The Red Sox announced today that they have exercised the club's $ 4 million dollar option for their most tenured player.
Wakefield's 10-11 record in 2008 was a bit misleading. The bull pen surrendered leads roughly five to six times that cost him wins.
I like the move. Wake eats up innings (181 in 2008) and is a strong fourth or fifth starter. With Beckett, Lester and Dice-K in the first three spots, the team can afford a guy like Wake at the back at the rotation. More than likely, this means the fifth spot will be between Michael Bowden, Clay Buchholz or Justin Masterson. We'll examine the upcoming free agent troops in a couple of weeks.
Resigning Wake will make my wife happy. She enjoys watching his sweaty neck on the Plasma HD. Don't ask me.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Fin
So, this is how the season ends.
After battling back by fending off elimination in games 5 and 6, the Boston Red Sox 2008 season came to an end Sunday night in St. Petersburg. Entering the decisive game 7, the Sox seemingly had taken over the momentum of the series from the Rays. One of my favorite baseball sayings is "momentum is only as good as the next day's starting pitcher".
The story of the game was the fact that Matt Garza out pitched Jon Lester. Lester pitched pretty well but not well enough. Garza had electric stuff. Aside from Dustin Pedroia's first inning homer, Garza was in complete control. A fastball topping out at 95 MPH was complimented by a knee buckling 12 to 6 curve ball. The Sox (Jason Bay in particular) took some of the ugliest swings you will ever see at the major league level.
The defending champions best chance at victory came in the top half of the eighth inning. Jason Bartlett booted Alex Cora's routine grounder and Coco Crisp followed with a clutch single to right. The Nation was feeling it. The heart of the order up and the Rays were into their bull pen. Pedroia popped out to left (huge out) and David Ortiz bounced into a fielder's choice (Crisp's decision to do a take out slide proved costly). Kevin Youkilis walked to the load the bases. In a moment that unfortunately may live in the minds of Red Sox fans for sometime, young stud lefty David Price came on and blew away JD Drew.
With the lower part of the line up due up Joe Maddon made the best decision of the series by not doing anything. Price was left in the game instead of bringing in the hittable Grant Balfour. Bay walked but Kotsay (pitch was outside), Jason Varitek and pinch hitter Jed Lowrie were each overpowered. Forget Joba Chamberlin, David Price is the future of the AL East.
That is how it ended.
Let us not be quick to assign blame to individuals. Nor should fans seek out excuses (injury to Lowell) for the team's inability to return to the World Series. Experience tells us to let the dust settle and then make some rational judgments. We can rest assured that there will be plenty of analysis of what has transpired over the past week. Let us be clear on one important fact --- the 2008 Boston Red Sox did not fail in the ALCS because of a lack of effort, poor preparation or being out hustled. As hard as it is to admit, the team was outplayed by a talented team that performed extremely well on the big stage.
Congratulations to the Rays and their increasing fan base. What they were able to accomplish this season is extremely impressive. The last to first talk aside, they did what the Yankees in 2004 and the Indians in 2007 could not do -- stop the surging Boston Red Sox after losing big leads in the ALCS.
After digesting the happenings of the ALCS, I will continue the blog throughout the off season. Hot stove baseball keeps things always interesting. I would like to thank all those that participated in this blog by reading, commenting and voting in the polls throughout the year. Please check in over the course of the off season.
After battling back by fending off elimination in games 5 and 6, the Boston Red Sox 2008 season came to an end Sunday night in St. Petersburg. Entering the decisive game 7, the Sox seemingly had taken over the momentum of the series from the Rays. One of my favorite baseball sayings is "momentum is only as good as the next day's starting pitcher".
The story of the game was the fact that Matt Garza out pitched Jon Lester. Lester pitched pretty well but not well enough. Garza had electric stuff. Aside from Dustin Pedroia's first inning homer, Garza was in complete control. A fastball topping out at 95 MPH was complimented by a knee buckling 12 to 6 curve ball. The Sox (Jason Bay in particular) took some of the ugliest swings you will ever see at the major league level.
The defending champions best chance at victory came in the top half of the eighth inning. Jason Bartlett booted Alex Cora's routine grounder and Coco Crisp followed with a clutch single to right. The Nation was feeling it. The heart of the order up and the Rays were into their bull pen. Pedroia popped out to left (huge out) and David Ortiz bounced into a fielder's choice (Crisp's decision to do a take out slide proved costly). Kevin Youkilis walked to the load the bases. In a moment that unfortunately may live in the minds of Red Sox fans for sometime, young stud lefty David Price came on and blew away JD Drew.
With the lower part of the line up due up Joe Maddon made the best decision of the series by not doing anything. Price was left in the game instead of bringing in the hittable Grant Balfour. Bay walked but Kotsay (pitch was outside), Jason Varitek and pinch hitter Jed Lowrie were each overpowered. Forget Joba Chamberlin, David Price is the future of the AL East.
That is how it ended.
Let us not be quick to assign blame to individuals. Nor should fans seek out excuses (injury to Lowell) for the team's inability to return to the World Series. Experience tells us to let the dust settle and then make some rational judgments. We can rest assured that there will be plenty of analysis of what has transpired over the past week. Let us be clear on one important fact --- the 2008 Boston Red Sox did not fail in the ALCS because of a lack of effort, poor preparation or being out hustled. As hard as it is to admit, the team was outplayed by a talented team that performed extremely well on the big stage.
Congratulations to the Rays and their increasing fan base. What they were able to accomplish this season is extremely impressive. The last to first talk aside, they did what the Yankees in 2004 and the Indians in 2007 could not do -- stop the surging Boston Red Sox after losing big leads in the ALCS.
After digesting the happenings of the ALCS, I will continue the blog throughout the off season. Hot stove baseball keeps things always interesting. I would like to thank all those that participated in this blog by reading, commenting and voting in the polls throughout the year. Please check in over the course of the off season.
Can it happen again?
1986 ALCS, 2004 ALCS, 2007 ALCS and 2008 ALCS??
Game 6 was a beauty from the start. Listening to WRKO's broadcast because of a power failure in Atlanta, we had to wonder if BJ Upton is mortal. Youkilis' answer in the second was huge. Papi's double leads to a rbi ground out by Youk, Bartlett (??) ties it, Varitek (??) unties it and Bartlett gives Papi a chance and he capitalizes.
The Sox pitchers came through big time. Josh Beckett really didn't have too much. His four seamer was not exploding. He did PITCH very well. He threw as many curve balls as I can ever remember him using. I loved the decision to take him out after five innings. Okajima was the star of the game. Two innings of nothing for the Rays. Masterson was trying to throw the ball 100 miles a hour but settled down to retire the side. Paplebon looks to be on fumes but he did his thing.
Offensively the team did enough. Leaving 12 runners on base was frustrating. Kotsay is killing the ball but has little to show for it. Coco's three hits are encouraging. Varitek's screamer was ironic seeing it was his first hit in the series. We all had to feel good for him.
Game 7 tonight should be entertaining. The Sox must be in the Rays' heads. It could happen to any team not just this young one. Recent history suggests that the Sox will complete this improbable comeback tonight. I like the pitching match up.
After what Beckett did last night, Lester is going to come out and pitch well. The key for him is the ability to drop in some first pitch curve balls. This will allow him and Tek to keep the Rays young, aggressive hitters off stride.
Matt Garza can be an absolute head case. The biggest game of his life has to have this mental midget so stressed out that he wants to do too much. Hopefully this plays right into the Sox hitters desire to work counts. Balfour and Wheeler are toast.
My Game 7 hunches ...
Ellsbury pinch runs in a huge spot
Upton goes homerless
Longoria does not
Drew squares up at least two balls
Wheeler will pitch more than one inning
Game is decided by more than two runs
Happy watching.
Game 6 was a beauty from the start. Listening to WRKO's broadcast because of a power failure in Atlanta, we had to wonder if BJ Upton is mortal. Youkilis' answer in the second was huge. Papi's double leads to a rbi ground out by Youk, Bartlett (??) ties it, Varitek (??) unties it and Bartlett gives Papi a chance and he capitalizes.
The Sox pitchers came through big time. Josh Beckett really didn't have too much. His four seamer was not exploding. He did PITCH very well. He threw as many curve balls as I can ever remember him using. I loved the decision to take him out after five innings. Okajima was the star of the game. Two innings of nothing for the Rays. Masterson was trying to throw the ball 100 miles a hour but settled down to retire the side. Paplebon looks to be on fumes but he did his thing.
Offensively the team did enough. Leaving 12 runners on base was frustrating. Kotsay is killing the ball but has little to show for it. Coco's three hits are encouraging. Varitek's screamer was ironic seeing it was his first hit in the series. We all had to feel good for him.
Game 7 tonight should be entertaining. The Sox must be in the Rays' heads. It could happen to any team not just this young one. Recent history suggests that the Sox will complete this improbable comeback tonight. I like the pitching match up.
After what Beckett did last night, Lester is going to come out and pitch well. The key for him is the ability to drop in some first pitch curve balls. This will allow him and Tek to keep the Rays young, aggressive hitters off stride.
Matt Garza can be an absolute head case. The biggest game of his life has to have this mental midget so stressed out that he wants to do too much. Hopefully this plays right into the Sox hitters desire to work counts. Balfour and Wheeler are toast.
My Game 7 hunches ...
Ellsbury pinch runs in a huge spot
Upton goes homerless
Longoria does not
Drew squares up at least two balls
Wheeler will pitch more than one inning
Game is decided by more than two runs
Happy watching.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Two Biggest Questions for Game 6
The two biggest questions heading into tonight's game 6 are ...
#1 How much can Beckett give the Sox tonight? He clearly is not 100% but neither was Schilling in 2004 or Pedro in 1999. The Nation needs him to give the team a chance to win the game by keeping us in the game for 5 to 6 innings. He did not do this in game two surrendering eight runs. Many of us are holding our breath waiting to see what he can do. Beckett loves to compete and will give the team whatever he has.
Look for the game to hinge on each team's bullpens; Howell, Baflour and Wheeler vs Okajima, Masterson and Papelbon.
#2 Will the Rays be spooked by Game 5? It cannot be easy seeing the light at the end of the tunnel only to be pushed further back into the darkness. This young, confident team has shown all season that they can comeback from disappointment. However, they have never been on this type of stage. Reading the Tampa papers on line, there were lines like; "As the clock struck midnight, the Rays turned into pumpkins" and "the 2007 Rays showed up from the seventh inning on". Right fielder Gabe Gross said the loss was "deflating" and Carl Crawford used the word "devastating".
This one is difficult to answer. If Beckett throws well and the Sox get some much needed timely hitting,which results in a Rays' loss. Does this mean Tampa was feeling the pressure? Not sure.
Maddon gave the Sox some life by alternating his bullpen. Hopefully, the Sox can take advantage. One thing is for sure, tonight's game will be intense and the most watched game of the playoffs so far.
#1 How much can Beckett give the Sox tonight? He clearly is not 100% but neither was Schilling in 2004 or Pedro in 1999. The Nation needs him to give the team a chance to win the game by keeping us in the game for 5 to 6 innings. He did not do this in game two surrendering eight runs. Many of us are holding our breath waiting to see what he can do. Beckett loves to compete and will give the team whatever he has.
Look for the game to hinge on each team's bullpens; Howell, Baflour and Wheeler vs Okajima, Masterson and Papelbon.
#2 Will the Rays be spooked by Game 5? It cannot be easy seeing the light at the end of the tunnel only to be pushed further back into the darkness. This young, confident team has shown all season that they can comeback from disappointment. However, they have never been on this type of stage. Reading the Tampa papers on line, there were lines like; "As the clock struck midnight, the Rays turned into pumpkins" and "the 2007 Rays showed up from the seventh inning on". Right fielder Gabe Gross said the loss was "deflating" and Carl Crawford used the word "devastating".
This one is difficult to answer. If Beckett throws well and the Sox get some much needed timely hitting,which results in a Rays' loss. Does this mean Tampa was feeling the pressure? Not sure.
Maddon gave the Sox some life by alternating his bullpen. Hopefully, the Sox can take advantage. One thing is for sure, tonight's game will be intense and the most watched game of the playoffs so far.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Are You Kidding Me?
I actually posted in the seventh with the team down 7-0. I have saved that draft and may "nuke it, burn it, destroy it. It pains me to know it exists."
What a game. What a game. What a game.
Just when everyone (including me) has them counted out, the Red Sox fight back and win one of the most improbable comeback victories in postseason baseball history. So much to discuss. Pedroia a huge two out single to break the ice. Papi finally contributes with a three run bomb, JD launches a two run missile to pull the team within one and Coco puts on a tremendous at bat to tie the game. A Longoria error leads to JD's heroics in the bottom of the ninth.
Lost in much of this is a couple of perplexing moves by the Rays. How could you give life to the defending champs? Balfour literally opens the door in seventh. Maddon allows him to pitch to Papi. Left handers Howell and Miller in the bullpen waiting. Then he brings in Wheeler to hold the lead by getting the last seven outs. Perplexing.
It was weird listening to WEEI the last two days. Many fans voiced their displeasure and even questioned the team's heart. Even if next game or the game after leads to the end of the season, no one should question this team's courage and heart. A great way to send the Fenway Faithful home.
What a game. What a game. What a game.
Just when everyone (including me) has them counted out, the Red Sox fight back and win one of the most improbable comeback victories in postseason baseball history. So much to discuss. Pedroia a huge two out single to break the ice. Papi finally contributes with a three run bomb, JD launches a two run missile to pull the team within one and Coco puts on a tremendous at bat to tie the game. A Longoria error leads to JD's heroics in the bottom of the ninth.
Lost in much of this is a couple of perplexing moves by the Rays. How could you give life to the defending champs? Balfour literally opens the door in seventh. Maddon allows him to pitch to Papi. Left handers Howell and Miller in the bullpen waiting. Then he brings in Wheeler to hold the lead by getting the last seven outs. Perplexing.
It was weird listening to WEEI the last two days. Many fans voiced their displeasure and even questioned the team's heart. Even if next game or the game after leads to the end of the season, no one should question this team's courage and heart. A great way to send the Fenway Faithful home.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
"Slip, slidin' away"
Another blow out loss last night. The Rays have scored thirty-one runs over the last three games. Wakefield had nothing while Sonnanstine dominated the line up. Undoubtedly, all of the momentum is on the side of the team from Tampa. The Sox continue to not pitch well and are unable to put together a string of hits needed for a big inning. All seems lost.
However, it is always darkest before the dawn. Our top three pitchers are lined up for the last three games. Granted Beckett and Lester got shelled in their last outings but I still like the team's chances if we can just get to a Game 6. Dice-K has the team's best winning percentage as a starter and was masterful in Game 1. He is opposed by game 2 starter Scott Kazmir, who very easily could have given up 20 runs to the Sox. If we could just get some timely hitting and Dice-K and the bullpen can hold these guys down, I like our chances in Tampa.
Game 6 would pit Beckett against James Sheilds. Joe Maddon must realize that the Sox will hit Kazmir and is putting all of his eggs in Sheilds' basket. Hopefully, Beckett is up to the task. How about the Sox moving Lester up to this start? That would leave Game 7 to Beckett against Garza. Anything can happen in a game 7. Imagine Papelbon pitching four innings in a winner take all game?
There are a couple of things that need to happen;
#1 The starting pitching must give the team a chance. Lester and Wakefield provided the offense the daunting task of making up five runs early. This cannot happen again.
#2 The offense has to hit. The Rays are not going to walk people or make errors (Longoria was avoiding a splintered bat last night). Whether or not Ellsbury or Drew bats lead off, the offense has to have some one jump start the team.
There are a couple of things I would like to see happen;
#1 The Fenway Faithful needs to get into the game. Of the four teams remaining in the playoffs, the crowd at Fenway seems to be the least boisterous and loud. Are we getting too spoiled? Granted, an early deficit makes it difficult to be in the game but you paid big bucks for those seats -- get loud and I don't mean booing.
#2 Francona gets aggressive. Offensively the team is struggling. Why not hit and run or steal a bag? The Rays have our defense on our heels. Let's return the favor. Pedroia and Bay should be able to swipe a bag. If Ellsbury or Crisp can get on base that would help.
#3 Papi stops running his mouth and starts to produce. After game 1 he said he saw "fear" in the Rays dugout. Yesterday he said, "don't let us win game 5". Well, big boy make it happen.
Game 5 will be real interesting. I cannot wait to see how the team, manager and crowd responds to the recent struggles.
However, it is always darkest before the dawn. Our top three pitchers are lined up for the last three games. Granted Beckett and Lester got shelled in their last outings but I still like the team's chances if we can just get to a Game 6. Dice-K has the team's best winning percentage as a starter and was masterful in Game 1. He is opposed by game 2 starter Scott Kazmir, who very easily could have given up 20 runs to the Sox. If we could just get some timely hitting and Dice-K and the bullpen can hold these guys down, I like our chances in Tampa.
Game 6 would pit Beckett against James Sheilds. Joe Maddon must realize that the Sox will hit Kazmir and is putting all of his eggs in Sheilds' basket. Hopefully, Beckett is up to the task. How about the Sox moving Lester up to this start? That would leave Game 7 to Beckett against Garza. Anything can happen in a game 7. Imagine Papelbon pitching four innings in a winner take all game?
There are a couple of things that need to happen;
#1 The starting pitching must give the team a chance. Lester and Wakefield provided the offense the daunting task of making up five runs early. This cannot happen again.
#2 The offense has to hit. The Rays are not going to walk people or make errors (Longoria was avoiding a splintered bat last night). Whether or not Ellsbury or Drew bats lead off, the offense has to have some one jump start the team.
There are a couple of things I would like to see happen;
#1 The Fenway Faithful needs to get into the game. Of the four teams remaining in the playoffs, the crowd at Fenway seems to be the least boisterous and loud. Are we getting too spoiled? Granted, an early deficit makes it difficult to be in the game but you paid big bucks for those seats -- get loud and I don't mean booing.
#2 Francona gets aggressive. Offensively the team is struggling. Why not hit and run or steal a bag? The Rays have our defense on our heels. Let's return the favor. Pedroia and Bay should be able to swipe a bag. If Ellsbury or Crisp can get on base that would help.
#3 Papi stops running his mouth and starts to produce. After game 1 he said he saw "fear" in the Rays dugout. Yesterday he said, "don't let us win game 5". Well, big boy make it happen.
Game 5 will be real interesting. I cannot wait to see how the team, manager and crowd responds to the recent struggles.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Rays take advanatge in Game 3
Jon Lester didn't have it. Matt Garza did. Much of a team's fortunate in the playoffs comes down to the starting pitching. Lester gave up two long home runs that spotted the Rays a 5-0 lead and that was about it for the Sox because Garza was pounding the zone.
There seems to be many question marks. Varitek? We have accepted the fact that you are not going to hit (Was anyone surprised at the called third strike with runners at second and third?) but a pass ball that leads to the first run, really? Ellsbury? When he gets on base, the Sox are a much better team. Ortiz? What does he have left? Did he notice that Pena bunted against the shift? Wakefield? Can he just get us into the sixth with a lead or tie game? Our top two pitchers both got absolutely tattooed, can we still win this thing or is it over?
This thing is far from decided. As the philosopher Bluto said in Animal House, "Over? Did you say 'over'? Nothing is over until we decide it is! Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? Hell no!" Like Bluto we all need a little history lesson.
1986 ALCS versus the Angels. Sox down 3 games to 1, tie game 5 in the top of the ninth with two outs and two strikes on Dave Henderson's homer. Sox win the series in seven games.
1999 ALDS versus the Indians. Down 2 games to none, the Sox win the series by sweeping three straight games behind Troy O'Leary, Nomar Garciaparra and Pedro Martinez.
2003 ALDS versus the A's. Again down 2 games to none, the Sox shock the favored A's by sweeping three straight.
2004 ALCS versus the Yankees. The only team in major sports to ever come back from a 3-0 series deficiet to win four straight. The World Series was anti climatic. 86 years later we can say champions again.
2007 ALCS versus the Indians. Down 3 games to 1, the Sox take three straight to advance and win the World Series again.
If there is one franchise in sports today that can overcome any deficit it is the Boston Red Sox. Obviously, things do not look good but let us have faith. The organization has proven in the past that they can overcome anything.
There seems to be many question marks. Varitek? We have accepted the fact that you are not going to hit (Was anyone surprised at the called third strike with runners at second and third?) but a pass ball that leads to the first run, really? Ellsbury? When he gets on base, the Sox are a much better team. Ortiz? What does he have left? Did he notice that Pena bunted against the shift? Wakefield? Can he just get us into the sixth with a lead or tie game? Our top two pitchers both got absolutely tattooed, can we still win this thing or is it over?
This thing is far from decided. As the philosopher Bluto said in Animal House, "Over? Did you say 'over'? Nothing is over until we decide it is! Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? Hell no!" Like Bluto we all need a little history lesson.
1986 ALCS versus the Angels. Sox down 3 games to 1, tie game 5 in the top of the ninth with two outs and two strikes on Dave Henderson's homer. Sox win the series in seven games.
1999 ALDS versus the Indians. Down 2 games to none, the Sox win the series by sweeping three straight games behind Troy O'Leary, Nomar Garciaparra and Pedro Martinez.
2003 ALDS versus the A's. Again down 2 games to none, the Sox shock the favored A's by sweeping three straight.
2004 ALCS versus the Yankees. The only team in major sports to ever come back from a 3-0 series deficiet to win four straight. The World Series was anti climatic. 86 years later we can say champions again.
2007 ALCS versus the Indians. Down 3 games to 1, the Sox take three straight to advance and win the World Series again.
If there is one franchise in sports today that can overcome any deficit it is the Boston Red Sox. Obviously, things do not look good but let us have faith. The organization has proven in the past that they can overcome anything.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Rays don't lose
The Tampa Bay Rays did not win this morning's game, they simply did not lose it. Yes, that means the Sox lost it. How else can you describe a game that was won on three walks (one intentional) and a 175 foot pop up that scores Usain Bolt's brother from third?
Believe me when I say, I realize it was a great back and forth game. Both teams were battling like this game was the last one in the series. In actuality it was. A Sox victory would have been the end of the series. There is no way a 2-0 lead going to Fenway would have been wasted. These are not the 2004 Yankees.
An optimist would say: "The Red Sox did what they had to in St. Pete. The match up is now a five game series with the Sox having gained home field advantage. The Rays used their top three relievers exhaustively in Game 2. Besides, we all know that MLB and Vegas want this series to go more than four games. The home plate umpire was certainly in on it. We scored eight runs off of their stud pitcher and relievers. Get some rest because tomorrow is a new day. We have the best pitcher on the planet right now going in game 3." I love those optimists. Voltaire's title character in Candide would exclaim, "All is for the best" as the cruelest and most absurd things happen to him.
A pessimist would say: "First and foremost, I did not stay up for five hours, drink three Red Bull and vodkas, pull what hair I have left out and run outside in my boxer briefs for good luck just to see Mike Timlin and his 5.67 ERA pitch in a tie game. His roster spot was a kind gesture with the only possibility of him pitching being to eat up innings in a lopsided win or loss. We scored eight runs and still could not win. This morning's loss has left a huge void in my soul that will can never be refilled." I love those pessimists. We all know people like this. They can suck the life out of you when you ask a simple, "How's it going?" They go on for 10 minutes on how life is just so unfair and imperfect. My response to these people, "Grow up and get used to it because you are right life is unfair and imperfect. Deal with it."
The truth lies somewhere in the middle of these two. The Sox did accomplish their mission in the first two games but missed an opportunity in Game 2 to put an end to the series.
Points to ponder :
Believe me when I say, I realize it was a great back and forth game. Both teams were battling like this game was the last one in the series. In actuality it was. A Sox victory would have been the end of the series. There is no way a 2-0 lead going to Fenway would have been wasted. These are not the 2004 Yankees.
An optimist would say: "The Red Sox did what they had to in St. Pete. The match up is now a five game series with the Sox having gained home field advantage. The Rays used their top three relievers exhaustively in Game 2. Besides, we all know that MLB and Vegas want this series to go more than four games. The home plate umpire was certainly in on it. We scored eight runs off of their stud pitcher and relievers. Get some rest because tomorrow is a new day. We have the best pitcher on the planet right now going in game 3." I love those optimists. Voltaire's title character in Candide would exclaim, "All is for the best" as the cruelest and most absurd things happen to him.
A pessimist would say: "First and foremost, I did not stay up for five hours, drink three Red Bull and vodkas, pull what hair I have left out and run outside in my boxer briefs for good luck just to see Mike Timlin and his 5.67 ERA pitch in a tie game. His roster spot was a kind gesture with the only possibility of him pitching being to eat up innings in a lopsided win or loss. We scored eight runs and still could not win. This morning's loss has left a huge void in my soul that will can never be refilled." I love those pessimists. We all know people like this. They can suck the life out of you when you ask a simple, "How's it going?" They go on for 10 minutes on how life is just so unfair and imperfect. My response to these people, "Grow up and get used to it because you are right life is unfair and imperfect. Deal with it."
The truth lies somewhere in the middle of these two. The Sox did accomplish their mission in the first two games but missed an opportunity in Game 2 to put an end to the series.
Points to ponder :
- What is Paul Byrd doing on the postseason roster? I believe he is a better option than Timlin in that spot.
- Beckett was awful tonight. News broke today that he received a pain relieving injection in his oblique before the playoffs. Should Byrd take the game 6 start?
- Did Papelbon not go out for the 11th inning because of the shot he took off of his arm in the 10th? He is the one guy we cannot lose.
- David Ortiz looks awful. He is trying to hit the every pitch into 500 feet to right field. This guy batting .332 last year by staying back and hitting the ball to left center field. In his next to last at bat, Pedroia had walked with no one out and I was seriously telling Ortiz to bunt the ball done the third base line. With that shift on Pedrioa could have ended up at third at the very least we get a guy in scoring position.
- The Rays are not pushovers they offer a greater challenge than the Indians did last year and we all know how that series went. The Rays are talented and have a swagger to them that some call youthful exuberance. Regardless, it is a dangerous thing for an opposing team to have.
- Two outs, runner at first in the ninth. Paplebon is in to face Carlos Pena. The Sox are in the shift. On the 2-1 pitch the runner goes to steal second and neither Youkilis (playing the shortstop position) or Lowrie go to cover second. They were conceding the bag to remain in the shift. The ball was fouled off but can anyone explain why we would allow the winning run to get into scoring position without attempting to defend the steal?
- Craig Sager's outfit tonight was actual not bad considering he was in Retirement Central. On the deplorable scale, we'll go with 3.5.
- 4:37 PM start on Monday. Thank goodness.
Friday, October 10, 2008
One down three to go
Sox take Game 1 at the Trop behind an impressive performance from Dice-K and some timely pitching and hitting.
Dice-K escaped an early first inning jam and then cruised into the eighth inning. I was not sure of the logic for letting him start the inning. Regardless two hits later, led to the crucial situation of the game. Okajima was summoned to to face Carlos Pena with two on and none out. Nursing a slim two run lead, Okajima went to 3-0 on Pena. The Baseball Gods were aligned for the Sox because Pena swung on 3-0 and subsequently hit a sinking line drive that was snagged by JD Drew. Thank you Joe Maddon!!!
Justin Masterson relieved Okajima and induced an inning ending 6-4-3 double play. Papelbon becomes the all time playoff leader in innings pitched without allowing an earned run by closing it out in the ninth.
Simply a huge win for the Sox. The Rays must win game two or face a 2-0 deficeit heading into Lester's start at Fenway. Beckett versus Kazmir. Let's go Josh!!
BTW -- I'm pretty sure Balfour hit JD on purpose to load the bases. Bush League. Sager jacket and tie ensemble was a deplorable 8.5 out of 10.
Dice-K escaped an early first inning jam and then cruised into the eighth inning. I was not sure of the logic for letting him start the inning. Regardless two hits later, led to the crucial situation of the game. Okajima was summoned to to face Carlos Pena with two on and none out. Nursing a slim two run lead, Okajima went to 3-0 on Pena. The Baseball Gods were aligned for the Sox because Pena swung on 3-0 and subsequently hit a sinking line drive that was snagged by JD Drew. Thank you Joe Maddon!!!
Justin Masterson relieved Okajima and induced an inning ending 6-4-3 double play. Papelbon becomes the all time playoff leader in innings pitched without allowing an earned run by closing it out in the ninth.
Simply a huge win for the Sox. The Rays must win game two or face a 2-0 deficeit heading into Lester's start at Fenway. Beckett versus Kazmir. Let's go Josh!!
BTW -- I'm pretty sure Balfour hit JD on purpose to load the bases. Bush League. Sager jacket and tie ensemble was a deplorable 8.5 out of 10.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
ALCS Preview
Let's again dissect this championship series match up by breaking down the keys (in order of importance) to winning at this time of the year. The Angels faltered in the defense and timely hitting areas.
Starting Pitching: Games 1 and 5 -- James Sheilds (14-8 3.56) vs. Dice-K (18-3 2.90 ERA) , Games 2 and 6 --Scott Kazmir (12-8 3.49) vs. Beckett (12-10 4.03 ERA) Game 3 and 7 -Lester (16-6 3.21 ERA) vs. Matt Garza (11-9 3.71 ERA) and Game 4 Wakefield (10-11 4.13 ERA) vs Andy Sonnanstein (13-9 4.38 ERA) .
I loved what Francona had to say about the rotation. The order is not that important. It is a seven game series, thus game one is not any more important than game two or three. Having Beckett and Lester lined up for games six and seven is a great feeling. The Rays are going with the same order they used in the ALDS. From a match up perspective, I like the Sox in the games that Lester (is there anyone in baseball you would rather have on the mound?) and Beckett (the last start was just to get the rust out of the way) are pitching. Sheilds is an absolute bulldog on the mound. He has a presence on the mound that is reminiscent of Curt Schilling -- "I will not let you beat me". Kazmir is not the Sox killer he once was. He is throwing way too many pitches. Garza and Sonnanstein are similar in the fact that they come right after the hitters but must paint the corners to get guys out. The Sox lineup's ability to work counts will benefit them versus these two guys. Let's say the Sox are up 2-1 going to Game 4, Wakefield is the wild card. What he gives or does not give the Sox will be huge.
ADVANTAGE -- Sox - Beckett and Lester to the rescue
Bullpen -- This is the strength of the Rays. Fireballers Grant Balfour (51 games, 6-2, 1.54 ERA) , lefty J.P. Howell (6-1, 2.22 ERA) and closer Dan Wheeler (70 games 3.12 ERA) were all dominate in the ALDS and averaged over a strikeout per inning during the regular season. Sox castoff and submariner Chad Bradford (21 games 1.42 ERA) has filled in nicely also. The Rays beat the Sox ten of eighteen games this past season. Of those ten wins eight were by one run, this was because of the prowess of the Rays bullpen. The Sox bullpen has shaped up nicely since mid season. Okajima and Masterson are the bridge to the spectacular (has never given up an earned run in his postseason career) Papelbon. Lopez and Delcarmen will help also.
The Rays have prospered with this bull pen and it is difficult to bet against this group.
ADVANTAGE -- Rays
Offensive "Punch" and timely hitting -- The Rays did not have one regular bat over .300. They also do not have a steady power source other than Carlos Pena (.247, 31 hr, 102 rbi) and Evan Longoria (.272, 27 hr, 85 rbi). The guy we need to keep off the bases is second baseman Akinori Iwamura (.276, 91 runs). He seems to always be in the middle of a Rays rally. BJ Upton got hot in the ALDS but has done nothing against the Sox this year. Catcher Dioneer Navarro is solid. The Sox got a great series from Jacoby Ellsbury and Jason Bay in the ALDS. JD Drew (does he start game two vs. Kazmir?) looks to be healthy and Jed Lowrie's confidence must be sky high. Dustin Pedroia looks tired from playing 150 plus games in the regular season. David Ortiz owns Sheilds (both James and the Angels Scot) and should have a solid series. Youkilis is as steady as they come.
ADVANTAGE -- Sox -- line up is deeper and more likely to put up some early runs.
Defense -- The Rays infield has been close to spectacular this year. Bartlett and Longoria on the right side of the infield are future gold glovers. The Sox without Lowell take a blow to their defense by playing either Youkilis or Lowrie at one corner then Kotsay at the other. The Sox do have an advantage in outfield defense. The catching matchup scares me a little. Can Varitek (and the pitchers) control the Rays' running game? This is a huge aspect of their offense. Navarro is sold behind the plate but faces the daunting task of dealing with Ellsbury.
ADVANTAGE -- slightly to the Rays
Managers -- Francona has a huge advantage in experience here but Maddon has pushed the right buttons all year long. The handling of the late inning match ups between relievers and the batters is most significant here. I'll go with experience.
ADVANTAGE -- Sox
Prediction -- I would feel better with home field advantage. Look for the crowd in that thing they call a ballpark to be loud and boisterous. The Rays have been rolling all season long. Many predicted their demise but they have answered the bell every time. The Sox look to be peaking at the right time. My big key is Ellsbury and Pedroia getting on base and setting the stage for the middle of the order. I think the rest is pretty predictable -- we know about the Rays bullpen, Lester and Beckett and the Sox offense. I think it comes down to Lester in game seven and his legend will continue to grow.
Sox win a dramatic back and forth series 4 ( games 2,3,6,7) to 3 (1,4,5).
Starting Pitching: Games 1 and 5 -- James Sheilds (14-8 3.56) vs. Dice-K (18-3 2.90 ERA) , Games 2 and 6 --Scott Kazmir (12-8 3.49) vs. Beckett (12-10 4.03 ERA) Game 3 and 7 -Lester (16-6 3.21 ERA) vs. Matt Garza (11-9 3.71 ERA) and Game 4 Wakefield (10-11 4.13 ERA) vs Andy Sonnanstein (13-9 4.38 ERA) .
I loved what Francona had to say about the rotation. The order is not that important. It is a seven game series, thus game one is not any more important than game two or three. Having Beckett and Lester lined up for games six and seven is a great feeling. The Rays are going with the same order they used in the ALDS. From a match up perspective, I like the Sox in the games that Lester (is there anyone in baseball you would rather have on the mound?) and Beckett (the last start was just to get the rust out of the way) are pitching. Sheilds is an absolute bulldog on the mound. He has a presence on the mound that is reminiscent of Curt Schilling -- "I will not let you beat me". Kazmir is not the Sox killer he once was. He is throwing way too many pitches. Garza and Sonnanstein are similar in the fact that they come right after the hitters but must paint the corners to get guys out. The Sox lineup's ability to work counts will benefit them versus these two guys. Let's say the Sox are up 2-1 going to Game 4, Wakefield is the wild card. What he gives or does not give the Sox will be huge.
ADVANTAGE -- Sox - Beckett and Lester to the rescue
Bullpen -- This is the strength of the Rays. Fireballers Grant Balfour (51 games, 6-2, 1.54 ERA) , lefty J.P. Howell (6-1, 2.22 ERA) and closer Dan Wheeler (70 games 3.12 ERA) were all dominate in the ALDS and averaged over a strikeout per inning during the regular season. Sox castoff and submariner Chad Bradford (21 games 1.42 ERA) has filled in nicely also. The Rays beat the Sox ten of eighteen games this past season. Of those ten wins eight were by one run, this was because of the prowess of the Rays bullpen. The Sox bullpen has shaped up nicely since mid season. Okajima and Masterson are the bridge to the spectacular (has never given up an earned run in his postseason career) Papelbon. Lopez and Delcarmen will help also.
The Rays have prospered with this bull pen and it is difficult to bet against this group.
ADVANTAGE -- Rays
Offensive "Punch" and timely hitting -- The Rays did not have one regular bat over .300. They also do not have a steady power source other than Carlos Pena (.247, 31 hr, 102 rbi) and Evan Longoria (.272, 27 hr, 85 rbi). The guy we need to keep off the bases is second baseman Akinori Iwamura (.276, 91 runs). He seems to always be in the middle of a Rays rally. BJ Upton got hot in the ALDS but has done nothing against the Sox this year. Catcher Dioneer Navarro is solid. The Sox got a great series from Jacoby Ellsbury and Jason Bay in the ALDS. JD Drew (does he start game two vs. Kazmir?) looks to be healthy and Jed Lowrie's confidence must be sky high. Dustin Pedroia looks tired from playing 150 plus games in the regular season. David Ortiz owns Sheilds (both James and the Angels Scot) and should have a solid series. Youkilis is as steady as they come.
ADVANTAGE -- Sox -- line up is deeper and more likely to put up some early runs.
Defense -- The Rays infield has been close to spectacular this year. Bartlett and Longoria on the right side of the infield are future gold glovers. The Sox without Lowell take a blow to their defense by playing either Youkilis or Lowrie at one corner then Kotsay at the other. The Sox do have an advantage in outfield defense. The catching matchup scares me a little. Can Varitek (and the pitchers) control the Rays' running game? This is a huge aspect of their offense. Navarro is sold behind the plate but faces the daunting task of dealing with Ellsbury.
ADVANTAGE -- slightly to the Rays
Managers -- Francona has a huge advantage in experience here but Maddon has pushed the right buttons all year long. The handling of the late inning match ups between relievers and the batters is most significant here. I'll go with experience.
ADVANTAGE -- Sox
Prediction -- I would feel better with home field advantage. Look for the crowd in that thing they call a ballpark to be loud and boisterous. The Rays have been rolling all season long. Many predicted their demise but they have answered the bell every time. The Sox look to be peaking at the right time. My big key is Ellsbury and Pedroia getting on base and setting the stage for the middle of the order. I think the rest is pretty predictable -- we know about the Rays bullpen, Lester and Beckett and the Sox offense. I think it comes down to Lester in game seven and his legend will continue to grow.
Sox win a dramatic back and forth series 4 ( games 2,3,6,7) to 3 (1,4,5).
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Sox Pitching Rotation for ALCS
Red Sox manager Terry Francona today announced on WEEI his rotation for the ALCS, which kicks off on Friday night in St. Petersburg, Fla. against the Rays:
Game 1: Daisuke Matsuzaka
Game 2: Josh Beckett
Game 3: Jon Lester
Game 4: Tim Wakefield
Game 5: Matsuzaka
Game 6: Beckett
Game 7: Lester
We will preview the series on Thursday.
Please see the new poll!
Game 1: Daisuke Matsuzaka
Game 2: Josh Beckett
Game 3: Jon Lester
Game 4: Tim Wakefield
Game 5: Matsuzaka
Game 6: Beckett
Game 7: Lester
We will preview the series on Thursday.
Please see the new poll!
Monday, October 6, 2008
Sox are something else
What a game! Lowrie singles in Bay for the series winner in the bottom of the ninth. Much drama at the Fens.
Lester was spectacular again. He was in command the entire game leading 2-0. With 109 pitches through seven innings, Francona decided to go to the pen and summon Okajima. I was not feeling this move. Lester was unhittable up to the point.
Regardless, Oki gets two ground outs but inexcusably walks Teixeira. In comes Masterson who walks Vlad (Why is Varitek calling for three straight high fastballs?). Masterson and Varitek get crossed up which results in a passed ball / wild pitch. Hunter then singles in the tying runs.
Up to that point, Red Sox Nation had to be questioning its karma. Until .... the botched squeeze play. What a huge play. I think it was the right play (2-0 count, best bunter up). Big break for the Sox.
Karma Questioning Continued in the bottom of the ninth. With Sheilds dropping curve balls off the table and mixing an exploding 95 mph fastball, things did not look promising. Reggie Willits dives for Bay's blooper. His effort comes up short but the Angels get a fortuitous bounce resulting in a ground rule double. That ball stays in play and Bay gets a series winning inside the park homer. Kotsay follows with a laser that is snagged by Teixeira. We all must have been thinking, "What must we do?". Lowrie's seeing eye single wins it.
Some series observations:
Six people (including me) picked the Sox in four games.
The Angels defense did not shine.
Craig Sager's outfit was much better tonight.
John Lackey competed his tail off in Games 1 and 4.
Nice camera action in the Angels dugout constantly showing their displeasure over ball and strikes.
I hope Brian Giles had fun watching the series on television. Someone, someday needs to explain that one to me.
Lester was spectacular again. He was in command the entire game leading 2-0. With 109 pitches through seven innings, Francona decided to go to the pen and summon Okajima. I was not feeling this move. Lester was unhittable up to the point.
Regardless, Oki gets two ground outs but inexcusably walks Teixeira. In comes Masterson who walks Vlad (Why is Varitek calling for three straight high fastballs?). Masterson and Varitek get crossed up which results in a passed ball / wild pitch. Hunter then singles in the tying runs.
Up to that point, Red Sox Nation had to be questioning its karma. Until .... the botched squeeze play. What a huge play. I think it was the right play (2-0 count, best bunter up). Big break for the Sox.
Karma Questioning Continued in the bottom of the ninth. With Sheilds dropping curve balls off the table and mixing an exploding 95 mph fastball, things did not look promising. Reggie Willits dives for Bay's blooper. His effort comes up short but the Angels get a fortuitous bounce resulting in a ground rule double. That ball stays in play and Bay gets a series winning inside the park homer. Kotsay follows with a laser that is snagged by Teixeira. We all must have been thinking, "What must we do?". Lowrie's seeing eye single wins it.
Some series observations:
Six people (including me) picked the Sox in four games.
The Angels defense did not shine.
Craig Sager's outfit was much better tonight.
John Lackey competed his tail off in Games 1 and 4.
Nice camera action in the Angels dugout constantly showing their displeasure over ball and strikes.
I hope Brian Giles had fun watching the series on television. Someone, someday needs to explain that one to me.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Angels live to play another day
We must respect the effort and fortitude displayed by the Angels but we certainly had some opportunities. Jon Lester gets the start in a huge game tonight.
I do not want to see a Dice-K game 5.
Another late night but well worth it. Watching a great playoff baseball game is better than the best movie or television show anyone can watch. Even better than my current favorites; How I Met Your Mother and Lost. The drama and anticipation of not knowing is riveting. It is more real because you'll never know when "it" will happen. In a movie or tv show, there are time constraints. Who will be the hero? Which player is going to be "money" in a clutch situation? Goat? Choke? All of these questions will get answered but we don't know when. Baseball is unlike any other sport because you have to play the game out to win. You can't take a knee like in football or stall like in basketball. To win you are required to get outs, you can't run out the clock with a three run lead. I love that.
A couple of game observations;
Beckett never looked comfortable. His efficiency was Dice-K-esque. Not being able to throw strike one puts a pitcher at such a huge disadvantage. How about his inability to cover first base twice.?
The Angels in the Outfield self-destructed again. Ellsbury's three run single was a farce. Part of the blame certainly goes to the second baseman Howie Kendrick but still Torii Hunter has to make that play. Has anyone noticed how deep the Angels outfielders are playing?
The Sox bullpen of Delcarmen, Okajima, Masterson, Papelbon were outstanding. This huge question mark has turned into the team's strength. Terry Francona continues to make all the right moves concerning match ups and getting the guys out of there before the opponents get to them.
Worries. Pedroia looks out of rhythm. He is not getting good swings at all (other than his at bat in the 11th). We are going to need him to bust out sooner rather than later. Lowell is in some serious discomfort. It is painful even watching him do his job. I hope Game 3 did not deplete the bull pen for tonight's Game 4.
Craig Sager must realize his sport coat, shirt and tie combinations are awful. We must assume someone has mentioned to him the fact that those colors are offensive. Then again, I'm sure he is doing it for attention and that is what I am giving him.
TBS has done a great job so far covering the playoffs. Aside from the Frank TV commercials, I have truly enjoyed watching and listening to the games. They are not overdoing it like the Fox games seem to.
I don't like to play Monday morning quarterback but why did Francona let Cora hit instead of pitching hitting Sean Casey? It is obvious The Manager has no confidence in The Mayor.
The home plate umpire was terrible for both teams. Please no complaints.
I do not want to see a Dice-K game 5.
Another late night but well worth it. Watching a great playoff baseball game is better than the best movie or television show anyone can watch. Even better than my current favorites; How I Met Your Mother and Lost. The drama and anticipation of not knowing is riveting. It is more real because you'll never know when "it" will happen. In a movie or tv show, there are time constraints. Who will be the hero? Which player is going to be "money" in a clutch situation? Goat? Choke? All of these questions will get answered but we don't know when. Baseball is unlike any other sport because you have to play the game out to win. You can't take a knee like in football or stall like in basketball. To win you are required to get outs, you can't run out the clock with a three run lead. I love that.
A couple of game observations;
Beckett never looked comfortable. His efficiency was Dice-K-esque. Not being able to throw strike one puts a pitcher at such a huge disadvantage. How about his inability to cover first base twice.?
The Angels in the Outfield self-destructed again. Ellsbury's three run single was a farce. Part of the blame certainly goes to the second baseman Howie Kendrick but still Torii Hunter has to make that play. Has anyone noticed how deep the Angels outfielders are playing?
The Sox bullpen of Delcarmen, Okajima, Masterson, Papelbon were outstanding. This huge question mark has turned into the team's strength. Terry Francona continues to make all the right moves concerning match ups and getting the guys out of there before the opponents get to them.
Worries. Pedroia looks out of rhythm. He is not getting good swings at all (other than his at bat in the 11th). We are going to need him to bust out sooner rather than later. Lowell is in some serious discomfort. It is painful even watching him do his job. I hope Game 3 did not deplete the bull pen for tonight's Game 4.
Craig Sager must realize his sport coat, shirt and tie combinations are awful. We must assume someone has mentioned to him the fact that those colors are offensive. Then again, I'm sure he is doing it for attention and that is what I am giving him.
TBS has done a great job so far covering the playoffs. Aside from the Frank TV commercials, I have truly enjoyed watching and listening to the games. They are not overdoing it like the Fox games seem to.
I don't like to play Monday morning quarterback but why did Francona let Cora hit instead of pitching hitting Sean Casey? It is obvious The Manager has no confidence in The Mayor.
The home plate umpire was terrible for both teams. Please no complaints.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Late Night With J.D.
Another game going into the wee hours of the morning and another Red Sox victory. Last night's (actually today's) hero was none other than J.D. Drew. He hit an absolute bomb off of K Rod in the ninth to break a 5-5 game. Sox had jumped out to an early lead in the first on Drew's rbi double and Jason Bay's three run homer. Dice-K pitched well enough to win. The middle relievers (Okajima, Masterson) kept the damage to a minimum and Paplebon was rock solid again.
A huge win for the Sox. We now turn to Josh Beckett to close this series out on Sunday.
Some observations:
A huge win for the Sox. We now turn to Josh Beckett to close this series out on Sunday.
Some observations:
- Interesting move by Francona bringing Papelbon into the game in the eighth with the tying run on third with no outs. I did not think it was the right move. File this under "Exhibit J" in the "This is Why Francona is the Manager of the Red Sox and I'm not" dossier.
- Each divisional series has a team up 2-0. My most surprising is the Dodgers. They have dominated the Cubs. Sox fans can definitely feel their pain.
- The team with the best shot of coming back from a 2-0 deficit is the very same Cubs. Harden and Dempster (or if they go to Lily in game 4) can get them back to Wrigley Field.
- The Angels have been no Angels in the Outfield. Matthews loses one in the lights in game 1 and Hunter drops one in game 2. Also, there were a couple of balls that they have not gotten the best breaks on that could have been caught. Juan Rivera did not look fleet of foot.
- Speaking of Torii Hunter, he pulled a Milton Bradley by turning his knee arguing a close call at first base. Makes you wonder how Dave Henderson was able to land without hurting himself after celebrating his game tying homer in game 5 of the 1986 ALCS. For those keeping track, Game 4 of that series was the last time the Angels have beaten the Sox in a playoff game. Twenty-two years and eleven games later they are still searching for that last out.
- Youk's play in the ninth going into the stands was tremendous.
- Papelbon has been automatic in the playoffs. Seventeen consecutive innings without allowing a run.
- In 2002 the Angels won a World Series. That was six years ago. Enough with the Rally Monkey!! It was stupid then and is now officially idiotic. Fans bringing stuffed monkeys to a baseball game is not good. Maybe the Sox should have Millar show up in the eighth inning of game 3 and he can do his Cowboy Rally Dance. Knowing Millar, he would probably do it for a ticket to the game.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Game 1 is in the Books
Lester was spectacular. Ellsbury andYouk make two huge defensive plays in the eighth. Bay goes ya-ya. Ellsbury gets four hits (that was not an error). Masterson survives. Tek with a big sac bunt.
Angels have to be scratching their heads. Lackey was real good. Big time pressure on them to win game 2. Can we come up with a good curse catch phrase for 10 straight playoff wins versus an opponent?
Buck Martinez was solid in the booth, too.
I am going to bed.
Angels have to be scratching their heads. Lackey was real good. Big time pressure on them to win game 2. Can we come up with a good curse catch phrase for 10 straight playoff wins versus an opponent?
Buck Martinez was solid in the booth, too.
I am going to bed.
ALDS Preview
Let's dissect this divisional match up by breaking down the keys (in order of importance) to winning at this time of the year:
Starting Pitching: Games 1 and 4 -- Lackey (12-5 3.75) vs. Lester (16-6 3.21 ERA), Games 2 and 5 -- Santana (16-7 3.49) vs. Dice-K (18-3 2.90 ERA) and Game 3 -- Beckett (12-10 4.03 ERA) vs. Saunders (17-7 3.41 ERA).
While the Angels are a very balanced team (like the Sox) their starting pitching has kept them in games throughout the season. No team has a decided advantage in this category. Lackey and Santana struggled last year in the playoffs vs the Sox while Lester (one start in Game 4 of the World Series) and Dice-K performed well enough to help the Sox win it all. Beckett's injury is key here. I don't care about the records, Beckett is the team's #1 starter. His playoff performances last year and in 2003 for the Marlins were both dominating. His oblique injury is a concern. We must believe he beats Saunders in Game 3 at Fenway. Pitching only once in the divisional series bodes well for the ALCS but we have to get there first.
ADVANTAGE -- slightly to Sox
Bullpen -- K Rod (MLB record 62 saves, 2.24 ERA) vs. Papelbon (41 saves, 2.34 ERA) is a wash. The Angels strength lies in their middle relief. With a lead entering the seventh inning, these guys have been unbeatable. This Jose Arredondo (10-2 1.61 ERA) guy has been unbelievable. Throw in Scott Sheilds (1.62 ERA), converted starter Jerad Weaver and these guys have filthy stuff. Their weakness is having to use Darren Oliver to get lefties (Ortiz, Drew) out. The Sox counter with Delcarmen (3.27 ERA), Masterson (3.16 ERA), Lopez (2.43 ERA) and Okijima (2.61 ERA). This is where the Sox will do or die. Many pundits contend this is where the key to the series lies. Okijima's performance is the most vital.
ADVANTAGE -- marginally to Angels
Offensive "Punch" and timely hitting -- This is where the Angels have improved the most since last year's injury plagued playoffs. Mark Teixeira (.358 avg, 43 rbi in 54 games) has been a huge difference maker for this line up. Vlad has excelled (.348 since and like 12 home runs) since the midseason trade. Howie Kendrick is back after an injury and Torii Hunter (21 home runs, 78 rbi) has strengthen the line up. Old guy Garrett Anderson is still around. The Sox counter with Ellsbury, Pedroia, Youkilis, and Ortiz. All should produce. It would be nice if Youk and Papi could catch fire. The key to the Sox's line up is whether or not Drew and Lowell can give us some production. A line up with Cora, Lowrie, Varitek / Cash and Kotsay on the bottom of the order is going to put a lot of pressure on the pitching to keep us in every game.
ADVANTAGE -- Toss up
Defense -- Both teams are strong but not spectacular. Hunter has made the Angels considerable better by moving Matthews to rightfield and allowing Anderson to DH. Lowrie at shortstop has stabilized an average Sox defense before his arrival. I expect Lowell, being banged up, will be tested by the Angels speedy guys (Figgins) bunting for hits. The Sox may be able to run on the starting catcher, Jeff Mathis.
ADVANTAGE -- Toss Up
Managers -- Scioscia and Francona are two of the best in the business. Both are battle tested and have proven to keep their cool under the microscope that is the playoffs
ADVANTAGE -- Even
Prediction -- Real tight. Assuming Lowell and Drew are healthy, I like the Sox in four. Not looking forward to Dice-K in Game 5. I know he has been spectacular away from home but ... Winning a game in Anaheim is an absolute must. The Angels "small ball" is overrated versus the veteran Sox. Coco in centerfield is their dream. Look for the Sox to give them some of their own medicine as far as putting pressure on the defense.
Starting Pitching: Games 1 and 4 -- Lackey (12-5 3.75) vs. Lester (16-6 3.21 ERA), Games 2 and 5 -- Santana (16-7 3.49) vs. Dice-K (18-3 2.90 ERA) and Game 3 -- Beckett (12-10 4.03 ERA) vs. Saunders (17-7 3.41 ERA).
While the Angels are a very balanced team (like the Sox) their starting pitching has kept them in games throughout the season. No team has a decided advantage in this category. Lackey and Santana struggled last year in the playoffs vs the Sox while Lester (one start in Game 4 of the World Series) and Dice-K performed well enough to help the Sox win it all. Beckett's injury is key here. I don't care about the records, Beckett is the team's #1 starter. His playoff performances last year and in 2003 for the Marlins were both dominating. His oblique injury is a concern. We must believe he beats Saunders in Game 3 at Fenway. Pitching only once in the divisional series bodes well for the ALCS but we have to get there first.
ADVANTAGE -- slightly to Sox
Bullpen -- K Rod (MLB record 62 saves, 2.24 ERA) vs. Papelbon (41 saves, 2.34 ERA) is a wash. The Angels strength lies in their middle relief. With a lead entering the seventh inning, these guys have been unbeatable. This Jose Arredondo (10-2 1.61 ERA) guy has been unbelievable. Throw in Scott Sheilds (1.62 ERA), converted starter Jerad Weaver and these guys have filthy stuff. Their weakness is having to use Darren Oliver to get lefties (Ortiz, Drew) out. The Sox counter with Delcarmen (3.27 ERA), Masterson (3.16 ERA), Lopez (2.43 ERA) and Okijima (2.61 ERA). This is where the Sox will do or die. Many pundits contend this is where the key to the series lies. Okijima's performance is the most vital.
ADVANTAGE -- marginally to Angels
Offensive "Punch" and timely hitting -- This is where the Angels have improved the most since last year's injury plagued playoffs. Mark Teixeira (.358 avg, 43 rbi in 54 games) has been a huge difference maker for this line up. Vlad has excelled (.348 since and like 12 home runs) since the midseason trade. Howie Kendrick is back after an injury and Torii Hunter (21 home runs, 78 rbi) has strengthen the line up. Old guy Garrett Anderson is still around. The Sox counter with Ellsbury, Pedroia, Youkilis, and Ortiz. All should produce. It would be nice if Youk and Papi could catch fire. The key to the Sox's line up is whether or not Drew and Lowell can give us some production. A line up with Cora, Lowrie, Varitek / Cash and Kotsay on the bottom of the order is going to put a lot of pressure on the pitching to keep us in every game.
ADVANTAGE -- Toss up
Defense -- Both teams are strong but not spectacular. Hunter has made the Angels considerable better by moving Matthews to rightfield and allowing Anderson to DH. Lowrie at shortstop has stabilized an average Sox defense before his arrival. I expect Lowell, being banged up, will be tested by the Angels speedy guys (Figgins) bunting for hits. The Sox may be able to run on the starting catcher, Jeff Mathis.
ADVANTAGE -- Toss Up
Managers -- Scioscia and Francona are two of the best in the business. Both are battle tested and have proven to keep their cool under the microscope that is the playoffs
ADVANTAGE -- Even
Prediction -- Real tight. Assuming Lowell and Drew are healthy, I like the Sox in four. Not looking forward to Dice-K in Game 5. I know he has been spectacular away from home but ... Winning a game in Anaheim is an absolute must. The Angels "small ball" is overrated versus the veteran Sox. Coco in centerfield is their dream. Look for the Sox to give them some of their own medicine as far as putting pressure on the defense.
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