Yes, Manny has gotten his wish and he's headed for La-La Land. No, wait, hasn't he been in La-La Land for, oh, I don't know, 36 years? Manny and Joe Torre...interesting concept. All kidding aside, Manny is a great hitter and there will be times when his 500+ home run bat will be sorely missed. However, the Manny Melodrama of the past week was becoming toxic to the team. It was evident in last night's game how distracted the team was. The Boston Globe said that "one day after a near no-hitter, they played a no-fielder" Everyone from Manny's teammates and manager to the front office, to Red Sox Nation had had enough, so they shipped him out of Boston and brought on a new left-fielder from the Pirate ship, Jason Bay.
Bay, from what I've read, is 29 years old, bats .282 with 22 HR and 64 RBI. He's been described as a player with all-around baseball skills, from the bat to the field to the base paths. It will be interesting to see where Tito bats him tomorrow night. I'm thinking he bats 5th or 6th as they see how he will produce in Boston. Here are my predictions for possible lineups.
Lineup #1:
Pedroia
Youkilis
Ortiz
Drew
Lowell
Bay
Lowrie/Cora
Varitek
Ellsbury/Crisp
Lineup #2
Pedroia
Drew
Ortiz
Youkilis
Lowell
Bay
Lowrie/Cora
Varitek
Ellsbury/Crisp
Lineup #3
Pedroia
Youkilis
Ortiz
Lowell
Drew
Bay
Lowrie/Cora
Varitek
Ellsbury/Crisp
Lineup #4
Pedroia
Drew
Ortiz
Lowell
Bay
Youkilis
Lowrie/Cora
Varitek
Ellsbury/Crisp
There are other possibilities, but this blog is getting long enough! Also on the move are Brandon Moss and Craig Hansen. Mossy was great with the Sox, but there was no room for him in the outfield and he's good enough to be a starter on another team (namely, the Pirates). Hansen was still finding his way as a reliever and may be better off in the smaller-market Pittsburgh.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!! WELCOME, JASON BAY!!!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Swept. At. Fenway.
Sox: 2 Team The Sox Have Seen Enough Of: 9
The good news is the Sox don't have to play the Angels any more this season. The bad news is, well, everything else that happened tonight, save for Coco's bat. The Sox were swept at home, folks. In a season where Fenway has been nirvana for them, this is about as bad as it gets. They got a few more hits than last night, with Pedey's hit in the third putting away thoughts of another no-hitter. Interestingly enough, they guy pitching for the Halos tonight is from my hometown, Springfield, VA. Doesn't mean I'm rooting for him, however; he's wearing the wrong uniform...
Beckett fell apart in the 6th inning, but he wasn't helped by the train-wreck defense, which he ended up being part of. Four errors in one inning! The Sox' defensive meltdown put the game out of reach and the sweep in the bag for the Angels.
All the trade-deadline Manny rumors are making my head spin. One of them looks like it could turn out pretty well for the Sox, but I don't want to comment on it because I don't want to get my hopes up. This Manny circus appears to be having a detrimental effect to the team. Something had to be distracting the team in that multi-error inning!
Tomorrow's an off day and this team certainly needs it. Is it just me or is '08 Lester looking more and more like '07 Beckett?
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
The good news is the Sox don't have to play the Angels any more this season. The bad news is, well, everything else that happened tonight, save for Coco's bat. The Sox were swept at home, folks. In a season where Fenway has been nirvana for them, this is about as bad as it gets. They got a few more hits than last night, with Pedey's hit in the third putting away thoughts of another no-hitter. Interestingly enough, they guy pitching for the Halos tonight is from my hometown, Springfield, VA. Doesn't mean I'm rooting for him, however; he's wearing the wrong uniform...
Beckett fell apart in the 6th inning, but he wasn't helped by the train-wreck defense, which he ended up being part of. Four errors in one inning! The Sox' defensive meltdown put the game out of reach and the sweep in the bag for the Angels.
All the trade-deadline Manny rumors are making my head spin. One of them looks like it could turn out pretty well for the Sox, but I don't want to comment on it because I don't want to get my hopes up. This Manny circus appears to be having a detrimental effect to the team. Something had to be distracting the team in that multi-error inning!
Tomorrow's an off day and this team certainly needs it. Is it just me or is '08 Lester looking more and more like '07 Beckett?
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
Time for a Sing Along
Cuz I've got too much time on my hands...
When The Sox Start Scoring Runs (to the tune of "When the Saints Go Marching In")
When the Sox start scoring runs
Oh when the Sox start scoring runs
Against the better pitchers
That's when we know they will go far
When the 'pen starts throwing strikes
Oh when the 'pen starts throwing strikes
And the pitching's more consistent
And keep runners from scoring
When they start winning on the road
When they start winning on the road
And start beating top contenders
Come October, they will play.
But first the Sox must score more runs
But first the Sox must score more runs
Help their pitchers out a bit more
Then they will play better baseball
When The Sox Start Scoring Runs (to the tune of "When the Saints Go Marching In")
When the Sox start scoring runs
Oh when the Sox start scoring runs
Against the better pitchers
That's when we know they will go far
When the 'pen starts throwing strikes
Oh when the 'pen starts throwing strikes
And the pitching's more consistent
And keep runners from scoring
When they start winning on the road
When they start winning on the road
And start beating top contenders
Come October, they will play.
But first the Sox must score more runs
But first the Sox must score more runs
Help their pitchers out a bit more
Then they will play better baseball
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Good Lord, They Almost Got No-Hit by Lackey!
Sox: 2 Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, California, United States of America, Earth: 6
Pedey and Youk saved the Sox from the Ultimate Humiliation tonight by breaking up a no-hitter in the bottom of the ninth by John Lackey. This is the same John Lackey the Sox used to OWN, especially at Fenway. Not so tonight. He was steamrolling the comatose Red Sox offense through 8 1/3 innings until Pedey singled and Youk took him deep. An out by Papi, a walk by Manny, and another out by Lowell later, the Sox came away with the loss, but at least prevented a no-hitter and a shutout.
Buch didn't do too terribly tonight, even though he was touched for six runs, four of them earned. Sloppy defense and not-too sharp relief by Hansen didn't help his cause. He had a couple of one-two-three innings and went 6 1/3, so there are signs of progress. Oki is starting to come around, so that is good news too in a stretch where good news for this team is hard to come by.
The Sox need to wake up those bats and play with some more fire if they're going to remain in playoff contention. They can't keep relying on the Rays or the Yanks losing. The Rays won tonight, by the way. But there are two months left in the season and let's hope they're two good ones for the Sox.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!!
Pedey and Youk saved the Sox from the Ultimate Humiliation tonight by breaking up a no-hitter in the bottom of the ninth by John Lackey. This is the same John Lackey the Sox used to OWN, especially at Fenway. Not so tonight. He was steamrolling the comatose Red Sox offense through 8 1/3 innings until Pedey singled and Youk took him deep. An out by Papi, a walk by Manny, and another out by Lowell later, the Sox came away with the loss, but at least prevented a no-hitter and a shutout.
Buch didn't do too terribly tonight, even though he was touched for six runs, four of them earned. Sloppy defense and not-too sharp relief by Hansen didn't help his cause. He had a couple of one-two-three innings and went 6 1/3, so there are signs of progress. Oki is starting to come around, so that is good news too in a stretch where good news for this team is hard to come by.
The Sox need to wake up those bats and play with some more fire if they're going to remain in playoff contention. They can't keep relying on the Rays or the Yanks losing. The Rays won tonight, by the way. But there are two months left in the season and let's hope they're two good ones for the Sox.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!!
Monday, July 28, 2008
Dice-K Gets Diced
Sox: 5 Halos: 7
Alas, there was no 12th win for Dice-K tonight. The sixth inning did him in, with the Angels knocking two multiple-run dingers and pulling off a successful squeeze against Masterson in relief. The Sox came back with three more runs, including a two-out ninth inning monster shot by Manny, but it wasn't enough. Lowell flied out to end the game. The Sox did manage to outhit the Halos 11 to 9, but those 2 and 3 run homers by the L.A. boys are what killed them.
The good news is...the Rays lost! And the Yanks are in a 9-run hole in the ninth. The Red Sox' best hope in this series is probably tomorrow night against Lackey, who they have OWNED at Fenway. Of course, Buchholz will be on the mound for the Sox, which could be an adventure.
Latest trade deadline rumor: The Sox are after Tejada. Tejada's signed through next year, I believe, with the Astros. No idea on who the Sox are offering them in return. All they're saying is that the Tigers are also in the mix.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
Alas, there was no 12th win for Dice-K tonight. The sixth inning did him in, with the Angels knocking two multiple-run dingers and pulling off a successful squeeze against Masterson in relief. The Sox came back with three more runs, including a two-out ninth inning monster shot by Manny, but it wasn't enough. Lowell flied out to end the game. The Sox did manage to outhit the Halos 11 to 9, but those 2 and 3 run homers by the L.A. boys are what killed them.
The good news is...the Rays lost! And the Yanks are in a 9-run hole in the ninth. The Red Sox' best hope in this series is probably tomorrow night against Lackey, who they have OWNED at Fenway. Of course, Buchholz will be on the mound for the Sox, which could be an adventure.
Latest trade deadline rumor: The Sox are after Tejada. Tejada's signed through next year, I believe, with the Astros. No idea on who the Sox are offering them in return. All they're saying is that the Tigers are also in the mix.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Lester being Houdini
Sox: 9 Spanked Yanks: 2
Jon Lester worked magic in more than one way on the mound tonight. The Houdini reference comes from how he escaped a bases-loaded no out situation in the fifth with two runs already scored that inning and A-Rod at the plate. It had all the makings of a big inning for the Yanks until Lester pulled a line drive straight to Mikey Lowell out of his hat. Then, he induced a pop fly and groundout to get out of the inning with relatively minimal damage. His escape was Dice-K-esque. Lester was once again the stopper the Sox needed to avoid the sweep, with the help of some finally heated-up bats.
Big Papi and Manny (putting his bat where his mouth is) were back to being the formidable 3-4 punch in the lineup. Everyone in the lineup got a hit, save for JD, who still managed to get on base via two walks. Jake's bat seemed to be adjusting to the 9 hole fine, getting three hits on the night, one of which was an off-the-monster double. It was nice to see Alex Cora get two hits, playing shortstop this game in place of Lowrie. Those Boston bats chased Ponson after 4 innings and backed up Lester's ninth win of the season. Having the Sox play like this on Yankee-loving ESPN made it all the sweeter.
Tomorrow night, the Sox get another visit from the Halos, who gave them the broom treatment in L.A. If the Sox can carry the momentum from tonight's game into tomorrow night, they have a good chance against the team with the most cumbersome name in the majors (oh, and the best road record too).
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!!!!
Jon Lester worked magic in more than one way on the mound tonight. The Houdini reference comes from how he escaped a bases-loaded no out situation in the fifth with two runs already scored that inning and A-Rod at the plate. It had all the makings of a big inning for the Yanks until Lester pulled a line drive straight to Mikey Lowell out of his hat. Then, he induced a pop fly and groundout to get out of the inning with relatively minimal damage. His escape was Dice-K-esque. Lester was once again the stopper the Sox needed to avoid the sweep, with the help of some finally heated-up bats.
Big Papi and Manny (putting his bat where his mouth is) were back to being the formidable 3-4 punch in the lineup. Everyone in the lineup got a hit, save for JD, who still managed to get on base via two walks. Jake's bat seemed to be adjusting to the 9 hole fine, getting three hits on the night, one of which was an off-the-monster double. It was nice to see Alex Cora get two hits, playing shortstop this game in place of Lowrie. Those Boston bats chased Ponson after 4 innings and backed up Lester's ninth win of the season. Having the Sox play like this on Yankee-loving ESPN made it all the sweeter.
Tomorrow night, the Sox get another visit from the Halos, who gave them the broom treatment in L.A. If the Sox can carry the momentum from tonight's game into tomorrow night, they have a good chance against the team with the most cumbersome name in the majors (oh, and the best road record too).
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!!!!
Saturday, July 26, 2008
BLECH!!!!!
Sox: 3 Yanks: 10
There's no nice way to put it: The Sox got shellacked by their archrivals, they of the Evil Empire. The Sox struck first, putting up a two-spot in the first inning, but that would be all until J.D. soloed a dinger (and a long one at that) in the 7th. Pettitte kept the Sox bats at bay for the most part, and the Yanks pen held them scoreless. Wake had a rough outing, giving up six earned runs while the Sox 'pen coughed up the other four. Masterson had some trouble with inherited runners, but it only his second relief appearance. Hansen, who needs a ticket back to Pawtucket ASAP, gave up three of the four bullpen runs.
This latest Sox skid highlights the need for the Sox brass to shake things up a little. I know Tito's not the type to go all Ozzie Guillen on his players and most of the time, that's a good thing. However, the team looks a bit listless out there, even with Manny back in the lineup this afternoon. Lethargy must be contagious because even the fans at Fenway lacked their usual energy. I'll admit I'm not exactly sure what needs to be done to re-energize the Sox, but going into autopilot and doing nothing is just going to prolong the malaise.
Can Lester be the stopper again? He takes the mound tomorrow night against Ponson. He needs help, however, from the offense.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!! AVOID THE SWEEP!!!!
There's no nice way to put it: The Sox got shellacked by their archrivals, they of the Evil Empire. The Sox struck first, putting up a two-spot in the first inning, but that would be all until J.D. soloed a dinger (and a long one at that) in the 7th. Pettitte kept the Sox bats at bay for the most part, and the Yanks pen held them scoreless. Wake had a rough outing, giving up six earned runs while the Sox 'pen coughed up the other four. Masterson had some trouble with inherited runners, but it only his second relief appearance. Hansen, who needs a ticket back to Pawtucket ASAP, gave up three of the four bullpen runs.
This latest Sox skid highlights the need for the Sox brass to shake things up a little. I know Tito's not the type to go all Ozzie Guillen on his players and most of the time, that's a good thing. However, the team looks a bit listless out there, even with Manny back in the lineup this afternoon. Lethargy must be contagious because even the fans at Fenway lacked their usual energy. I'll admit I'm not exactly sure what needs to be done to re-energize the Sox, but going into autopilot and doing nothing is just going to prolong the malaise.
Can Lester be the stopper again? He takes the mound tomorrow night against Ponson. He needs help, however, from the offense.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!! AVOID THE SWEEP!!!!
Here We Go Again...
Sox: 0 Evil Empire: 1
Boy oh boy, was last night's game a doozy. It was a full-scale brawl two seconds (and some umpires' warnings) from happening, from Joba's headhunting of his personal bullseye, Youk, to balls outside the zip code of the plate being called strikes, sending even-keeled Mikey Lowell into a justified tailspin. Welcome to the world of Sox-Yanks baseball. Danger: High-voltage drama on the field.
What was supposed to be a highly celebrated return for Big Papi got upstaged by Manny's latest disappearing act. He was in the original lineup, only to be scratched again because of his knee. The MRI (done on BOTH knees, mind you) came up clean, so whatever is bothering his knee can't be bad enough to keep him from pinch-hitting later in the game, where his bat might have helped the team's cause. Now I've found Manny's "antics" to be an entertaining sideshow in the past, but the curtain has come down on his tired act. Enough's enough. I'm glad the Sox brass is finally starting to show its frustration with slugger's one-man circus.
Now the Yanks are closing in on the Sox and the Rays just won't go away. Time for some fire in those bats and some consistent, solid pitching performances by all the starters and relievers. No knock on Beckett's performance last night; he just had the bad luck of not getting any run support. Today it's Wake vs. Pettitte. Let's hope the Sox can get to the Yanks' lefty like they did last time they faced him.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
Boy oh boy, was last night's game a doozy. It was a full-scale brawl two seconds (and some umpires' warnings) from happening, from Joba's headhunting of his personal bullseye, Youk, to balls outside the zip code of the plate being called strikes, sending even-keeled Mikey Lowell into a justified tailspin. Welcome to the world of Sox-Yanks baseball. Danger: High-voltage drama on the field.
What was supposed to be a highly celebrated return for Big Papi got upstaged by Manny's latest disappearing act. He was in the original lineup, only to be scratched again because of his knee. The MRI (done on BOTH knees, mind you) came up clean, so whatever is bothering his knee can't be bad enough to keep him from pinch-hitting later in the game, where his bat might have helped the team's cause. Now I've found Manny's "antics" to be an entertaining sideshow in the past, but the curtain has come down on his tired act. Enough's enough. I'm glad the Sox brass is finally starting to show its frustration with slugger's one-man circus.
Now the Yanks are closing in on the Sox and the Rays just won't go away. Time for some fire in those bats and some consistent, solid pitching performances by all the starters and relievers. No knock on Beckett's performance last night; he just had the bad luck of not getting any run support. Today it's Wake vs. Pettitte. Let's hope the Sox can get to the Yanks' lefty like they did last time they faced him.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Sweepity Sweep Sweep!
Sox: 6 M's: 3
Is that brooms I hear? The Sox sweep the M's in extra innings. Buch had a better outing today than he did the last two starts, making it through the 5th and one out into the sixth. He left with score hung up at 3 and Masterson mowed down the eight batters he faced in 2 2/3 innings of relief. Master of the Pen? Time will tell, but he made a great start. Mikey and Da Mayor had some key hits in the 12th to put the Sox on top. Hansen made things interesting (read: scary) in the 9th when he loaded the bases and nearly walked in a run, but he pulled a Houdini via a groundout and pulled out the save.
Tomorrow's an off day and on Friday it's back to Home Sweet Fenway, a Sox-Yanks matchup and The Return of Big Papi. Now there's a reason to stay home on Friday Night!
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!!!
Is that brooms I hear? The Sox sweep the M's in extra innings. Buch had a better outing today than he did the last two starts, making it through the 5th and one out into the sixth. He left with score hung up at 3 and Masterson mowed down the eight batters he faced in 2 2/3 innings of relief. Master of the Pen? Time will tell, but he made a great start. Mikey and Da Mayor had some key hits in the 12th to put the Sox on top. Hansen made things interesting (read: scary) in the 9th when he loaded the bases and nearly walked in a run, but he pulled a Houdini via a groundout and pulled out the save.
Tomorrow's an off day and on Friday it's back to Home Sweet Fenway, a Sox-Yanks matchup and The Return of Big Papi. Now there's a reason to stay home on Friday Night!
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!!!
Dice-K Rolls an Eleven
Sox: 4 M's: 2
Dice looked more like an ace tonight, going 7 1/3 and striking out six while walking only three to pick up win #11. Oki looked more like his '07 self when he kept the runners on base in the 8th and Paps recorded save #30. J.D. showed he still has some power, even if the average is down, when he homered in the 1st against the M's knuckler R.A. Dickey. He took Dickey deep last time he faced him, at Fenway in relief last month. Pedey's been putting on a defensive show at second, all the while maintaining his 7-game hitting streak. And Lowrie, so nice-to-look-at Lowrie, is holding his own at short, while racking up a few ribbies to boot. He and Jake...what is it about those boys from Oregon? Still love me some Jake, but Jed's my latest Sox crush.
This afternoon's match-up is going to be a tough one for the Sox: Felix Hernandez, who has their number, against Clay "lately I'm batting practice" Buchholz. Can young Buch get it together this time around? A sweep on the road would be nice!
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!!! IT'S BROOM TIME!!!!
Dice looked more like an ace tonight, going 7 1/3 and striking out six while walking only three to pick up win #11. Oki looked more like his '07 self when he kept the runners on base in the 8th and Paps recorded save #30. J.D. showed he still has some power, even if the average is down, when he homered in the 1st against the M's knuckler R.A. Dickey. He took Dickey deep last time he faced him, at Fenway in relief last month. Pedey's been putting on a defensive show at second, all the while maintaining his 7-game hitting streak. And Lowrie, so nice-to-look-at Lowrie, is holding his own at short, while racking up a few ribbies to boot. He and Jake...what is it about those boys from Oregon? Still love me some Jake, but Jed's my latest Sox crush.
This afternoon's match-up is going to be a tough one for the Sox: Felix Hernandez, who has their number, against Clay "lately I'm batting practice" Buchholz. Can young Buch get it together this time around? A sweep on the road would be nice!
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!!! IT'S BROOM TIME!!!!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Stop the Presses: Tek Goes Yard!
Sox: 4 M's: Zippo
After being swept by the Halos and having their short-lived division lead once again snatched up by the Rays (who are at home) the Sox stop the skid with a win tonight in Seattle, where Safeco has been anything but safe for the Boston Boys. Lester pitched very well in his hometown, keeping the Mariner bats at bay while the run production for the Sox came from some rather unexpected places. Tek knocked a four-bagger in the fifth to break a 41-game homer drought and Lowrie stroked a clutch two-run single in the eighth to give the Sox a 4-0 lead. Lester, who pitched 7 1/3 shutout innings, started to unravel in the 8th, allowing 3 hits to load the bases. Paps came in for a five-out save with the tying run at the plate and got Ibanez to ground into an inning-ending double play to end the threat. An inning later, he retired the side and preserved the shutout.
On the scuffling list of late are Jacoby Ellsbury, J.D. Drew, and Mikey Lowell. Though Jake got a hit and a sac bunt, J.D. and Mikey both 0-fered. With all they've contributed since Papi went down, J.D. and Mikey are both kinda due for some scufflage, I guess. That said, it will be interesting to see how the batting order will shake out once Papi comes back this Friday. 'Tek's been having a tough time at the plate for the better part of the season, so it was awesome to see him homer tonight and get on base three times.
Dice-K is on the mound for tomorrow night's late show against the M's knuckleballer. Interesting matchup.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!!
After being swept by the Halos and having their short-lived division lead once again snatched up by the Rays (who are at home) the Sox stop the skid with a win tonight in Seattle, where Safeco has been anything but safe for the Boston Boys. Lester pitched very well in his hometown, keeping the Mariner bats at bay while the run production for the Sox came from some rather unexpected places. Tek knocked a four-bagger in the fifth to break a 41-game homer drought and Lowrie stroked a clutch two-run single in the eighth to give the Sox a 4-0 lead. Lester, who pitched 7 1/3 shutout innings, started to unravel in the 8th, allowing 3 hits to load the bases. Paps came in for a five-out save with the tying run at the plate and got Ibanez to ground into an inning-ending double play to end the threat. An inning later, he retired the side and preserved the shutout.
On the scuffling list of late are Jacoby Ellsbury, J.D. Drew, and Mikey Lowell. Though Jake got a hit and a sac bunt, J.D. and Mikey both 0-fered. With all they've contributed since Papi went down, J.D. and Mikey are both kinda due for some scufflage, I guess. That said, it will be interesting to see how the batting order will shake out once Papi comes back this Friday. 'Tek's been having a tough time at the plate for the better part of the season, so it was awesome to see him homer tonight and get on base three times.
Dice-K is on the mound for tomorrow night's late show against the M's knuckleballer. Interesting matchup.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
J.D.'s All-Star Year Continues
AL: 4 NL: 3
It was a looooooooong game. 15 innings and just shy of 5 hours long. The starting lineup had long since taken their final at-bats when Michael Young, the Rangers' shortstop, sac-flied in the winning run sometime after 1:30 AM. Yankee Stadium is used to long games, but that's when the Red Sox and the Yanks are on different sides! This time, it was an extended game of chicken between the two leagues for multiple extra innings before the NL blinked and the AL squeezed out the win.
Waaaay back in the 7th, before the game was even halfway over as it turns out, our very own J.D. Drew took Cincy's Edinson Volquez of the sub-3 ERA deep for two to tie the score. The NL added another run in the 8th off of Papelbon, who was surrounded by loudly squawking boo-birds all over the stadium. In the bottom of that same inning, Paps was taken off the hook by the Desperate Housewife (my nickname for Rays 3B Evan Longoria, cuz, you know, take off the "n" from his first name and that's what you're left with. LOL) who doubled in a run to knot the game at 3. It stayed at 3 for 7 more innings, as both leagues were down to their last pitcher and position players who had half-jokingly volunteered to pitch were in grave danger of actually having to take the mound.
More on J.D., the Red Sox standout from the game: He was the only Red Sox to record a hit and score a run, going 2 for 4 with the aforementioned homer in the 7th, a single, reaching on an error, and a walk. He was fanned by a pitcher with the most bizarre "hand jive" delivery I've ever seen, but hey, that guy struck out the side, probably because the batters were baffled by the crazy hands. J.D. was named MVP for his efforts, which also included a few game-saving catches in right. and given a trophy and a brand spankin' new hybrid SUV. What a difference a year makes, J.D.! Congratulations!
On Paps and the bogus tabloid thing: Leave it to the New York Daily News to ruin Paps' All-Star experience. The paper, being the tabloid trash that it is, took an interview that he did way out of context and made it seem like he thought Mariano Rivera should not close the game. While he did say that, as a closer, sure he wanted to pitch the 9th, he also said the closing role in this game belonged to Mo, being in Yankee Stadium and all. During the Red Carpet event, Paps and his pregnant wife were harassed and threatened by some far-too-gullible Yanks fans. This made his wife very upset. Yeah, I know it's Yankee Stadium and the Sox-Yanks rivalry but for crying out loud, leave the players' families out of it!
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
It was a looooooooong game. 15 innings and just shy of 5 hours long. The starting lineup had long since taken their final at-bats when Michael Young, the Rangers' shortstop, sac-flied in the winning run sometime after 1:30 AM. Yankee Stadium is used to long games, but that's when the Red Sox and the Yanks are on different sides! This time, it was an extended game of chicken between the two leagues for multiple extra innings before the NL blinked and the AL squeezed out the win.
Waaaay back in the 7th, before the game was even halfway over as it turns out, our very own J.D. Drew took Cincy's Edinson Volquez of the sub-3 ERA deep for two to tie the score. The NL added another run in the 8th off of Papelbon, who was surrounded by loudly squawking boo-birds all over the stadium. In the bottom of that same inning, Paps was taken off the hook by the Desperate Housewife (my nickname for Rays 3B Evan Longoria, cuz, you know, take off the "n" from his first name and that's what you're left with. LOL) who doubled in a run to knot the game at 3. It stayed at 3 for 7 more innings, as both leagues were down to their last pitcher and position players who had half-jokingly volunteered to pitch were in grave danger of actually having to take the mound.
More on J.D., the Red Sox standout from the game: He was the only Red Sox to record a hit and score a run, going 2 for 4 with the aforementioned homer in the 7th, a single, reaching on an error, and a walk. He was fanned by a pitcher with the most bizarre "hand jive" delivery I've ever seen, but hey, that guy struck out the side, probably because the batters were baffled by the crazy hands. J.D. was named MVP for his efforts, which also included a few game-saving catches in right. and given a trophy and a brand spankin' new hybrid SUV. What a difference a year makes, J.D.! Congratulations!
On Paps and the bogus tabloid thing: Leave it to the New York Daily News to ruin Paps' All-Star experience. The paper, being the tabloid trash that it is, took an interview that he did way out of context and made it seem like he thought Mariano Rivera should not close the game. While he did say that, as a closer, sure he wanted to pitch the 9th, he also said the closing role in this game belonged to Mo, being in Yankee Stadium and all. During the Red Carpet event, Paps and his pregnant wife were harassed and threatened by some far-too-gullible Yanks fans. This made his wife very upset. Yeah, I know it's Yankee Stadium and the Sox-Yanks rivalry but for crying out loud, leave the players' families out of it!
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Six of Youk's, Half Dozen of the Others'
Sox: 12 Millar & His Bird Buddies: 1
In the big inning there was a hit (Pedey), a walk (JD), a plunked batter (Manny), another walk (Lowell) to drive in a run, a grand salami by Youk, another walk (Casey), another hit (Cash), ANOTHER hit (Jake), and finally a 2 RBI double by Pedey. It was the second 7-run inning in three days, with a relatively quiet offensive night in between. JD and Manny got the bat action going in the first, cranking them Red Sox-style (call it the home-run buddy system). As if knocking his first career grand slam wasn't enough, Youk ended up with six RBIs on the night, driving in half of the Sox' 12 runs. A sac fly in the 4th and an RBI single in the fifth made up the two non-grand slam ribbies. Yeah, he's practicing for the All-Star game...
Let's not forget Wake's 7 stellar innings of 2-hit ball. He gave up a long ball to Ramon Hernandez in the 2nd, but that's the only run he, Hansen, or Timlin would let the Black 'n' Orange plate. Hansen had a nice 1-2-3 and Timlin allowed one hit in the 9th, but no harm done. 3 O's hits in all, to the Sox' 15.
'Twas a night of Youk in all his Youkish glory, a night he will always remember. Games like these for him show why he is an all-star and one of the leading offensive producers on the team, as well as one of the best defensive players, you know, with that Gold Glove and all.
For tomorrow afternoon's matinee, Dice-K takes on Daniel Cabrera. Keep up that good hitting mojo, boys!
LET'S GO RED SOX!!! CONGRATS TO YOUK--FIRST CAREER GRAND SLAM!!!!!
In the big inning there was a hit (Pedey), a walk (JD), a plunked batter (Manny), another walk (Lowell) to drive in a run, a grand salami by Youk, another walk (Casey), another hit (Cash), ANOTHER hit (Jake), and finally a 2 RBI double by Pedey. It was the second 7-run inning in three days, with a relatively quiet offensive night in between. JD and Manny got the bat action going in the first, cranking them Red Sox-style (call it the home-run buddy system). As if knocking his first career grand slam wasn't enough, Youk ended up with six RBIs on the night, driving in half of the Sox' 12 runs. A sac fly in the 4th and an RBI single in the fifth made up the two non-grand slam ribbies. Yeah, he's practicing for the All-Star game...
Let's not forget Wake's 7 stellar innings of 2-hit ball. He gave up a long ball to Ramon Hernandez in the 2nd, but that's the only run he, Hansen, or Timlin would let the Black 'n' Orange plate. Hansen had a nice 1-2-3 and Timlin allowed one hit in the 9th, but no harm done. 3 O's hits in all, to the Sox' 15.
'Twas a night of Youk in all his Youkish glory, a night he will always remember. Games like these for him show why he is an all-star and one of the leading offensive producers on the team, as well as one of the best defensive players, you know, with that Gold Glove and all.
For tomorrow afternoon's matinee, Dice-K takes on Daniel Cabrera. Keep up that good hitting mojo, boys!
LET'S GO RED SOX!!! CONGRATS TO YOUK--FIRST CAREER GRAND SLAM!!!!!
Friday, July 11, 2008
Buchholz Off to a Walky Start
Sox: 3 O's: 7
Young Buch made his return to the bigs with a shaky outing and the Red Sox were on the unfortunate end of some, to put it politely, questionable umpiring. Buch couldn't make peace with the strike zone for most of the five-inning affair and ended up walking five and striking out six. The Sox offense was hampered by a godawful call at first where Lugo's foot landed on the bag before the ball was in Burres's glove. Memo to umps: The BALL has to be in the GLOVE of the guy covering first for the runner to be out. Lugo was SAFE! The offensive extravaganza of Wednesday night was not to be repeated tonight, with the Sox once again scuffling with RISP, even though they outhit the O's 8 to 7. The O's capitalized on the opportunities the Sox were tossing their way via the free ride to first, making those 4-ball counts as costly as filling up the gas tank of an SUV. Lopez and Aardsma kept the birdie bats at bay for two innings, but Delcarmen and then Timlin came in and the black-and-orange were back on the bases like they'd never left. Tonight's loss has silver lining: The Yanks and the Rays also lost. Are the newfound titans of the Trop starting to...hit the skids?
Wake takes the mound tomorrow and my fingers are crossed that gives the Baltimore bats some knuckleball sandwiches. He's facing Radhames Liz, of the 5.94 ERA. Sox bats should be able to knock this guy around...
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!
Young Buch made his return to the bigs with a shaky outing and the Red Sox were on the unfortunate end of some, to put it politely, questionable umpiring. Buch couldn't make peace with the strike zone for most of the five-inning affair and ended up walking five and striking out six. The Sox offense was hampered by a godawful call at first where Lugo's foot landed on the bag before the ball was in Burres's glove. Memo to umps: The BALL has to be in the GLOVE of the guy covering first for the runner to be out. Lugo was SAFE! The offensive extravaganza of Wednesday night was not to be repeated tonight, with the Sox once again scuffling with RISP, even though they outhit the O's 8 to 7. The O's capitalized on the opportunities the Sox were tossing their way via the free ride to first, making those 4-ball counts as costly as filling up the gas tank of an SUV. Lopez and Aardsma kept the birdie bats at bay for two innings, but Delcarmen and then Timlin came in and the black-and-orange were back on the bases like they'd never left. Tonight's loss has silver lining: The Yanks and the Rays also lost. Are the newfound titans of the Trop starting to...hit the skids?
Wake takes the mound tomorrow and my fingers are crossed that gives the Baltimore bats some knuckleball sandwiches. He's facing Radhames Liz, of the 5.94 ERA. Sox bats should be able to knock this guy around...
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Broom Time!
Sox: 18 Twins: 5
Runs, runs everywhere! The Sox bats go bananas in the 7th and 8th innings, scoring 11 runs and putting the Rays' 6-run attack on the Sox' own bullpen last week to shame. They combine for a total of 23 hits, a number not reached since 2005, and every hitter who came to bat, save for rookie Jeff Bailey, had at least one hit. Jake had his first four-hit game of his career, Manny, Youk, and Case had 3 apiece, and Pedey, Mikey, Tek, and Lugo had 2 apiece. The offense picked up Beckett, whose outing was more reminiscent of '06 Beckett than '07 Beckett, big time. Run support in droves! It was the kind of game where you wish you could bottle some of those runs and save them for a "rainy" day. A sweet sweep of a team that was on a tear.
The Yanks bested the Rays again today, putting the Sox a mere two games behind their latest division rival. Tomorrow's an off day for the Sox and Friday the O's come to town. Buch's back on the mound with what I hear is much improved fastball command and he's facing the team he famously no-hit last fall.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!! WAY TO SCORE A TON OF RUNS!!!!!
Runs, runs everywhere! The Sox bats go bananas in the 7th and 8th innings, scoring 11 runs and putting the Rays' 6-run attack on the Sox' own bullpen last week to shame. They combine for a total of 23 hits, a number not reached since 2005, and every hitter who came to bat, save for rookie Jeff Bailey, had at least one hit. Jake had his first four-hit game of his career, Manny, Youk, and Case had 3 apiece, and Pedey, Mikey, Tek, and Lugo had 2 apiece. The offense picked up Beckett, whose outing was more reminiscent of '06 Beckett than '07 Beckett, big time. Run support in droves! It was the kind of game where you wish you could bottle some of those runs and save them for a "rainy" day. A sweet sweep of a team that was on a tear.
The Yanks bested the Rays again today, putting the Sox a mere two games behind their latest division rival. Tomorrow's an off day for the Sox and Friday the O's come to town. Buch's back on the mound with what I hear is much improved fastball command and he's facing the team he famously no-hit last fall.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!! WAY TO SCORE A TON OF RUNS!!!!!
Phantom Baserunner Syndrome
Sox: 6 Twins: 5
I don't know what it is with me and armchair diagnosis (see A Visit from Dr. Hitmore a few entries back) but last night I came up with a new one for Twins first baseman Justin Morneau: Phantom Baserunner Syndrome. In the Sox' comeback 8th inning, Morneau went to tag Mossy at first, only to find that Mossy wasn't there. He was already closing in on second for his first stolen base in his career with the big club. Mossy, of course, stroked the game winning RBI after Manny took Twins reliever Guerrer deep for the tie. Mossy, Manny, and JD split the game's RBIs with two apiece. Another magical 8th inning for Sox bats!
Lester pitched a strong 7 1/3 innings, having trouble in the fourth on what should have been a double-play that got him out of the inning. I missed that part of the game, so I can't comment on how the runs scored, but Lester ended up surrendering 5 runs. One of those runs was a runner Aardsma inherited and let score. Lester was let off the hook by the 8th inning pounding of the Twins 'pen. Aards got the win and Paps got the save after a botched play by Coco that could have cost the game.
This afternoon they go for the sweep, with Beckett on the mound to face Livan Hernandez. The Rays fell last night to the Yanks so now the Sox are within 3 games of first place.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!! GET OUT YOUR BROOMS!
I don't know what it is with me and armchair diagnosis (see A Visit from Dr. Hitmore a few entries back) but last night I came up with a new one for Twins first baseman Justin Morneau: Phantom Baserunner Syndrome. In the Sox' comeback 8th inning, Morneau went to tag Mossy at first, only to find that Mossy wasn't there. He was already closing in on second for his first stolen base in his career with the big club. Mossy, of course, stroked the game winning RBI after Manny took Twins reliever Guerrer deep for the tie. Mossy, Manny, and JD split the game's RBIs with two apiece. Another magical 8th inning for Sox bats!
Lester pitched a strong 7 1/3 innings, having trouble in the fourth on what should have been a double-play that got him out of the inning. I missed that part of the game, so I can't comment on how the runs scored, but Lester ended up surrendering 5 runs. One of those runs was a runner Aardsma inherited and let score. Lester was let off the hook by the 8th inning pounding of the Twins 'pen. Aards got the win and Paps got the save after a botched play by Coco that could have cost the game.
This afternoon they go for the sweep, with Beckett on the mound to face Livan Hernandez. The Rays fell last night to the Yanks so now the Sox are within 3 games of first place.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!! GET OUT YOUR BROOMS!
Monday, July 7, 2008
Manny Being Clutch
Sox: 1 Twins: 0
Finally, the Sox on the right side of a one-run game! Dice-K, while not picking up win #10, does an excellent job going deep into the game and attacking the zone. He and Twins starter Scott Baker had a seven-inning long pitching duel and both left with the game still scoreless. It was up to the pens to decide the victory and this time the Sox pen came out on top. Oki looked more like the Oki of last year tonight, coming in with inherited runners and getting out of a bases-loaded jam, with the help of a great play by Youk to rob Craig Monroe of a hit and keep a run from scoring.
Manny, who was the goat last night for looking at three good pitches, became the hero tonight, with Pedey on third and one out in the 8th. Pedey had a leadoff double which missed being a home run by only about a foot or so. Drew hit a grounder that moved Pedey to third and Manny stroked a single to the opposite field to bring Pedey home. That was the only run the Sox needed, as Paps shut down the Twins in order in the 9th for his 26th save. These Twins were red hot coming into the game, having won the last five, but the Sox prevailed tonight, back in friendly territory after a brutal road trip.
The Rays FINALLY lose today, in extra-innings to the Royals. That brings the Sox back to 4 games behind. Masterson is sent back to the PawSox to be converted into a reliever and Bailey comes up to fill the roster spot until Buchholz returns to face the O's on Friday. Tomorrow, it's Yankee-tamer Lester against Nick Blackburn.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
Finally, the Sox on the right side of a one-run game! Dice-K, while not picking up win #10, does an excellent job going deep into the game and attacking the zone. He and Twins starter Scott Baker had a seven-inning long pitching duel and both left with the game still scoreless. It was up to the pens to decide the victory and this time the Sox pen came out on top. Oki looked more like the Oki of last year tonight, coming in with inherited runners and getting out of a bases-loaded jam, with the help of a great play by Youk to rob Craig Monroe of a hit and keep a run from scoring.
Manny, who was the goat last night for looking at three good pitches, became the hero tonight, with Pedey on third and one out in the 8th. Pedey had a leadoff double which missed being a home run by only about a foot or so. Drew hit a grounder that moved Pedey to third and Manny stroked a single to the opposite field to bring Pedey home. That was the only run the Sox needed, as Paps shut down the Twins in order in the 9th for his 26th save. These Twins were red hot coming into the game, having won the last five, but the Sox prevailed tonight, back in friendly territory after a brutal road trip.
The Rays FINALLY lose today, in extra-innings to the Royals. That brings the Sox back to 4 games behind. Masterson is sent back to the PawSox to be converted into a reliever and Bailey comes up to fill the roster spot until Buchholz returns to face the O's on Friday. Tomorrow, it's Yankee-tamer Lester against Nick Blackburn.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Same Old Story
Sox: 4 Yanks: 5
It's a tired storyline for the Sox as they approach the All-Star Break: Bullpen coughs up lead, Sox get the tying run on third in the 9th and can't score. Sox lose by one run. Sox have a losing record on a road trip against (mostly) AL teams. Rays win AGAIN. Yawn! About as much fun to watch as summer reruns. It's getting kind of depressing (not to mention repetitive) to blog about these kind of games and they point out the weaknesses the team needs to address before the trade deadline:
1. Shortstop: We need a shortstop who can either hit well in the clutch or be outstanding defensively. Lugo has made an alarming 16 errors so far this season and his batting numbers with RISP are abysmal. I know he has a huge contract, which was a mistake to begin with, but it's time for the front office to cut their losses and move on. Lowrie can't possibly do worse.
2. Bullpen: The 'pen has been blowing way too many leads lately. Even Paps, the most reliable guy in the 'pen allowed the go-ahead run to score in tonight's game. Hansen is too inconsistent and should be sent back down to Pawtucket. Either find a good reliever via trade or give another one of the PawSox a shot. Maybe when Buch comes back, put Masterson in the 'pen for long relief.
3. DH: If Big Papi's not ready to come back soon after the All Star Break, look for another power bat to DH. Manny's watching hittable fastballs sail by him and swinging at terrible ones. He's not getting the job done with RISP. Casey has a good BA, but no power. Drew's not knocking them out of the park on a regular basis anymore, so we need some more pop in the lineup. Especially in late inning situations like tonight.
Tomorrow, the Sox are back at Fenway. They need some of that Fenway magic working for them. The Yanks play the Rays...who to root for? LOL
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
It's a tired storyline for the Sox as they approach the All-Star Break: Bullpen coughs up lead, Sox get the tying run on third in the 9th and can't score. Sox lose by one run. Sox have a losing record on a road trip against (mostly) AL teams. Rays win AGAIN. Yawn! About as much fun to watch as summer reruns. It's getting kind of depressing (not to mention repetitive) to blog about these kind of games and they point out the weaknesses the team needs to address before the trade deadline:
1. Shortstop: We need a shortstop who can either hit well in the clutch or be outstanding defensively. Lugo has made an alarming 16 errors so far this season and his batting numbers with RISP are abysmal. I know he has a huge contract, which was a mistake to begin with, but it's time for the front office to cut their losses and move on. Lowrie can't possibly do worse.
2. Bullpen: The 'pen has been blowing way too many leads lately. Even Paps, the most reliable guy in the 'pen allowed the go-ahead run to score in tonight's game. Hansen is too inconsistent and should be sent back down to Pawtucket. Either find a good reliever via trade or give another one of the PawSox a shot. Maybe when Buch comes back, put Masterson in the 'pen for long relief.
3. DH: If Big Papi's not ready to come back soon after the All Star Break, look for another power bat to DH. Manny's watching hittable fastballs sail by him and swinging at terrible ones. He's not getting the job done with RISP. Casey has a good BA, but no power. Drew's not knocking them out of the park on a regular basis anymore, so we need some more pop in the lineup. Especially in late inning situations like tonight.
Tomorrow, the Sox are back at Fenway. They need some of that Fenway magic working for them. The Yanks play the Rays...who to root for? LOL
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Rivera should buy Coco, Tek, and Lugo dinner.
Sox: 1 Yanks: 2
Talk about the Yanks getting lucky. Mariano Rivera had hit two batters and loaded the bases with nobody out in the top of the 9th, but who comes up but the bottom of the Sox batting order, Coco, Tek, and Lugo. The Sox could have really capitalized on Mo's mistakes and come back to win this thing and break the Yanks closer's save streak, but 7, 8, and 9 just couldn't do that to him. Lowell was able to single Drew home to prevent the shutout, but no luck for the Red Sox after yet another squandered opportunity.
Masterson, Lopez and Timlin combined to hold the Yanks to just two runs. Masterson struggled with his command, hitting three batters, but limited the damage by pitching out of some tough jams. Lopez pitched a scoreless 7th and Timlin had a nice return from the DL with a 1-2-3 8th. It's too bad the Sox could only muster one little run. Coco seems to have cooled off at the plate; he was the one I had the most hope for in capitalizing on the bases loaded situation in the 9th, but he struck out.
Tomorrow on the mound is Wake (who has pitched better than his record, but suffers from lack of run support), versus Joba The Starter.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!! SCORE SOME RUNS FOR WAKE, PLEEEEASE!
Talk about the Yanks getting lucky. Mariano Rivera had hit two batters and loaded the bases with nobody out in the top of the 9th, but who comes up but the bottom of the Sox batting order, Coco, Tek, and Lugo. The Sox could have really capitalized on Mo's mistakes and come back to win this thing and break the Yanks closer's save streak, but 7, 8, and 9 just couldn't do that to him. Lowell was able to single Drew home to prevent the shutout, but no luck for the Red Sox after yet another squandered opportunity.
Masterson, Lopez and Timlin combined to hold the Yanks to just two runs. Masterson struggled with his command, hitting three batters, but limited the damage by pitching out of some tough jams. Lopez pitched a scoreless 7th and Timlin had a nice return from the DL with a 1-2-3 8th. It's too bad the Sox could only muster one little run. Coco seems to have cooled off at the plate; he was the one I had the most hope for in capitalizing on the bases loaded situation in the 9th, but he struck out.
Tomorrow on the mound is Wake (who has pitched better than his record, but suffers from lack of run support), versus Joba The Starter.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!! SCORE SOME RUNS FOR WAKE, PLEEEEASE!
Friday, July 4, 2008
Happy Fourth! Sox Win!
Sox: 6 Yanks: 4
As I said last night, nothing says "Happy Birthday, America!" like a Red Sox win and win they did. It wasn't a shutout like last night, but a win is a win. The Yanks struck first, touching Beckett for three in the first inning, but the Sox answered in the third, stringing three runs together. The last two came on what has to be one of the most unusual triples in the long history of the game. A ball off the bat of Youk landed briefly in Johnny Damon's glove, then bounced out of the glove and came to rest on the top of the left field wall for a moment before bouncing back onto the field. Damon, former Sox hero who went to the dark side in '06, sprained his shoulder trying to make the grab. Only in a Red Sox-Yankees game!
Beckett had a solid, but not dominating outing, picking up win #8 by holding the Yanks to three runs as his team scored six. Mikey came up big in the fifth when he took Yanks starter Darrell (not Darren, as I wrote yesterday) Rasner deep with with two on, doubling the Sox score from 3 and pulling them ahead of the Yanks. Jake went 3 for 5 and is rediscovering the art of bunting. Tek got TWO hits today! Pedey's keeping his hot streak going. Manny and JD are both on a quest for long ball #17 of the season. The 'pen, having to wait out a rain delay, had a few scary moments, but didn't allow a run until the bottom of the 9th, when a two-out fly ball that Coco dove and thought he caught was ruled a trap instead of a catch, allowing Brett Gardner to score. The next fly ball was a sure out and the Sox are now assured of at least a split of the series.
Tomorrow, it's young Masterson on the mound against The Moose. Tomorrow would be a good chance for Manny to pick up that 17th homer, seeing how he eats up Mussina's pitching.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!
As I said last night, nothing says "Happy Birthday, America!" like a Red Sox win and win they did. It wasn't a shutout like last night, but a win is a win. The Yanks struck first, touching Beckett for three in the first inning, but the Sox answered in the third, stringing three runs together. The last two came on what has to be one of the most unusual triples in the long history of the game. A ball off the bat of Youk landed briefly in Johnny Damon's glove, then bounced out of the glove and came to rest on the top of the left field wall for a moment before bouncing back onto the field. Damon, former Sox hero who went to the dark side in '06, sprained his shoulder trying to make the grab. Only in a Red Sox-Yankees game!
Beckett had a solid, but not dominating outing, picking up win #8 by holding the Yanks to three runs as his team scored six. Mikey came up big in the fifth when he took Yanks starter Darrell (not Darren, as I wrote yesterday) Rasner deep with with two on, doubling the Sox score from 3 and pulling them ahead of the Yanks. Jake went 3 for 5 and is rediscovering the art of bunting. Tek got TWO hits today! Pedey's keeping his hot streak going. Manny and JD are both on a quest for long ball #17 of the season. The 'pen, having to wait out a rain delay, had a few scary moments, but didn't allow a run until the bottom of the 9th, when a two-out fly ball that Coco dove and thought he caught was ruled a trap instead of a catch, allowing Brett Gardner to score. The next fly ball was a sure out and the Sox are now assured of at least a split of the series.
Tomorrow, it's young Masterson on the mound against The Moose. Tomorrow would be a good chance for Manny to pick up that 17th homer, seeing how he eats up Mussina's pitching.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Lester Blanks the Yanks!
Sox: 7 Yanks: 0
Leave it to The Trop to make me happy to see Yankee Stadium! LOL Jon Lester came up HUGE tonight, playing the role of stopper and threw a 5-hit complete game shutout to the Yanks. The same team that scored 18 runs the night before, mind you. He had quite a scare at the beginning, walking the first two batters he faced. He very quickly righted the ship after getting the third batter to ground out, then struck out the next two, stranding runners on first and third. This performance from Lester is big for so many reasons, the most important being that the Red Sox badly needed a stellar outing from their starter tonight after last night's fiasco in St. Pete. The bullpen was spent and having a starter pitch so economically and go all nine meant a much-needed night off. It was about as good of a bounce-back outing as you can get and continues to establish Lester as a force to be reckoned with on the mound. With the exception of the Houston outing, he's been pitching like a #1 or #2 starter.
The bats also fared much better tonight, especially against Pettitte. They jumped all over the Yanks' starter in the first five innings, knocking him for 6 runs. The defense turned the twin-killer three times against Yankee hitters. Pedey extended his hitting streak to 11 games, JD, Youk, and the returning Coco had 2 hits apiece and even Tek got a hit. And so did Manny. The change of scenery did a world of good for the Sox, even if it was Yankee Stadium. Beating their longtime rival has to be a huge morale boost for the team.
Tomorrow night on the hill, the ace Josh Beckett faces Darren Rasner. This will be the first time the Sox face Rasner, but I'm hoping the rush from tonight's Yank Spank will carry over tomorrow. After all, what says "Happy Birthday, America" like a Red Sox win?
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
Leave it to The Trop to make me happy to see Yankee Stadium! LOL Jon Lester came up HUGE tonight, playing the role of stopper and threw a 5-hit complete game shutout to the Yanks. The same team that scored 18 runs the night before, mind you. He had quite a scare at the beginning, walking the first two batters he faced. He very quickly righted the ship after getting the third batter to ground out, then struck out the next two, stranding runners on first and third. This performance from Lester is big for so many reasons, the most important being that the Red Sox badly needed a stellar outing from their starter tonight after last night's fiasco in St. Pete. The bullpen was spent and having a starter pitch so economically and go all nine meant a much-needed night off. It was about as good of a bounce-back outing as you can get and continues to establish Lester as a force to be reckoned with on the mound. With the exception of the Houston outing, he's been pitching like a #1 or #2 starter.
The bats also fared much better tonight, especially against Pettitte. They jumped all over the Yanks' starter in the first five innings, knocking him for 6 runs. The defense turned the twin-killer three times against Yankee hitters. Pedey extended his hitting streak to 11 games, JD, Youk, and the returning Coco had 2 hits apiece and even Tek got a hit. And so did Manny. The change of scenery did a world of good for the Sox, even if it was Yankee Stadium. Beating their longtime rival has to be a huge morale boost for the team.
Tomorrow night on the hill, the ace Josh Beckett faces Darren Rasner. This will be the first time the Sox face Rasner, but I'm hoping the rush from tonight's Yank Spank will carry over tomorrow. After all, what says "Happy Birthday, America" like a Red Sox win?
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Most. Infuriating. Game. Ever.
Sox: 6 Rays: 7
Let me just say that I don't expect the Red Sox to win every game and win the World Series every year. It's not the loss itself that infuriates me as much as the way they lost, after having a lead for the first time in the series until THE INNING FROM HELL. Dice-K has a pretty good outing, despite struggling with command in the first two innings, but with his high pitch count, he can only go 5, meaning the balance of the game was entrusted to a very untrustworthy bullpen. Just when I thought they were getting it together, they are struck with strike zone amnesia and it takes THREE pitchers to record an out in the 7th. Oki pitched the 6th and only allowed one hit, but the three-man disaster crew of Delcarmen, Hansen, and Aardsma proceeded to blow the Sox' three run lead because they couldn't find the zone to save their lives. This bullpen really needs to be re-worked if the Sox are going to remain competitive in the second half. Paps has been solid, for the most part, but no one else, save for maybe Lopez, is even close to reliable.
Is it just me or does Tek seem exhausted lately? Maybe he didn't recover fully from his illness and that's contributing to his troubles at the plate. Perhaps he needs some days off to get some R&R. As he gets older, he's probably going to need more than one day off in the rotation. Next year, perhaps the Sox should find another catcher for Tek to start grooming as his successor. The most promising prospect seems to be Mark Wagner, but he's still just in AA. Trading for one is a possibility, but they could end up with just a rental.
Well, the Sox head into New York with serious downward momentum. Can they turn it around on enemy territory and start clawing their way back to the top, or will this road trip be the biggest debacle yet? These next four games will be a true test of the team's fortitude and resilience. I will root for the Sox, win or lose, because they are my team, but it sure would be nice to come away from da Bronx with some victories.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!! THEY SHALL RISE AGAIN!
Let me just say that I don't expect the Red Sox to win every game and win the World Series every year. It's not the loss itself that infuriates me as much as the way they lost, after having a lead for the first time in the series until THE INNING FROM HELL. Dice-K has a pretty good outing, despite struggling with command in the first two innings, but with his high pitch count, he can only go 5, meaning the balance of the game was entrusted to a very untrustworthy bullpen. Just when I thought they were getting it together, they are struck with strike zone amnesia and it takes THREE pitchers to record an out in the 7th. Oki pitched the 6th and only allowed one hit, but the three-man disaster crew of Delcarmen, Hansen, and Aardsma proceeded to blow the Sox' three run lead because they couldn't find the zone to save their lives. This bullpen really needs to be re-worked if the Sox are going to remain competitive in the second half. Paps has been solid, for the most part, but no one else, save for maybe Lopez, is even close to reliable.
Is it just me or does Tek seem exhausted lately? Maybe he didn't recover fully from his illness and that's contributing to his troubles at the plate. Perhaps he needs some days off to get some R&R. As he gets older, he's probably going to need more than one day off in the rotation. Next year, perhaps the Sox should find another catcher for Tek to start grooming as his successor. The most promising prospect seems to be Mark Wagner, but he's still just in AA. Trading for one is a possibility, but they could end up with just a rental.
Well, the Sox head into New York with serious downward momentum. Can they turn it around on enemy territory and start clawing their way back to the top, or will this road trip be the biggest debacle yet? These next four games will be a true test of the team's fortitude and resilience. I will root for the Sox, win or lose, because they are my team, but it sure would be nice to come away from da Bronx with some victories.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!!!! THEY SHALL RISE AGAIN!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
A Visit from Dr. Hitmore
Setting: Visitor's clubhouse at The Trop. Dr. Hitmore, a specialist in diseases of the offense, pays a visit to the ailing Red Sox. Assembled are the players, Tito, and hitting coach Dave Magadan.
Dr. Hitmore: After watching a sampling of your away games, including these last two in Tampa Bay and analyzing the hitting patterns in different situations, I have come to a reasonably conclusive diagnosis. I recommend you all sit down for this one.
Tito: That bad, eh?
Dr. Hitmore: I'm afraid it is rather bad news, Mr. Francona. This team is suffering from a rather severe case of (the doctor takes a deep breath) RISP-itis.
Tito: Oh man, not rispitis! That's what I was afraid of.
Dr. Hitmore: There is an acute lack of hitting when there are runners in scoring position, which is the cardinal symptom of rispitis--
Manny: Can we leave the Cardinals out of this, man? We seen enough of them already this season.
Dr. Hitmore: Mr. Ramirez, I was using the word "cardinal" to mean--
Youk: Don't worry about him, doc. Just chalk it up to Manny being Manny.
Manny (with fists raised) : You want to take this outside, Youk-man?
Tito: That'll be enough, boys. Let's pay attention to what this doctor is saying. We need all the help we can get on our hitting game. Them Rays, they're not just a bunch of little devils anymore.
Dr. Hitmore: Thank you, Mr. Francona. Now if I may continue, rispitis is a very serious matter. It could be fatal if not promptly treated. Fatal to your chances of making it to the post-season and repeating your World Championship. Some of you have a more severe case than others. For example, Mr. Varitek, Mr. Ramirez, and Mr. Lugo, your bats are on life support right now. However, no one on this team is immune. Even you, Mr. Lowell. Although you may have a milder case than some of your teammates, you were affected tonight with bases loaded in the eighth. Mr. Ellsbury, you showed improvement in getting on base tonight, but you didn't have any opportunities to drive in runs. Here Mr. Wakefield pitched a solid seven innings, allowing only two runs, and the rispitis of the offensive players lets him down. Mr. Wakefield has to be perfect to allow himself a chance to win.
Tito: So what's treatment for rispitis, Dr. Hitmore?
Dr. Hitmore: The treatment has to start with you, Mr. Magadan. You have to help these players develop better plate discipline and refrain from the temptation to swing at those high fastballs, or anything that is clearly out of the strike zone. It's like being on a diet and having a doughnut right in front of your face. You eat the doughnut, you blow your diet. You chase the high fastball with two strikes and runners in scoring position, you blow your team's chances to score in the inning. Perhaps mild electric shocks administered to the players' hands, via electrodes implated in batting gloves, whenever the player chases the high heat.
Youk: Like Tito would ever shock us!
Dr. Hitmore: He wouldn't have to, Mr. Youkilis. The electrode would be attached to a little computer chip that senses the location of the pitch and the movement of the bat. Hey, it worked on our test subjects. The Sea Dogs are really laying off the upstairs stuff now. We took the electrodes out last week and they're still leaving their bats on their shoulders when they see one whizzing by up north. RBI numbers are through the roof.
Tito: I don't know about this. What if there's a malfunction and a bunch of guys end up on the DL, or worse?
Dr. Hitmore: I know how much you care about the health and safety of your players, Mr. Francona, and I admire you for that. I can assure you that this system will not endanger any of your players and once it proves effective, you'll see dramatic improvement of the rispitis. In fact, you can program it to shock when a batter gets under the ball too much or rolls over it. Any situation that adversely affects hitting performance with runners in scoring position can be programmed to deliver a shock. As for side effects, the other team may laugh at the batter when he strikes out on a high fastball, or whatever other situation you program the system for, but this could have an advantage for your team. The laughter may break the opposing team's concentration and they make more errors. A win-win situation. And let's face it, your team needs to win.
Tito: Mags, what do you think? Should we give it a try?
Magadan: Do we have any other options at this point? We need to put some meaningful hits together. I say we go for it.
Dr. Hitmore: A very wise decision, gentlemen. I will send my technician over tomorrow to fit each batter for the new gloves. Now if you'll excuse me, I must answer a call from a Mr. Hank Steinbrenner. The Rangers are giving his team a hard time.
Tito: Before you go, do you know of anyone who can help our pitching staff, particularly our relievers?
Dr. Hitmore: That would be my colleague, Dr. Zonefinder. I'll put a call in to him today.
Tito: Thank you, doctor.
DISCLAIMER: This skit is a satire. I'm not advocating zapping the Sox hitters or performing any other science experiments on them to improve the team's offense. However, something needs to be done to light a fire under them. Not an actual fire, mind you, but a little more joie de vivre at the plate wouldn't hurt.
Dr. Hitmore: After watching a sampling of your away games, including these last two in Tampa Bay and analyzing the hitting patterns in different situations, I have come to a reasonably conclusive diagnosis. I recommend you all sit down for this one.
Tito: That bad, eh?
Dr. Hitmore: I'm afraid it is rather bad news, Mr. Francona. This team is suffering from a rather severe case of (the doctor takes a deep breath) RISP-itis.
Tito: Oh man, not rispitis! That's what I was afraid of.
Dr. Hitmore: There is an acute lack of hitting when there are runners in scoring position, which is the cardinal symptom of rispitis--
Manny: Can we leave the Cardinals out of this, man? We seen enough of them already this season.
Dr. Hitmore: Mr. Ramirez, I was using the word "cardinal" to mean--
Youk: Don't worry about him, doc. Just chalk it up to Manny being Manny.
Manny (with fists raised) : You want to take this outside, Youk-man?
Tito: That'll be enough, boys. Let's pay attention to what this doctor is saying. We need all the help we can get on our hitting game. Them Rays, they're not just a bunch of little devils anymore.
Dr. Hitmore: Thank you, Mr. Francona. Now if I may continue, rispitis is a very serious matter. It could be fatal if not promptly treated. Fatal to your chances of making it to the post-season and repeating your World Championship. Some of you have a more severe case than others. For example, Mr. Varitek, Mr. Ramirez, and Mr. Lugo, your bats are on life support right now. However, no one on this team is immune. Even you, Mr. Lowell. Although you may have a milder case than some of your teammates, you were affected tonight with bases loaded in the eighth. Mr. Ellsbury, you showed improvement in getting on base tonight, but you didn't have any opportunities to drive in runs. Here Mr. Wakefield pitched a solid seven innings, allowing only two runs, and the rispitis of the offensive players lets him down. Mr. Wakefield has to be perfect to allow himself a chance to win.
Tito: So what's treatment for rispitis, Dr. Hitmore?
Dr. Hitmore: The treatment has to start with you, Mr. Magadan. You have to help these players develop better plate discipline and refrain from the temptation to swing at those high fastballs, or anything that is clearly out of the strike zone. It's like being on a diet and having a doughnut right in front of your face. You eat the doughnut, you blow your diet. You chase the high fastball with two strikes and runners in scoring position, you blow your team's chances to score in the inning. Perhaps mild electric shocks administered to the players' hands, via electrodes implated in batting gloves, whenever the player chases the high heat.
Youk: Like Tito would ever shock us!
Dr. Hitmore: He wouldn't have to, Mr. Youkilis. The electrode would be attached to a little computer chip that senses the location of the pitch and the movement of the bat. Hey, it worked on our test subjects. The Sea Dogs are really laying off the upstairs stuff now. We took the electrodes out last week and they're still leaving their bats on their shoulders when they see one whizzing by up north. RBI numbers are through the roof.
Tito: I don't know about this. What if there's a malfunction and a bunch of guys end up on the DL, or worse?
Dr. Hitmore: I know how much you care about the health and safety of your players, Mr. Francona, and I admire you for that. I can assure you that this system will not endanger any of your players and once it proves effective, you'll see dramatic improvement of the rispitis. In fact, you can program it to shock when a batter gets under the ball too much or rolls over it. Any situation that adversely affects hitting performance with runners in scoring position can be programmed to deliver a shock. As for side effects, the other team may laugh at the batter when he strikes out on a high fastball, or whatever other situation you program the system for, but this could have an advantage for your team. The laughter may break the opposing team's concentration and they make more errors. A win-win situation. And let's face it, your team needs to win.
Tito: Mags, what do you think? Should we give it a try?
Magadan: Do we have any other options at this point? We need to put some meaningful hits together. I say we go for it.
Dr. Hitmore: A very wise decision, gentlemen. I will send my technician over tomorrow to fit each batter for the new gloves. Now if you'll excuse me, I must answer a call from a Mr. Hank Steinbrenner. The Rangers are giving his team a hard time.
Tito: Before you go, do you know of anyone who can help our pitching staff, particularly our relievers?
Dr. Hitmore: That would be my colleague, Dr. Zonefinder. I'll put a call in to him today.
Tito: Thank you, doctor.
DISCLAIMER: This skit is a satire. I'm not advocating zapping the Sox hitters or performing any other science experiments on them to improve the team's offense. However, something needs to be done to light a fire under them. Not an actual fire, mind you, but a little more joie de vivre at the plate wouldn't hurt.
Guys, This is REALLY Getting Old!
Sox: 1 Rays without the Devil: 3
I don't like to be someone who always complains and disses the team, but these guys need to get their act together at the plate when they're on the road facing A.L. teams. Here Wake goes out and gives up only two runs, one unearned, and his offense can only muster one. This happens way too often on the road. I know the Rays have good pitching and they're on a hot streak and all, but the Sox are a world championship team who should be able to hit good pitching more than they are. Tonight's game was a typical "Road Sox" game: Chasing bad pitches, no clutch hitting, hitting balls right at guys, and failing to back up a decent pitching job by the starter. The only bright spot was Jake, who actually got on base tonight. Three times. None of his hits left the infield, but his speed had the Rays defense flummoxed. They made three throwing errors just trying to beat him to the bag! But poor Jake, only once was he able to make it home, on a sac fly by JD Drew.
I tip my hat to the Rays. They have built a good team and have had an amazing season so far. Going from "worst to first" is quite an accomplishment, especially for such a young team. That said, the Red Sox are a good team too. They have beaten the Rays six times this season, but all of their wins have come at Fenway. It seems like, between the Sox and the Rays, who wins depends on where they're playing. Home field advantage is huge with these two teams.
Tomorrow, Dice-K tries to pick up victory #10 against the Rays big K-man, Kazmir. It would be nice for the Sox to win this last one, just to have some positive momentum going into the Yanks series.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!! SCORE SOME FOR DICE-K!!!
I don't like to be someone who always complains and disses the team, but these guys need to get their act together at the plate when they're on the road facing A.L. teams. Here Wake goes out and gives up only two runs, one unearned, and his offense can only muster one. This happens way too often on the road. I know the Rays have good pitching and they're on a hot streak and all, but the Sox are a world championship team who should be able to hit good pitching more than they are. Tonight's game was a typical "Road Sox" game: Chasing bad pitches, no clutch hitting, hitting balls right at guys, and failing to back up a decent pitching job by the starter. The only bright spot was Jake, who actually got on base tonight. Three times. None of his hits left the infield, but his speed had the Rays defense flummoxed. They made three throwing errors just trying to beat him to the bag! But poor Jake, only once was he able to make it home, on a sac fly by JD Drew.
I tip my hat to the Rays. They have built a good team and have had an amazing season so far. Going from "worst to first" is quite an accomplishment, especially for such a young team. That said, the Red Sox are a good team too. They have beaten the Rays six times this season, but all of their wins have come at Fenway. It seems like, between the Sox and the Rays, who wins depends on where they're playing. Home field advantage is huge with these two teams.
Tomorrow, Dice-K tries to pick up victory #10 against the Rays big K-man, Kazmir. It would be nice for the Sox to win this last one, just to have some positive momentum going into the Yanks series.
LET'S GO RED SOX!!! SCORE SOME FOR DICE-K!!!
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