As we sit here on the August 16th off day, the BoSox find themselves 5 games behind the Rays & 6 behind the Yankees with 43 games remaining. If you do the math, the Sox need to gain about a game per week to catch either one for a playoff spot.
This week features the start of a 9-game homestand & the return of Dustin Pedroia. The Sox always play better ball at home & Petey's return should give the team a much-needed lift. Mike Cameron should begin a rehab stint later in the week in Pawtucket & his return before the end of the homestand can only help the depleted outfield.
That leaves Varitek, Ellsbury, Cash, Okajima & Youk on the DL. Varitek is still a couple of weeks away from returning. Ellsbury will get his injury fully evaluated in LA this week. Cash & Okajima will return from the DL as the need arises. Youk is out for the year which is too bad as we could really use him down the stretch.
The only way I see the Sox making a move is to have every starting pitcher get hot for 2 turns in a row, about 10 games, & have the team go on an 8-2 or 9-1 run. Pedroia will strech out the batting order which will help produce more consistent offense. It can be done, but the time to do so is now, starting with the LA series tomorrow night.
Faith is needed...
1 comment:
They need more than just the starters and the hitters. They need the relievers to perform. After yesterday's performance by Delmeatball, and the recent one by Papplemouth there is reason for concern here as well.
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