with the passing of the trade deadline, maybe Ortiz can relax now that the steroids issue has been addressed & is behind him (for now).
We need positive signs. I'll believe that Big Papi is coming out of his slump as my sign for today.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
An Ugly Win, But Still A Win
Red Sox 10, Blue Jays 9. This game had everything -- the good, the bad & the outright ugly.
- Good hitting by both teams as 19 runs were scored. Ortiz & Bay went yard for the Sox. Big Papi had 3 RBI off a left-hander.
- Bad fielding by Toronto with an error in the outfield & a huge error by their pitcher.
- Ugly pitching by Beckett & Papelbon. This was Beckett's worst start in 3 months, giving up 3 home runs & erasing leads of 6-2 & 7-3. Papelbon gave up 3 walks plus 2 hits before getting 4 outs.
However, at the end of the day, we outlasted Toronto. Huge win when you think about facing Halladay tomorrow night. Right now we'll take wins -- pretty ones & ugly ones.
- Good hitting by both teams as 19 runs were scored. Ortiz & Bay went yard for the Sox. Big Papi had 3 RBI off a left-hander.
- Bad fielding by Toronto with an error in the outfield & a huge error by their pitcher.
- Ugly pitching by Beckett & Papelbon. This was Beckett's worst start in 3 months, giving up 3 home runs & erasing leads of 6-2 & 7-3. Papelbon gave up 3 walks plus 2 hits before getting 4 outs.
However, at the end of the day, we outlasted Toronto. Huge win when you think about facing Halladay tomorrow night. Right now we'll take wins -- pretty ones & ugly ones.
J.D. Drew's Sore Ankle
J.D. Drew is not someone who will play 150 games per season. If we are lucky, 100 is about all we should expect after his first 3 years with the Red Sox. He has a bad back which Francona needs to be concerned about. Typically, Drew will play 4-5 times a week, then sit out 2-3 games. For a guy that is now the highest paid player on the team, Drew does not have the blue collar ethic of a Youk, Pedroia, Varitek, etc.
Case in point. This week a story surfaced from Francona that Drew asked out of the Texas game on Friday in the 7th inning because of a sore ankle. In what was the Sox's biggest & best comeback victory of the year, Drew actually hit a 2-run homer in the 9th. Didn't seem to be limping or favoring his ankle to me?
Sad part of this story is the fact that J.D. Drew is a gifted player who can carry a team for weeks or a month like last June. We are a better team with him in the line-up as opposed to Baldelli, Reddick or Anderson.
Good luck, Tito, managing Drew's playing time for the rest of the season. 2 more years after this one still left on his big contract.
Case in point. This week a story surfaced from Francona that Drew asked out of the Texas game on Friday in the 7th inning because of a sore ankle. In what was the Sox's biggest & best comeback victory of the year, Drew actually hit a 2-run homer in the 9th. Didn't seem to be limping or favoring his ankle to me?
Sad part of this story is the fact that J.D. Drew is a gifted player who can carry a team for weeks or a month like last June. We are a better team with him in the line-up as opposed to Baldelli, Reddick or Anderson.
Good luck, Tito, managing Drew's playing time for the rest of the season. 2 more years after this one still left on his big contract.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Should Francona Share the Blame?
The Sox are 5 games under .500 since the All-Star break while the Yankees are surging. The Rays & Rangers are playing well enough to keep their Wild Card hopes alive & remain a definite threat. 40 something games left in the season. What to do?
Terry Francona has a number of options with the additions of Victor Martinez, Casey Kotchman & Alex Gonzalez. Tito is a players' manager who sticks with guys to a fault. I think it's time for a change in philosophy if we are to make the playoffs this year. Here's my Monday morning quarterback thoughts.
1) Start Mike Lowell. Bench Jason Varitek. That's an offensive upgrade. Late in the game, bring Varitek in to catch & move Victor to first if we are ahead.
2) Bring Josh Reddick back from Triple-A. Send Brian Anderson down. Anderson looked sick in the outfield with a ball over his head this weekend. Reddick can play all 3 outfield positions & is a better hitter.
3) Find another starter from Triple-A or Double-A. Tazawa is a John Smoltz look-alike who gives up too many hits. I'm sure he will be a good pitcher in the future, just not now. We need #4 & #5 starters who can give 3 or 4 quality starts until Wakefield & Dice-K are ready.
4) Extend Beckett, Lester & Papelbon as needed. Let's get off the pitch count thing for the last 7 weeks. Otherwise, the Red Sox will be sitting in October watching the playoffs on TV.
Let's see if Tito takes my advice.
Terry Francona has a number of options with the additions of Victor Martinez, Casey Kotchman & Alex Gonzalez. Tito is a players' manager who sticks with guys to a fault. I think it's time for a change in philosophy if we are to make the playoffs this year. Here's my Monday morning quarterback thoughts.
1) Start Mike Lowell. Bench Jason Varitek. That's an offensive upgrade. Late in the game, bring Varitek in to catch & move Victor to first if we are ahead.
2) Bring Josh Reddick back from Triple-A. Send Brian Anderson down. Anderson looked sick in the outfield with a ball over his head this weekend. Reddick can play all 3 outfield positions & is a better hitter.
3) Find another starter from Triple-A or Double-A. Tazawa is a John Smoltz look-alike who gives up too many hits. I'm sure he will be a good pitcher in the future, just not now. We need #4 & #5 starters who can give 3 or 4 quality starts until Wakefield & Dice-K are ready.
4) Extend Beckett, Lester & Papelbon as needed. Let's get off the pitch count thing for the last 7 weeks. Otherwise, the Red Sox will be sitting in October watching the playoffs on TV.
Let's see if Tito takes my advice.
Rangers Take Over Wild Card
The Texas Rangers played a nice & steady brand of baseball over the weekend, almost sweeping the Boston Red Sox. If not for a 9th inning implosion by Frank Francesco on Friday night, the Rangers would be 1-1/2 games up in the Wild Card.
The Red Sox have issues that need to be addressed. An off-day is a good time to do it.
1) Starting pitching. We knew it could be a long weekend in Texas when #4 Penny & #5 Tazawa were 2 of your 3 starters. It may be time to try Bowden & others until Wakefield & Dice-K are ready to come back.
2) Struggling offense. The suspension of Kevin Youkilis, the #4 hitter, is over. Youk's presence in the lineup can't do anything but help this struggling offense to be more consistent. When Varitek, Anderson & Gonzalez are your bottom three, don't expect much production.
3) Tough schedule. The Sox start a 3-game series at the unfriendly Rogers Centre on Tuesday before returning home for 10-games against the Yankees, White Sox & Blue Jays. 13 games in 13 days to close out the month of August. At least 10 are at home where the Sox play much better than the road.
I'd like to see us finish the month within 5 games of the Yankees & have the lead in the Wild Card. Any Vegas people want to take that bet? We need the #3, 4, 5 starters to step-up & the offense to average their usual 5-6 runs per game to turn this thing around.
The Red Sox have issues that need to be addressed. An off-day is a good time to do it.
1) Starting pitching. We knew it could be a long weekend in Texas when #4 Penny & #5 Tazawa were 2 of your 3 starters. It may be time to try Bowden & others until Wakefield & Dice-K are ready to come back.
2) Struggling offense. The suspension of Kevin Youkilis, the #4 hitter, is over. Youk's presence in the lineup can't do anything but help this struggling offense to be more consistent. When Varitek, Anderson & Gonzalez are your bottom three, don't expect much production.
3) Tough schedule. The Sox start a 3-game series at the unfriendly Rogers Centre on Tuesday before returning home for 10-games against the Yankees, White Sox & Blue Jays. 13 games in 13 days to close out the month of August. At least 10 are at home where the Sox play much better than the road.
I'd like to see us finish the month within 5 games of the Yankees & have the lead in the Wild Card. Any Vegas people want to take that bet? We need the #3, 4, 5 starters to step-up & the offense to average their usual 5-6 runs per game to turn this thing around.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Rangers Run to Win
The Sox & Brad Penny lost to the running Rangers who stole 8 bases last night. If Penny allows a lot of runners, like he did yesterday in a very average performance, his delivery is too slow to give Varitek a chance to throw anyone out.
After a big come-from-behind win the night before, this was a very uneventful loss. The Rangers win brings them back to 1/2 game behind the Sox in the Wild Card. Another win today will give them the lead.
Besides home runs by Bay & Martinez, the only eventful note was a beaning of Ian Kinsler by Frank Cabrera. Talk about Youk crowding the plate, Kinsler is on top of it. We'll see if the Kinsler hit turns into anything more today.
A win today by the Sox to leave Texas with the Wild Card lead is not a must, but it would be nice.
After a big come-from-behind win the night before, this was a very uneventful loss. The Rangers win brings them back to 1/2 game behind the Sox in the Wild Card. Another win today will give them the lead.
Besides home runs by Bay & Martinez, the only eventful note was a beaning of Ian Kinsler by Frank Cabrera. Talk about Youk crowding the plate, Kinsler is on top of it. We'll see if the Kinsler hit turns into anything more today.
A win today by the Sox to leave Texas with the Wild Card lead is not a must, but it would be nice.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Victor Equals Victory
Last night's come-from-behind win with 2 outs in the 9th has to be THE biggest win of the 2009 season for the Boston Red Sox. The Sox scored 6 times in the 9th to pull out a huge 8-4 win over the Wild Card contending Texas Rangers in Arlington.
There were several excellent at-bats in the 9th, but Victor Martinez struck the game-winning double with 2 outs & 2 strikes. As Frank Viola said in the NESN booth, this is why the Red Sox gave up Justin Masterson for Victor. No doubt this was the biggest hit in Victor's short time with the Red Sox. He has become a solid presence in the #3 spot.
A loss against the Texas ace Millwood would have put the Sox 1/2 game behind the Rangers in the Wild Card. Instead, they left the field 1-1/2 games ahead. Big swing. It also takes the pressure off the last 2 games of the series.
Keep it up, Sox. As Pedroia & Youk like to say , we keep grinding every at-bat & every out. Remember Yogi's great line -- it ain't over till it's over. It sure wasn't last night.
There were several excellent at-bats in the 9th, but Victor Martinez struck the game-winning double with 2 outs & 2 strikes. As Frank Viola said in the NESN booth, this is why the Red Sox gave up Justin Masterson for Victor. No doubt this was the biggest hit in Victor's short time with the Red Sox. He has become a solid presence in the #3 spot.
A loss against the Texas ace Millwood would have put the Sox 1/2 game behind the Rangers in the Wild Card. Instead, they left the field 1-1/2 games ahead. Big swing. It also takes the pressure off the last 2 games of the series.
Keep it up, Sox. As Pedroia & Youk like to say , we keep grinding every at-bat & every out. Remember Yogi's great line -- it ain't over till it's over. It sure wasn't last night.
Alex Gonzalez Rejoins Red Sox
Welcome back, Gonzo!
Alex Gonzalez was traded from the Cincinnati Reds back to the Sox for a minor leaguer & cash. Many of us remember Alex as the sure-handed shortstop from the 2006 team.
With Jed Lowrie fighting injuries this year & Nick Green running out of gas lately, Gonzo will provided a steady presence in the field. He is expected to play against the Rangers tonight.
Great signing by Theo & Co. Another good piece to the playoff puzzle down the stretch.
Alex Gonzalez was traded from the Cincinnati Reds back to the Sox for a minor leaguer & cash. Many of us remember Alex as the sure-handed shortstop from the 2006 team.
With Jed Lowrie fighting injuries this year & Nick Green running out of gas lately, Gonzo will provided a steady presence in the field. He is expected to play against the Rangers tonight.
Great signing by Theo & Co. Another good piece to the playoff puzzle down the stretch.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Buccholz Turning the Corner?
The Boston Red Sox just couldn't get any offense going against Justin Verlander & lost the final game 2-0 after taking the first three. Lost in translation was another solid outing by Clay Buccholz.
Buchholz has had 2 quality starts in a row against the Yankees & the Tigers. He has nothing to show for it, other than 2 losses on his record. Given the trade deadline chatter about him going to another team, maybe now Buchholz is relaxing & letting his talent seep out. It couldn't come at a better time in the season.
Last night's loss puts the Sox 1/2 game ahead of Texas in the Wild Card race. Lester & Millwood go tonight. This is a huge 3-game series in Arlington. A sweep by either team could put some distance between them in the Wild Card race. A 2-1 split keeps things close.
Sox fans, get your nap in before the game as the time change makes it an 8 PM start. It could be a long night.
Buchholz has had 2 quality starts in a row against the Yankees & the Tigers. He has nothing to show for it, other than 2 losses on his record. Given the trade deadline chatter about him going to another team, maybe now Buchholz is relaxing & letting his talent seep out. It couldn't come at a better time in the season.
Last night's loss puts the Sox 1/2 game ahead of Texas in the Wild Card race. Lester & Millwood go tonight. This is a huge 3-game series in Arlington. A sweep by either team could put some distance between them in the Wild Card race. A 2-1 split keeps things close.
Sox fans, get your nap in before the game as the time change makes it an 8 PM start. It could be a long night.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Youk Suspended for 5 Games
Are you tired, like me, of these knucklehead sportscasters talking about the etiquette of a baseball brawl? Obviously, they have never been in a brawl.
Even the ESPH guys like Kruk & Young had to weigh-in on proper etiquette to get their TV ratings on the story of a slow sports news night. I must have seen the replay a dozen times, over & over again. There is no etiquette. It's like road rage. You are not thinking straight.
All of it, in my opinion, is much to do about nothing. The Coco Crisp incident was much more entertaining last year when several Rays players threw sucker punches when Coca was already down. Youk ends up with a 5-game suspension.
Then last night you have Michael Felger talking about Youk hanging over the plate too much. Did Felger ever play baseball? Does he know, as a batter, that you have to cover the outside of the plate with your bat? Stick to Patriots football, Felger.
Back to Youk. His 5-game suspension will carry through the Texas series. Last night was no problem with no Youk & no Victor Martinez in the lineup. The rotation of Lowell, Martinez, Varitek & Ortiz should handle the next 4 games without Youk as well.
Enjoy your few days off, Youk. We'll need you for Toronto & New York next week.
Even the ESPH guys like Kruk & Young had to weigh-in on proper etiquette to get their TV ratings on the story of a slow sports news night. I must have seen the replay a dozen times, over & over again. There is no etiquette. It's like road rage. You are not thinking straight.
All of it, in my opinion, is much to do about nothing. The Coco Crisp incident was much more entertaining last year when several Rays players threw sucker punches when Coca was already down. Youk ends up with a 5-game suspension.
Then last night you have Michael Felger talking about Youk hanging over the plate too much. Did Felger ever play baseball? Does he know, as a batter, that you have to cover the outside of the plate with your bat? Stick to Patriots football, Felger.
Back to Youk. His 5-game suspension will carry through the Texas series. Last night was no problem with no Youk & no Victor Martinez in the lineup. The rotation of Lowell, Martinez, Varitek & Ortiz should handle the next 4 games without Youk as well.
Enjoy your few days off, Youk. We'll need you for Toronto & New York next week.
Beckett, Lowell, Bay Too Much
Josh Beckett pitched 7 innings, probably could have gone 8 if the score was a bit closer.
Jason Bay got 4 hits, including another HR, & was on base every time at the plate.
Mikey Lowell contributed 3 hits, one being his 3rd home run in 2 nights.
All spelled the 3rd win in a row over Detroit 8-2. The Sox get a bigger challenge this afternoon when the offense faces Verlander in the series finale.
The Red Sox enter today's game with a 1-1/2 game lead in the Wild Card over Texas. They travel to the Lone Star State after today's game for a 3-game set over the weekend.
Small note. Ramon Ramirez pitched the 9th & looked like the old Ramirez of April & May. He struckout 2 & allowed no hits. Ramon looks like he is headed in the right direction again. Good news for the Sox relief corps.
Jason Bay got 4 hits, including another HR, & was on base every time at the plate.
Mikey Lowell contributed 3 hits, one being his 3rd home run in 2 nights.
All spelled the 3rd win in a row over Detroit 8-2. The Sox get a bigger challenge this afternoon when the offense faces Verlander in the series finale.
The Red Sox enter today's game with a 1-1/2 game lead in the Wild Card over Texas. They travel to the Lone Star State after today's game for a 3-game set over the weekend.
Small note. Ramon Ramirez pitched the 9th & looked like the old Ramirez of April & May. He struckout 2 & allowed no hits. Ramon looks like he is headed in the right direction again. Good news for the Sox relief corps.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Kathryn Tappen Versus Tom Caron
Ok, this is definitely a guy thing. Tom Caron is on vacation this week, so Kathryn Tappen is filling-in on the NESN pre-game show.
Tom, you better watch out. I can't be the only fan who finds Kathryn Tappen to be a great looking girl with a great smile. She seems to add more of an upbeat tempo to the pre-game show. Maybe it's because she delivers her lines with a voice of "genuine-ness" & again with a smile.
Usually, Tappen anchors the NESN sports desk on a rotating basis with others. I don't really watch their wrap-up show very often.
Nice job, Kathryn. You get my vote if TC wants to extend his vacation.
Tom, you better watch out. I can't be the only fan who finds Kathryn Tappen to be a great looking girl with a great smile. She seems to add more of an upbeat tempo to the pre-game show. Maybe it's because she delivers her lines with a voice of "genuine-ness" & again with a smile.
Usually, Tappen anchors the NESN sports desk on a rotating basis with others. I don't really watch their wrap-up show very often.
Nice job, Kathryn. You get my vote if TC wants to extend his vacation.
Lowell Goes Yard Twice
Mike Lowell wasn't in the starting lineup last night. He did play, however, after Kevin Youkilis got hit by Porcello, charged the mound & got thrown out of the game. Lowell made the most of his opportunity by hitting 2 home runs, driving in 3 RBI & leading the Red Sox to a 7-5 win.
When I was coaching we use to put our best offensive team out in the field to start a game, then bring in defensive players at the end. I'm surprised that Francona hasn't done more of that with Lowell. Start Lowell, bring Kotchman in late in the game & move Youk to third. But Tito has quite a juggling match on his hands.
Youk will surely get fined & miss a few games for his mini-brawl. Expect Lowell to see more regular playing time when that happens. I'm surprised that we haven't seen more Lowell & less Big Papi & Jason Varitek to bolster the offense. Both Varitek & Ortiz are slumping. I think Victor Martinez could use a day off as well.
However the rotation of players works, it's nice to have a Mike Lowell on your team.
When I was coaching we use to put our best offensive team out in the field to start a game, then bring in defensive players at the end. I'm surprised that Francona hasn't done more of that with Lowell. Start Lowell, bring Kotchman in late in the game & move Youk to third. But Tito has quite a juggling match on his hands.
Youk will surely get fined & miss a few games for his mini-brawl. Expect Lowell to see more regular playing time when that happens. I'm surprised that we haven't seen more Lowell & less Big Papi & Jason Varitek to bolster the offense. Both Varitek & Ortiz are slumping. I think Victor Martinez could use a day off as well.
However the rotation of players works, it's nice to have a Mike Lowell on your team.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Finally, A Win
Jonathan Papelbon closed out his 28th save by mowing down the heart of Detroit's order 1-2-3-4 to preserve a 6-5 win. The Red Sox snap their 6-game losing streak on a night that the Yankees lose at home to Toronto.
Offense was back at Fenway. Pedroia, Green & Bay all went yard. Brad Penny went the first 6 innings, giving up 3 runs. Delcarmen was ineffective in relief, giving up 2 runs to tied the game at 5-5.
The biggest hit of the night wasn't a hit in the scorebook. A sac fly by Nick Green in the 7th plated J.D. Drew with the 6th & winning run. Nick Green played well in the field & contributed at the bat with 2 RBI. Nice team win.
Now we can all sleep at night. The Sox offense is back.
Offense was back at Fenway. Pedroia, Green & Bay all went yard. Brad Penny went the first 6 innings, giving up 3 runs. Delcarmen was ineffective in relief, giving up 2 runs to tied the game at 5-5.
The biggest hit of the night wasn't a hit in the scorebook. A sac fly by Nick Green in the 7th plated J.D. Drew with the 6th & winning run. Nick Green played well in the field & contributed at the bat with 2 RBI. Nice team win.
Now we can all sleep at night. The Sox offense is back.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Boston Massacre in New York
6 1/2 games behind the Yankees. Tied in the Wild Card with Texas. 6 losses in a row. What a week to forget!
Lost in the shuffle were great pitching performances by Beckett, Buchholz & Lester. There were great defensive plays by Ellsbury & Drew. The 3rd component to compliment pitching & defense was the missing ingredient -- offense. Not that we had a lot of chances, but the few hard balls that were hit went right at someone, "atom" balls as we used to say. At least Victor Martinez broke the drought with a 2-run homer in the 8th. Enough about the week that wasn't.
Time to turn the page & get ready for a 4-game set at home versus the AL Central leading Tigers. This is the time when we see what this team & Red Sox Nation fans are made of. It would be easy to jump ship. However, we still have 50 games to get players healthy, maybe make a waiver wire deal & ultimately make the playoffs.
Lots of questions right now about this team. 50 games to sort it all out. I still see the Sox in the playoffs. A good homestand against the Tigers would help.
Lost in the shuffle were great pitching performances by Beckett, Buchholz & Lester. There were great defensive plays by Ellsbury & Drew. The 3rd component to compliment pitching & defense was the missing ingredient -- offense. Not that we had a lot of chances, but the few hard balls that were hit went right at someone, "atom" balls as we used to say. At least Victor Martinez broke the drought with a 2-run homer in the 8th. Enough about the week that wasn't.
Time to turn the page & get ready for a 4-game set at home versus the AL Central leading Tigers. This is the time when we see what this team & Red Sox Nation fans are made of. It would be easy to jump ship. However, we still have 50 games to get players healthy, maybe make a waiver wire deal & ultimately make the playoffs.
Lots of questions right now about this team. 50 games to sort it all out. I still see the Sox in the playoffs. A good homestand against the Tigers would help.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Big Papi: It Was Vitamin Supplements
The big news conference turned into a lack of news. No one knows anything. No one is saying anything.
David Ortiz says he never purchased or used steroids. OK, I take him at his word. When Sean McAdam asked Big Papi why he waited so long to disclose this info Ortiz never really answered the question. The remaining questions were pretty easy. And Ortiz did say he has passed numerous tests since then.
Given the legal mess associated with the leaking of names on the "anonymous" 2003 report, I guess we should not have expected anything else. I wish a reporter would have asked Ortiz if he ever put a needle in his butt. That would have been interesting.
Getting this weight off his shoulders didn't help Ortiz or his teammates swing the bats any better in a 5-0 loss. Maybe today is the day the offense comes back to life. Let the steroids mess be cleaned up by attorneys at $400 per hour. Attorneys always win.
David Ortiz says he never purchased or used steroids. OK, I take him at his word. When Sean McAdam asked Big Papi why he waited so long to disclose this info Ortiz never really answered the question. The remaining questions were pretty easy. And Ortiz did say he has passed numerous tests since then.
Given the legal mess associated with the leaking of names on the "anonymous" 2003 report, I guess we should not have expected anything else. I wish a reporter would have asked Ortiz if he ever put a needle in his butt. That would have been interesting.
Getting this weight off his shoulders didn't help Ortiz or his teammates swing the bats any better in a 5-0 loss. Maybe today is the day the offense comes back to life. Let the steroids mess be cleaned up by attorneys at $400 per hour. Attorneys always win.
Anything Good in NY?
It's hard to find anything good to say about the first 3 losses in the Bronx this weekend. Game 1 was a blowout. Game 2 was a classic -- with plenty of missed chances on our part. Game 3 was a continuation of no offense. Zero runs = zero wins.
Here's the best that I can do for tonight's game.
- We have Jon Lester pitching.
- Jason Bay is expected back in the lineup.
- We have Jon Lester pitching.
After tonight we come home for 4 against the Tigers. We always play better at home. One more positive thought -- we have a 1-game lead over the Rangers in the Wild Card. Note -- we play 3 in Texas next weekend which will be interesting.
I'm going to church today. Maybe that will help.
Here's the best that I can do for tonight's game.
- We have Jon Lester pitching.
- Jason Bay is expected back in the lineup.
- We have Jon Lester pitching.
After tonight we come home for 4 against the Tigers. We always play better at home. One more positive thought -- we have a 1-game lead over the Rangers in the Wild Card. Note -- we play 3 in Texas next weekend which will be interesting.
I'm going to church today. Maybe that will help.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Big Papi's Big Conference Today
Big Papi speaks to the media today about his positive test for PED's in 2003.
Do we care? Me personally, somewhat. I just want to get his statement out there so it's over. He's a distraction to the team the longer this goes on.
Big Papi sure isn't helping to win many games lately & that's where the main focus should be. The steroids issues may distract fans from his 0-20 or whatever it is lately. Having an out every time the 5th spot comes up is not a good thing.
If today helps Ortiz get re-focused on hitting, good. Get it done. Then maybe he can start getting it done on the field for a change.
Do we care? Me personally, somewhat. I just want to get his statement out there so it's over. He's a distraction to the team the longer this goes on.
Big Papi sure isn't helping to win many games lately & that's where the main focus should be. The steroids issues may distract fans from his 0-20 or whatever it is lately. Having an out every time the 5th spot comes up is not a good thing.
If today helps Ortiz get re-focused on hitting, good. Get it done. Then maybe he can start getting it done on the field for a change.
Francona: What Are You Thinking?
I was the head coach of a Division 2 program for a few years. So, on a much smaller scale than the microscope that Tito lives under for 162 games a year, I know about 2nd guessing yourself regarding moves that you make or don't make. If a move works, you're a hero. If not, you're a goat.
As a regular fan watching last night's game, here's my Saturday morning quarterbacking on last night's 15 inning loss.
- Late in the game why didn't Francona have Pedroia bunt with runners at first & second with no outs? I know you hate to give up an out, but it would have given Victor & Youk each a chance to knock in a run. When you're not scoring you do what you need to.
- Why is it that we keep running out of pitchers in extra inning games? Why did Bard & Saito only go one inning? I would have gone all out last night rather than worry about who is available today to backup Buchholz.
- Why was Mike Lowell on the bench all night? Varitek could have been pinch-hit for in extra innings when J.D. Drew was walked intentionally. I don't think Varitek got a ball out of the infield all night.
Anyway, that's my quarterbacking. Today's a new day. Maybe today is our day.
As a regular fan watching last night's game, here's my Saturday morning quarterbacking on last night's 15 inning loss.
- Late in the game why didn't Francona have Pedroia bunt with runners at first & second with no outs? I know you hate to give up an out, but it would have given Victor & Youk each a chance to knock in a run. When you're not scoring you do what you need to.
- Why is it that we keep running out of pitchers in extra inning games? Why did Bard & Saito only go one inning? I would have gone all out last night rather than worry about who is available today to backup Buchholz.
- Why was Mike Lowell on the bench all night? Varitek could have been pinch-hit for in extra innings when J.D. Drew was walked intentionally. I don't think Varitek got a ball out of the infield all night.
Anyway, that's my quarterbacking. Today's a new day. Maybe today is our day.
Red Sox - Yankees Still the Best Rivalry
Yeah, I know. We lost 2-0 in 15. But this game was just another in a long line of classic confrontations over the many, many years which make the Boston Red Sox & New York Yankees the best rivalry in all of sports.
Each lineup is packed with power. Each pitch is critical in working the count. Every umpire's ball or strike call means something. Both defenses usually execute one or two sensational plays in the field, a la J.D. Drew last night & Jacoby Ellsbury the night before.
We came out on the short end last night. But it will be another battle tonight. There's nothing like Red Sox - Yankees.
Each lineup is packed with power. Each pitch is critical in working the count. Every umpire's ball or strike call means something. Both defenses usually execute one or two sensational plays in the field, a la J.D. Drew last night & Jacoby Ellsbury the night before.
We came out on the short end last night. But it will be another battle tonight. There's nothing like Red Sox - Yankees.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Smoltz: Please Retire Gracefully
John Smoltz should shut it down for the rest of the year, or for good, after another ugly outing in New York. Like other aging athletes, Smoltz is hanging on after his prime & dampening his great career with less-than-stellar results. Remember Tom Glavine?
The Red Sox have given Smoltz every opportunity to succeed. They did not rush him back. They moved him through all phases of their shoulder program as planned. Now, if Smoltz does not step down on his own, the Red Sox will be the bad guys by moving him back to triple-A, putting him on the DL for more rehab, moving him to the bullpen, or releasing him.
Let one of the young kids, like Michael Bowdon, take his spot. It's time to pass the torch. Whoever they bring up, the results can be no worse.
It's to the point of being embarassed with each start now. Stop the harassment. Retire, John.
The Red Sox have given Smoltz every opportunity to succeed. They did not rush him back. They moved him through all phases of their shoulder program as planned. Now, if Smoltz does not step down on his own, the Red Sox will be the bad guys by moving him back to triple-A, putting him on the DL for more rehab, moving him to the bullpen, or releasing him.
Let one of the young kids, like Michael Bowdon, take his spot. It's time to pass the torch. Whoever they bring up, the results can be no worse.
It's to the point of being embarassed with each start now. Stop the harassment. Retire, John.
Joba Lucky
Joba Chamberlain dodged a bullet by getting matched up opposite John Smoltz. He barely, I mean barely, made it through the 5th inning in an ugly performance to get an underserved win.
Joba the Hut was one walk or one hit away from being yanked in the 5th after the Yankees offense has put away the game in the bottom of the 4th with 8 runs. 100 plus pitches. 4 runs in 5 innings. Several walks. Two home runs. Not a pitching line that normally wins ballgames. But 14 runs of offense by the Yanks against poor Red Sox triple-A pitching by Smoltz & Trabor gets the pinstripes a win.
If the Red Sox score 6 runs in each of the next 3 games, they win at least 2 out of 3 with Beckett going tonight & Lester on Sunday night. Stay positive Red Sox fans. We knew Smoltz would get lit up in Game 1.
Joba the Hut was one walk or one hit away from being yanked in the 5th after the Yankees offense has put away the game in the bottom of the 4th with 8 runs. 100 plus pitches. 4 runs in 5 innings. Several walks. Two home runs. Not a pitching line that normally wins ballgames. But 14 runs of offense by the Yanks against poor Red Sox triple-A pitching by Smoltz & Trabor gets the pinstripes a win.
If the Red Sox score 6 runs in each of the next 3 games, they win at least 2 out of 3 with Beckett going tonight & Lester on Sunday night. Stay positive Red Sox fans. We knew Smoltz would get lit up in Game 1.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
New Curse: Tropicana Field
14 out of 16 losses since 2007. The Trop is the new curse for the Red Sox as they lose again 6-4.
The Red Sox are 3-2 on the road trip so far. Now off to the homer dome in New York for 4 games. The Sox are 8-0 against the Yankees this year, so maybe we can keep the streak alive -- like Tampa Bay just did against us.
Nothing is won in August, but it would sure be nice to have a few players step up in Yankeeland. We need to put together good at-bats with good pitching. John Smoltz will face his biggest test of his comeback bid tonight.
Anyway, I'll take our chances in New York vesus Tampa Bay. We only have 3 games left at the Trop in September. 3 too many!
The Red Sox are 3-2 on the road trip so far. Now off to the homer dome in New York for 4 games. The Sox are 8-0 against the Yankees this year, so maybe we can keep the streak alive -- like Tampa Bay just did against us.
Nothing is won in August, but it would sure be nice to have a few players step up in Yankeeland. We need to put together good at-bats with good pitching. John Smoltz will face his biggest test of his comeback bid tonight.
Anyway, I'll take our chances in New York vesus Tampa Bay. We only have 3 games left at the Trop in September. 3 too many!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Playoff Atmosphere in Tampa Bay
The Sox lost 4-2 in 13 innings. It was a tough loss as both sides squandered numerous opportunities in regulation play. But it had the air & feel of a playoff game. Lester & Garza were both tough on hitters. Both starters were out after the 7th & the Sox had a 2-1 lead.
Two points hit me during the game:
- The Daniel Bard experiment in the 8th was not-so-good as he gave up a homer to Longoria to tied the game 2-2, then proceeded to load the bases with no outs. Add in a wild throw to first which almost ended the game had the ball not gotten lodge in right field. Bard struckout the next batter & Delcarmen came in to get 2 more outs without the Rays scoring the go-ahead run. After this, Tito may want to stick with Bard in the 7th & leave Oki for the 8th.
- Dustin Pedroia only needed a fly ball with the bases loaded in the 9th, but he hit into an inning-ending double play with a ground ball to third. In that instance Petey's aggressiveness worked against him. But he also had an early-in-the-count home run off Garza, so I guess it all evens out.
The Trop remains not a fun place for the Sox. A split with a win tonight would be nice before heading into New York for four.
Two points hit me during the game:
- The Daniel Bard experiment in the 8th was not-so-good as he gave up a homer to Longoria to tied the game 2-2, then proceeded to load the bases with no outs. Add in a wild throw to first which almost ended the game had the ball not gotten lodge in right field. Bard struckout the next batter & Delcarmen came in to get 2 more outs without the Rays scoring the go-ahead run. After this, Tito may want to stick with Bard in the 7th & leave Oki for the 8th.
- Dustin Pedroia only needed a fly ball with the bases loaded in the 9th, but he hit into an inning-ending double play with a ground ball to third. In that instance Petey's aggressiveness worked against him. But he also had an early-in-the-count home run off Garza, so I guess it all evens out.
The Trop remains not a fun place for the Sox. A split with a win tonight would be nice before heading into New York for four.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Wakefield Not Ready Yet
Tim Wakefield still has pain in his leg after a cortisone shot was given to help his ailing back. That means that he will remain on the DL a little longer.
It's been quite a year for Wake. A hot first half sees him earn 10 wins before the break. Then, he receives his first All-Star selection. Now, an extended stay at Hotel DL.
Without Wakefield the rotation continues to feature John Smoltz & Clay Buchholz. When Wake returns one or the other will drop out. I doubt that Tito will go with a 6-man rotation. Until then, both Smoltz & Buchholz need to improve to keep the Sox in contention.
Hurry up, Tim. We need as many healthy & productive bodies down the stretch as we can muster.
It's been quite a year for Wake. A hot first half sees him earn 10 wins before the break. Then, he receives his first All-Star selection. Now, an extended stay at Hotel DL.
Without Wakefield the rotation continues to feature John Smoltz & Clay Buchholz. When Wake returns one or the other will drop out. I doubt that Tito will go with a 6-man rotation. Until then, both Smoltz & Buchholz need to improve to keep the Sox in contention.
Hurry up, Tim. We need as many healthy & productive bodies down the stretch as we can muster.
Big Start for Lester
As a pitcher, you don't forget. Jon Lester knows that Matt Garza beat him in Game 7 of the ALCS last year.
As a pitcher, you also can't wait to redeem yourself if you came out on the short-end of the first meeting. Lester pitched well, but Garza pitched better & that's how it goes sometimes. Believe me, though, Lester wants to win Round 2.
It should be a great start to a series of games against playoff contenders -- Rays, Yankees, Tigers & Rangers. After these 13 games we will no more about the Red Sox & their playoff picture. Get ready, Red Sox fans, for a fun 2 weeks.
As a pitcher, you also can't wait to redeem yourself if you came out on the short-end of the first meeting. Lester pitched well, but Garza pitched better & that's how it goes sometimes. Believe me, though, Lester wants to win Round 2.
It should be a great start to a series of games against playoff contenders -- Rays, Yankees, Tigers & Rangers. After these 13 games we will no more about the Red Sox & their playoff picture. Get ready, Red Sox fans, for a fun 2 weeks.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Big Papi Still Silent on Test Results
With an off-day in Tampa Bay maybe this will be the time for David Ortiz to tell his side as to why he tested positive in 2003 for steroids. It's time to get it over with & move on with the season.
He can choose the A-Rod version of "I was a stupid kid & didn't know what I was injecting."
He can choose the Andy Pettitte version of "I just did it a couple of time to overcome my injury." Remember, Clemens told Andy he "mis-remembered" when Pettitte said Roger was right there on the juice with him.
He can opt for the Manny version & read an insincere statement written by his agent, take no personal responsibility, & say "that was in the past & I'm going forward."
He can always use the ever-popular line by Mark McGwire & say "on advice of my attorney I refuse to answer any questions."
Or he can just say "I did it" like Jason Giambi & Jose Canseco.
Pick any one or two above & get it over with. Since the new testing approved by the MLB Players Association only Manny has been caught still using. But he's not talking about the past.
Ortiz & his reputation will survive no matter what he says, so let's get the drama over.
He can choose the A-Rod version of "I was a stupid kid & didn't know what I was injecting."
He can choose the Andy Pettitte version of "I just did it a couple of time to overcome my injury." Remember, Clemens told Andy he "mis-remembered" when Pettitte said Roger was right there on the juice with him.
He can opt for the Manny version & read an insincere statement written by his agent, take no personal responsibility, & say "that was in the past & I'm going forward."
He can always use the ever-popular line by Mark McGwire & say "on advice of my attorney I refuse to answer any questions."
Or he can just say "I did it" like Jason Giambi & Jose Canseco.
Pick any one or two above & get it over with. Since the new testing approved by the MLB Players Association only Manny has been caught still using. But he's not talking about the past.
Ortiz & his reputation will survive no matter what he says, so let's get the drama over.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Slugfest Goes to Sox 18-10
This game had everything -- the good, the bad, the ugly.
Good -- Victor Matinez has a 5-hit day & catches for the first time. Josh Reddick hits his first big league home run with a bloody nose.
Bad -- J.D. Drew reinjures his groin which may keep him out of the lineup. Jason Bay sat today with a sore leg. We need both of these guys healthy against Tampa Bay & New York.
Ugly -- Clay Buchholz can't hold a 7-run lead & leaves after 4 innings. Delcarmen & Ramirez are not sharp in relief. Ortiz goes hitless.
The Sox remain 1/2 game behind the Yankees as they go into a week of 6 games with the Rays & Yankees. It's a great start to the road trip to sweep the O's in Baltimore.
Good -- Victor Matinez has a 5-hit day & catches for the first time. Josh Reddick hits his first big league home run with a bloody nose.
Bad -- J.D. Drew reinjures his groin which may keep him out of the lineup. Jason Bay sat today with a sore leg. We need both of these guys healthy against Tampa Bay & New York.
Ugly -- Clay Buchholz can't hold a 7-run lead & leaves after 4 innings. Delcarmen & Ramirez are not sharp in relief. Ortiz goes hitless.
The Sox remain 1/2 game behind the Yankees as they go into a week of 6 games with the Rays & Yankees. It's a great start to the road trip to sweep the O's in Baltimore.
Beckett & Youk Star In Win
Josh Beckett pitched out of trouble when he needed to & put up all "0's" for 7 innings. Okajima & Bard finished off the shutout for Josh to earn his MLB league-leading 13th win. It looks like 2007 again for Beckett whose stats mirror that superb year.
Kevin Youkilis is hitting like April & May again. He was 4-for-4 with a walk. One of his hits was a four-bagger, his 2nd homer in as many nights. While the score was only 4-0 it seems like it was a much more lopsided win as the Sox left the bases loaded twice. A Yankees loss, 4th in a row, puts the Sox only 1/2 game behind in the standings.
Victor Martinez made a nice debut at 1B with one hit & one RBI to drive in the 3rd run. Putting him in the middle of the order really extends the depth of the lineup. He should catch Buccholz today. If so, the 5-6-7 hitters may be Bay, Drew & Lowell. Not bad when you can hit these guys down in the order.
Josh Reddick becames another farm hand to make his debut as well. He chipped in 2 hits & may stick around with the big club if Bay's leg cramp is of any consequence.
Let's win the finale in Baltimore today before we hit Tampa Bay & New York for 6.
Kevin Youkilis is hitting like April & May again. He was 4-for-4 with a walk. One of his hits was a four-bagger, his 2nd homer in as many nights. While the score was only 4-0 it seems like it was a much more lopsided win as the Sox left the bases loaded twice. A Yankees loss, 4th in a row, puts the Sox only 1/2 game behind in the standings.
Victor Martinez made a nice debut at 1B with one hit & one RBI to drive in the 3rd run. Putting him in the middle of the order really extends the depth of the lineup. He should catch Buccholz today. If so, the 5-6-7 hitters may be Bay, Drew & Lowell. Not bad when you can hit these guys down in the order.
Josh Reddick becames another farm hand to make his debut as well. He chipped in 2 hits & may stick around with the big club if Bay's leg cramp is of any consequence.
Let's win the finale in Baltimore today before we hit Tampa Bay & New York for 6.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Ortiz Up, Smoltz Down
Since the news of David Ortiz & PED's broke on Thursday Big Papi has homered twice & the Red Sox have won both games. Maybe we should keep the story alive for the next 2 months. Ortiz has said that he will not run & hide from reporters, but there was no new news from #34 yesterday. He needs to address the situation soon & move on. You can expect to hear some good razzing from the Bronx fans next week. By the way the Sox have moved to 1 1/2 games behind the Yankees in a month where they barely played .500 ball, 13-12 for July.
The other story is the continued lackluster performance of John Smoltz. Another game where he gives up 5 runs, more if not for Ellsbury's catch. As much as Tito says we need to be patient with Smoltz, when Tim Wakefield comes off the DL I think Buchholz keeps the #5 spot in the rotation. Nice try with Smoltz, but the experiment is not working & shows no signs of improvement.
The other story is the continued lackluster performance of John Smoltz. Another game where he gives up 5 runs, more if not for Ellsbury's catch. As much as Tito says we need to be patient with Smoltz, when Tim Wakefield comes off the DL I think Buchholz keeps the #5 spot in the rotation. Nice try with Smoltz, but the experiment is not working & shows no signs of improvement.
Save - Ellsbury
Jon Papelbon may have earned the official save last night in a 6-5 comeback win over the Orioles. But Jacoby Ellsbury's catch in the 6th to rob Luke Scott of a homer in centerfield was the real save of the day.
We see enough great catches from Ells on almost a nightly basis that we come to expect it. And while all eyes have been on his resurgence on offense Jacoby is playing Gold Glove caliber defense in the field. Nice to see that he is putting it all together when the Red Sox need it down the stretch.
We get to see Victor Martinez in a Red Sox uniform for the first time today. Welcome aboard, Victor!
We see enough great catches from Ells on almost a nightly basis that we come to expect it. And while all eyes have been on his resurgence on offense Jacoby is playing Gold Glove caliber defense in the field. Nice to see that he is putting it all together when the Red Sox need it down the stretch.
We get to see Victor Martinez in a Red Sox uniform for the first time today. Welcome aboard, Victor!
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