Something weird always happens when John Lackey takes the mound. Take last night. A harmless ground ball up the middle looks like a sure double play. Instead, it somehow finds its way into center field & the Yankees go up 1-0. I turned the game off after that because I thought it was a bad omen.
I picked the game back up in the 6th. More weird stuff happens in the 7th as Lackey plugs Francesco Cervelli in the back to start the inning. Not a good thing to do when the score is 4-2 & your team has the 2. Cervelli comes around to score the 5th run.
Another weird thing was the lack of a big hit by the Sox offense with RISP. They got to CC Sabathia for 10 hits & got him out of the game after 6. But Lackey, who averages 6-7 runs of support, was left with just 2 runs to work with. Welcome to Josh Beckett's average support of 2-3 runs.
Overall, I thought it was the Yankees defense that saved the game. Cano & the left-fielder (whose name escapes me) both made big plays with men on base. It was a typical hard-fought game on both sides with the Yankees doing more than the Sox to earn the win.
Tonight's another night. Expect another hard-fought game.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Slow News Day
It was funny to watch the sport shows last night as reporters tried to make-up stories to report about. Hurricane Irene on Sunday & an off-day on Monday for the Red Sox left the many sports reporters with no games & little to work with.
Everyone is entitled to make a living, but I've never been a fan of athletes-turn-sports reporters who comment on all sports. Like Andy Gresh talking about baseball. Or Lou Merloni talking about hockey. I guess they deserve a year-round job, but it always struck me as odd.
The topics I heard last night ranged from how long is Theo going to stay with the Red Sox to who is your 3rd starter in the playoffs. I guess I give these shows credit for trying to manufacture a story when there is none.
Let the hype of another Red Sox-Yankees series begin. Plenty to report about for the next 3 days.
Everyone is entitled to make a living, but I've never been a fan of athletes-turn-sports reporters who comment on all sports. Like Andy Gresh talking about baseball. Or Lou Merloni talking about hockey. I guess they deserve a year-round job, but it always struck me as odd.
The topics I heard last night ranged from how long is Theo going to stay with the Red Sox to who is your 3rd starter in the playoffs. I guess I give these shows credit for trying to manufacture a story when there is none.
Let the hype of another Red Sox-Yankees series begin. Plenty to report about for the next 3 days.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Here Come the Yankees!
Lackey-Beckett-Lester... I see at least 2 wins out of 3 games this week against the Yankees.
Lackey draws CC Sabathia as his mound opponent on Tuesday. The Sox have had CC's number this year, beating him 4 times. Let's hope we make it 5. You know the Sox are in his head.
The Yankees come into this series needing to show the Red Sox that they can improve upon their 2-10 losing record & beat the Sox before the playoffs start in October. The Sox are 2 games up in the standing at this point.
Kevin Youkilis, J.D. Drew & Bobby Jenks are all on rehab assignments & look to re-join the team perhaps as early as this week. Getting these guys back will be a big shot in the arm for the month of September. The magic of Josh Reddick, Matt Albers & Mike Aviles is disappearing.
Things are looking up as we start this week.
Lackey draws CC Sabathia as his mound opponent on Tuesday. The Sox have had CC's number this year, beating him 4 times. Let's hope we make it 5. You know the Sox are in his head.
The Yankees come into this series needing to show the Red Sox that they can improve upon their 2-10 losing record & beat the Sox before the playoffs start in October. The Sox are 2 games up in the standing at this point.
Kevin Youkilis, J.D. Drew & Bobby Jenks are all on rehab assignments & look to re-join the team perhaps as early as this week. Getting these guys back will be a big shot in the arm for the month of September. The magic of Josh Reddick, Matt Albers & Mike Aviles is disappearing.
Things are looking up as we start this week.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Rainy Day, But Sox Win Two
I salute all the fans who risked life & limb to attend yesterday's doubleheader & all those who sat through 4 hours of rain delays to see the Red Sox win 8-3 & 4-0. It was a minor miracle that the Sox got both games in before Hurricane Irene & even better to win both.
The Yankees are playing a doubleheader in Baltimore today after being cancelled out by the storm yesterday. This puts their pitching out of whack for the upcoming series in Boston starting Tuesday. It also puts pressure on the boys in pinstripes to win both games today or risk falling further behind the Sox in the AL East.
I sometimes think that a new park with a retractable roof would be so much better for fans & for predictability in playing the schedule. But Boston fans prove time & time again that baseball is an outdoors game & the elements are part of life with the Red Sox.
A big salute today to all the fans who attend the games yesterday!
The Yankees are playing a doubleheader in Baltimore today after being cancelled out by the storm yesterday. This puts their pitching out of whack for the upcoming series in Boston starting Tuesday. It also puts pressure on the boys in pinstripes to win both games today or risk falling further behind the Sox in the AL East.
I sometimes think that a new park with a retractable roof would be so much better for fans & for predictability in playing the schedule. But Boston fans prove time & time again that baseball is an outdoors game & the elements are part of life with the Red Sox.
A big salute today to all the fans who attend the games yesterday!
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Sox Lose to A's 15-5
Poor Wake! He just didn't have it last night. It seems like #200 may never get here. He will get another shot at home against Texas next weekend. Maybe the 7th try is the charm!
Friday, August 26, 2011
Sox Win Again , Blanking Rangers 6-0
It's been quite a 3-day stretch in Arlington, Texas for the Boston Red Sox. 30 runs later the Sox leave the Lone Star State with 3 wins in a row.
Andrew Miller pitched a very impressive game, along with Aceves & Wheeler, to shutout the Texas offense on just 3 hits. Miller gave the Sox 6+ innings & proved that he may be the answer to next year's #5 starter. His walks still bother me, but he has been better in his last few starts.
The Sox offense used the long ball last night. Adrian Gonzalez whacked 2 more HR's last night, giving him 5 in 3 days & moving his RBI total to 100. He certainly gets them in bunches. David Ortiz took a 97 mph fastball into the right field stands. And Jarrod Saltalamacchia went opposite field for a 2-run dinger. That was more than enough to support the Sox pitchers.
Due to Hurricane Irene we get a crazy weekend of baseball with the Oakland A's who took 2 out of 3 in New York. Friday night's game remains as scheduled with Wake trying for #200 again. Saturday becomes a doubleheader with games at 12 noon & 5:00 PM. Sunday becomes an off-day.
Speaking of our friends in New York, I know the buzz is all about the 3 grand slams in a 22-9 win yesterday afternoon. My take is focused on the 9 runs the A's scored against the Yankee pitchers. That kind of pitching isn't going to get your far in the playoffs, especially when your offense faces much better pitching & won't be scoring 22. I just had to put a Red Sox spin on it!
Andrew Miller pitched a very impressive game, along with Aceves & Wheeler, to shutout the Texas offense on just 3 hits. Miller gave the Sox 6+ innings & proved that he may be the answer to next year's #5 starter. His walks still bother me, but he has been better in his last few starts.
The Sox offense used the long ball last night. Adrian Gonzalez whacked 2 more HR's last night, giving him 5 in 3 days & moving his RBI total to 100. He certainly gets them in bunches. David Ortiz took a 97 mph fastball into the right field stands. And Jarrod Saltalamacchia went opposite field for a 2-run dinger. That was more than enough to support the Sox pitchers.
Due to Hurricane Irene we get a crazy weekend of baseball with the Oakland A's who took 2 out of 3 in New York. Friday night's game remains as scheduled with Wake trying for #200 again. Saturday becomes a doubleheader with games at 12 noon & 5:00 PM. Sunday becomes an off-day.
Speaking of our friends in New York, I know the buzz is all about the 3 grand slams in a 22-9 win yesterday afternoon. My take is focused on the 9 runs the A's scored against the Yankee pitchers. That kind of pitching isn't going to get your far in the playoffs, especially when your offense faces much better pitching & won't be scoring 22. I just had to put a Red Sox spin on it!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Mike Flanagan Dead At 59
Former Oriole great Mike Flanagan was found dead yesterday at his home in Maryland. Mike had a long & successful career in the majors which included a Cy Young Award & a World Series ring.
Mike was a friend & teammate of mine when we were growing up as kids. We went to different schools, so I had the chance to play against him during the school year. However, during the summer, we played on the same teams for many years. We made a good 1-2 punch on the mound & I was happy to be the #2 guy.
It doesn't seem that long ago, but our last tournament as teammates together was back in 1970 in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Mike hurt his arm during that national tourney which put his future in doubt. His dad, a former major leaguer, helped him to slowly rehab it back to health. The rest is history as Mike went onto play 18 seasons in Baltimore & Toronto.
I wish his parents, brother, sisters, daughters & extended family my heartfelt sympathy in this time of sorrow. Mike was a unique person & a unique talent who will be greatly missed.
Mike was a friend & teammate of mine when we were growing up as kids. We went to different schools, so I had the chance to play against him during the school year. However, during the summer, we played on the same teams for many years. We made a good 1-2 punch on the mound & I was happy to be the #2 guy.
It doesn't seem that long ago, but our last tournament as teammates together was back in 1970 in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Mike hurt his arm during that national tourney which put his future in doubt. His dad, a former major leaguer, helped him to slowly rehab it back to health. The rest is history as Mike went onto play 18 seasons in Baltimore & Toronto.
I wish his parents, brother, sisters, daughters & extended family my heartfelt sympathy in this time of sorrow. Mike was a unique person & a unique talent who will be greatly missed.
Remember the Alamo!
The Boston Red Sox offense punished & embarassed the Texas pitching staff again last night in a 14-2 win. For a 2nd consecutive night the Sox score 10+ runs & every starter contributes at least 1 hit.
Carl Crawford - 5 RBI & a home run.
Jacoby Ellsbury - 2 hits, one a long homer to right as he closes in on 90 RBI for the season.
David Ortiz - 2 hits & 2 runs on his return to the lineup.
Adrian Gonzalez - another long HR to keep his power swing going.
Josh Beckett - 1 run over 6 innings.
And the list of contributors could go on & on. It is no coincidence that the return of Jacoby Ellsbury & David Ortiz to the lineup have improved the results dramatically. Ells was all over center last night tracking down balls in the gap.
5 wins out of 7 games so far on this road trip are more than I expected. With a 2nd consecutive Yankees loss at home last night to the A's the Sox are now in sole possession of 1st place in the AL East. Nice turn of events these last few days!
Carl Crawford - 5 RBI & a home run.
Jacoby Ellsbury - 2 hits, one a long homer to right as he closes in on 90 RBI for the season.
David Ortiz - 2 hits & 2 runs on his return to the lineup.
Adrian Gonzalez - another long HR to keep his power swing going.
Josh Beckett - 1 run over 6 innings.
And the list of contributors could go on & on. It is no coincidence that the return of Jacoby Ellsbury & David Ortiz to the lineup have improved the results dramatically. Ells was all over center last night tracking down balls in the gap.
5 wins out of 7 games so far on this road trip are more than I expected. With a 2nd consecutive Yankees loss at home last night to the A's the Sox are now in sole possession of 1st place in the AL East. Nice turn of events these last few days!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Red Sox Strike Back 11-5
Just when we in Red Sox Nation were thinking doom & gloom for the next 2 weeks the Boston Red Sox offense pulls a Houdini by scoring 11 runs after being shutout the night before. Sox even up their series in Texas 1-1 with an 11-5 victory last night. They also pull even with the Yankees atop the AL East.
Every starter in the Red Sox lineup contributed at least 1 hit last night. Gonzo went off with 2 homers, the first into the upper deck in right field. Late in the game Marco Scutaro hit a huge 2-run double which was followed by Dustin Pedroia's 2-run double. Maybe the Rangers won't intentionally walk Gonzo anymore to get to the little guy. Those 4 runs in the 8th iced the game as the score went from 7-4 to 11-4.
John Lackey followed in Erik Bedard's footsteps by giving up only 4 runs to a tough Rangers offense. Bedard got zero run support while Lackey had 7 runs to work with before his exit. I think the jury is still out on which guy is the true #3 starter. The Sox have another month plus to figure it out.
This was a very surprising & unexpected win by the Sox. It's nice to see that this team still has fight left in them.
Every starter in the Red Sox lineup contributed at least 1 hit last night. Gonzo went off with 2 homers, the first into the upper deck in right field. Late in the game Marco Scutaro hit a huge 2-run double which was followed by Dustin Pedroia's 2-run double. Maybe the Rangers won't intentionally walk Gonzo anymore to get to the little guy. Those 4 runs in the 8th iced the game as the score went from 7-4 to 11-4.
John Lackey followed in Erik Bedard's footsteps by giving up only 4 runs to a tough Rangers offense. Bedard got zero run support while Lackey had 7 runs to work with before his exit. I think the jury is still out on which guy is the true #3 starter. The Sox have another month plus to figure it out.
This was a very surprising & unexpected win by the Sox. It's nice to see that this team still has fight left in them.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Men Against Boys
C.J. Wilson & 3 Texas relievers cut through an impotent Sox offense to shutout the Boston 9 on just 4 singles. Texas wins Game 1 of a big series 4-0. It was like watching men pitch against boys. Very few hard hit balls by the Sox.
Give Erik Bedard credit for coming up with a very good performance - minus 1 pitch to Mike Napoli. I was saying under my breath just keep him in the park, but it wasn't to be. Napoli's 3-run homer took a 1-0 pitcher's duel to a 4-0 lead. End of game.
We can complain about no Ellsbury, no Youkilis, no Big Papi. But the truth of it is that the guys who are playing need to make the most of their limited opportunities. The Saltie ground out with 2 runners on was a big 3rd out in the 7th. Someone from Scutaro through Reddick needs to step up. Anyone for Viagra?
NESN reported that Jacoby Ellsbury may play tonight. He would be a big boost to the lineup. We need something to get a win & tie up this series.
Give Erik Bedard credit for coming up with a very good performance - minus 1 pitch to Mike Napoli. I was saying under my breath just keep him in the park, but it wasn't to be. Napoli's 3-run homer took a 1-0 pitcher's duel to a 4-0 lead. End of game.
We can complain about no Ellsbury, no Youkilis, no Big Papi. But the truth of it is that the guys who are playing need to make the most of their limited opportunities. The Saltie ground out with 2 runners on was a big 3rd out in the 7th. Someone from Scutaro through Reddick needs to step up. Anyone for Viagra?
NESN reported that Jacoby Ellsbury may play tonight. He would be a big boost to the lineup. We need something to get a win & tie up this series.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Strategy for Texas Split
Taking into account the pitching matchups, my crystal ball tells me that we need to win tonight behind Erik Bedard & we need to win on Wednesday behind Josh Beckett. I don't like the matchups on Tuesday & Thursday for Lackey & Wake. A split in Texas would be an acceptable outcome against a tough Rangers team. The Sox will be battling 100 degree temps as well.
This series "could" feature the return of David Ortiz & Jacoby Ellsbury. The operative word is "could" since the Red Sox staff is very conservative with injuries to their stars. The Sox will need one or both players to battle their way through a tough 4-game series with the AL Champs. 4 losses could evaporate most of the Sox lead in the Wild Card to a resurging Tampa Bay Rays. If Ortiz & Ellsbury play, it will be an indication of how important the Sox management feels these games are to making the playoffs.
We could be watching a preview of the ALCS. Enjoy!
This series "could" feature the return of David Ortiz & Jacoby Ellsbury. The operative word is "could" since the Red Sox staff is very conservative with injuries to their stars. The Sox will need one or both players to battle their way through a tough 4-game series with the AL Champs. 4 losses could evaporate most of the Sox lead in the Wild Card to a resurging Tampa Bay Rays. If Ortiz & Ellsbury play, it will be an indication of how important the Sox management feels these games are to making the playoffs.
We could be watching a preview of the ALCS. Enjoy!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Sox Take 3 Out of 4 in KC
A 6-1 win today in Kansas City was fueled by some unusual suspects.
Carl Crawford & Darnell McDonald hit homers. Yes, Carl Crawford! Crawford ended up with 2 hits & McDonald had 3 on the day.
Jon Lester pitched well through 6 innings, but ran out of gas in 7th. Daniel Bard to the rescue for the 7th & 8th. Dan Wheeler closed out the 9th.
All this without Jacoby Ellsbury who got plugged in the back, David Ortix who is nursing a heel injury & Kevin Youkilis who is on the DL. It was nice to see Marco Scutaro back in action.
If we can achieve the same results over the next 4 days in Texas without 1/3 of the starters, I'll be really impressed.
Carl Crawford & Darnell McDonald hit homers. Yes, Carl Crawford! Crawford ended up with 2 hits & McDonald had 3 on the day.
Jon Lester pitched well through 6 innings, but ran out of gas in 7th. Daniel Bard to the rescue for the 7th & 8th. Dan Wheeler closed out the 9th.
All this without Jacoby Ellsbury who got plugged in the back, David Ortix who is nursing a heel injury & Kevin Youkilis who is on the DL. It was nice to see Marco Scutaro back in action.
If we can achieve the same results over the next 4 days in Texas without 1/3 of the starters, I'll be really impressed.
Here Come Those Rays!
The Tampa Bay Rays have won 9 out of 11 & are making a move to catch the front-running Yankees & Red Sox. Just a week ago the Rays were 10 games back in the loss column. Now they are 7.
Both the Red Sox & Yankees have several games left against the Rays. If the Rays pitching stays hot to go along with their league-leading defense, they can sprinkle in a few runs on offense & be a team to be reckoned with.
Several sports reporters think the Rays are out. I disagree. Most of us have seen enough craziness in baseball to know you are never out until the math says you're out. I don't like the Rays getting hot at this time of year. Not one bit.
Both the Red Sox & Yankees have several games left against the Rays. If the Rays pitching stays hot to go along with their league-leading defense, they can sprinkle in a few runs on offense & be a team to be reckoned with.
Several sports reporters think the Rays are out. I disagree. Most of us have seen enough craziness in baseball to know you are never out until the math says you're out. I don't like the Rays getting hot at this time of year. Not one bit.
Albers Tough August Continues
Tim Wakefield left the game ahead 4-3, but another bad outing by the bullpen cost him win #200 again. Last time it was Alfredo Aceves who coughed up the lead. This time it was Matt Albers. By the time the 6th inning was over the Royals had scored 8 times on their way to a 9-4 victory last night.
Albers has been as bad in August as he was good in the prior 4 months. I think his ERA for this month is around 10.00. On the flip side, Dan Wheeler has thrown 10+ scoreless innings in his last several outings. It may be time to flip flop the roles of Albers & Wheeler.
It seems like win #200 has been an insurmountable mountain for Wake. His next shot is Thursday in Texas.
Good news - Yankees lost in Minnesota so their lead over the Sox stays at 1/2 game.
Albers has been as bad in August as he was good in the prior 4 months. I think his ERA for this month is around 10.00. On the flip side, Dan Wheeler has thrown 10+ scoreless innings in his last several outings. It may be time to flip flop the roles of Albers & Wheeler.
It seems like win #200 has been an insurmountable mountain for Wake. His next shot is Thursday in Texas.
Good news - Yankees lost in Minnesota so their lead over the Sox stays at 1/2 game.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Sox Win Again 7-1
Perhaps inspired the night before by Dustin Pedroia, the Red Sox lineup busted out of a scoring drought by drubbing the Royals 7-1 last night. This was a great team win all around.
Andrew Miller pitched much better than expected, limiting KC to 1 run over the 1st 5 innings. After running into trouble in the 6th my favorite crazy man Alfredo Aceves put down the threat & finished up the last 3 innings. As Tito said after the game Aceves work of 3+ scoreless innings in relief will help the Red sox & their bullpen in coming days on this road trip. Aceves has been the Justin Masterson type guy out of the pen that they have needed all year long.
Jarrod Saltalamacchia had the big blow on offense, a 3-run homer to put the Sox up 5-1 at the time. Saltie now has 12 dinger, a new record for him. The combo of Tek & Saltie have delivered 20 HR's this year which is much better than anticipated. Up & down the order everyone contributed. Even Ryan Lavarnway got his 1st major league hit in front of his family.
This win assures the Sox of at least a split in KC before moving onto Texas.
Andrew Miller pitched much better than expected, limiting KC to 1 run over the 1st 5 innings. After running into trouble in the 6th my favorite crazy man Alfredo Aceves put down the threat & finished up the last 3 innings. As Tito said after the game Aceves work of 3+ scoreless innings in relief will help the Red sox & their bullpen in coming days on this road trip. Aceves has been the Justin Masterson type guy out of the pen that they have needed all year long.
Jarrod Saltalamacchia had the big blow on offense, a 3-run homer to put the Sox up 5-1 at the time. Saltie now has 12 dinger, a new record for him. The combo of Tek & Saltie have delivered 20 HR's this year which is much better than anticipated. Up & down the order everyone contributed. Even Ryan Lavarnway got his 1st major league hit in front of his family.
This win assures the Sox of at least a split in KC before moving onto Texas.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Pedroia to the Rescue
Unlike the New England Patriots who mashed the Tampa Bay Bucs last night, the Red Sox have been hit by the injury bug & have not put many runs on the board lately. Adding to their issues, the Sox place banged up Kevin Youkilis on the DL before last night's game.
How would the Sox score runs with no Youk & no Big Papi? Petey to the rescue! He stood & delivered when it counted last night. You might call Pedroia "Little Papi" as he gets 3 hits & 3 RBI in last night wins over Kansas City 4-3. Pedroia may be the smallest clean-up hitter in all of baseball, but his average is anything but. As a #4 hitter, Petey is batting over .400 & the Sox road his bat to a big win last night to start their 8 game road trip.
Beckett, Bard & Pap limited the opposing KC batters to just 3 runs. Beckett really helped out his own cause by completing an economical 7th inning before turning it over to the bullpen. His pitch count was over 100 when he started the 7th. No question that Josh Beckett has been the most reliable starter this season.
The local paper today used the word "uneasy" to describe the Sox current status. I think that sums it up. 3 more wins on this road trip & I'm happy. Watch for Ryan Lavarnway to contribute before this road trip is over.
How would the Sox score runs with no Youk & no Big Papi? Petey to the rescue! He stood & delivered when it counted last night. You might call Pedroia "Little Papi" as he gets 3 hits & 3 RBI in last night wins over Kansas City 4-3. Pedroia may be the smallest clean-up hitter in all of baseball, but his average is anything but. As a #4 hitter, Petey is batting over .400 & the Sox road his bat to a big win last night to start their 8 game road trip.
Beckett, Bard & Pap limited the opposing KC batters to just 3 runs. Beckett really helped out his own cause by completing an economical 7th inning before turning it over to the bullpen. His pitch count was over 100 when he started the 7th. No question that Josh Beckett has been the most reliable starter this season.
The local paper today used the word "uneasy" to describe the Sox current status. I think that sums it up. 3 more wins on this road trip & I'm happy. Watch for Ryan Lavarnway to contribute before this road trip is over.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Sox Lose Series With 4-0 Loss
You might say that the Sox are in a mini-slump by losing consecutive series to Seattle & Tampa Bay while posting an 8-8 record so far in August.
Big Papi is out for several games due to bursitis in his heel.
Adrian Gonzalez is invisible at the plate lately due to a neck injury. He does not look like the best hitter in the AL.
Kevin Youkilis is playing sparingly due to a bad back. Even during today's game, you could see Youk not moving freely.
Carl Crawford is a strikeout waiting to happen. His head is not on straight lately.
Marco Scutaro is out with back problems & not expected in the lineup at any particular time.
Lowrie & Aviles on the right side of the infield is scary defensively.
The Sox had a total of 9 hits in 3 games versus the Rays & still pulled out 1 win. Thank goodness for Jacoby Ellsbury or we would have been swept. His triple today was the only hard hit ball by the Sox offense all day.
Don't despair! It's only a mini-slump. Things will work themselves out. The Sox still have a comfortable lead in the Wild Card & are only 1 back of the Yankees for the AL East lead. The sky is not falling - yet.
But I will say that the next 8 games in KC & Texas won't be easy games to weather all the current injuries. I'd take a 4-4 road trip, then get back home & do some damage. We should have Big Papi back by then.
On a personal note it was great to see a live game today. Chuck Schilling was signing autographs. My podcast buddy Gaff & I got to meet Dwight Evans in an elevator & shake hands with him. He is a classy guy! And just seeing parents with their kids in Red Sox gear reminds you of what a family atmosphere is created at the ballpark. The Red Sox are intertwined with family life here in New England. Too bad they lost!
Big Papi is out for several games due to bursitis in his heel.
Adrian Gonzalez is invisible at the plate lately due to a neck injury. He does not look like the best hitter in the AL.
Kevin Youkilis is playing sparingly due to a bad back. Even during today's game, you could see Youk not moving freely.
Carl Crawford is a strikeout waiting to happen. His head is not on straight lately.
Marco Scutaro is out with back problems & not expected in the lineup at any particular time.
Lowrie & Aviles on the right side of the infield is scary defensively.
The Sox had a total of 9 hits in 3 games versus the Rays & still pulled out 1 win. Thank goodness for Jacoby Ellsbury or we would have been swept. His triple today was the only hard hit ball by the Sox offense all day.
Don't despair! It's only a mini-slump. Things will work themselves out. The Sox still have a comfortable lead in the Wild Card & are only 1 back of the Yankees for the AL East lead. The sky is not falling - yet.
But I will say that the next 8 games in KC & Texas won't be easy games to weather all the current injuries. I'd take a 4-4 road trip, then get back home & do some damage. We should have Big Papi back by then.
On a personal note it was great to see a live game today. Chuck Schilling was signing autographs. My podcast buddy Gaff & I got to meet Dwight Evans in an elevator & shake hands with him. He is a classy guy! And just seeing parents with their kids in Red Sox gear reminds you of what a family atmosphere is created at the ballpark. The Red Sox are intertwined with family life here in New England. Too bad they lost!
Sox Lose Nightcap 6-2
Yesterday was a visual lesson as to why the Tampa Bay Rays are a team to be reckoned with - pitching & defense. Mixed that with a sprinkling of offense & you can see how the Rays beat the Sox 6-2 in the nightcap of their doubleheader.
On the Red Sox side I looked at the lineup & said this is pathetic. I knew there would be no offense with Big Papi, Youk & Scutaro out of the lineup. Crawford looks terrible at the plate. Even Gonzo isn't waiting anymore to ground out since he swings on the first pitch - which is bizarre to me. Ellsbury & Pedroia can't carry the load every game.
And the ball in the field usually finds your weakest link(s). That was Lowrie & Aviles playing on the right side together & not having a good day in the field defensively. Too many errors.
Thank goodness we won the 1st game. Lackey matches up with Price today. I'm going to the game, so I hope Lackey can keep the Sox within 3 or less & we pray for a big fly with men on base.
On the Red Sox side I looked at the lineup & said this is pathetic. I knew there would be no offense with Big Papi, Youk & Scutaro out of the lineup. Crawford looks terrible at the plate. Even Gonzo isn't waiting anymore to ground out since he swings on the first pitch - which is bizarre to me. Ellsbury & Pedroia can't carry the load every game.
And the ball in the field usually finds your weakest link(s). That was Lowrie & Aviles playing on the right side together & not having a good day in the field defensively. Too many errors.
Thank goodness we won the 1st game. Lackey matches up with Price today. I'm going to the game, so I hope Lackey can keep the Sox within 3 or less & we pray for a big fly with men on base.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Sox Get Big Win in Game 1 3-1
This was like a playoff game. 1 hit made all the difference.
Jon Lester - 7 innings, 1 run. Bard a scoreless 8th. Pap closes the 9th.
James Shields - 8 innings, 3 runs, all on a Jacoby Ellsbury 3-run homer. If not for Ells, we lose 1-0.
This was a huge win against Shields & the Rays. No possibility now of a Rays sweep.
It's Bedard & Niemann in Game 2 tonight.
Jon Lester - 7 innings, 1 run. Bard a scoreless 8th. Pap closes the 9th.
James Shields - 8 innings, 3 runs, all on a Jacoby Ellsbury 3-run homer. If not for Ells, we lose 1-0.
This was a huge win against Shields & the Rays. No possibility now of a Rays sweep.
It's Bedard & Niemann in Game 2 tonight.
Big Series With Tampa Bay
Tuesday & Wednesday will be 2 big dates this week for 3 big games versus the Tampa Bay Rays. A sweep by Tampa would put the Rays back in the hunt for the Wild Card. Tampa has their best 3 starters going in Shields, Niemann & Price.
On the flip side the Sox are coming off a mini-slump in Seattle, losing 2 in a row. Kevin Youkilis & Marco Scutaro are nursing injuries. Gonzo is dealing with a neck pull & possible fatigue in his shoulder that was operated on. We are starting our #2, 3 & 4 pitchers during this series in Lester, Bedard & Lackey.
All signs - for fatalistic Red Sox fans - point to a rough 2 days at home. I'm optimistic that the Sox will win 2 out of 3, simply for the fact of being at home. They will rise to the occasion. What do you think?
On the flip side the Sox are coming off a mini-slump in Seattle, losing 2 in a row. Kevin Youkilis & Marco Scutaro are nursing injuries. Gonzo is dealing with a neck pull & possible fatigue in his shoulder that was operated on. We are starting our #2, 3 & 4 pitchers during this series in Lester, Bedard & Lackey.
All signs - for fatalistic Red Sox fans - point to a rough 2 days at home. I'm optimistic that the Sox will win 2 out of 3, simply for the fact of being at home. They will rise to the occasion. What do you think?
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Crazy Zambrano on DQ
Mr. Personality of the Chicago Cubs, Carlos Zambrano, was ejected from his last game. He promptly cleaned out his locker & told players he was retiring. The Cubs brass said they would honor his request to retire since Zambrano is still owed about $24 mil through next season.
Zambrano has since retracted his retirement statement. However, the Cubs have place him on the disqualification list & do not have to pay him for 30 days. That's about $3 mil less in his pocket.
Zambrano's fellow players have said that they don't care if he returns this year. His infantile antics are getting old in the dugout & in the clubhouse.
Hey Red Sox fans, does this sound familiar?? Let me give you a hint. First name begins with an "M."
Zambrano has since retracted his retirement statement. However, the Cubs have place him on the disqualification list & do not have to pay him for 30 days. That's about $3 mil less in his pocket.
Zambrano's fellow players have said that they don't care if he returns this year. His infantile antics are getting old in the dugout & in the clubhouse.
Hey Red Sox fans, does this sound familiar?? Let me give you a hint. First name begins with an "M."
Sox Lose Series to Mariners
It's been awhile since I remember the Red Sox losing a series. However, the Seattle Mariners beat Tim Wakefield & the Sox by a score of 5-3 today to win 2 out of 3 in Seattle.
Wake may have his own mini-curse going as he fails to win #200 for the 4th time. In all 4 outings he pitched well enough to win, but the offense was unable to score more runs than the opposition.
One bright spot today was the return of Kevin Youkilis who homered late in the game to pull the score closer at 5-3. But that was as close as the Sox could make it.
After an off-day Monday the Sox take on the Rays for 3 games in 2 days with 2 on Tuesday & 1 on Wednesday at Fenway. The Rays always give the Sox a rough time, so I'd be happy with 2 win.
Wake may have his own mini-curse going as he fails to win #200 for the 4th time. In all 4 outings he pitched well enough to win, but the offense was unable to score more runs than the opposition.
One bright spot today was the return of Kevin Youkilis who homered late in the game to pull the score closer at 5-3. But that was as close as the Sox could make it.
After an off-day Monday the Sox take on the Rays for 3 games in 2 days with 2 on Tuesday & 1 on Wednesday at Fenway. The Rays always give the Sox a rough time, so I'd be happy with 2 win.
Comeback Falls Short in 5-4 Loss
As it turns out, this game was over after the 1st inning. Josh Beckett gave up 5 first inning runs, including 2 homers, & the Sox offense just couldn't pull out another come-from-behind win against Felix Hernandez.
For the 2nd night in a row I stayed up for the whole game like many of you. 2-run homers by Ellsbury & Pedroia made it interesting at 5-4, but the Sox couldn't get that one extra hit on this night.
If I was pitching to Carl Crawford & Josh Reddick, I would throw them breaking balls in the dirt with 2 strikes. Neither one of them can seem to lay off that pitch when they are behind in the count.
Maybe the 4th time will be the charm for Tim Wakefield today. Unlike his last start, Bard & Pap are available with the whole bullpen since there is an off-day tomorrow. I have a good feeling that he will finally get win # 200 today.
For the 2nd night in a row I stayed up for the whole game like many of you. 2-run homers by Ellsbury & Pedroia made it interesting at 5-4, but the Sox couldn't get that one extra hit on this night.
If I was pitching to Carl Crawford & Josh Reddick, I would throw them breaking balls in the dirt with 2 strikes. Neither one of them can seem to lay off that pitch when they are behind in the count.
Maybe the 4th time will be the charm for Tim Wakefield today. Unlike his last start, Bard & Pap are available with the whole bullpen since there is an off-day tomorrow. I have a good feeling that he will finally get win # 200 today.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Hard to Beat the Sox Lately
More times than not, if you keep the opponent within 2 of 3 runs, the Sox offense will come through. That's what happened last night in Seattle. Leads of 2-0, 3-1 & 4-2 by the Mariners were erased by the Sox offense later in the game. Sox win 6-4.
John Lackey had a typical performance, giving up runs early & then settling down. He went 6+ giving up 4 runs. Daniel Bard came into the game in the 7th to bail out Lackey & Franklin Morales from giving up the tying runs by getting the last out with 2 on base. Then Bard & Pap threw down the hammer in the 8th & 9th to save the game.
Offensively, Big Papi stays hot with a deep homer to dead central (as Eck would say). Jed Lowrie hit a shot to right, as did Josh Reddick. Even Mike Aviles had a big sac fly early in the game. Every player in the Red Sox lineup contributed at least 1 hit. That's pretty impressive.
Unfortunately, Mariners first baseman Justin Smoak took a screaming bad hop ground ball in the face off the bat of Saltie. Early reports were that he suffered a fractured nose. I hope that he is OK. The bad hop reminded me of playing or practicing on rough infields years ago. My youth coach use to hit hot shots to see if I would stay in front of the ball & knock it down. I did, but my throat didn't like it.
John Lackey had a typical performance, giving up runs early & then settling down. He went 6+ giving up 4 runs. Daniel Bard came into the game in the 7th to bail out Lackey & Franklin Morales from giving up the tying runs by getting the last out with 2 on base. Then Bard & Pap threw down the hammer in the 8th & 9th to save the game.
Offensively, Big Papi stays hot with a deep homer to dead central (as Eck would say). Jed Lowrie hit a shot to right, as did Josh Reddick. Even Mike Aviles had a big sac fly early in the game. Every player in the Red Sox lineup contributed at least 1 hit. That's pretty impressive.
Unfortunately, Mariners first baseman Justin Smoak took a screaming bad hop ground ball in the face off the bat of Saltie. Early reports were that he suffered a fractured nose. I hope that he is OK. The bad hop reminded me of playing or practicing on rough infields years ago. My youth coach use to hit hot shots to see if I would stay in front of the ball & knock it down. I did, but my throat didn't like it.
Friday, August 12, 2011
As Of Today
Here's where we are at the start of play tonight - 8/12/2011.
Red Sox 72-44
Yankees 71-45
Angels 64-54
Rays 63-54
The Red Sox have a 10-game lead in the loss column on the Angels & Rays in the Wild Card race. The Yankees are one game back of the Sox in the AL East race.
The Red Sox have 46 games left in the season. If they play .500 ball the rest of the way, either the Angels or Rays would need a winning clip of .750 over the last 7 weeks to tie.
I like the math. I also like the fact that we have time to sort out the pitching between Lackey, Bedard, Wakefield & others before the playoffs. The last 7 weeks may turn out to be an audition for the playoff roster.
Red Sox 72-44
Yankees 71-45
Angels 64-54
Rays 63-54
The Red Sox have a 10-game lead in the loss column on the Angels & Rays in the Wild Card race. The Yankees are one game back of the Sox in the AL East race.
The Red Sox have 46 games left in the season. If they play .500 ball the rest of the way, either the Angels or Rays would need a winning clip of .750 over the last 7 weeks to tie.
I like the math. I also like the fact that we have time to sort out the pitching between Lackey, Bedard, Wakefield & others before the playoffs. The last 7 weeks may turn out to be an audition for the playoff roster.
Sleepless Friday in Seattle
It's the last west coast trip of the season. First pitch is schedule for 10:10 PM our time.
This is a true test for fans of Red Sox Nation to stay up watching the Sox until the game ends around 1:00 or 2:00 AM. Get your nap in early tonight before the ballgame.
This kind of craziness is what makes being a Red Sox fan fun.
This is a true test for fans of Red Sox Nation to stay up watching the Sox until the game ends around 1:00 or 2:00 AM. Get your nap in early tonight before the ballgame.
This kind of craziness is what makes being a Red Sox fan fun.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Sox Lose 5-2
It was the Twins offense putting up runs late in the game last night as opposed to the Sox bats doing damage over the final innings. 3 runs in the 8th paved the way for the Twins to salvage the last game of a 3-game set.
Jon Lester pitched well enough to win over the first 7 innings, giving up 2 runs. He got extended into the 8th due to a tired bullpen & it cost him the lead. Alfredo Aceves was ineffective in relief, giving up 2 additional runs. I thought that Tito might use Dan Wheeler to start the 8th, but that's just second guessing on my part.
An off-day today will allow New England sports fans to check out the Patriots first pre-season game tonight. The Sox travel to Seattle to start a weekend series on Friday.
Jon Lester pitched well enough to win over the first 7 innings, giving up 2 runs. He got extended into the 8th due to a tired bullpen & it cost him the lead. Alfredo Aceves was ineffective in relief, giving up 2 additional runs. I thought that Tito might use Dan Wheeler to start the 8th, but that's just second guessing on my part.
An off-day today will allow New England sports fans to check out the Patriots first pre-season game tonight. The Sox travel to Seattle to start a weekend series on Friday.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Sox Win Again 4-3
It wasn't pretty, but the Sox offense struggled through a tough night to get another win in Minnesota 4-3. Darnell McDonald hit a 2-run homer to get the Sox on the board. Hard to believe that a 30-foot roller by Big Papi, mishandled by the Twins pitcher, was the difference in this game. Between 9 walks & errors in the field the Twins lost this game more than the Red Sox won it.
Erik Bedard pitched well enough through the first 5, giving up only 2 runs while walking 4 & striking out 6. Matt Albers gave up a run in the 6th for the 3rd time in his last 4 outings. Franklin Morales could only get 2 outs in the 7th before giving way to Daniel Bard who cleaned up the mess & pitched a 1-2-3 8th. Then Pap finished off the 9th for another save.
My question for the night: Where was Carl Crawford going on the Varitek RBI single? The ball was right in front of him & he assumed the throw was going home. Instead, he makes the final out in a rundown. Not smart baserunning for a guy who is suppose to be a good baserunner.
Lots of things are being overlooked now because the Red Sox are winning. If they weren't, we would be talking about no production with the bases loaded a whole lot more.
Erik Bedard pitched well enough through the first 5, giving up only 2 runs while walking 4 & striking out 6. Matt Albers gave up a run in the 6th for the 3rd time in his last 4 outings. Franklin Morales could only get 2 outs in the 7th before giving way to Daniel Bard who cleaned up the mess & pitched a 1-2-3 8th. Then Pap finished off the 9th for another save.
My question for the night: Where was Carl Crawford going on the Varitek RBI single? The ball was right in front of him & he assumed the throw was going home. Instead, he makes the final out in a rundown. Not smart baserunning for a guy who is suppose to be a good baserunner.
Lots of things are being overlooked now because the Red Sox are winning. If they weren't, we would be talking about no production with the bases loaded a whole lot more.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Big Night for Big Papi, Saltie, Scutaro
David Ortiz had 4 hits, including a monster jack to the upper deck in right center, & 3 big RBI. He has 22 homers on the season to lead the Sox in that category.
Jarrod Saltalamacchia added 2 RBI with 2 clutch hits, including a solo homer after Big Papi's blast. Saltie has put together quite a string of consistent offensive performances. He also thre out a runner last night.
Marco Scutaro added 3 hits to follow-up his 4-for-4 night against the Yankees on Sunday. Lowrie will have to fight for playing time to get Scutaro out of the lineup now.
Sox earned a hard fought 8-6 comeback win in Minnesota after trailing early in the game 5-1. Once again Tim Wakefield pitched well enough to earn his 200th win, but it just didn't happen.
Jed Lowrie's return gives the Sox more added punch. For the 2nd night in a row Darnell McDonald is used as a pinch runner & scores the winning run. Mike Aviles is seeing some playing time in RF. Terry Francona is using all his weapons to extend the Sox lead over the idle Yankees to 1 1/2. The Red Sox are 70+ wins on the season now & only the Phillies have a better record.
Erik Bedard gets his 2nd start in a Red Sox uniform tonight. Let's see if the Sox have jet lag tonight, the day after, which is usually when it would show up.
Jarrod Saltalamacchia added 2 RBI with 2 clutch hits, including a solo homer after Big Papi's blast. Saltie has put together quite a string of consistent offensive performances. He also thre out a runner last night.
Marco Scutaro added 3 hits to follow-up his 4-for-4 night against the Yankees on Sunday. Lowrie will have to fight for playing time to get Scutaro out of the lineup now.
Sox earned a hard fought 8-6 comeback win in Minnesota after trailing early in the game 5-1. Once again Tim Wakefield pitched well enough to earn his 200th win, but it just didn't happen.
Jed Lowrie's return gives the Sox more added punch. For the 2nd night in a row Darnell McDonald is used as a pinch runner & scores the winning run. Mike Aviles is seeing some playing time in RF. Terry Francona is using all his weapons to extend the Sox lead over the idle Yankees to 1 1/2. The Red Sox are 70+ wins on the season now & only the Phillies have a better record.
Erik Bedard gets his 2nd start in a Red Sox uniform tonight. Let's see if the Sox have jet lag tonight, the day after, which is usually when it would show up.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Sox Win in 10th 3-2
The Boston Red Sox continued their dominance over the New York Yankees by taking 2 out of 3 this weekend at Fenway & regaining the top spot in the AL East. A few thoughts ran through my head.
For the Red Sox:
- Jon Lester & Josh Beckett remain Yankee killers. Lester pitched well enough to win & Beckett got snake-bitten again last night by another no-decision.
- Josh Reddick will be hard to remove from the lineup. His perfect throw to get Russell Martin at second & his walk-off hit last night shows Francona that he can play with the big boys.
- Marco Scutaro is providing punch at the bottom of the order. His 3 hits last night, including a big double off Mariano in the 9th & an earlier RBI single, help the Red Sox offense turn over the lineup.
- Where were Adrian Gonzalez & Kevin Youkilis this weekend? There was no punch in the 3-4 spots at all. They both had too many strikeouts & too many weak ground balls.
- By contrast, David Ortiz is a Yankee killer like Beckett & Lester. He had a home run on Friday & a big double in the 10th that proved to be the winning run. Ortiz makes a living off the Yankees.
- If we would have lost the game last night, I would have singled out Jason Varitek as a villain. He was winding up on his throws to 2nd that were slow & inaccurate. And when does a #8 batter in the lineup swing on 3-0 with the bases loaded & pop out? I thought he had a terrible game & was surprised that Tito didn't pinch hit Saltie for him in the 8th.
For the Yankees:
- Their offense scored only 9 runs in 3 games for a 3-run average. Much below what they have been scoring & a tribute to good pitching by the Sox.
- The Red Sox still have CC Sabathia's number this year & 4 losses in 4 tries is not a fluke. We are in CC's head now.
- Mariano is not automatic against the Red Sox. Before the super closer could catch his breath last night he gave up a double, sac bunt & sac fly for a run & a blown save. He has 4 more blown saves than Pap this year.
- Phil Hughes is not back to his previous form. A double to Ortiz in the 10th followed by an intentional walk to Crawford & a double by Reddick spelled the end of his night & the end of the Yankees in this series.
The Red Sox were the better team this weekend. If not for a hit by Swisher on Friday, the Sox would have swept this weekend. The Yankees know they will need to hit & pitch much better in the playoffs to beat Boston.
For the Red Sox:
- Jon Lester & Josh Beckett remain Yankee killers. Lester pitched well enough to win & Beckett got snake-bitten again last night by another no-decision.
- Josh Reddick will be hard to remove from the lineup. His perfect throw to get Russell Martin at second & his walk-off hit last night shows Francona that he can play with the big boys.
- Marco Scutaro is providing punch at the bottom of the order. His 3 hits last night, including a big double off Mariano in the 9th & an earlier RBI single, help the Red Sox offense turn over the lineup.
- Where were Adrian Gonzalez & Kevin Youkilis this weekend? There was no punch in the 3-4 spots at all. They both had too many strikeouts & too many weak ground balls.
- By contrast, David Ortiz is a Yankee killer like Beckett & Lester. He had a home run on Friday & a big double in the 10th that proved to be the winning run. Ortiz makes a living off the Yankees.
- If we would have lost the game last night, I would have singled out Jason Varitek as a villain. He was winding up on his throws to 2nd that were slow & inaccurate. And when does a #8 batter in the lineup swing on 3-0 with the bases loaded & pop out? I thought he had a terrible game & was surprised that Tito didn't pinch hit Saltie for him in the 8th.
For the Yankees:
- Their offense scored only 9 runs in 3 games for a 3-run average. Much below what they have been scoring & a tribute to good pitching by the Sox.
- The Red Sox still have CC Sabathia's number this year & 4 losses in 4 tries is not a fluke. We are in CC's head now.
- Mariano is not automatic against the Red Sox. Before the super closer could catch his breath last night he gave up a double, sac bunt & sac fly for a run & a blown save. He has 4 more blown saves than Pap this year.
- Phil Hughes is not back to his previous form. A double to Ortiz in the 10th followed by an intentional walk to Crawford & a double by Reddick spelled the end of his night & the end of the Yankees in this series.
The Red Sox were the better team this weekend. If not for a hit by Swisher on Friday, the Sox would have swept this weekend. The Yankees know they will need to hit & pitch much better in the playoffs to beat Boston.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Ellsbury Red Hot
Can Jacoby Ellsbury get any hotter offensively? In the first week of August he has 2 walk-off hits against the Indians & he lights up CC for 6 RBI yesterday. Not a bad first week.
Like his teammates Gonzalez & Pedroia Ells has to be the front runner for AL Player of the Month in August. He should certainly be the AL Player of the Week.
At this offensive rate Ellsbury has a chance at 100 RBI for the season as a leadoff batter. That's just crazy. He will steal another 50 bases, score 100 runs & he is hitting over .300 now. He is the best leadoff hitter by far in the AL & perhaps in all of baseball.
Nice comeback, Ells.
Like his teammates Gonzalez & Pedroia Ells has to be the front runner for AL Player of the Month in August. He should certainly be the AL Player of the Week.
At this offensive rate Ellsbury has a chance at 100 RBI for the season as a leadoff batter. That's just crazy. He will steal another 50 bases, score 100 runs & he is hitting over .300 now. He is the best leadoff hitter by far in the AL & perhaps in all of baseball.
Nice comeback, Ells.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
CC Can't Beat Us
There are some teams that a pitcher just can't beat. CC Sabathia is dominant against just about everyone in baseball, just not the Boston Red Sox in 2011. He loses for the 4th time to the Sox, this time by a score of 10-4.
Props to John Lackey, Carl Crawford & Jacoby Ellsbury. Lackey surrendered 3 runs over 6 innings. Crawford contributed 4 hits. (If you want to get Red Sox Nation excited about you as a player, get 4 hits against the Yankees!) And Jacoby Ellsbury hit a big 3-run bomb to right, his 19th of the year. Game over for the Yankees after that.
The win splits the series & keeps the race within 1 game. Since we have Josh Beckett pitching tomorrow I hope we are the team that has the 1 game lead after Sunday night.
Props to John Lackey, Carl Crawford & Jacoby Ellsbury. Lackey surrendered 3 runs over 6 innings. Crawford contributed 4 hits. (If you want to get Red Sox Nation excited about you as a player, get 4 hits against the Yankees!) And Jacoby Ellsbury hit a big 3-run bomb to right, his 19th of the year. Game over for the Yankees after that.
The win splits the series & keeps the race within 1 game. Since we have Josh Beckett pitching tomorrow I hope we are the team that has the 1 game lead after Sunday night.
Yankees Win 3-2
The Yankees are the hotter team right now with 8 straight wins. The pinstripes win game 1 3-2 in a playoff-like atmosphere.
It came down to one timely hit by Nick Swisher which made the difference in the game. It also came down to one big strikeout by Adrian Gonzalez with the bases loaded. That's how close a contest it was.
Today is another day. Let's see who the better team is today.
It came down to one timely hit by Nick Swisher which made the difference in the game. It also came down to one big strikeout by Adrian Gonzalez with the bases loaded. That's how close a contest it was.
Today is another day. Let's see who the better team is today.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Bedard OK
Erik Bedard made an OK start in his Red Sox debut. 5 innings, 3 runs.
Unfortunately, the Indians continued to add on against the Sox bullpen & Sox lose 7-3. They split with a team that has had their way with the Sox this year. Old friend Justin Masterson continues to pitch well against his former teammates. Can we get him back?
Josh Reddick hit a game-tying homer to get Bedard off the hook. It will be interesting to see what happens in RF when J.D. Drew comes off the DL.
It's onto the Yankees this weekend. I know the media is always overbearing when it comes to this series, but once again both teams are showing why Red Sox vs. Yankees is the best rivalry in all of sports. Sit back & enjoy!
Unfortunately, the Indians continued to add on against the Sox bullpen & Sox lose 7-3. They split with a team that has had their way with the Sox this year. Old friend Justin Masterson continues to pitch well against his former teammates. Can we get him back?
Josh Reddick hit a game-tying homer to get Bedard off the hook. It will be interesting to see what happens in RF when J.D. Drew comes off the DL.
It's onto the Yankees this weekend. I know the media is always overbearing when it comes to this series, but once again both teams are showing why Red Sox vs. Yankees is the best rivalry in all of sports. Sit back & enjoy!
Sox Lose, Yanks Win, Tied
Did we think it would go any other way? Since the start of the season I've been convinced that it would be another Red Sox-Yankees race for first. And 110+ games into the season we have a dead heat at the top of the AL East.
This tie in August makes these 3 weekend games quite important. Should one team sweep they will have a 3-game lead & the largest spread in recent weeks. Whoever wins game 1 knows that the very worst outcome is a 1-game deficit, so a win in game 1 is very important. Each of the remaining games takes on additional importance from there.
We have Lester, Lackey & Beckett going. That's as good as we have right now. I'm shooting for 2 wins out of 3.
This tie in August makes these 3 weekend games quite important. Should one team sweep they will have a 3-game lead & the largest spread in recent weeks. Whoever wins game 1 knows that the very worst outcome is a 1-game deficit, so a win in game 1 is very important. Each of the remaining games takes on additional importance from there.
We have Lester, Lackey & Beckett going. That's as good as we have right now. I'm shooting for 2 wins out of 3.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Deja Vu All Over Again
The start of last night's game was about Tim Wakefield & his quest for career win number 200. The end of last night's game was about Jacoby Ellsbury & his second walk-off hit in 2 nights. Sox win 4-3 in dramatic fashion to take 2 out of the first 3 from a tough Cleveland Indians team. Justin Masterson & Erik Bedard pitch the finale tonight.
Once again Wake pitched well enough to pick-up #200, but the baseball gods were not smiling upon him. Even though Wake was not happy about being lifted in the 7th, it would not have made any difference on the scorecard since Pap picked up the win in the 9th, his 2nd win in a row in as many nights.
And Jacoby Ellsbury continues his torrid season, proving all his skeptics from 2010 so, so wrong. Ells belted a line drive homer 420 feet to dead center to end the game before extra innings. He has 18 home runs which is 2nd on the team to David Ortiz. Ells is putting together an MVP season to go along with Al Player of the Month for June Adrian Gonzalez & AL Player of the Month for July Dustin Pedroia. Ellsbury is a force at the plate & in the field.
I said to my wife that 2 nights of walk-off wins means that the sun, moon & stars are starting to align for the Red Sox. This is turning into a special year.
Once again Wake pitched well enough to pick-up #200, but the baseball gods were not smiling upon him. Even though Wake was not happy about being lifted in the 7th, it would not have made any difference on the scorecard since Pap picked up the win in the 9th, his 2nd win in a row in as many nights.
And Jacoby Ellsbury continues his torrid season, proving all his skeptics from 2010 so, so wrong. Ells belted a line drive homer 420 feet to dead center to end the game before extra innings. He has 18 home runs which is 2nd on the team to David Ortiz. Ells is putting together an MVP season to go along with Al Player of the Month for June Adrian Gonzalez & AL Player of the Month for July Dustin Pedroia. Ellsbury is a force at the plate & in the field.
I said to my wife that 2 nights of walk-off wins means that the sun, moon & stars are starting to align for the Red Sox. This is turning into a special year.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Why Do It?
I told my brother last week that there are just too many sports shows on TV & radio these days. Constant chatter, chatter, chatter & it's usually about nothing or it's about something that was made up to attract a bigger rating.
I'm taking my shower yesterday & I'm listening to the TV version of Dennis & Callahan for one of the first times. My first impression is they talk about a lot of non-sports stuff for what is suppose to be a sports program. Then I hear them both get going on Erik Bedard. The inference was Bedard will not last in Boston because he's not a media guy, he supposedly doesn't like pitching for a playoff team & he must be soft because he still leaves near or with his parents in Canada.
Really? Is this great sports journalism by 2 guys who have been around the block in Boston? I don't think Red Sox fans care about Bedard's interview skills. I don't think Red Sox fans care where he lives. And I don't know of any pitcher in the big leagues who hasn't pitched in meaningful games at some point in their career.
Erik Bedard is not Clay Buchholz. But let's get behind him & see what he does on the field before reporters tear him to shreds. I won't be listening to Dennis & Callahan anymore. They seem to be too self-serving for me. Goodbye John & Gerry!
I'm taking my shower yesterday & I'm listening to the TV version of Dennis & Callahan for one of the first times. My first impression is they talk about a lot of non-sports stuff for what is suppose to be a sports program. Then I hear them both get going on Erik Bedard. The inference was Bedard will not last in Boston because he's not a media guy, he supposedly doesn't like pitching for a playoff team & he must be soft because he still leaves near or with his parents in Canada.
Really? Is this great sports journalism by 2 guys who have been around the block in Boston? I don't think Red Sox fans care about Bedard's interview skills. I don't think Red Sox fans care where he lives. And I don't know of any pitcher in the big leagues who hasn't pitched in meaningful games at some point in their career.
Erik Bedard is not Clay Buchholz. But let's get behind him & see what he does on the field before reporters tear him to shreds. I won't be listening to Dennis & Callahan anymore. They seem to be too self-serving for me. Goodbye John & Gerry!
Great Walk-Off Win
Varitek - single. Saltie inserted as pinch-runner. Reddick bloops a single to right. Saltie takes 2nd. Ells singles sharply to center. Saltie turns 3rd & comes home with a head-first slide, arms outstretched as far as possible, to barely beat the throw home. We win!
It was an exciting end to a well played & well pitched game by both sides. The Sox 3-2 win in the 9th evens up the series with 2 games left. Wakefield pitches tonight & Erik Bedard makes his debut on Thursday.
Josh Beckett made another quality start, but had to leave after 6 innings due to the rain delay which had him warm-up twice before the start. Franklin Morales was strong for 2 innings & Pap blew his 3 batters away in the 9th.
This was just a good win.
It was an exciting end to a well played & well pitched game by both sides. The Sox 3-2 win in the 9th evens up the series with 2 games left. Wakefield pitches tonight & Erik Bedard makes his debut on Thursday.
Josh Beckett made another quality start, but had to leave after 6 innings due to the rain delay which had him warm-up twice before the start. Franklin Morales was strong for 2 innings & Pap blew his 3 batters away in the 9th.
This was just a good win.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Bad News All Around
First, the Sox bullpen very uncharacteristically gives up runs in the 8th & 9th innings to lose game 1 to the Indians 9-6.
Then, we hear news reports that Clay Buchholz has a stress fracture in his back & is probably done for this year.
Going back to last night's game, John Lackey had a chance to step up & give the Sox a positive shot in the arm with a good pitching performance. He did not. Too many pitches over the heart of the plate, including back-to-back home runs by Cabrera & Hafner. The Sox came back to tie the game 5-5, so Lackey leaves with a no-decision. Big John did nothing to solidify his claim to the #3 starters role. Still inconsistent.
Question: Why is Tito using Daniel Bard in a tie game? Franklin Morales had been up & warming. Usually, Bard & Pap are exclusively used when we are ahead. And Tito tries to limit their appearances during the regular season. Bard ends up giving Cabrera another home run to put the Tribe ahead for good. I think the NESN announcers jinxed Bard by talking about his streak of scoreless innings. That's over now.
Question: Why are we overlooking the Indians & talking about the upcoming Yankees series? The Indians have had our number this year just like the White Sox. We could be 2 games behind the Yankees by the time the weekend gets here.
Finally, how about we let someone else beat us other than Asdrubal Cabrera? Can't we pitch around him for the remaining 3 games? He is the hottest bat on an otherwise unimpressive Cleveland offense. Without Sizemore & Choo out of the lineup I would walk Cabrera & take our chances with the other 8 sticks.
We need to play smarter over these next 3 games.
Then, we hear news reports that Clay Buchholz has a stress fracture in his back & is probably done for this year.
Going back to last night's game, John Lackey had a chance to step up & give the Sox a positive shot in the arm with a good pitching performance. He did not. Too many pitches over the heart of the plate, including back-to-back home runs by Cabrera & Hafner. The Sox came back to tie the game 5-5, so Lackey leaves with a no-decision. Big John did nothing to solidify his claim to the #3 starters role. Still inconsistent.
Question: Why is Tito using Daniel Bard in a tie game? Franklin Morales had been up & warming. Usually, Bard & Pap are exclusively used when we are ahead. And Tito tries to limit their appearances during the regular season. Bard ends up giving Cabrera another home run to put the Tribe ahead for good. I think the NESN announcers jinxed Bard by talking about his streak of scoreless innings. That's over now.
Question: Why are we overlooking the Indians & talking about the upcoming Yankees series? The Indians have had our number this year just like the White Sox. We could be 2 games behind the Yankees by the time the weekend gets here.
Finally, how about we let someone else beat us other than Asdrubal Cabrera? Can't we pitch around him for the remaining 3 games? He is the hottest bat on an otherwise unimpressive Cleveland offense. Without Sizemore & Choo out of the lineup I would walk Cabrera & take our chances with the other 8 sticks.
We need to play smarter over these next 3 games.
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