Splitsville

This time they got it right. After coming back from another 5-0 hole created by both Beckett and Scutaro, the Sox fought their way back to tie the game, then take the lead off the Yankee bullpen. They knocked around Joba Chamberlain and gave Mariano Rivera his second consecutive blown save. Could "The Sandman" be human after all? Pap came on in the ninth for a heart attack save, but at least he got the job done this time, striking out Randy Winn with a guy on third to end the game with the Sox on the upside of the 7-6 score. They came out of Yankee Stadium with a split, which is an acceptable outcome against a team they've struggled against so far this season.

Now why am I not more excited about this win? Don't get me wrong--I was very happy when they pulled it off last night after Monday night's debacle--but I'm just not sure what to expect from the 2010 Sox anymore. This win could be a turning point that sets them on the path to better, more consistent play, especially against contending teams. It could set off good size winning streak. Conversely, it could just be one of the better games of a .500 season. Starting pitching HAS to improve in order for the Sox to sustain any momentum. Getting their major league outfield back soon (at least in the case of Ellsbury. Cameron seems to be experiencing a setback) should help turn some of the hits into outs, but the pitchers bear most of the responsibility. Commanding the strike zone would be a good place to start. Lots and lots of walks, from both the starters and bullpen. Limiting damage and big innings is another step toward improvement. Beckett may be DL-bound; if so, Wake will get some starts in his absence. Defense, both in the infield and outfield, must improve also.

Today and tomorrow the Sox are in Fenway for a quick little 2-gamer against the Twins. Then it's back out on the road to play Philly and *shudder* Tampa Bay.

LET'S GO RED SOX!!!