Red Sox swap Richardson for Miller - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Minor trade. Dustin Richardson showed promise. Hope Theo did not give up on him prematurely.

Red Sox swap Richardson for Miller - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Ricciardi will decide soon; Sox will decline Hall option - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Given all the injuries in 2010, Hall was valuable. His $9.25M option is a bit rich.

Big Papi's $12.5M option is steep, too, given he is pretty much one-dimensional and his bat is not what it was a few years ago. At 35, giving him a multi-year deal is not a good idea.

Ricciardi will decide soon; Sox will decline Hall option - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Francona on Young: 'This was an important hire' - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

7 years as the A's pitching coach. Seems to be a stable guy.

Francona on Young: 'This was an important hire' - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Southpaw in Fenway

Our fellow blog partner, Southpaw, was in Fenway today.  Must have been emotional to bid farewell to Mike Lowell and more than likely 'Tek. 

Nice to see our beloved 'Sox play spoiler and knock out the Yankees from winning the division. 

Sox will have to act quickly on Ortiz - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Big Papi of the past 2 seasons is not worth $12.5M. He is one dimensional. Interesting to see how this will play out.

VMart and Beltre: I predict they will end up elsewhere next season. They are both looking for long-term, lucrative deals.


Sox will have to act quickly on Ortiz - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Mike Lowell's legacy

The Globe had a story about how the 'Sox never really wanted Lowell.  The feeling was that the Marlins demanded that the 'Sox take Lowell in order to get get Beckett, the proverbial "throw in".  Far being a throw-in, he was an integral part of the 2007 WS championship.

I remember the trade for Beckett and Lowell in which the Theo-less front office sent SS Hanley Ramirez and SP Anibal Sanchez in exchange.  The following year, Ramirez has a stellar season and Sanchez threw a no-hitter.  I remember thinking, "great, a lopsided deal".  But, that all changed in 2007.

He has been a class act despite Theo trading to trade him at least 2-3 times.  I will miss seeing his name in the boxscore and feeling the comfort of his covering the hot corner.  Thanks for the memories, Mike.  You'll always be wanted in my book.

Boston Red Sox - Epstein addresses year’s failed plan - The Boston Globe

The "lost season"....

Boston Red Sox - Epstein addresses year’s failed plan - The Boston Globe

One of those years...

you just want the season to end.  It has been a real nightmare on the injury front. 

Lowell takes a bad hope...Salty out for the year

Can this season get any worse on the injury front?  I am thinking that they should shut down Lester and Buch, too, lest they get hurt pitching in meaningless games.  Beckett, Lackey, and Dice-K need the extra work. 

Kicking around some thoughts on the Red Sox - The Tony Massarotti Sports Blog, featuring Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots and Celtics analysis

Scutaro has a rotator cuff injury. This certainly has been the year of the injury bug for the 'Sox. I would consider using Lowrie next year at SS rather than a high priced free agent signing.

some thoughts on the Red Sox - The Tony Massarotti Sports Blog, featuring Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots and Celtics analysis

Boston Red Sox - The Jacoby Insanity - The Boston Globe

I hope Theo is not ready to give up on Ells. I am concerned about the mental damage done to Ells. I believe he is a great talent but given what has happened, I am not sure if he will want to continue playing in a town that "eats its own". I sure hope that he stays and returns to both physical and mental health. It would be a great story on developing mental toughness and showing his critics that they were wrong about him.

Boston Red Sox - The Jacoby Insanity - The Boston Globe

Boston Red Sox - Short circuit for battery? - The Boston Globe

'Tek provided 'Sox pitching that confidence. Theo really needs to consider this before cutting him loose. "Salty" is not the long-term answer in my opinion. V-Mart is probably better suited to play 1B. Should be an interesting hot stove season.

Boston Red Sox - Short circuit for battery? - The Boston Globe

Brady in the fold for 4 more years....

Big gain - The Boston Globe

A close call....!

Brady involved in car accident - Extra Points - Boston.com

'Sox don't know the meaning of "quit"

Though I had thrown in the towel on our beloved Sox' 2010 season, apparently no one has told the players.  They continue to come back after routs and play hard.  I like what I see in Kalish, Reddick, and Lars Anderson.  Throw Daniel Nava in the mix and that's a pretty young group of talent.   Plus, they are playing against a playoff contender in September.  This certainly bodes well for next year. 

Patriots sign practice squad players - Extra Points - Boston.com

Confirmation of a previous post about Shawn Crable being added to the practice squad. Though Belicheck seems to want to give him every chance possible, one cannot help but wonder why Crable did not come to camp in shape and ready to go. Perhaps the practice squad is Crable's last chance to stick.

Patriots sign practice squad players - Extra Points - Boston.com

Injury summary

3 players sustained broken ribs this year (Ells, Hermida, and Lowell)
3 players sustained thumb injuries (VMart, Youk)
2 players sustained broken feet (Pedey, Tek)
1 player has a shoulder issue (Scutaro)
1 player had a abdminal tear (Cameron)

That is 10 significant injuries!

Robert Coello - some background

As first tweeted by Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal, the Red Sox will purchase the contract of Pawtucket reliever Robert Coello today and add him to the major league bullpen. Coello, 25, has pitched in 32 games (13 starts) with Triple-A Pawtucket and Double-A Portland this season, going 7-6 with a 3.86 ERA. He was converted to the PawSox bullpen on August 7. In 9 Triple-A relief appearances this season, the big right-hander has put up a 1.40 ERA, holding opposing batters to a .109 batting average while striking out 24 batters in 19.1 innings.

The Red Sox acquired Coello, a converted catcher, from Edmonton of the independent Golden Baseball League in November 2008. He went 5-3 with a 2.05 ERA for High-A Salem in 2009, striking out 82 batters in 66 innings.

Time to trade Pap?

He has had 7 blown saves this year.  Some of these blown saves were real meltdowns results in him giving up multiple runs.

With his 35 saves this year, he still a quality closer.  But, he has that shoulder subluxation problem from 2006 that has probably kept the 'Sox from locking him up in long-term deal.  With Bard's rise and other bullpen needs, maybe it is time to trade Pap while his market value is relatively good?

From Boston Dirt Dogs....

This cartoon says it all.

Silver linings for 2010

The injuries have enabled the following:

1.  return of Jed Lowrie
2.  emergence of Ryan Kalish
3.  seeing Mike Lowell finish the season as a RedSox
4.  resounding entrance of Daniel Nava on the scene (Grand Slam on his first MLB AB)
5.  rise of McDonald as a 4th OF, either in Boston or elsewhere
6.  Daniel Bard becoming a premier set-up guy
7.  Clay Bucholz and John Lester emerging as the 1-2 punch in the rotation
8.  glimpses FelixD as a quality LHP out of the pen
9.  sneak preview of Bowden as a future fixture in the pen

The farm system is certainly producing quality players. 

Perhaps there will be major roster changes in the offseason.  These include:  Lowell, 'Tek,
Beltre, VMart, Ells, Big Papi, Okey, Atchison, to name a few.  What about Wake?

My advice to Theo: lay off the high-priced free agents.  Your track record is pretty bad.  Develop young talent like you have been doing.  Don't sign any more high-priced guys like Lackey, Drew, Renteria, Clement -- just admit it, Theo, you suck at evaluating free agent talent.  You promised to turn the 'Sox in a "Development Machine".  You're reaching your vision.  You have two World Championships to show for it.  Now, spend John Henry's dollars wisely.  Don't go out and get banged up players like Mike Cameron.   

Some scenarios for next year:

1B Lowrie
2B Pedey
SS Scutaro
3B Youk
LF Kalish
CF Ells
RF Drew (last year on his deal)
DH ?
C?
4th OF - Cameron
Utility INF - ?
Back up C - ?
2 more roster spots ?

1.  Bucholz
2.  Lester
3.  Beckett
4.  Dice-K
5.  Lackey

6.  Wake
7.  Bard
8.  Pap
9.  Bowden
10.Felix
11?

MannyD to the Rockies for a Single-A prospect

The Globe reports that this prospect is # 16 in the Rockies farm system.  I hate to see MannyD go.  When he was overpowering, he was unhittable, then he would go stretches without finding the strike zone. 

Boston Red Sox - It’s official, Sox are a done deal - The Boston Globe

I think this sums it up. I am very proud of the way these 'Sox have hung in there and not allowed injuries to keep them out of the hunt.

Boston Red Sox - It’s official, Sox are a done deal - The Boston Globe

Disappointing loss...

Despite Clay's great outing, it was a tough loss.  Nice catch by Kalish in CF last night.

This move makes no sense to me..

Below is from The Boston Globe -- why send Bowden down who has to wait 10 days come back up?  Why couldn't they wait until 9/1 to activate Okajima?  

The Red Sox activated LHP Hideki Okajima today and sent RHP Michael Bowden to Pawtucket.

Bowden can come back after Sept. 1, but only after 10 days have elapsed.

Given his terrible season to date it's hard to picture Okajima being put in a high leverage situation right away. He has a 5.58 ERA and has allowed 49 hits and 15 walks in 32.1 innings. Lefties are hitting .338 against him.

Okajima pitched in three rehab games for Triple-A Pawtucket. Over 2.1 innings he allowed four runs on six hits and didn't record a strikeout. Three of the six hits were for extra bases.

VMart keeps the hopes alive...

Despite Lester's unusual wildness, he got HR support from VMart and 'Sox pick up a game on the Rays.  Big game tonight.  We're sending our best pitcher out there against Garza, who is really a tough pitcher against the 'Sox.

In Clay, we trust!  Go 'Sox!

Interest Factoid

“The [Florida] Marlins have spent about $396 million on player salaries from 2000 through 2010, with 873 victories and a World Series title to show. The [New York] Mets have spent about $1.212 billion on salaries in those seasons, with 878 victories and no championships.


In other words, the Mets have spent about $816 million more than the Marlins to win five more games and one fewer title.”

(Source: NY Times, 25.08.2011)

Splitsville

Obviously, a sweep would have been better.  Poor Wake got thrown into the deep end of the pool having had very little work recently. 

Good baseball books...

Some recommendations:

1.  "The Big Bam" (Babe Ruth)
2.  "Teammates" (Williams, Doerr, Pesky, and DiMaggio) (David Halberstam)
3.  Summer of '46 (Cardinals vs. Red Sox) (David Halberstam)
4.  "October 1964" (Cardinals vs. Yankees) (David Halbestam)
5.  "Wait Until Next Year" (Brooklyn Dodgers) (Doris Kearns)
6.  "Luckiest Guy" (Lou Gehrig)
7.  "Ted Williams" biography
8.  "Sandy Koufax" biography
9.  "Joe DiMaggio" biography

Guaranteed contracts

I am not 100% sure about the NBA, but most MLB contracts are guaranteed.  The NFL contracts are not.  That is why the NFL players bargain for signing bonuses, front-end loaded deals, and portions of the their contracts as "guaranteed money".   In the NFL, when a players signs a multi-million dollar deal over several years, much of that is not guaranteed.  No wonder they do not want long-term deals.  The NFL football is a brutal sport and a player is one hit away from injured reserve. 

This brings me back to basball.  In the 50's and well before free agency, Mickey Mantle won the Triple Crown one season.  The Yankees cut his pay the following year after his numbers went down.  This was Mickey Mantle for crying out loud!

Once in the last 1920's, Babe Ruth was asked by the press whether he felt guilty about making more money than President Hoover.  To which, the Babe responded "I had a better year than he did".

Once former Tiger great Al Kaline turned down a pay increase because he did not feel that he earned it.  He had a subpar year.

Well, those days are obviously long gone.  But, in those days, one's year had significance and impacted their pay.  Not now.  It has always caused me to shake my head in reading of player, in his mid to late 30's, signs a deal in which their pay goes up each year, particularly with long-term deals.  So as a player grows older, his skills diminish yet his pay goes up.  Sounds counterintuitive to me. 

Pap and a long-term deal

Unless I have missed something in the Globe, I believe Theo's biggest concern keeping him from signing Pap to a long-term deal is his 2006 shoulder subluxation injury.  Does anyone have any further insight?

Theo has locked up Pedey, Lester, and Youk to long-term deals well before they were eligible for free agency.  Former GM Dan Duquette did similar deals for Nomar, 'Tek, and Derek Lowe. 

Pap has 31 saves this year and 6 blown ones.  Still very respectable.  Perhaps I had gotten spoiled when he was a lights out closer, recording 1-2-3 innings. 

Bard seems to be the closer-in-waiting.  One way to look at this is:  why spend big bucks on Pap when the 'Sox farm system is cranking out young, talented pitchers?

To: Mrs. Tom Brady

do you "hate the Jets", too?

Though I do not like Rex Ryan, he is a good coach.  Remains to be seen if they are as good this year.   He started the barbs by saying in a press conference last year that he did not come to the NYJets to "kiss Bill Belicheck's rings".  Jets should be good this year.

Tom Brady may just be trying to egg on the Jets.

More on auto hounds (since tonight's game has been postponed)

The one time last year that I tried to play an "auto hound", I really enjoyed myself.  The best part, though, was to watch the players to see how they react to and interact with the fans.  I was a bit surprised to hear of our Southpaw's observations of Pap.

My friend is a diehard Phillies fan.  So, we went to the Nationals' park and hung around the 3rd base dugout.  We were within earshot of Ryan Howard who simply ignored the kids' pleas for his autograph and just walked into the dugout, ignoring everyone and not even looking up.  Ryan Madson, on the other hand, smiled at the fans, stopped, and began signing autographs right by the dugout.  A few minutes later, Jamie Moyer came out and signed autographs for all beginning at the dugout and going all the way down the left field line.  He enjoyed interacting with the fans.  My friend told me that Jamie does that every time he is not starting a game.

Some times, I guess, some players' egos get the best of them.  It is easy to forget the fans who come and support you when you're paid millions of dollars per year.

I heard Cal Ripken interviewed on Bloomberg recently -- what a class act!  Baseball needs more Cal's.

Lackey goes 8 innings...

Nice job despite an error on his part.  He gave the 'Sox quality innings and did not cause Tito to pull him early.  Nice lift from Mr. Lackey -- keep it up!  We need the same the time out.

Nats' Strasburg going back on DL, to have 2nd exam - Boston.com

A friend of mine in Richmond, VA is a serious autograph hound. He went up to a Nationals Game recently in DC. As with the case of "hounds", he went up a few hours before the game in hopes of getting players' "autos" (his lingo for autographs). He encountered Stephen Strasburg who was entering the stadium with his wife. The "hounds" clamored for Strasburg's auto. He just ignored them and kept walking. The hounds were close enough to hear Strasburg's wife ask why he wouldn't take a few minutes to sign autographs. To which he responded "I just don't feel like it today". Scheez! These guys are fans and he can't take a few minutes to sign?

This same friend went to see the Richmond, VA Double A team play the 'Sox counterpart Portland Sea Dogs. He was able to get Pitcher Casey Kelly's auto.

Last year, I went with him to a Nationals game and helped him. I was able to get the "autos" of LHP Jamie Moyer and J.C. Romero. It was fun. But, I am not ready to declare myself a "hound".

I recall another young fireballing phenom, named Clemens, who had to bet shut down due to a forearm strain in his rookie year in '84. Rocket had gone 9-4 before getting shut down. In '85, he struggled with shoulder problems and had to have rotator cuff surgery only to have that phenomenal '86 season.

I hope things work out okay for Strasburg. Though he may have dissed the hounds and my friend that day, I hope his injury is not serious.

Nats' Strasburg going back on DL, to have 2nd exam - Boston.com

Red Sox place waiver claim on Johnny Damon - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Sounds like a preemptory strike to prevent the Rays and/or the Yankees to acquire Damon.

Pre-game news: Red Sox place waiver claim on Johnny Damon - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Buchholz puts in another stellar performance...

This has been a great story in 2010.  A huge question mark coming out of Spring Training, he leads the club in wins and could make a solid case for the Cy Young. 

Hopefully, Bard and Pap can seal the victory for him today.

Navarro replaces Pedey

Seems like a good prospect as a utilitiy infielder.  Click here.

Boston Red Sox - Comeback by Delgado put on hold by DL trip - The Boston Globe

Not very surprised by this turn of events. He was damaged goods before the 'Sox signed him. Looks like 'Sox will use the Two L's (Lowell and Lowrie) @ 1B which I think is a good move.

Boston Red Sox - Comeback by Delgado put on hold by DL trip - The Boston Globe

Jed Lowrie epitomizes the 2010 'Sox

He has had his share of injuries these past few years.  He had seen his label change from prospect to injury prone.  Some had speculated that he would be packaged up into a deal for relief help.  Many had given up on him given his injury history. 

I hope the 'Sox keep Jed around.  He has grit and came through in the clutch last night. 

Like sand through the hour glass...

so goes the days of our 'Sox chances to make the playoffs (borrowed from the beginning of "Days of Our Lives").  Lester has been steady since April.  Last night's meltdown was a surprise.   I wonder if Pedey's return to the DL deflated the team overall?

The year of the DL

Boston Red Sox - Painful reminders - The Boston Globe

Beckett not impressive

With the injuries, his continued struggles, and inconsistency, I think we can safely say that Beckett is no longer the ace of this staff.  Unfortunately, the 'Sox have committed $68M to him over the next few years.  At this point in the season, 'Sox needed Beckett to come up big -- he didn't.

Easing up on Lackey (a bit)

I will admit to being a bit harsh, okay very harsh, on Mr. Lackey this year.  This is probably due to my high expectations of him.  I give him credit for going 7 innings last night and going well over 100 in the pitch count.  Plus, I read the "at the park" posts that 3 of Pap's 6 blown saves have cost Lackey potentially 3 more wins.  So, he would be a 14-game winner at this juncture in the season.  Nevertheless, his inconsistency and not rising to the occasion in big games this year, have troubled me. 

Boston Red Sox - Tony C

Boston Red Sox - Unforgettable moment hit home 39 years ago - The Boston Globe

Another un-inspiring Lackey performance

The way he is pitching of late, he'll be lucky to finish above .500 for the season.  One has to wonder if John Henry sits back asks himself "for this I committed $82M?" when sees the likes of Buchholz, Pap, Bard, Lester, and other home-grown pitching talent performing at high levels less the high salaries.  $82M buys alot of scouting and signing bonuses, and good coaches for developing young talent.

And, maybe he still isn't right from 2009?  He was only 11-8 last year and spent time on the DL.  Hmm, that would have been enough for me to look elsewhere.

Too bad clubs don't build in "out clauses" to these onerous guaranteed contracts if a player falls below certain performance standards.

At least he went 7 innings and didn't tax the bullpen too much.      

Bill Hall

has 16 HRs this season in a part-time role.  I have never managed a MLB team before, but seems to me, Tito needs to find a way to get him in the lineup daily.  I know he is not a natural OF but he can by replaced in late innings with someone else.  In a lineup devoid of Youk's bat, seems to me someone with 16 HRs is not a bad replacement -- am I missing something?

How could I forget?

Petey returned tonight.  Went 0 for 4 with an error.  He's a bit rusty but at least he's out there battling.  I am sure his presence provided an emotional lift.  With guys like Kalish and McDonald contributing, Petey doesn't have to feel the pressure but so much.  But, he's a fighter and will contribute soon enough.

Another update for Mrs. Tom Brady...

A few moments with Tom Brady - Extra Points - Boston.com

Nice job by Buchholz (again)....

He pitched like an ace, scattering 5 hits over 7 innings.  Just as important, Tito used Felix and Bowden to close the game.  Felix loaded the bases in the 7th but got out of it with a big K.  Tito saved Bard and Pap for another day.

Ryan Kalish hits a Grand Slam.  This younger has certainly contributed since coming up from AAA.

Perhaps tonight we saw a glimpse of the future with the performances of Kalish, Felix, and Bowden.

As we blogged before, a solid farm system can certainly pay dividends.  We saw that tonight.

It could be worse...

We have blogged about some of Theo's free agent signings.  Yet, the Mets have a GM, Omar Minaya, who has basically spent like a drunken sailor and has nothing to show for it.  He has signed free agents such as:

OF Jason Bay
SP Oliver Perez
2B Luis Castillo
SP Pedro Martinez
OF Carlos Beltran
CL Francisco Rodriguez

There are several other signings.  Despite the spending binge, Minaya has not had a winner and is surprisingly still at the helm.  To think that the 'Sox had interviewed him for their GM opening.  It could have been worse had they hired this guy as GM.

Space Man Bill Lee - still kicking

Brockton signs former Red Sox pitcher Bill Lee - Boston.com

My biggest memory of Space Man was Game 7 of the '75 World Series in Fenway Park. Lee was cruising. The 'Sox had the lead. The Big Red Machine could not figure him out that night. He kept the Reds off balance with high leg kick, by changing speeds, and throwing strikes. Things were looking good. Until. He went to the well one time too many. Throughout the night, he threw a few "moon balls", high and slow breaking balls that Reds hitters just froze and stared into the strike zone. Not Tony Perez. He waited and smashed the pitch practically to the moon, well, over the Green Monster's screen. It took the wind out of me that October evening. Lee developed a blister and the 'Sox had to go to their tired bullpen. Brought in LHP Rogelio Moret who could not find the strike zone. I kept hearing Joe Garagiola call "ball". The Reds went on to win Game 7 and World Series 4 games to 3. Though I liked the Reds, it was heart-breaking to see the 'Sox let one slip away.

Here was their starting rotation:

RHP Luis Tiant

RHP Rick Wise

RHP Reggie Cleveland

LHP Bill Lee

LHP Rogelio Moret

Starting line-up

C Pudge Fisk

1B Cecil Cooper

2B Denny Doyle

SS Rick Burleson

3B Rico Petrocelli

LF Yaz

CF Fred Lynn

RF Dwight Evans

DH Jim Rice was on the DL and could not play in the WS. What a team! Though, they had a week bullpen (other than CL Dick Drago and Set up Jim Willoughby).

Boston Red Sox - Kalish could turn into a central figure with the Red Sox - The Boston Globe

How Kalish performs in CF may determine Ells' future with the 'Sox.

Boston Red Sox - Kalish could turn into a central figure with the Red Sox - The Boston Globe

To: Mrs. Tom Brady

Brady: 'I'd love to be here my whole career' - Extra Points - Boston.com

Split on the road....

Ordinarily, a split on a road trip is not a bad thing except when you're 4-5 GB in the wild card.  Hopefully, Petey's return will add a spark to the lineup and dugout.  Ells back on the DL again -- ugh!

Jon Lester continues to win important games for the 'Sox

As we have blogged previously, Lester has become the real ace of the staff.  An ace is that pitcher who is a "stopper", one who breaks a losing streaks, wins the big games, and rights the ship.  Lester has been that this year.

Message to Theo: once you extricate the 'Sox from the Dice-K contract morass, lock up Buchholz to a long term deal, like you did for Lester, Petey, and Youk.  Heck, you have squanders millions on free agents who have not panned out, why not show your commitment to home-grown talent?

Boston Red Sox - Weiland at head of the class - The Boston Globe

Nice to see good pitching prospects continue to develop in the 'Sox farm system.

Boston Red Sox - Weiland at head of the class - The Boston Globe

One got away...

As frustrating as it was to see the Blue Jays score 4 runs in the 9th inning, 'Sox need to bounce back from this one.  Lackey had a good outing and the bats are good now.  Petey comes back next week.  'Tek may be back soon, too.  Some positives to build on.

However, I cannot help but 2nd guess Tito today.  He did not have to use Pap but ended up using him and Bard.  He had fresh, reliable arms in the pen.  Sometimes, managers go to the well too often when it comes to relief pitchers.  In the late 70's, 'Sox had a super closer named Bill Campbell.  In short, they wore him out and after 2 seasons, Don Zimmer overworked the guy to the point that he hurt his arm and was never the same pitcher again.  In the 80's, same case can be made for Bob Stanley.

Where would we be without Buchholz?

To think that he had a big question mark hanging over his head coming out of spring training this year.  Previously, he had been the topic of trade rumors.  This is a great example of the 'Sox not giving up on a young pitcher too soon.  I had the good fortune of actually watching his no-no against the O's in 2007.  From that no-no, Buch set the bar very high for himself. 

Finally, it is great to see the 'Sox farm system producing pitching talent again.  Over the year, the cupboards have been bare in the minors of pitching talent.  In the 80's, their system produced: Clemens, "Oil Can" Boyd, Al Nipper, Bruce Hurst, Bobby Ojeda, John Tudor.  In the 90's, the production declined. 

Lowell comes through...

A big HR from a guy whose season has been one of frustration, uncertainty, and pain.  He has always been a class act and now he is filling the void left by Youk's season-ending injury.  Given all that he has been through this season, one cannot help but feel happy for this guy who is contributing in a big way.

Glad to see that Tito used Manny-D instead of Bard last night in a setup role.

Ryan and Finn on Beckett and Lackey....Globe 10.0 video

These Globe guys have some thoughts on two pitchers, getting paid big bucks, but performing well below expectations.  Finn believes that Lackey may be "hiding" an injury that be hindering his performance.  States that Lackey has a history of pitching  through injuries.

Beckett continues to befuddle the both of them.  Other than 2003 and 2007, they believe his career has been one of a "tease" and explained away to injuries.

In short:  Lackey = $ 82M and Beckett another $68M....yikes!

Don't look now...but

Jed Lowrie is hitting real well.  Once Petey gets back "Uncle" Jed should be used to rest Mikey Lowell, not Carlos Delgado.  Lowrie has worked real hard to get back from 2 frustrating years on injuries.  Hope 'Sox don't give up on him too quickly.  He has versatility.

Good to hear that Petey might be back next Tuesday.  Though I wish Youk was not hurt, he has a quality back up in Lowell.

Okay, I'll admit, I'm over the weekend doldrums and getting hopeful again.  Guess a good win against the Yankees can go a long way toward making a 'Sox fan feel better about life.

Boston Red Sox - In personnel department, Sox have issues - The Boston Globe

Theo certainly has his hands full in this upcoming offseason. Hard as it may be to swallow, guys like Ells and Pap could fetch good value in exchange in the trade market. I suspect that Pap's 2006 shoulder subluxation injury has kept the 'Sox from locking him up in a long-term deal.

Ortiz is not the feared hitter he was once. Some say his bat speed has diminished. Coupled with Manny's absence, it might be time to trade him as well.

Lots of uncertainty and many decisions to make. For sure, Theo will be busy this offseason. Say, Theo, wonder if any team will be willing to take Lackey of your hands?

Boston Red Sox - In personnel department, Sox have issues - The Boston Globe

Sure could have used a big game from Lackey

Here I go again.  For the money, 'Sox are paying this guy, he should have come up big yesterday in an important game with the Yankees.  We could have used a "stop" from this guy and taken game number 2 from the Yankees in this important series.  I put this signing up there with JD Drew in 2007 -- why? (though Drew had a big hit in the 2007 WS - but was it worth the huge payout)?

My advice to Theo:  spend the money you're shelling out on free agents on scouting and signing young prospects.   

Felix called up to replace Okey

Another roster move to aid what has been a beleaguered bullpen this year.  Bowden stays at AAA for now.  If Felix and Bowden make a successful transition to the bullpen coupled with Bard and Pap already there as fixtures, 'Sox project to have a good pen for the next year.  But wait, I am getting ahead of myself and wasn't a strong bullpen going to be a mainstay for this year's team?  If converting two young starters to relievers is a big "if" even though Bard and Pap did so. 

Boston Red Sox - Kalish turns on the power - The Boston Globe

Okay, I'll admit to being a yo-yo kind of fan this year. One moment, I am optimistic about our chances, the next I'm in the doom and gloom mindset. After last night's win, I start thinking "sweep the Yankees" and get even closer. I get ahead of myself. But think: what if the 'Sox sweep the Yankees? What if they hang in long enough to Pedroia to return and Ells to begin stealing bases? What if Lowell helps to carry the team into September a la 'Yaz in '67?

And, how about Ryan Kalish? Daniel Nava isn't too bad either. Whatever happens this year, the future looks bright.

Boston Red Sox - Kalish turns on the power - The Boston Globe

Okajima to the DL

Taking a page from Mrs. Tom Brady, a good trivia question would be:  which 'Sox players this year have not spent time on the DL?

I can think of:  Drew, Scutaro, Hall, Lester, Wake, Pap, Bard -- did I miss anyone?

Is it next year yet? - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

It has to be tough being a MLB team manager. You are second-guessed for not making move. You make a move by "playing the percentages" and it works out but the player gets the credit "for coming through in the clutch".

Is it next year yet? - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

This kid Kalish seems to have lots of potential.

Alex Rodriguez hits home run No. 600 - Boston.com

How about placing asterisks in the record books next to the "juicers" like A-Rod? After all, this was the same sport that made a big deal of Maris breaking Ruth's single season record in 162 instead of 154 games.

Alex Rodriguez hits home run No. 600 - Boston.com

I am just a little frustrated that our 'Sox have hit a rough patch again. Losing Youk really hurts. I can sum up this year in 3 words: thumbs, ribs, and feet.

I am quickly coming to the realization that the 'Sox have too much to overcome and this just isn't their year. Come on, losing to Justin Masteron who is 3-10 this year (abeit motivated to beat his old team)?

Things are looking ugly @ Fenway

Our almost automatic win in June-July, Jon Lester, struggled tonight.  Ells returned and went 0-4. 

Hard to believe that the euphoria of sweeping the Angels has been dulled by the Cleveland Indians (of all teams) coupled with an injury to Youk.  I wonder how the team's morale is doing these days?  Wonder how Ells is presence in the clubhouse affected the team? 

Lowell returns in a big way

HR and nice defensive play!  Beckett pitched well.

Despite this really crazy year, 'Sox are 5.5 GB in the wild card.  Yankees are out of 1st place.  Wouldn't it be great to see the 'Sox knock them out of the wildcard?

Have you all been keeping up with Ryan Kalish?  He is batting .538 since being called up.

Ells gets activated today.  Could sure use his speed in "small ball" situations.

Today's news

At least the 'Sox have someone of Lowell's caliber to step in.  The only positional/DH players who have not missed significant time this year is: Big Papi, Scutaro, Beltre and Drew -- anyone else?

This has been the year of the DL for our beloved 'Sox. 

Lowell activated; Youkilis on DL - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Theo called this a "bridge" year. Wonder if he had a pontoon bridge in mind which is what the 'Sox roster has been all year.

Lowell activated; Youkilis on DL - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Slipping away?

One cannot help but think that with (i) losses like last night (ii) inconsistent pitching (iii) a shaky bullpen (iv) lingering injuries (v) internal issues with players like Ells and Lowell that time to make a run is slipping away.  Late inning heroics are exciting especially when you win but a team cannot drink at that trough too many times.

Now, Cameron is going back to the DL, Lackey has not strung together a string of quality starts, and other nagging injuries like the one to Youk -- are the 'Sox fading? 

Cameron back to DL...

In my humble opinion, this free agent sign has the makings of a bust.  The Globe's O'Shaughnessy delves into the mysterious case of Jacoby Ellsbury.  I would not be surprise to see him shipped in th offseason.  He may have burned bridges with those further up the food chain. 

Tough loss last night.  Lackey's performance set the stage for a hole to climb out of and tapping into the bullpen early. 

Kalish has been a bright spot so far!

A look into the future?

Ryan Kalish, Daniel Nava, and Jed Lowrie -- future mainstays in the 'Sox lineup?  Could be.  Kalish is batting .500 since his call-up.

Another wild one in Fenway tonight.

Rumors...

The Globe reported that Ells was mentioned in possible trade packages.  Previous rumor mill rumblings mentioned Jed Lowrie as a possible part.  I wonder of Ells has truly burned some bridges with the front office.  I would hope the 'Sox not give up too quickly on Lowrie.

Now, back to Lowell.  I agree with Southpaw that Mikey has been the consummate professional.  I do not feel that the front office has treated him properly.  It seems as if the front office has lost its empathy for players.  What happened?  I recall once how Theo sat down personally to meet with Pap upon their acquisition of Eric Gagne so reaffirm Pap's role as their closer.

Theo painted himself in the corner by signing Beltre and having the Lowell deal to Texas nixed.  Reminds of when the 'Sox signed free agent closer Jeff Reardon but still had closer Lee Smith -- my reaction was why?  'Sox eventually traded Lee Smith to the Cardinals for Tom Brunansky.  By the way, Reardon was never really healthy in Boston, and got traded to the Braves.  Meanwhile, Lee Smith kept on racking up saves for the Cardinals.  This was the handiwork of then-GM Lou Gorman (the man who traded Jeff Bagwell's career for 3 weeks of Larry Anderson only to defend the trade years later).

At least Theo did not deal away a marquee prospect this year at the deadline.  But, there is still time to wheel and deal subject to players clearing waivers.

Cardiac 'Sox take the series from the Tigers

Despite the blown save by Pap, 'Sox win.  Recently called up, Ryan Kalish has contributed in past 2 games.  Jed Lowrie continues to contribute with his bat. 

 

Nice effort from Uncle Buch.  Too bad he did not get the win.

 

If this is way the 'Sox will play from here on out, it will be an exciting run. 

 

Rays continue to press down on the Yankees!

No decision yet on Mike Lowell - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

It seems to me that Theo does not know what to do with Lowell. I would think that they could use his bat in the lineup.

No decision yet on Mike Lowell - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Big Papi comes through again!

Grand slam last night in a losing cause. HR tonight. Nice job from the bullpen.

Now to the Globe to see what Theo has to say regarding today's moves.

Still fight left in our Sox!

Sent from my iPod

Dice-K is in his usual mode...

22 pitches in the 1st inning.  Puts his team in the hole right out of the shoot.  Too bad Theo can't find someone to take Dice-K.  $100M for this guy?  (contract plus the right to bid on him).  So, John Henry, as a finance guy, do you feel that you've gotten a good ROI on this guy? 

'Sox mount valiant 9th inning comeback

The one thing I have to say about this year's team is that they never give up.  Despite racking up a frightening level of injuries to key players, they have remained in the hunt.  They are entering a critical point with the Yankees acquiring players like Kerry Wood and Lance Berkman.  I will not be disappointed if Theo does not pull the trigger on a big trade. 

Yet, something is in the works.  Hermida has been DFA'd. 

We'll see what happenes.  I am sure that many of us will be checking the Globe  throughout the evening. 

Boston Red Sox - Little Sox chatter as trade deadline approaches - The Boston Globe

More insight from the Globe as to trade considerations.

Boston Red Sox - Little Sox chatter as trade deadline approaches - The Boston Globe

Sox digging deep for a reliever - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

I am sure that Theo is working the phones. Interesting note on Ram-Ram.

Sox digging deep for a reliever - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Mikey Lowell remains hot in AAA

It would sure be great if Tito could get him into the lineup for several games in a row.  He could rest Papi, Youk, and Beltre over a period of 3 days to get Mikey some MLB AB's.  He continues to see the ball well and connecting. 

Scutaro is having a solid year...

he has been steady at the plate.  Has had to fill in at the leadoff spot due to Ells' prolonged absence.   I have meant to blog about him earlier.   Seems to me tha the could drop to the 9th spot when Ells returns.

Just checked the 'Sox prospects site.  Ryan Kalish and Lars Anderson are hitting well.  Perhaps they will make a strong case to make the team in 2011. 

Petey received bad news today that his foot will require the full 6 weeks to heal, well beyond the 33 days since the injury was incurred.  So, he has a few more weeks before he can return. 

For A-Rod and others, 600 just doesn't add up - The Tony Massarotti Sports Blog, featuring Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots and Celtics analysis

The HR stats of guys like A-Rod, Bonds, Sosa, et al has really diminished what was once monumental aaccomplishments. Being in the 500-club was once a big deal. Guys like Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle, Eddie Matthews, Mel Ott, Ernie Banks accomplished their numbers by talent and longevity.

Williams would have made the 600-club had it not been for his serving in two wars and losing several seasons.

For A-Rod and others, 600 just doesn't add up - The Tony Massarotti Sports Blog, featuring Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots and Celtics analysis

Can you imagine where Junior Griffey could have ended up were it not for all the injuries? Talk about a great swing!

A-Rod the A-Fraud as to HRs.....the sad thing is that he is talented in so many facets of the game.

Drew has 'mild' hamstring strain - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

Has this guy ever stayed healthy for an entire season? Though the news sounds encouraging that a DL stint is not in the offing, how long before his recurring back problems return?

Drew has 'mild' hamstring strain - Extra Bases - Red Sox blog

OK, I'll admit to not being a big JD Drew fan except in the 2007 WS. But, heck, with the dough he is making, 'Sox should get more out of him.

4 HRs and a good outing for Beckett nets both "W" and Sweep

Nice way to conclude a West Coast road trip.  In perusing the boxscores, I saw that Patterson and Hermida are edging close to the "Mendoza line".  Bill Hall is batting .230 but contributes with power and versatility.   Hall has hit 11 dingers this year despite not playing full time.

Just think how solid the lineup will be when Ells and Petey return from the DL.  Of course, Hermida fell victim to one of Beltre's forays into OF.   I suspect that the injury slowed him a bit this year.  At this point, I would keep McDonald over Hermida when Petey and Ells return.  McDonald, though struggling at the plate of late, is out of minor league options and would have to clear waivers before returning to Pawtucket.

It was great to see Tito declare both Pap and Bard as unavailable for today's game -- way to go, Tito!

Beckett seems to be pitching better.  Not sure as to his velocity these days.  Hopefully, it is in the 90's.  How did he look to you, Southpaw?

Sweeping the Angels makes the trip back home easier.  Mike Sciosa is a good manager who has a way to keep his team in a game and keeps the opposition off balance.  It seems that they miss Guerrero who has regained his stroke in Texas.     

62 games left....

At the century mark of games played, some very encouraging signs from last night's game:  Lackey pitched well again; Lowrie had 2 hits; bullpen performed well; Mikey Lowell had a 3-HR game in Pawtucket; Ells and Petey are getting closer to a return.  Though we did not make up any ground against the division leaders, this was a nice boost.  Bard and Pap threw only 20 pitches in the hold-save situation.

Based upon trade rumors, I am wondering if 'Sox are trying to showcase Lowrie to be included in a trade.  He has a history of injuries but he is versatile and, when healty, has a solid bat. 

All's quiet on the trade front....

I will go out on the proverbial limb and predict that Theo will make only a minor trade to bolster the bullpen.  I do not believe he will give up any top prospects for this deal.  I believe he will bring Bowden back up soon.  Wake will be in the pen for long relief. 

He may throw us his screwball and make a minor trade for a positional player, perhaps an outfielder.  I say that only because some of his trades over the years have caused me to scratch my head in disbelief and staring at the computer screen.

Uncle Buch is back...

Nice outing from our up and coming starter.  Two dingers from Big Papi really helped.  Former 'Sox 1B George Scott used to call HRs "long taters".  Atchison was a bit shaky but I attribute that to lack of regular work.  Nice to see Bard not used last night.  Pap had a 25-pitch save.

VMart had a hit which was an encouraging sign. 

Will be nice to get Petey and Ells back and soon. 

Don't give up too much, Theo....

Theo, in some years you have resisted the tempation to trade highly touted prospects for a missing ingredient to a championship team; in other years, you have made trades that, in retrospect, you probably wish you could take back (e.g, David Murphy, Freddie Sanchez, Cla Meredith).

If you really think that this team, once healthy, has a legitimate shot to go far into the post-season so that its starting rotation can outpitch the rest, then take a shot.  But, please do not make the mistake of the ghosts of GMs past and give up talent only to see our beloved team fail to make the postseason.  Make sure that any move you make balances the present, the future, and probability of this team winning it all. There are many skeptics out there.  There are some who may have written off the season but we still have a lot of baseball to play.  And, you if you do make a move, please get some help for our bullpen.  Our young closer-in-waiting, Daniel Bard, has been overworked. Many are concerned about his long-term health. 

In short, get the right help but do not pay an arm and leg for it. 

July 31st trading deadline looms

If Theo wants to give the 'Sox a legitimate shot at postseason, they need help in the bullpen.  We do not need a marquee pitcher, like an Eric Gagne, but rather a solid set-up/mid-relief guy who can come in, throw strikes, and get out.  A groundball pitcher would be ideal but not essential if the guy can get people out. 

I like the sound of this bullpen:

CL Pap
SU/CL (set-up)Bard
SU Atchison
SU Bowden
SU ???? (via trade)

DFA - Okajima and Ramirez.  These guys cannot be counted on.

If Tito would ask me...

Bring up Bowden to take Delcarmen's position.  Insert Atchison into the Ram-Ram role.  Relegate Delcarmen and Okey to mop up duty. DelCar, Okey, and Ram-Ram are not reliable.  To clear roster spots, designate one of the 3 for assignment:  1) Ram-Ram 2) Okey 3) Delcarmen.  Time to be bold Tito and Theo.  No time to be soft with feelings.  These 3 have been ineffective and have cost us games.  Time to make some tough moves.

I do not believe that others in the 'Sox system are ready for ML level of bullpen service.  We may need to trade for a quality set up man.

2nd guessing....

Tito brought Bard in too early.  He should not have brought in Okey in such a crucial situation.  All this was set up by Dice-K not being able to give them at least 7 IP.  Very frustrating.

Dice-K: 107 pitches in 5 innings

I will have to ask my mother to send John Farrell a note as to how to say "throw strikes, damn it!" in Japanese for Dice-K.  Bullpen will get a workout today.

Missed opportunities

'Sox have to convert these runners in scoring position into runs.  Otherwise, these LOB's can come back to haunt them.

Big bat on the way...

The Globe reports that VMart may be ready to play in Anaheim.  'Sox could sure use him back.  Hopefully, Petey will be back soon, too.

August-September is the period when we need folks healthy and playing well.

Despite everything, 'Sox are still 4 GB the Devil Rays.  They are within striking distance but cannot afford to lose too much more ground.

Despite 13Ks, No W for Lester

A game like this shows how the 'Sox miss the bats of VMart and Petey.  Was surprised to see Cameron out of the lineup given his recent hitting.  Maybe Tito does not want to risk another injury to Cam but, come on Tito, now is not the time to be resting hot bats!  We're now 4 GB in the Wildcard. 

Yankees hitting a tough patch

The KC Royals have been helping Sox by beating the dreaded Yankees. The Globe reports that the Yankees are looking to acquire RHP Dan Haren.

If our starting 5 can get healthy for the stretch, we will be in good shape. It is our bullpen that some help.

Bowden should return in the future from Pawtucket.

Sent from my iPod

You can never have enough pitching....

Back in 2005-6, Theo thought he had a surplus of pitching.  So, he sent Bronson Arroyo to the C-Reds for Willy Po Pena.  Sure could have used Arroyo since then.  This year, we were supposed to have a surplus of pitching, too.  Well, we have seen that a team can never have enough.  Injuries and ineffectiveness and a 162-game marathon can take a pitching staff that looks good on paper and render it a paper tiger.  Such has been the case this year for our 'Sox.

I hope the minor league development team continues to focus on developing pitching talent.  With Wake getting long of tooth and uncertainty associated with Pap, Okey, R-Ram, and Delcarmen, we are going to need more talent, preferrably home-grown, not high-priced free agents and washed-up retreads. 

It used to kill me to see GM Duquette bring in the likes of Pat Rapp, Mark Portugal, Steve Avery, and others to help Pedro.  They never did.  Duquette spent far too much time in the bargain basement and trying to rehab once great pitchers like Saberhagen who did have some good years with the 'Sox.

Bullpen Woes

Blowing a 6-1 lead in the 9th inning is hard to believe and unacceptable.  Staked to that kind of lead, the pen should not have allowed the game to go to 13 innings. 

We have blogged before as to concerns over Pap.  He is just not consistent.  He is used to be practically automatic.  Delcarmen is not the lights out set-up guy he used to be.  Okey has not been okay this year. 

Nevertheless, a win is a win and this one was badly needed.  It sure beat a loss having blown a 6-1 ninth inning lead.  Those types of losses can be deflating. 

Remember Darren Bragg?

Duquette traded LHP Jamie Moyer in 1996 to the Mariners for CF Darren Bragg.  A true salary dump.  That same year, he unloaded LHP Mike Stanton to the Rangers for a couple of young pitchers who never panned out.  Another salary dump. 

I hope that the WS titles in 2004 and 2007 have taken the feeling of desperation away from Theo.

2004 was probably his best year of moves in getting Dave Roberts, Orlando Carbrera, and Doug Mientkiewicz.  Of course, he unloaded Nomar Garciappara in getting Carbrera.  But, these 3 complemented a well stocked lineup of Varitek, Millar, Mueller, Manny, Nixon, Damon, Papi, Bellhorn, and Manny. 

    

To trade or not to trade?

The Globe has devoted considerable media to whether 'Sox should make a trade or sit on the sidelines when the July 31st deadline comes.  All things considered, they will probably stand pat this year and pass on making a major trade.  Unless a solid bullpen addition is out there, I would agree that they should go with what they have now and allow the injured to return. 

The Globe had a nice pictorial presenation as to mid-season trades and the results have been quite mixed.  I have seen far too many deadline trades that have been total disasters.  How about Jeff Bagwell for Larry Anderson in 1990?  The latter pitched for the 'Sox for 4 weeks and was almost 40 at the time.  We know what kind of numbers Bagwell put up in Houston.  GM Lou Gorman defended that trade years later.  This was the same guy who traded up both LHP John Tudor (for Mike Easler) and Bobby Ojeda (for Wes Gardiner and Calvin Schiradi) back in 1986.  Gorman spent a ton of money on aging and marginal free agents, too (Jack Clark, Andre Dawson, Matt Young, Danny Darwin).
 
During his turbulent reign as GM, Dan Duquette traded away prospect after prospect for aging veterans.  He did make a good trade in sending the Mariners Heathcliff Slocumb for RHP Derek Lowe and C Jason Varitek.  But, that was a salary dump on his part that far exceeded his expectations. 

In short, Theo, save your powder for another day.  Just review the Globe's presentation and have a slice of humble pie.  Don't tinker.  You'll have plenty of time for that in the offseason. 

 

Need to start winning

These West Coast trips seem longer when they are struggling to win games. Too early to panic but I have "worry beads" close by.

Sent from my iPod

Bucholz back but rusty....

At least he is back.  Hopefully, it will be back to his pre-injury form on his next start.  I would imagine that he might have been a bit tentative out there yesterday. 

Good to see Lowrie back.  He could help out around the infield until Petey gets back.

I am concerned about Beckett's first start.  I have to believe that he will really be rusty.  Bob Ryan and Chad Finn were discussing Becket the other day.  They believe that other than 2003 and 2007, he has been a "tease" and not living up to his potential. 

We could sure use VMart back soon.  Hopefully Petey will return soon, too. 

Can't give up these W's

Losing is no fun, particularly on the West Coast.  These types of losses really hurt when one is trying to make up ground.  Wake had a good performance.

Very important road trip.  Cannot lose any more ground to the Rays and Yanks. 

Need to bounce back tonight. 

True Diehards

Last week, I went to a Double-A game here in Richmond with some friends.  The Richmond Flying Squirrels were playing.  They are the farm club of the SF Giants.

One of my friends, from MA, comes a long line of 'Sox fans.  The lore in this fan's household is that the night he was born, his mother was ready to go the hospital.  His father was listening to the 'Sox on the radio.  When told that "it was time", the father's response was "Wait just a few minutes.  Pesky is up and we have runners in scoring position".  The mother-to-be was not pleased.  I suspect that Pesky's at bat had to wait that night.  BTW, my friend was not named after Johnny Pesky.

My grandfather, from Haverhill, MA, and was a true Diehard.  He used to keep score of the game and kept previous game scores on a clipboard.  I could not understand the codes he used but they made sense to him.  He tried to teach me but I found the code to difficult to comprehend (plus, I was only 5 at the time).  he used to listen to the game on an old radio.  My father bought him a new one the last time he saw his father alive.  My grandfather passed away in 1969.  He passed quietly in his sleep.  Before going to lay down that night, he checked in with my uncle as to the score.  'Sox were ahead.  'Yaz had just hit an HR.  That made him happy.  So, he went to bed that night knowing that the 'Sox were ahead.

He worked in FDR's WPA and enjoyed the simple things in life: the Redsox, smoking his pipe, Cod fish cakes, and playing solitaire (he tried to teach me that, too, but I never liked cards).  

These were some of the stories we shared with each other at the Flying Squirrels' game last week.  Baseball is so rich with such stories.   

How many teams....

without major hitters like Pedroia, Lowell, and VMart coupled with 2 starters like Beckett and Bucholz and with important role players like Hermida, Varitek, and Ells would still be in contention?  Add to the mix a real shaky bullpen aside from the closer and set up man. 

I like the reference to filling in with Quadruple-A players (Nava, McDonald, Bowden, Reddick).



 

Almost forgot....

Jed Lowrie could be close to a return.  I do not view his return as huge given the fine work of Bill Hall though Jed is a natural infielder.

Also, I see that LHP Pettite is on the DL for 4.5 weeks -- groin injury.  The Yankees are getting a bit long of tooth in their core (Jeter, Rivera, Posada, Pettite). 

Nice update on injuries...courtesy of The Globe

Click here

2 B's and a D....

Hopefully, Bowden's arrival will provide Bard some relief and potential injury from overuse. 

Bard was originally developed as a starter.  He struggled and re-invented himself as a reliever.  Good to see Delcarmen back, too.   

'Sox weekend

Had a nice 11th inning winner on Saturday night.  Lackey put in a pretty good performance.  Fell short, even with Lester, on the mound today.  With Lester on the mound this year since May, there has been a high likelihood of victory.  Would loved to have salvaged a split against the Rangers.

There are some bright clouds on the horizon. 

1.  Bowden pitched 1 inning today, 2K's and no hits, no BB - he could help fill the bullpen void

2.  Hermida is close to returning

3.  Beckett may be close to return

4.  Bucholz should be back this week

Wake-up call...

Not a good outing from Wake last night.  Really taxed the bullpen.   Atchison pitched well. 

Rangers are a good team this year.  'Sox need to rebound tonight and get back into a good grove.  Now is not the time for a slump.

Let the 2nd half begin....!

To have played through the injuries the 'Sox have had coupled with a bad April, the Red Sox Nation has to be pleased to be still in the hunt.  As the injured return, those who held down the fort will have gained invaluable experience and confidence (Nava and McDonald in particular).

Overall, I would hope that the team's psyche and spirit are good. 

As to immediate needs, beyond getting the injured healthy, I think we need another arm in the bullpen.  I do not believe that we need to trade for a veteran but Theo may do so.  Teams that have or are about to throw in the towell may start scrutinizing the contenders' farm systems looking for a prospect with a high side potential.  

My advice to Theo is to stand pat.  Remember trading away Freddie Sanchez for Jeff Suppan; Kason Gabbard for Eric Gagne.  Avoid the big splash trades.  The Yankees did not get Cliff Lee and they are not invincible. 

Rather boring All-Star game

I did not watch the whole game.  Maybe it's me, but the game just does not have the excitement it once had.  Admittedly, many of my memories involve Red Sox players: how 'Yaz robbed Orlando Cepeda of extra bases in the '67 All-Star in Anaheim.  Tony Perez hit the game-winning HR off of Jim "Catfish" Hunter.  I used to enjoy seeing the A's in their white shoes and flashy uniforms.  In '69, Yaz robbed Johnny Bench of his 3rd HR in that game played in DC.  I remember Yaz going 4 for 6 in the '70 All-Star, the one which Pete Rose scored the winning run by barreling into Cleveland catcher Ray Fosse.  I remember the All-Star game, early 70's, when Reggie Jackson hit the RF transformer above the roof at Tiger Stadium.  I remember how LHP Vida Blue mesmerized the fans with his fastball in that game.  Of course, in '99 Pedro struck out 5 of the 6 batters he faced when the game was played at Fenway.  Ted Williams made a memorable appearance at that game.

The '68 All-Star game in Houston was really neat as they featured that electrifying scoreboard and played on Astroturf.  Willie Mays scored the winning run in that one. 

I wish I had watched long enough to see Jon Lester pitch.

Maybe it's me, but a 45-minute pre-game show seems a bit much for me.     

Wonder if Big Papi will get in...

after all, he is the reigning HR derby champ.....half serious

I recall watching "Junior" Griffey in a HR derby.  He had such a smooth swing.  He could beat out Bonds had he stayed healthy for all-time HR lead.  Junior played hard in CF and often got hurt going after balls and crashing into the wall (much like Fred Lynn and Pete Reiser). 

All Star introductions

Like any diehard 'Sox fan, I do not care for the Yankees.  However, I do like Derek Jeter for his classiness.  I once saw a game in which Earl Snyder, who had just been called up from AAA Pawtucket, recorded his first MLB hit.  As he was settling in on 1B, I saw Jeter run out to the OF to get the ball.  He wanted to be sure that Snyder got the ball -- what a class act!

So, as much as I dislike the Yankees, I do not think that the fans booing the Yankee players upon their introduction was very classy at all.  Though I do not necessarily agree with how some players were selected and there is "stuffing the ballot box", they are All-Stars.  Booing All-Stars, even Yankee ones, is not one of baseball's finer moments. 

Update on injuries...via the Globe

Please see link, below:
http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extra_bases/2010/07/more_health_upd.html

That Petey is sure one gamer!  You gotta love the guy. 

Not sure I like the idea of Beltre playing in the All-Star game.  Hopefully, he can play without hurting himself (or anyone else given his track record this year).

VMart does not seem has sure about things. 

I am glad that they did not rush Buchholz back though I would have loved to have seen him in the All-Star game. 

Nice way to ease into break....

Dice-K comes through.  HRs from Big Papi and McDonald.  Boxscore indicates that Bard pitched 2 innings.  When Ells is ready, that means that either McDonald or Nava will have to return to the minors.  McDonald is out of options and would have to clear waivers first.  That means that Nava will probably return to AAA. 

Hopefully, 'Sox can rest up and we can start getting some guys back soon. 

Another Lack-luster performance....

Over 100 pitches and did not even get 5 IP's...lots of BB. 

So, we have this guy for 3 more years after this?

Nava continues to hit well. 

Medical controversy over Ells

See link from the Globe, below:
http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extra_bases/2010/07/ellsbury_addres.html

If his first injury was mis-diagnosed due to insufficient tests in April, then shame on the 'Sox medical staff for not adminstering the proper tests. 

If the move to AZ was blessed by the 'Sox front office and Tito, then why are team mates having problems?  Do they feel Ells is getting preferential treatment?  They need to nip this issue in bud to prevent unnecessary rifts in the club house.

Having Boras as his agent does not help the situation.

Cliff Lee to Rangers

It baffles me why teams have traded this guy.  Okay, Cleveland was looking to save money.  Philly would have had a dynamic combo in Doc Halladay and Lee. 

Lee is a free agent after this season and probably looking for big bucks which probably scares teams away. 

Good thing the Yankees did not get him.

Good way to break a losing streak

4 HR's and a good performance from Lester.  Where would we be without Bill Hall who seems to play everwhere?

LHP Dustin Richardson is someone who could step in to fill the role that Okie has been filling.

Interesting piece in the Globe about Youk's response to Ells not being with the team.  His absence has not played well with his teammates.  Not sure what that means as to the club house atmosphere when Ells returns.

Last post tonight....

I hope our Southpaw is enjoying her stay in Boston.  How was Jerry Remy's place?

I loved hearing from Mrs. Tom Brady, who was resting on The Cape, and watching 'Sox players on Dunkin' Donut commercials.

I recall back years ago when I visited my grandparents in Haverhill, MA and thought it was such a treat to see the 'Sox on TV during a week night.  It was '69, two years removed from the "Impossible Dream" year and rumor was that Tony Conigliaro would be back soon.  'Sox had moved Yaz from LF to 1B -- why?  He was a Gold Glover outfielder. 

I may have to take a long weekend escape to Boston soon to take in the Red Sox Nation (and, of course, visit relatives).   

Silver Lining

Southpaw makes a good point.  If 'Sox were struggling with a completely healthy roster, despondency would really set it.   I just cannot recall seeing so many key players on the DL.

I am really glad to see how they have been very cautious with Beckett and Bucholz. 

We have gotten a glimpse of solid role players for the imnediate future: McDonald and Nava.  Wonder if Nava would fetch a good middle reliever in a trade?  Felix D. has pitched well in 2 outings.  He definitely has promise.  Theo, don't trade Felix D. 

I recall years when the starting rotation lacked a LHP.  Can you imagine having two LHP's in the starting rotation?  We have not had anything like that since the days of Bruce Hurst, John Tudor, and Bobby Ojeda -- all starting LHP's before Tudor was traded to the Pirates for Mike Easler (who was traded for Don Baylor); Ojeda was traded to the Mets for Wes Gardiner and Calvin Schiraldi.  Hurst left via free agency.  In short, Theo, don't trade Felix D.  LHP's are too valuable. 

Does anyone know how Kason Gabbard is doing at AAA?  He had been traded to the Rangers for Eric Gagne but returned to the organization.  He was developing nicely until Theo made that trade. 

I would really prefer to see the 'Sox use Bard more sparingly in the 2nd half.  Would like to see Bowden given a chance to pitch out of the bullpen.  Bard made the conversion from starter to the bullpen.

When the injured get healthy and return, hopefully they will be fresh for the 2nd half and get into a groove quickly. 

Hopefully, the Yankees will fade and lose steam. 

New Member of Red Sox Nation

An H&W lawyer in the Richmond office, another long-time 'Sox fan, told me yesterday that his brother just got a new dog.  The dog's name is "Fenway".  The puppy's backyard house breaking/training station is now know as "Fenway's Park".  Quite cute.

Not sure if the dog is male or female.  Suggested that if it is male, perhaps "Fenway's Park" needs a "Pesky's Pole" to conduct business. 

All Star Break Can't Get Here Soon Enough....

'Sox need some rest.  Globe reported last night they look tired. 

Can it get much worse??!!

Bottom 6th: Rays 2, Red Sox 1 -- post from the Globe reads:

Youkilis left the game with right ankle pain, the Sox announced. That's the extent of our information.

Tough Loss!!!

Squandered opportunity. Painful.

Sent from my iPod

"Roll the" Dice-K

If the guy could ever get his pitch count under control, perhaps he can pitch more than 5-6 innings.  I do not understand why he does not just go after hitters rather than nibbling around the plate and wasting his pitches.  He taxes the bullpen. 

Does anyone know how much longer the 'Sox have him under contract?  I am thinking at least one more year.   

Kudos to 'Sox scouting...

I never heard of Eric Patterson.  He has contributed with two HR's tonight.  Nice pick-up. 

Recently, the Globe had an article about the 'Sox scouting director, former GM at KC (I believe). 

These timely pick-ups and well-stocked farm system have kept the 'Sox afloat during this injury-filled season.

I just saw where Andy Pettite was named to the All-Star team to replace our Buchholz. 

Garza knocked out of game after 3 innings

He has been the 'Sox nemesis.  Nice to see 'Sox hitters give him a good pounding. 

Hope Dice-K continues to give 'Sox a good outing.

Felix "the cat" called up from AAA to start Tuesday night. 

DL analysis....

Positional players:
3B/1B - Lowell
2B - Pedroia
CF/LF - Ellsbury
C/1B - Martinez
C - Varitek
OF - Hermida

Pitchers:
RHP Beckett
RHP Delcarmen
RHP Buchholz

Hopefully, that is is; but, I may have overlooked a pitcher.

Lester now 10-3

He was the pitcher who had a horrendous April and the Globe was casting doubt all about him.  Now, he continues to carry the team with Buchholz.  I do not doubt this guy's heart.  He overcame cancer and is a proven winner.  Hard to believe that he and Manny were packaged in a deal to the Rangers for A-Rod.  That is one of those deals you're glad to have seen fall through. 

Wouldn't it be nice to see both Lester Buchholz win 20 games each this season??!!!

Beckett and Buchholz

are making positive steps reports today's Globe.  It will be nice to get them both back in the rotation. 

I just hope they do not rush Buchholz back too soon.  He is too valuable to lose due to arm problems resulting from a change in mechanics to compensate for his leg.  Personally, I would hold him out.

Nava and Wake come thru....

Wake was supposed to be relegated to the bullpen due to the deep starting rotation.  The other game hero was not even heard of by most people in baseball but entered the history books with one swing on his MLB pitch.  Despite a DL that continues to grow, 'Sox are 1/2 behind the "Evil Empire". 

I love seeing guys like Wake and Nava come through like this.  I know it's the O's but the schedule gods have helped us literally limp into the All Star break. 

'Tek to DL

Maybe I should stop visiting the Globe's website.  Each time I do lately, there is news of another playing landing on the DL.  The Globe reports that 424 games have been lost by players this year due to injury.

Once the injured start returning, this should provide an infusion of confidence and reinforcements provided that the current healthy bodies stay healthy and can hold down the fort. 

Ken Burns' "Baseball" on PBS -- The 5th Inning "Shadow Ball"

Caught some of this tonight.  Just like the first time I viewed it back in 1993, the series just pulls you in.   Great to see the great Satchell Paige and Josh Gibson "the Black Babe Ruth" as he was called. 

Once read his Paige's biography "Maybe I'll Pitch Forever".  According to his estimates, Paige pitched in over 2,500 games and won 2,000, pitches "hundreds" of no-hitters.  I suspect a bit of embellishment there.  Nevertheless, he was great for the Negro Leagues. 

Disppearing Act

The Globe has an interesting article on Ells.  Click here.
I hope the 'Sox have not given up on him.  Any player who can score from 2B on a wild pitch to the backstop has game-changing speed. 

Paul Pierce....going, going, gone...

At the least the original Big Three of Bird, McHale, and Parrish retired as Celtics.  Pouting Paul is taking his game and attitude on the road to test free agency.  I will admit to never really warming up to this guy.  Celtics will miss him though.  It does free up some money under the NBA cap. BTW, whether its the NFL or NBA, their cap rules require a lawyer to understand them.  I better understood the old NFL CBA which has expired. 

At least Capt. Pierce was part of a championship team.  To me, his legacy is one of mixed feelings.  He was good but, to me, he did not have the mental toughness to be a Celtic great.  Not sure if his number 34 should one day hang from the same rafters that behold the likes of Cousey, Russesll, KC Jones, Sam Jones, Tom Heinshon, Bill Sharman, Havliceck, Bird, McHale, Parrish, and DJ.  He boldly predicted that the Celtics were not going to return to LA and would finish the Lakers off in Boston but he could not backup that bravado. 

The way I see it, he got his championship and now he wants to collect even bigger money in the open market. 

Injuries....? and the problem....?

Got to hand it to our 'Sox.  Despite being short-handed, they are putting a whipping on those Devil Rays. 

My buddy, Lackey, did okay tonight --- why have I been so hard on him??  Let's hope he steps up.  No Dice-K, no Beckett, no problem. 

The Globe's Injury Report....

quite a list. 

Click here for the Globe post.

Catcher on the horizon...?

From the Boston Globe ---

Edwin Mejia, one of the agents for Adalberto Ibarra, updated his Twitter feed today to report that the Cuban catcher has taken his physical.

Once he is approved, the Red Sox plan to have Ibarra work out in Fort Myers before assigning him to a team.

Ibarra, 23, agreed to a five-year, $3 million deal two months ago but was stuck in the Dominican Republic waiting for a visa. He is an inexperienced catcher and will need time to acclimate to that position as well as the American professional game.

So, no, he won't be catching John Lackey tomorrow night.

It begs the question why 'Sox have so many catching prospects in the minors. 

Interleague play

provides for some interesting situations.  The Globe had an article in which Buchholz bragged to teammates about this hitting ability.  He got it but hurt himself n the basepaths. 

I saw where Lackey was used as a PH the other night. 

Seeing Big Papi at 1B is interesting.  He is adequate with the glove, by no means a Golden Glover.  I suspect his range is not that good. 

Nice effort by Lester

This is at least the 2nd CG win that Lester has had this year.  Going nine inning and throwing about 103 pitches is very economic and gives the bullpen, stretched yesterday due to Buchholz' injury, a much needed break.  Plus, he had 9 K's.  He is certainly the ace of this staff now. 

Silving lining in all these injuries is that players like McDonald, Nava, and others have had the opportunity to play and gain ML experience and confidence.

'Sox conclude this road trip at .500 though they could have won a few more.  Pap's blown saves continue to concern me. 

Costly win....

losing Pedroia, just when he was getting hot, really hurts.  Good thing they have Bill Hall to fill in. 

Buchholz' knee injury does not appear to be serious.  Tito should hold him out a start to ensure that he does not alter his mechanics to compensate.

As much as these injuries are untimely, I would rather see them in June as opposed to September. 

Bowden improving...could be source of relief

Perhaps another young 'Sox pitching prospect can step up and help out.  Click here for Globe article on Bowden.

Dice-K on the mound....

hope the bullpen is rested.   So far, 1 H, 2 BB and no outs.

It would be sure nice to get some consistency from him.  I agree with southpaw's earlier post about Dice-K wanting to play in the World Baseball Classic.  Seems to me that 'Sox pitchers who have participated, Dice-K and Timlin, have gotten hurt during the regular season.  Theo needs to say "no" and nip that one in the bud.  The guy cost the 'Sox over $100M to bid for and to sign him.  I believe that they have some say in when and where he pitches.

Back to Lackey.  Theo needs to focus on the farm system and stay away from free agency.  His track record is pretty poor, though he has had a few successes.  $82M can pay for lots of scouting and signing bonuses.

Switching Gears....to football

Pete Carroll, former Patriot coach, is now in charge at Seatlle.  He is their head coach with expanded authority over player personnel.  He was in New England in between Bill Parcells and current coach Bill Belicheck.  While in New England, his teams struggled though he was an ebullient sideline presence.  Owner Bob Kraft, who was originally enfatuated with Carroll's presence, fired him. 

From New England, he went to USC and led them to numerous PAC-10 titles and 2 National Championships.  He coached a few Heisman Trophy winners along the way.  But, before USC is slapped with probation and other penalities for numerous player and recruiting violations, he flees back to the NFL.  Now, USC is facing numerous and harsh penalties.

Shouldn't Coach Carroll be held accountable in some way for what happened at USC on his watch there?  I don't understand.  Where will he go next when his tenure at Seattle implodes -- back to the college ranks?    

Beckett scheduled back after the All-star break....

At least if his rehab plan works out, 'Sox won't be making a waiver trading deadline for another starting pitcher.  They do need bullpen help though.  Of course, the Boston press, which was making the case for another big bat previously, may resurrect that point.  I do not see hitting as an issue.  We need bullpen help without giving up a major prospect.  Daniel Bard, in particular, needs help.  In the 70's-80's, 'Sox had a promising young relief pitcher and spot starter in Bob Stanley who was over-used.  I remember reviewing boxscores in which Stanley pitched long relief in both games of a doubleheader because their bullpen was so weak.  Well, within a few years, he was a shadow of that pitcher. 

When Joe Morgan (not the ESPN guy) managed the 'Sox in late 80's, he was unconventional.  I recall a game in which he brought in Mike Boddicker to pitch to Jose Canseco.  Then, Boddicker started a game a day or so later.  RHP Mike Smithson complained later how Morgan would have him up and down warming up only to bring in someone else.  In short, bullpen work brings with it lots of wear and tear on a pitcher.  My view is that 'Sox managers have not always managed the bullpen usage well and we are seeing Tito do that this year.  It gives me great concern.  I believe he overworked Okajima in his first few years in Boston.   

Former Cy Young Award winner, Dave Stewart, once remarked how a manager has to resist the temptation to send out their best pitchers when they have been overworked.  Pitching overhand is not a natural motion and results in much wear and tear. 

Who knows, though, maybe Daniel Nava has raised some interest in the trade market though I would hate to see him traded so quickly in his 'Sox career.  He seems to have focus and perseverance.

Jed Lowrie has sure fallen off the map.  I am not even sure if he is at Pawtucket. 

 

Okay, I'm ready for interleague play to be over...

of course, if the 'Sox had not lost in such a disappointing way last night I would be singing a different tune.  Pap is just not the automatic "save king" anymore.  These gut wrenching losses are tough.  I would rather get blown out than to lose like that. 

Baseball nicknames....

We use them all the time: Ells, Youk, Petey, Okey, Pap, 'Tek, V-Mart, Schill, Wake.  The list goes on and on.  Most seem to be a variation or shortening of the player's last name.  Here is one for you. 

I loved the nicknames from days past:

Jim "Catfish" Hunter
Dennis "Oil Can" Boyd
John "Blue Moon" Odom
Jim "Mudcat" Grant
"Shoeless" Joe Jackson
Walter "Big Train" Johnson
Dick "Dr. Strange Glove" Stuart
Carlton "Pudge" Fisk

They had such unique rings to them.

The NE Patriots have a running back named BenJarvis Ellis-Green.  When asked by reporters, one Patriot remarked that the team called him simply "law firm".  Quite witty.

Boof Bonser -- designated for assignment

He was supposed to a welcome addition to the bullpen yet he was coming off of arm injuries -- Theo, what were you thinking??  I have never seen him pitch but I'm always suspect of a pitcher with past arm woes.  I remember too well the 'Sox signing Skip Lockwood, back in the 80's, despite his injury problems.  Lockwood was a bust.  To me, it's like buying a race horse who has pulled up lame a few times.

I like the Globe's piece on Atchison as the "last man standing:".  Hopefully, he'll be around for a while and can continue contributing.     

Felix sent back to AAA.  RHP Robert Manual called up.  He was pitching well at Pawtucket.  Hopefully, he can provide the pen, particularly Bard, some relief.  Sometimes, I wonder if the 'Sox gave up too quickly on Craig Hansen who was hightly touted coming out of college.  He was sent to the Pirates in the Jason Bay deal.  I am so glad the 'Sox did not give up on Buchholz. 

I think that the 'Sox miss a guy like Masterson.  But, trading him for V-Mart was a steal.  

This close to the All-Star break, I am thinking that the 'Sox hold back Dice-K, Ells, and Beckett until after the break.  No need to rush them back.

Guess Big Papi will play 1B and displace either Youk or Beltre while playing in NL parks.  During interleague play in NL parks, Big Papi becomes a liability.  Hard to take the bat out of the hands of Youk or Beltre.   

Nice homestand

They swept the Dodgers with a gutsy performance by Buchholz supported
by great defensive plays. The defense picked him up after he threw 30
pitches in the first inning!

Timely hitting and good defense coupled with solid pitching has
enabled our sox to begin breathing down the necks of the Yanks.

Devil Rays have slowed.

Drew may not have to go on the DL. I woulsd stay with the outfield
lineup and keep Drew out They are winning without him.

Tito is still using Bard far too much. Doesn't he review the numbers?!!

Sent from my iPod

Felix to the 'pen??

Rather than making a silly trade, what if 'Sox tried Felix in the bullpen?  I would rather try him or Bowden rather than going outside the organization.  If Ells, Dice-K, and Beckett can come back healthy and effective for the 2nd half, I do not see the need for a trading deadline trade right now.  Okay, if they could unload J.D. Drew for pitching, I would be okay with that.  But, there would be few takers, I think.

Amazing!!

They started today a makeshift outfield of Hall, McDonald, and Nava.  The last 2 players were called up from AAA.  They have Beckett and Dice-K on the DL.  Lackey has been inconsistent.  Ellls is on the DL and may be joined by Drew.  Cameron's playing time has been limted.  Petey has not been hitting as well has he can.  Big Papi had a horrendous April.  Their bullpen has been shaky at times.  There has been a controversy surrounding playing time for Mikey Lowell.

Yet, despite  all this they are 1 GB today.

Lester and Buch have anchored the pitching staff.  Bard and Pap have held the pen together thus far.  But, they have to reduce their reliance on Bard.  Atchison could be the answer.   

Wouldn't it be something if the 'Sox were healthy in the 2nd half of the season?   

Manny reaction

Viewed the video from Manny's return to
Fenway. Mrs Tom Brady and Southpaw naoled it - very
Mixed reaction.

Going through the Globes's pictorial on Manny being Manny, I had
forgotten many of his antics.

Good performance from from Felix but Atchison really came up big!
Drew hurt his hamstring - will we ever get an injury-free season from
him?

Big Papi starting to heat up in June.

Sorry Mrs. Brady that I missed your visit on Friday - hope to catch
you next time!

Sent from my iPod

Would have nice

To see number 18 hoisted into the rafters.

It will be interesting to see what Danny Aimge will do in the
offseason. Will Doc Rivers be back?

Sent from my iPod

Lackey continues to be "lack"luster

He gives up lots of hits, is not economic with his pitches, and gives up far too many runs.  He is W-L record is deceptive.  If he was supposedly last year's top free agent pitcher, it begs the question: who was number 2?  Theo, I hope you still feel good about this $82M commitment 'cause I sure don't feel it.

I know that I'm down on Lackey and sound like a broken record.  I'll try to temper my frustration. 

Precursor to a Lowell deal???

I sure hope not.  If something unforeseen happened to either Beltre or Youk, Lowell could step in.  I'm not in favor of trading him.

For background, click here.

Win one for the Perk-er....good luck Celtics!!!

Calling Captain Paul Pierce.  Time to bring out your "A game" tonight.  May it be said that "the Truth" came up big and the Celtics one this one for their fallen center.  Otherwise, it will be a long winter.  Regardless, this may be the last time we see the 2nd generation of the "Big 3" playing together.

Manny happy returns?

I suspect that the Fenway faithful will give Manny a good ovation when
he returns this weekend.

After all, he was an important part of two WS championships.

Plus, he is not playing for the Yankees!

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Nice win

Good pitching and good hitting results in win. Lester should be a
strong candidate to be named to the all star game .

The sox would not be where they are were it not for Buchholz and Lester.

R-ram concerns me. He allowed two baserunners thereby resulting in
Tito summoning Pap in for the final put.

You want to save Pap for the really tough save situations.

Bucholz continues to shine

9-4.  Not bad for a pitcher whose name was frequently mentioned in trade rumors.  He did not seem to be economic with his pitches last night.  Good enough for the W though.

I see that Yankees and Rays are now tied for first place. 

The 'Sox injury list creates some concern.  It would be nice to get everyone back healthy again. 

Day off blues

Still, lots to blog about.  Beltre has landed 2 important players on the DL this year.  I know he has had a good season at the plate, but hard for me to justify his presence with Mikey Lowell on the bench.  Tito has got to find a way to get him more regular AB's.  Simple as that.

Dice-K's injury seems a bit mysterious to me.  I hope it is not a sign for a more serious problem.  Strained forearms bring back memories of Clemens before his '85 offseason shoulder surgery and a promising young RHP named John Dopson.  I hope that it is not serious.

The 'Sox farm system now seems chocked full of position players as opposed lots of pitching prospects.  For a list of 'Sox prospects Click here. 

I love Wake.  He gives the 'Sox innings.  Having watched him pitch for 'Sox since '95, the one thing that seems consistent:  he is prone to that one bad inning despite keeping the opposing hitters off balance for the majority of the game.  If he has a 4-5 run lead, you can breathe somewhat easy but not too easy.

Okajima has sure fallen from his automatic "hold" form of 2007.  He never had much velocity but a deceptive move.  Perhaps MLB hitters have figured him out?

Big Papi seems to have cooled off a bit.  May not be a bad time to sit him for a while and give Mikey Lowell some DH time.  Youk could use some days off if nothing else to recover from the dings of racking up HBPs.  He plays hard and gets lots of chin music standing right on top of the plate. 

Still like McDonald.  I know that he is on the bubble for when Hermida and Ells return. 

Pap still concerns me.  He is not the same dominant closer as in 2007.  Not sure if it is a physical or mental thing.  Does he ever throw a breaking ball to get the hitters thinking curveball?  I think he needs an offspeed pitch --- a change-up?  Schill taught him the splitter.    

2 out of 3....again

It sure beats getting swept.  Nice to see Mikey Lowell get a chance to play and see him contribute.  Nice picture above of Mikey and Big Papi.

Phillies are a good team.  'Sox gave 'em a good whooping on Friday and Saturday. 

More on Nava.....

Click here for a Q&A session with this young man. 

How about that?

Admittedly, I had not heard of this kid before.  I thought that I a decent feel on some of the 'Sox top prospects, but this guy is a new one on me.  But, he made history!   Only the 4th player in MLB history to hit a Grand Slam at his first AB. 

For more on Nava, click here.

Another good trouncing of the Phillies! 

Celts pull even...

Pierce delivers a good game....game 5 is a must win for the Celts. 

Tough loss...

Bard blows the save.  Well, Pap, has been prone to blow one occassionally.  With Lester pitching so well of late, you just expect a "W". 

Tough news on Ells: a 2nd rib injury.  It appears he will end up missing a good part of this first half of the season. 

Going to back L.A, Paul

despite your swagger and assurance, Paul, you could not back it up last night. 

Last post tonight....

I will focus on blogging only from home and on my computer to comply with firm policy.  I have been inconsistent in recent days trying to adjust to this new routine.

Nice win in Cleveland

Yankees beating up on the 'Os.  Tampa Bay beat the Blue Jays giving 'Sox more separation from Toronto. 

Bard quickly emerging as the closer-in-waiting.  Pap is still the closer but it sure is great to have Bard.  I think RHP Michael Bowden, now down in AAA, should be groomed as a set-up man.  Bard struggled as a starter in the minors and really found his niche out of the bullpen.  Could be the right direction with Bowden.

Celts seem flat...

sure wish Pierce had not made comments about not going back to L.A.  That just fuels the competitive juices of someone like Bryant.

Hope the Celts re-group and get this one in the "W" column. 

Ells to CA for 3rd opinion...

Dr. Yocum is well-respected and being asked to render a 3rd opinion on Ells' cracked ribs.  I am not a doctor but with all the modern tests (CT scan, MRI, etc.) one wouldn't think that this would be such a mystery.  I had not realized previously that Ells' agent is Scott Boras.

Would be nice to have Ells healthy for the 2nd half of the season.

Close game in Cleveland tonight.  Hope Bard can save it for the 'Sox. 

2 out of 3....

on the road is typically pretty good except when you're playing the division's cellar dweller. 

V-Mart is really swinging the bat swell.  I wonder if he is one of those guys who hits better when he is not having to catch?  If the 'Sox decide to re-sign him after the season, then they will need to shift him to 1B and re-sign 'Tek for another year plus have a solid back-up C if they go that route.

Looking at the current roster, the "bridge" players are Beltre, Cameron, and Scutaro until the prospects are ready.  Beltre signed a 1-year deal so his bridge time is shorter. 

Lackey's problems....

He continues to put up mediocre numbers:  3 BB an 7 H's over 7 IP; 124 pitches of 54 were balls.  The guy has got to throw strikes and be more efficient with his pitches.  I do not think that I am going out on a limb here, but, I believe the 'Sox were expecting a bit more from this guy who was supposedly the top free agent pitcher available in the offseason. 

I have been very critical of this guy but he's making a ton of money and should be pitching better.   

The State of the O's

Hard to believe that an owner can take a once proud and perenially contending team into the perennial doormat of the AL.  The O's used to have the 'Sox number.  I will never forget how they overcame the 'Sox in the 70's a few times at the end of the season.  '74 was a terrible 'Sox collapse to the O's. 

This is the organization that produced and taught pitching.  I remember how commentators would laud the O's pitching staff on how they would sit in the dugout and talk pitching in between starts; and, reach out to teach the youngsters.  Mike Boddicker was a student of Jim Palmer. 

And, their farm system produced such great players.  The front office used to make great trades (remember Frank Robinson from the Cincinnati Reds?).

When the O's used to play at Memorial Stadium, off of Loch Raven Boulevard, their fans were great. I happen to attend an O's game there in '79 the night after Yaz had recorded his 3,000th career hit.  When Yaz strolled to the plate, the O's fans gave him a standing ovation.  I was proud of Yaz that night but just as proud to be a baseball fan.  I will always remember the O's fans and their class that night.

They have a beautiful ballpark at Camden Yards.  They just need a new owner.

In my humble opinion, baseball teams need to be owned  by owners who love the game and are willing to bring in the right people and let them run the organization.  I very much remember how Bob Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, referred to his role as "guardian of a New England asset" and how his job is to allow the coaches and front office run the team. 

Further on the love of baseball, we need a real commissioner, not a puppet and lackey.  The game needs strong leadership and Bud Selig is not the guy for the job.