Angels over Red Sox in 4.
Yankees over Twins in 4.
Cardinals over Dodgers in 5.
Phillies over Rockies in 3.
Yankees/Cardinals World Series.
Cardinals win WS.
Showing posts with label baseball. Show all posts
Showing posts with label baseball. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Monday, April 13, 2009
2 Wins, 4 Losses
OK, so it's only 6 games into a 162-game season. That's fewer than 5% of the games played. It is a marathon as opposed to a sprint....
However!
The Boston Red Sox have not looked good at the start of the 2009 season.
Beckett pitched really well in the opener, but didn't seem as sharp in his game against the Angels. Lester and Dice-K were nothing to brag about, both having a lapse of acumen during an inning which cost them the game.
Brad Penny was OK. Tim Wakefield was standard Wakefield - he kept his outing to three runs.
From the bullpen, Okajima is off to a rough start. Masterson, who was terrific last year, is showing some cracks. Papelbon had a 37-pitch outing the other day, loading up the bases, but managing to get out of it.
On the offensive side, Ellsbury is still doing his darndest to prove he shouldn't lead off. Pedroia has been cold at the plate. Big Papi has turned into Big Floppy, and I wonder if we'll ever see the Manny-era Ortiz. I tend to think not. I think he got a lot of protection from Manny and now pitchers aren't as concerned about him any more.
Youkilis has been THE bright spot. He's hot hitting right now. J Bay has included a couple home runs to the mix. Lowell and JD Drew have had some contact, and Varitek has surprised with a couple long balls of his own.
Lowrie is continuing his non-hitting streak from last year.
While it's too early to make pronouncements on this team, I have to say that when Plan A failed in the off-season (acquiring Texiera), one could conceivably say that there's reason to be concerned. It remains to be seen if Plan B (loading up on pitching) will carry the team in ways that offense was supposed to. But if the first six games are any indicator, it looks to be a long season.
Early prognostications - Red Sox end up third in their division.
Subject to change, if they change.
However!
The Boston Red Sox have not looked good at the start of the 2009 season.
Beckett pitched really well in the opener, but didn't seem as sharp in his game against the Angels. Lester and Dice-K were nothing to brag about, both having a lapse of acumen during an inning which cost them the game.
Brad Penny was OK. Tim Wakefield was standard Wakefield - he kept his outing to three runs.
From the bullpen, Okajima is off to a rough start. Masterson, who was terrific last year, is showing some cracks. Papelbon had a 37-pitch outing the other day, loading up the bases, but managing to get out of it.
On the offensive side, Ellsbury is still doing his darndest to prove he shouldn't lead off. Pedroia has been cold at the plate. Big Papi has turned into Big Floppy, and I wonder if we'll ever see the Manny-era Ortiz. I tend to think not. I think he got a lot of protection from Manny and now pitchers aren't as concerned about him any more.
Youkilis has been THE bright spot. He's hot hitting right now. J Bay has included a couple home runs to the mix. Lowell and JD Drew have had some contact, and Varitek has surprised with a couple long balls of his own.
Lowrie is continuing his non-hitting streak from last year.
While it's too early to make pronouncements on this team, I have to say that when Plan A failed in the off-season (acquiring Texiera), one could conceivably say that there's reason to be concerned. It remains to be seen if Plan B (loading up on pitching) will carry the team in ways that offense was supposed to. But if the first six games are any indicator, it looks to be a long season.
Early prognostications - Red Sox end up third in their division.
Subject to change, if they change.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Hot Stove
Well, the Yankees have dominated the Hot Stove this year by snatching up Sabathia, Burnett and Texiera (Texiera from right under the noses of Boston). There is moaning in Red Sox Nation over that. There is also a sort of forced apathy or cheer from some.
It's the emotionalism of the response to moves like this which keep the game at the forefront. People like to paint Scott Boras (Texiera's agent, as well as the agent for many players) as the devil incarnate. Sites like bostondirtdogs.com help to reinforce that image with photoshopped graphics.
Hey, it's all fun.
But it's all business, too.
What player isn't going to look for the deal that benefits them them most?? The same holds true for management of professional sports teams. Everyone in the business is about bottom line.
Sports is sort of like politics. Spectators (citizens) pay the ticket prices (taxes) to watch the teams and team owners (politicians) do their things. And the spectators are often upset or irritated by it. Then they go home and look to the next game.
The teams (politicians) make promises to the spectators (citizens) throughout the season and the off-season that they are working to get better, often wtih no discernible results.
So, by this line of thinking, it appears that politics is really a spectator sport.
That's too bad. .
It's the emotionalism of the response to moves like this which keep the game at the forefront. People like to paint Scott Boras (Texiera's agent, as well as the agent for many players) as the devil incarnate. Sites like bostondirtdogs.com help to reinforce that image with photoshopped graphics.
Hey, it's all fun.
But it's all business, too.
What player isn't going to look for the deal that benefits them them most?? The same holds true for management of professional sports teams. Everyone in the business is about bottom line.
Sports is sort of like politics. Spectators (citizens) pay the ticket prices (taxes) to watch the teams and team owners (politicians) do their things. And the spectators are often upset or irritated by it. Then they go home and look to the next game.
The teams (politicians) make promises to the spectators (citizens) throughout the season and the off-season that they are working to get better, often wtih no discernible results.
So, by this line of thinking, it appears that politics is really a spectator sport.
That's too bad. .
Monday, October 20, 2008
Congratulations Tampa Bay Rays!
You earned your first American League Pennant and, in doing so, your ticket to the World Series. You took down the defending 2007 Word Series Champions. It wasn't easy or quick, but you did it. Jon Lester pitched well enough to win, but Matt Garza pitched well and won the game. Unfortunately, the Red Sox bats took a breather at the very wrong time.
They say it's pitching that wins series. To a point, that's true. It only takes one run to win a game. The pitcher who is able to prevent that run can come away with a win.
However, offense is equally important. Am I the only one who thinks that if a team doesn't produce runs, it won't win? The Red Sox spent a fair amount of time this season not producing runs.
They produced enough to win the wild card, but how often was it agonizing to watch them struggle at the plate?
One has to wonder how or if things would have been different if Manny Ramirez was still in a Red Sox uniform. The common consensus is that he probably wouldn't have played anyway either by dogging it or being benched for dogging it.
But can we say that his presence in the lineup - at least his 2007 presence - was sorely missed?:
Jason Bay did a notable job taking over the Manny spot on the roster. He was very productive and an upgrade defensively. But his hitting wasn't electric.
Not like Manny's.
I don't know what the answer is for the Red Sox. Without Manny behind him, David Ortiz isn't the same hitter. Pedroia and Youkilis can't carry the team for the whole season, and it's gotten to the point where the bottom third of the order is a cakewalk for the opposing pitcher. It reminds me of Little League where you have all your good hitters at the top of the order, and you grit your teeth patiently while dying through the bottom.
I don't see the Red Sox doing a lot in the off-season. There are issues to be addressed. I can't, for the life of me, though, see them making major changes to the team.
I guess it all remains to be seen.
For the time being, the kudos belong to the Tampa Bay Rays. Good luck in the World Series.
I hope Philadelphia beats you.
They say it's pitching that wins series. To a point, that's true. It only takes one run to win a game. The pitcher who is able to prevent that run can come away with a win.
However, offense is equally important. Am I the only one who thinks that if a team doesn't produce runs, it won't win? The Red Sox spent a fair amount of time this season not producing runs.
They produced enough to win the wild card, but how often was it agonizing to watch them struggle at the plate?
One has to wonder how or if things would have been different if Manny Ramirez was still in a Red Sox uniform. The common consensus is that he probably wouldn't have played anyway either by dogging it or being benched for dogging it.
But can we say that his presence in the lineup - at least his 2007 presence - was sorely missed?:
Jason Bay did a notable job taking over the Manny spot on the roster. He was very productive and an upgrade defensively. But his hitting wasn't electric.
Not like Manny's.
I don't know what the answer is for the Red Sox. Without Manny behind him, David Ortiz isn't the same hitter. Pedroia and Youkilis can't carry the team for the whole season, and it's gotten to the point where the bottom third of the order is a cakewalk for the opposing pitcher. It reminds me of Little League where you have all your good hitters at the top of the order, and you grit your teeth patiently while dying through the bottom.
I don't see the Red Sox doing a lot in the off-season. There are issues to be addressed. I can't, for the life of me, though, see them making major changes to the team.
I guess it all remains to be seen.
For the time being, the kudos belong to the Tampa Bay Rays. Good luck in the World Series.
I hope Philadelphia beats you.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
They've Got Spirit, but....
After an optional practice today, the Red Sox were upbeat according to an article by Adam Kilgore of Boston.com, the online arm of the Boston Globe.
"We've got nothing but baseball ahead of us," catcher Jason Varitek said. "Belief. It wasn't just '04, '07. We've been able to do it. It leaves an overriding belief. I believe. I believe that if we execute what we can do,we're going to present ourselves with a great chance to win."
Sure, the Red Sox have a chance to win. They've had three chances to win in their last three games.
But they didn't.
It doesn't matter what they believe because the Rays believe THEY can win. And WILL win.
Sort of negates each other, doesn't it?
The objective observer would look at the Red Sox and see too many problems for them to be able to pull off another 07 or 04. It would be a nice story.
If you can believe it.
****************************************
Tampa Bay Rays manager, Joe Maddon, adjusted his regular rotation to have Scott Kazmir start the next game against the Red Sox instead of James Shields.
I find this interesting because Kazmir was the only Rays pitcher the Sox were able to tee-off on. The Rays ended up winning Game 2 in extra innings but only after Kazmir was roughed up for five runs.
This rotation change will mean that Kazmir will go against Dice-K who won Boston's only victory in the series. I wonder if Maddon means for this series to go back to Tampa Bay, so they can celebrate on their home field.
I really do wonder that.
Really.
"We've got nothing but baseball ahead of us," catcher Jason Varitek said. "Belief. It wasn't just '04, '07. We've been able to do it. It leaves an overriding belief. I believe. I believe that if we execute what we can do,we're going to present ourselves with a great chance to win."
Sure, the Red Sox have a chance to win. They've had three chances to win in their last three games.
But they didn't.
It doesn't matter what they believe because the Rays believe THEY can win. And WILL win.
Sort of negates each other, doesn't it?
The objective observer would look at the Red Sox and see too many problems for them to be able to pull off another 07 or 04. It would be a nice story.
If you can believe it.
****************************************
Tampa Bay Rays manager, Joe Maddon, adjusted his regular rotation to have Scott Kazmir start the next game against the Red Sox instead of James Shields.
I find this interesting because Kazmir was the only Rays pitcher the Sox were able to tee-off on. The Rays ended up winning Game 2 in extra innings but only after Kazmir was roughed up for five runs.
This rotation change will mean that Kazmir will go against Dice-K who won Boston's only victory in the series. I wonder if Maddon means for this series to go back to Tampa Bay, so they can celebrate on their home field.
I really do wonder that.
Really.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
October Baseball - Does it Get Any Better?
The post-season players:
NLDS
Philadelphia vs. Milwaukee
Chicago vs. Los Angeles
ALDS
Tampa Bay vs. Chicago
Boston vs. Los Angeles
Los Angeles and Chicago are having a dream post-season, eh?
So far, the Dodgers have beaten the Cubs, 7-2. The Phillies beat the Brewers, 3-1 and the Red Sox topped the Angels, 4-1.
Good to see the Phillies back in the swing of it. It's been a while. Same with the Cubs. I would have liked to see them beat the Dodgers in their own field, but that's what can happen in baseball. Also good to see Boston show some life. I'm not sure starting Lackey in the first game was a wise move. True, he pitched a great game against the Sox at Fenway not too long ago, but Santana would have been better out of the gate. Historically, Lackey doesn't fare well against the Sox.
Anyway, the end of summer is upon us (post-season baseball) even though the end of summer was a week or two ago. Enjoy.
NLDS
Philadelphia vs. Milwaukee
Chicago vs. Los Angeles
ALDS
Tampa Bay vs. Chicago
Boston vs. Los Angeles
Los Angeles and Chicago are having a dream post-season, eh?
So far, the Dodgers have beaten the Cubs, 7-2. The Phillies beat the Brewers, 3-1 and the Red Sox topped the Angels, 4-1.
Good to see the Phillies back in the swing of it. It's been a while. Same with the Cubs. I would have liked to see them beat the Dodgers in their own field, but that's what can happen in baseball. Also good to see Boston show some life. I'm not sure starting Lackey in the first game was a wise move. True, he pitched a great game against the Sox at Fenway not too long ago, but Santana would have been better out of the gate. Historically, Lackey doesn't fare well against the Sox.
Anyway, the end of summer is upon us (post-season baseball) even though the end of summer was a week or two ago. Enjoy.
Monday, January 7, 2008
The Clemens Cliche
Roger Clemens went before the country in an interview with Mike Wallace on 60 minutes. The day after, there are a lot of articles about the interview - most of them not particularly supportive of Clemens. Now it's being reported that Clemens has filed a defamation lawsuit against McNamee.
There are many reasons to believe that McNamee was most likely telling the truth to the Mitchell investigation. And those reasons are covered in print. I have nothing to add to any of that, at least nothing substantial or worthwhile.
However, I note the following quote from Clemens during the interview:
"And that's our country, isn't it?" Clemens asked Wallace. "Guilty before innocent. That's the way our country works now."
Besides the fact that Roger the Dodger... oops, I mean BlueJayYankeeAstroYankee (I left out the Sox intentionally as his alleged steroid usage ostensibly took place after leaving Boston), misquoted the cliche - guilty until proven innocent - he
1. makes a good point
2. makes a lousy point
Yes, the presumption of guilt from accusation alone is endemic in this country. Look at the Duke lacrosse players. And sometimes, even a trial by peers doesn't get it right (re: Charles Allen Chatman).
But if the steroid use was an isolated incident taking place infrequently and limited to just a few players, I think his woebegone comment would hold more water.
The fact is this... Roger Clemens was a rookie in 1984 (23 years ago). That is a looooonngg time to be a player in the major leagues - especially a starting pitcher. Especially a starting pitcher. After 13 seasons with the Boston Red Sox where he won 3 Cy Young awards and had 169 wins under his belt, GM Dan Duquette said Roger was in the twilight of his career.
For all intents and purposes, his stats reflected that as well. I use the following as evidence:
From 1993 - 1996, Roger Clemens fell from the stratosphere to become a fairly ordinary pitcher for the Red Sox. The next year, 1997, he shot back up to dominance, going on to win 4 more Cy Young Awards and take his win record to over 350.
Can a change of scenery cause that sort of sea change? It's possible. Steroids certainly can as well.
There is a lot of anecdotal evidence to support McNamee's claims. And given the performance-enhancing drug culture that existed in Major League Baseball, it would not be surprising to find the Rocket's post Sox numbers dripping with juice.
It fills all kind of logical holes that would otherwise be clamoring for satisfactory answers.
So when Roger blames the country for its rush to judgment, he comes across as disingenuous.
And for what it's worth - I think he's guilty.
There are many reasons to believe that McNamee was most likely telling the truth to the Mitchell investigation. And those reasons are covered in print. I have nothing to add to any of that, at least nothing substantial or worthwhile.
However, I note the following quote from Clemens during the interview:
"And that's our country, isn't it?" Clemens asked Wallace. "Guilty before innocent. That's the way our country works now."
Besides the fact that Roger the Dodger... oops, I mean BlueJayYankeeAstroYankee (I left out the Sox intentionally as his alleged steroid usage ostensibly took place after leaving Boston), misquoted the cliche - guilty until proven innocent - he
1. makes a good point
2. makes a lousy point
Yes, the presumption of guilt from accusation alone is endemic in this country. Look at the Duke lacrosse players. And sometimes, even a trial by peers doesn't get it right (re: Charles Allen Chatman).
But if the steroid use was an isolated incident taking place infrequently and limited to just a few players, I think his woebegone comment would hold more water.
The fact is this... Roger Clemens was a rookie in 1984 (23 years ago). That is a looooonngg time to be a player in the major leagues - especially a starting pitcher. Especially a starting pitcher. After 13 seasons with the Boston Red Sox where he won 3 Cy Young awards and had 169 wins under his belt, GM Dan Duquette said Roger was in the twilight of his career.
For all intents and purposes, his stats reflected that as well. I use the following as evidence:
SEASON TEAM W L ERA
1984 Boston Red Sox 9 4 4.32
1985 Boston Red Sox 7 5 3.29
1986 Boston Red Sox 24 4 2.48
1987 Boston Red Sox 20 9 2.97
1988 Boston Red Sox 18 12 2.93
1989 Boston Red Sox 17 11 3.13
1990 Boston Red Sox 21 6 1.93
1991 Boston Red Sox 18 10 2.62
1992 Boston Red Sox 18 11 2.41
1993 Boston Red Sox 11 14 4.46
1994 Boston Red Sox 9 7 2.85
1995 Boston Red Sox 10 5 4.18
1996 Boston Red Sox 10 13 3.63
1997 Toronto Blue Jays 21 7 2.05
1998 Toronto Blue Jays 20 6 2.65
1999 New York Yankees 14 10 4.60
2000 New York Yankees 13 8 3.70
2001 New York Yankees 20 3 3.51
2002 New York Yankees 13 6 4.35
2003 New York Yankees 17 9 3.91
2004 Houston Astros 18 4 2.98
2005 Houston Astros 13 8 1.87
2006 Houston Astros 7 6 2.30
2007 New York Yankees 6 6 4.18
From 1993 - 1996, Roger Clemens fell from the stratosphere to become a fairly ordinary pitcher for the Red Sox. The next year, 1997, he shot back up to dominance, going on to win 4 more Cy Young Awards and take his win record to over 350.
Can a change of scenery cause that sort of sea change? It's possible. Steroids certainly can as well.
There is a lot of anecdotal evidence to support McNamee's claims. And given the performance-enhancing drug culture that existed in Major League Baseball, it would not be surprising to find the Rocket's post Sox numbers dripping with juice.
It fills all kind of logical holes that would otherwise be clamoring for satisfactory answers.
So when Roger blames the country for its rush to judgment, he comes across as disingenuous.
And for what it's worth - I think he's guilty.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Wailing and Gnashing of Teeth
So now the Mitchell report has been released. And we find out that there are some marquis names on the list, though not nearly as many as was thought would be. What is the response?
Overall, I'd say the response has been fairly tepid. While the media has been blasting around the report as if we have reached doomsday, statements from individuals on the list remain strangely absent with a few exceptions.
Baseball has always lived by its own code of ethics, the main ethic being that what happens in baseball, stays in baseball. History is rife with stories of drug usage, alcoholism, rampant infidelity in the sports world, even criminal activity in the sports world, but the leagues, for the sake of public relations, have always tried to bury everything in the proverbial sand where they stuck their heads.
It's rather childish when you think about it. It's as if by ignoring the problem, or by playing shallow lip service to it, then it becomes persona non grata. It goes away.
Fans won't do anything about it. They won't boycott any games for a greater principle of cleaning up the sport. Owners won't do anything about it because they continue to make piles of loot despite the cheating. And the players certainly won't do anything about it because they make millions which adds up to privilege.
Roger Clemens' attorney has stated that his client was wrongly accused of using steroids.
Roger had the opportunity to be questioned by the Mitchell investigation team and be above board about everything. He refused to do so. His refusal is more than telling. It is damning.
So where does that leave us all?
Most likely looking towards pitchers and catchers gathering in Florida in February. It will all pass under the bridge and away down stream. There will be puffs of argument from time to time that records now need asterisks.
But, in the end, it will all fade away as if nothing ever really happened.
Overall, I'd say the response has been fairly tepid. While the media has been blasting around the report as if we have reached doomsday, statements from individuals on the list remain strangely absent with a few exceptions.
Baseball has always lived by its own code of ethics, the main ethic being that what happens in baseball, stays in baseball. History is rife with stories of drug usage, alcoholism, rampant infidelity in the sports world, even criminal activity in the sports world, but the leagues, for the sake of public relations, have always tried to bury everything in the proverbial sand where they stuck their heads.
It's rather childish when you think about it. It's as if by ignoring the problem, or by playing shallow lip service to it, then it becomes persona non grata. It goes away.
Fans won't do anything about it. They won't boycott any games for a greater principle of cleaning up the sport. Owners won't do anything about it because they continue to make piles of loot despite the cheating. And the players certainly won't do anything about it because they make millions which adds up to privilege.
Roger Clemens' attorney has stated that his client was wrongly accused of using steroids.
Roger had the opportunity to be questioned by the Mitchell investigation team and be above board about everything. He refused to do so. His refusal is more than telling. It is damning.
So where does that leave us all?
Most likely looking towards pitchers and catchers gathering in Florida in February. It will all pass under the bridge and away down stream. There will be puffs of argument from time to time that records now need asterisks.
But, in the end, it will all fade away as if nothing ever really happened.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Mitchell Report
The following are ostensibly to be found in the George Mitchell report on steroid and/or human growth hormone usage in Major League Baseball. Most of the evidence is documentary, ie cancelled checks, phone records and such.
The following players were connected to steroids, either use or possession, in the report:
Lenny Dykstra
David Segui
Larry Bigbie
Brian Roberts
Jack Cust
Tim Laker
Josias Manzanillo
Todd Hundley
Mark Carreon
Hal Morris
Matt Franco
Rondell White
Andy Pettitte
Roger Clemens
Chuck Knoblauch
Jason Grimsley
Gregg Zaun
David Justice
F.P. Santangelo
Glenallen Hill
Mo Vaughn
Denny Neagle
Ron Villone
Ryan Franklin
Chris Donnels
Todd Williams
Phil Hiatt
Todd Pratt
Kevin Young
Mike Lansing
Cody McKay
Kent Mercker
Adam Piatt
Miguel Tejada
Jason Christiansen
Mike Stanton
Stephen Randolph
Jerry Hairston
Paul Lo Duca
Adam Riggs
Bart Miadich
Fernando Vina
Kevin Brown
Eric Gagne
Mike Bell
Matt Herges
Gary Bennett
Jim Parque
Brendan Donnelly
Chad Allen
Jeff Williams
Exavier "Nook" Logan
Howie Clark
Paxton Crawford
Ken Caminiti
Rafael Palmeiro
Luis Perez
Derrick Turnbow
Ricky Bones
Ricky Stone
The following players were cited under "Alleged Internet Purchases of Performance Enhancing Substances By Players in Major League Baseball."
Rick Ankiel
David Bell
Paul Byrd
Jose Canseco
Jay Gibbons
Troy Glaus
Jason Grimsley
Jose Guillen
Darren Holmes
Gary Matthews Jr.
John Rocker
Scott Schoeneweis
Ismael Valdez
Matt Williams
Steve Woodard
The following players were linked through BALCO:
Benito Santiago
Gary Sheffield
Randy Velarde
Jason Giambi
Jeremy Giambi
Bobby Estalella
Barry Bonds
Marvin Benard
Sunday, October 21, 2007
He's Back!
Last night's game 6 of the American League Championship Series heralded the return of the postseason Curt Schilling. The good Curt Schilling, not his evil meltdown twin.
Curt pitched a great 7 innings. He looked a bit shaky in the second inning, giving up the homerun to Victor Martinez, who really has Curt's number. Then he ended up with runners on 1st and 3rd but managed to get three outs.
But after that he settled down and gave us vintage Schilling. It may be the last time we see Schilling pitch in a Red Sox uniform - hopefully there will be at least one more appearance, but it's tough to say.
By all indications of the season, Carmona and Sabathia should have been able to give the Sox fits. Perhaps it's postseason inexperience that got the best of them, but the back of the rotation, Westbrook and Byrd have been more effective in this series.
How about that J.D. Drew, eh? I said he should be pulled, but look at the way he came through - grand slam in the 1st and an RBI single later on. He was the spark of the offense last night.
Jacoby Ellsbury had a great first postseason game with an RBI and a run. There was a great hit by him that was foiled by an even greater catch from Sizemore. But Jacoby still made his presence known, and what a refreshing change from the plate struggles of Coco Crisp. Ellsbury looks ready for the bigs, and Coco has to be thinking he'll be traded by next season. It's sort of too bad, he has a wonderfully marketable name. It is Ellsbury's time, however, and Coco never really became what everyone expected of him.
Who is the dummy at Fox who keeps playing "Cleveland Rocks" by Ian Hunter? It's understandable when playing at the Jake - but at Fenway Park when the Indians are getting stomped, it becomes really ludicrous and more than annoying.
So this is going 7 games which is not something I foresaw. Based on past history, I'd have to say that Dice-K is going to stink it up again. The Tribe has figured out how to go deep in the pitch count with him which exponentially reduces his effectiveness.
He really needs to be on a short leash tonight. Beckett has stated he'll be available out of the bullpen. Lester will be as well, so perhaps disaster can be averted.
I really think Fox should start the games at 7:00. An 8:00 start really means no baseball until 8:30, and given that baseball is a slow game, it makes for late nights.
All predictions off for tonight. Go Sox!
Curt pitched a great 7 innings. He looked a bit shaky in the second inning, giving up the homerun to Victor Martinez, who really has Curt's number. Then he ended up with runners on 1st and 3rd but managed to get three outs.
But after that he settled down and gave us vintage Schilling. It may be the last time we see Schilling pitch in a Red Sox uniform - hopefully there will be at least one more appearance, but it's tough to say.
By all indications of the season, Carmona and Sabathia should have been able to give the Sox fits. Perhaps it's postseason inexperience that got the best of them, but the back of the rotation, Westbrook and Byrd have been more effective in this series.
How about that J.D. Drew, eh? I said he should be pulled, but look at the way he came through - grand slam in the 1st and an RBI single later on. He was the spark of the offense last night.
Jacoby Ellsbury had a great first postseason game with an RBI and a run. There was a great hit by him that was foiled by an even greater catch from Sizemore. But Jacoby still made his presence known, and what a refreshing change from the plate struggles of Coco Crisp. Ellsbury looks ready for the bigs, and Coco has to be thinking he'll be traded by next season. It's sort of too bad, he has a wonderfully marketable name. It is Ellsbury's time, however, and Coco never really became what everyone expected of him.
Who is the dummy at Fox who keeps playing "Cleveland Rocks" by Ian Hunter? It's understandable when playing at the Jake - but at Fenway Park when the Indians are getting stomped, it becomes really ludicrous and more than annoying.
So this is going 7 games which is not something I foresaw. Based on past history, I'd have to say that Dice-K is going to stink it up again. The Tribe has figured out how to go deep in the pitch count with him which exponentially reduces his effectiveness.
He really needs to be on a short leash tonight. Beckett has stated he'll be available out of the bullpen. Lester will be as well, so perhaps disaster can be averted.
I really think Fox should start the games at 7:00. An 8:00 start really means no baseball until 8:30, and given that baseball is a slow game, it makes for late nights.
All predictions off for tonight. Go Sox!
Friday, October 19, 2007
Quick Hits
Josh Beckett's performance gives me goosebumps. He killed the Indians' momentum last night, or at least stifled it for the game. We'll see if it carries over Saturday.
The Cleveland drummer finally shut up last night - blessed quietness! Great pic of him at bostondirtdogs.com.
Since Schilling, Dice-K and Wakefield can't seem to go beyond 4-2/3 innings, here's a suggestion: In Saturday's game, have them pitch 3 innings each. Maybe we'll be able to see the good version of them, and they will win the game.
Joe Torre has decided not to accept the Yankees' offer: Good on ya, Joe!
Too many people get too incensed over Manny goofs and gaffes. I don't get it. A lot of money doesn't guarantee intelligence, glibness, or integrity. Get over the thought that it should.
Little Dusty finally had a break out night after struggling for the first four games. Now where is Ellsbury? And why is Coco still playing?
Maybe J.D. should get the rest of the series off.
Schilling is slotted to pitch Saturday. Boston needs ALDS (07) Schilling to show up for the game, not ALCS (07) Schilling. Of course, if ALCS (04) Schilling wants to make an appearance, I'm all for that.
They're coming home!
The Cleveland drummer finally shut up last night - blessed quietness! Great pic of him at bostondirtdogs.com.
Since Schilling, Dice-K and Wakefield can't seem to go beyond 4-2/3 innings, here's a suggestion: In Saturday's game, have them pitch 3 innings each. Maybe we'll be able to see the good version of them, and they will win the game.
Joe Torre has decided not to accept the Yankees' offer: Good on ya, Joe!
Too many people get too incensed over Manny goofs and gaffes. I don't get it. A lot of money doesn't guarantee intelligence, glibness, or integrity. Get over the thought that it should.
Little Dusty finally had a break out night after struggling for the first four games. Now where is Ellsbury? And why is Coco still playing?
Maybe J.D. should get the rest of the series off.
Schilling is slotted to pitch Saturday. Boston needs ALDS (07) Schilling to show up for the game, not ALCS (07) Schilling. Of course, if ALCS (04) Schilling wants to make an appearance, I'm all for that.
They're coming home!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Abyssinia Red Sox
The ALCS is one game away from being finished.
Steady, reliable Josh Beckett will pitch Thursday night. Of all the starters, he has the best chance to win the game and bring it back home to Fenway.
Still, he could lose, and I wouldn't hold it against him. Throughout the entire season, he has been the true ace of the staff, the only 20 game winner in all of MLB. The Josh Beckett of 2007 is so far removed from the Josh Beckett of 2006 that it's like two totally different pitchers. If this season is any indicator, Josh has the stuff to end up in the HOF one day.
The 2007 Red Sox were ostensibly built for the postseason.
Of course, it takes the postseason to see just how far off the building went.
As it turns out, the starting rotation (with the exception of Beckett) hasn't lived up to expectation. Schilling has had flashes of brilliance, but nothing consistent. Matsuzaka looks more and more like a monumental waste of money ($100M). Tim Wakefield's contract is cheap and year to year, but his effectiveness just hasn't been there the second half of the season.
The bullpen has huge anchors in Okajima and Papelbon. Delcarmen has stepped it up this year, but still makes costly mistakes. Timlin has been fairly effective. He's long in years, though, and his days have to be numbered. Lefty specialist Lopez can't get lefties out. Journeyman workhorse Julian Tavares was left off the ALCS roster, which makes no sense. He was always a good innings eater and fairly effective in his own right. Kyle Snyder, well I don't have much good I can say about him.
Lowell and Youkilis have been great at the corners, but Youkilis' offense has been streaky. Lowell, on the other hand, has been a rock, both defensively and offensively. He would like to stay in Boston, but all indications are that unless he accepts a shorter contract, say three years, the Sox won't re-sign him. More's the pity. He is the man this year, and you can't ignore the intangibles he brings to the clubhouse (let alone the tangibles). Isn't that what they kept saying about Kevin Millar in 2004 - look at all the intangibles he brings, never mind the fact that he can't hit, run or field that well.
Dustin Pedroia has had a terrific season, but in the postseason he's looking exactly like what he is - a rookie. Yet, Francona keeps him at lead off - go figure. I thought the postseason was about winning, not waiting for someone to find their groove.
The shortstop position has been laughable. With the exception of some streaky hitting in September, Julio Lugo has been a disaster offensively. Alex Gonzales, a far better shortstop than Lugo, was replaced because it was thought Lugo would bring a little more pop from that position. Didn't happen.
Makes one long for the days of Renteria, doesn't it? Why exactly did they feel the need to get rid of him again?
Then again, why did they replace Cabrera with Renteria? The front office has some 'splaining to do.
Manny and Papi have had substandard years offensively (though, I daresay most hitters would love to have a Manny/Papi substandard year). Clutch hitting has fallen off a bit by them, but they still have the ability to worry an opposing pitcher. With Lowell in the five spot, it is a lineup to take seriously.
Then there's David Jonathan Drew, or J.D. Drew, for short. Another of the front office's less than brilliant machinations, and an incredibly expensive one at that. The irony there is that most of the analysts and pundits (armchair and professional) were naysaying the deal before it was even signed. And they have him signed for what... 4? 5 years? at $14M per year? If I was a cursing person, I'd let off a string right now.
Centerfielder Coco Crisp has been a spark defensively, but a disappointment at the plate as well.
Jason Varitek, team Captain and primary catcher, has fallen off offensively as well. He has been in the leagues for a long time - it's catching up to him.
So, with the exception of the 3-4-5 spots in the lineup, the team is batting around .225 in the postseason. Couple that with only one real effective starter, and I fail to see how this team was built for the postseason.
I hope Beckett wins his start Thursday. I hope the Red Sox are able to take it back home to Fenway.
For if they are going to die, where best to do it than at home?
Kudos to Cleveland for their tenacious play.
Steady, reliable Josh Beckett will pitch Thursday night. Of all the starters, he has the best chance to win the game and bring it back home to Fenway.
Still, he could lose, and I wouldn't hold it against him. Throughout the entire season, he has been the true ace of the staff, the only 20 game winner in all of MLB. The Josh Beckett of 2007 is so far removed from the Josh Beckett of 2006 that it's like two totally different pitchers. If this season is any indicator, Josh has the stuff to end up in the HOF one day.
The 2007 Red Sox were ostensibly built for the postseason.
Of course, it takes the postseason to see just how far off the building went.
As it turns out, the starting rotation (with the exception of Beckett) hasn't lived up to expectation. Schilling has had flashes of brilliance, but nothing consistent. Matsuzaka looks more and more like a monumental waste of money ($100M). Tim Wakefield's contract is cheap and year to year, but his effectiveness just hasn't been there the second half of the season.
The bullpen has huge anchors in Okajima and Papelbon. Delcarmen has stepped it up this year, but still makes costly mistakes. Timlin has been fairly effective. He's long in years, though, and his days have to be numbered. Lefty specialist Lopez can't get lefties out. Journeyman workhorse Julian Tavares was left off the ALCS roster, which makes no sense. He was always a good innings eater and fairly effective in his own right. Kyle Snyder, well I don't have much good I can say about him.
Lowell and Youkilis have been great at the corners, but Youkilis' offense has been streaky. Lowell, on the other hand, has been a rock, both defensively and offensively. He would like to stay in Boston, but all indications are that unless he accepts a shorter contract, say three years, the Sox won't re-sign him. More's the pity. He is the man this year, and you can't ignore the intangibles he brings to the clubhouse (let alone the tangibles). Isn't that what they kept saying about Kevin Millar in 2004 - look at all the intangibles he brings, never mind the fact that he can't hit, run or field that well.
Dustin Pedroia has had a terrific season, but in the postseason he's looking exactly like what he is - a rookie. Yet, Francona keeps him at lead off - go figure. I thought the postseason was about winning, not waiting for someone to find their groove.
The shortstop position has been laughable. With the exception of some streaky hitting in September, Julio Lugo has been a disaster offensively. Alex Gonzales, a far better shortstop than Lugo, was replaced because it was thought Lugo would bring a little more pop from that position. Didn't happen.
Makes one long for the days of Renteria, doesn't it? Why exactly did they feel the need to get rid of him again?
Then again, why did they replace Cabrera with Renteria? The front office has some 'splaining to do.
Manny and Papi have had substandard years offensively (though, I daresay most hitters would love to have a Manny/Papi substandard year). Clutch hitting has fallen off a bit by them, but they still have the ability to worry an opposing pitcher. With Lowell in the five spot, it is a lineup to take seriously.
Then there's David Jonathan Drew, or J.D. Drew, for short. Another of the front office's less than brilliant machinations, and an incredibly expensive one at that. The irony there is that most of the analysts and pundits (armchair and professional) were naysaying the deal before it was even signed. And they have him signed for what... 4? 5 years? at $14M per year? If I was a cursing person, I'd let off a string right now.
Centerfielder Coco Crisp has been a spark defensively, but a disappointment at the plate as well.
Jason Varitek, team Captain and primary catcher, has fallen off offensively as well. He has been in the leagues for a long time - it's catching up to him.
So, with the exception of the 3-4-5 spots in the lineup, the team is batting around .225 in the postseason. Couple that with only one real effective starter, and I fail to see how this team was built for the postseason.
I hope Beckett wins his start Thursday. I hope the Red Sox are able to take it back home to Fenway.
For if they are going to die, where best to do it than at home?
Kudos to Cleveland for their tenacious play.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Game 3 Thoughts
So Dice K only did what he's been doing for some time now - getting deep into pitch counts early and lacking control to paint the corners consistently. Any surprises there?
Even so, the game was still winnable. Four runs is not insurmountable, except the Red Sox we saw last night were sloppy at the plate and on the basepaths. They looked terribly like a team struggling, not at all like the Sox of the first game in the ALCS.
Do you realize that Jake Westbrook was able to do what neither Sabathia nor Carmona were able to do? Stymie the bats?
It happens.
It happens a lot during the season.
When it happens during the postseason, you start to wonder about the legitimacy of the team.
The Rockies roared through their NLCS, and the Indians are doing whatever it takes to win the ALCS.
The Red Sox don't look like champions right now. They are down 2-1 in the series. They can come back. But it won't be easy. Their next two games are in Cleveland, and they have to win at least one of them. If they don't, they're done.
Game 2 was pivotal as stated in a previous post.
It started something a little bit ugly.
If the Sox manage to squeak by the Tribe, one has to wonder what will happen in the World Series. I don't think they can overcome Colorado's momentum.
But first they have to overcome Cleveland's.
I still say Cleveland in 5 or 6.
You heard it here.
Even so, the game was still winnable. Four runs is not insurmountable, except the Red Sox we saw last night were sloppy at the plate and on the basepaths. They looked terribly like a team struggling, not at all like the Sox of the first game in the ALCS.
Do you realize that Jake Westbrook was able to do what neither Sabathia nor Carmona were able to do? Stymie the bats?
It happens.
It happens a lot during the season.
When it happens during the postseason, you start to wonder about the legitimacy of the team.
The Rockies roared through their NLCS, and the Indians are doing whatever it takes to win the ALCS.
The Red Sox don't look like champions right now. They are down 2-1 in the series. They can come back. But it won't be easy. Their next two games are in Cleveland, and they have to win at least one of them. If they don't, they're done.
Game 2 was pivotal as stated in a previous post.
It started something a little bit ugly.
If the Sox manage to squeak by the Tribe, one has to wonder what will happen in the World Series. I don't think they can overcome Colorado's momentum.
But first they have to overcome Cleveland's.
I still say Cleveland in 5 or 6.
You heard it here.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Game 1 Thoughts
I won't be doing this for every game, but game one of any series is a seminal game in that it has the ability to set the tone for the rest of the games.
If you are a Red Sox fan, you had to like what you saw last night. Not so much that they blew out the Tribe 10-3. And not so much that Beckett was still in form. But the plate discipline and patience were the key, the real reason behind their success.
The Red Sox have had a spotty year of offense - that's the perception, and it's a valid one. I think that they were one of the top teams in runs for the season - at one point they were 2nd or 3rd. But numbers of runs scored is less important than when they are scored. Eight runs in a game is a lot of runs, but if you lose 9-8, it's a moot point.
Of course, in the end, they had enough run support to own a 96-66 record and that's saying a lot, However, they didn't often live up to their offensive potential with Ortiz hurting a lot of the year and Manny having a subManny year. That allowed Mike Lowell and Dustin Pedroia to really shine. Even Lugo and Drew picked it up in September.
To be able to get the offensive machine to life like they did last night was huge. It sparked on all sorts of cylinders up and down the rotation. They worked the pitches, drew a lot of walks and took Sabathia out of his rhythm early, which is no mean feat in itself. If this offense shows up every night, I think the Red Sox are unstoppable with adequate pitching support.
Schilling pitches the next game, Dice-K after that and Wakefield after him. Curt pitched a gem against the Angels, and that's the Curt we hope to see tonight. His control was phenomenal, and he used a myriad of pitches to entice the batters to fail.
Dice-K still remains a question mark. I think Wakefield does too. Tim has been a stalwart of the rotation. Of late, though, he hasn't looked all that good, purportedly from recurring back problems. He does have postseason experience which is a plus, but I can't place a lot of confidence in him yet.
On the other hand, Carmona and Byrd were terrific against the Yankees and should be treated with the utmost respect.
So here we go, off to the races. The Red Sox took game one, and I expected that based on Beckett alone. We'll see how the rest of the series goes. I don't see the Sox steamrolling the Indians, but it could happen.
Or it could go the other way. Tonight may be pivotal.
If you are a Red Sox fan, you had to like what you saw last night. Not so much that they blew out the Tribe 10-3. And not so much that Beckett was still in form. But the plate discipline and patience were the key, the real reason behind their success.
The Red Sox have had a spotty year of offense - that's the perception, and it's a valid one. I think that they were one of the top teams in runs for the season - at one point they were 2nd or 3rd. But numbers of runs scored is less important than when they are scored. Eight runs in a game is a lot of runs, but if you lose 9-8, it's a moot point.
Of course, in the end, they had enough run support to own a 96-66 record and that's saying a lot, However, they didn't often live up to their offensive potential with Ortiz hurting a lot of the year and Manny having a subManny year. That allowed Mike Lowell and Dustin Pedroia to really shine. Even Lugo and Drew picked it up in September.
To be able to get the offensive machine to life like they did last night was huge. It sparked on all sorts of cylinders up and down the rotation. They worked the pitches, drew a lot of walks and took Sabathia out of his rhythm early, which is no mean feat in itself. If this offense shows up every night, I think the Red Sox are unstoppable with adequate pitching support.
Schilling pitches the next game, Dice-K after that and Wakefield after him. Curt pitched a gem against the Angels, and that's the Curt we hope to see tonight. His control was phenomenal, and he used a myriad of pitches to entice the batters to fail.
Dice-K still remains a question mark. I think Wakefield does too. Tim has been a stalwart of the rotation. Of late, though, he hasn't looked all that good, purportedly from recurring back problems. He does have postseason experience which is a plus, but I can't place a lot of confidence in him yet.
On the other hand, Carmona and Byrd were terrific against the Yankees and should be treated with the utmost respect.
So here we go, off to the races. The Red Sox took game one, and I expected that based on Beckett alone. We'll see how the rest of the series goes. I don't see the Sox steamrolling the Indians, but it could happen.
Or it could go the other way. Tonight may be pivotal.
Monday, October 8, 2007
OK, so that didn't work
The Yankees ended up winning game 3 of their series against Cleveland.
But that may not be such a bad thing. If the teams can string this out the full five games, then who will be more rested when going into the ALCS? The Sox or their opponent. There are some that think a layer of rust may develop over the next 4 days because the ALCS doesn't start til Friday, but, really, isn't that what practice is all about?
Speaking of winning the ALDS, I see the pictures of the Red Sox squirting champagne over each other and the only thing I can think is - act like you been here before boys.
Not that I'm unhappy to see the Sox in the postseason, but is it really necessary to have a champagne party every three games? At least Papelbon wasn't dancing around with a beer box on his head this time.
Seriously, the celebration when they clinched the division title was understood. And they did a fantastic job against the Angels. But I'm thinking that New York or Cleveland would have done just as well. The Angels, for whatever reason, injuries and all, were in a downtrend while the Sox were in an uptrend.
Well, at least the Sox have 4 days to wash the champagne out of their ears and eyes before they face a new (old?) opponent in their quest for the AL Pennant.
Luck to you and yours.
But that may not be such a bad thing. If the teams can string this out the full five games, then who will be more rested when going into the ALCS? The Sox or their opponent. There are some that think a layer of rust may develop over the next 4 days because the ALCS doesn't start til Friday, but, really, isn't that what practice is all about?
Speaking of winning the ALDS, I see the pictures of the Red Sox squirting champagne over each other and the only thing I can think is - act like you been here before boys.
Not that I'm unhappy to see the Sox in the postseason, but is it really necessary to have a champagne party every three games? At least Papelbon wasn't dancing around with a beer box on his head this time.
Seriously, the celebration when they clinched the division title was understood. And they did a fantastic job against the Angels. But I'm thinking that New York or Cleveland would have done just as well. The Angels, for whatever reason, injuries and all, were in a downtrend while the Sox were in an uptrend.
Well, at least the Sox have 4 days to wash the champagne out of their ears and eyes before they face a new (old?) opponent in their quest for the AL Pennant.
Luck to you and yours.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Congratulations Red Sox
The Red Sox trounced the Angels convincingly with pitching, timely hitting and great defense. Granted the Angels were without the services of Gary Matthews and Garret Anderson (third game), and Vlad Guerrero wasn't up to snuff - in other words, injuries took their toll. Even so, it's not so much what the Angels didn't do, but what the Sox did that was impressive.
Beckett threw a complete game shutout in game one. Manny got his first ever walk-off homerun in post season in game two, and Schilling worked the plate like the old pro he is. It was all very fascinating to watch and hopefully it bodes well for the ALCS.
The NLCS has already been settled. It will be between Colorado and Arizona. Both teams swept their rivals, Philadelphia and Chicago which really has to nettle Major League Baseball. Two major market teams swept out of contention. Gotta wonder what it does for ratings.
As of this writing, Cleveland is two runs ahead of the Yankees in their game three being played at Yankee Stadium. Steinbrenner has stated that if the Yankees lose, Torre's head will be on the block. It's a shame really. I like Torre, think he's a good manager.
I'd like to see the Sox play Cleveland in the ALCS only if for no other reason than I'm sick of seeing the Yankees. Go Cleveland!!
But as per my last post, I predict the Yankees will win tonight. ;-)
Got it?
Beckett threw a complete game shutout in game one. Manny got his first ever walk-off homerun in post season in game two, and Schilling worked the plate like the old pro he is. It was all very fascinating to watch and hopefully it bodes well for the ALCS.
The NLCS has already been settled. It will be between Colorado and Arizona. Both teams swept their rivals, Philadelphia and Chicago which really has to nettle Major League Baseball. Two major market teams swept out of contention. Gotta wonder what it does for ratings.
As of this writing, Cleveland is two runs ahead of the Yankees in their game three being played at Yankee Stadium. Steinbrenner has stated that if the Yankees lose, Torre's head will be on the block. It's a shame really. I like Torre, think he's a good manager.
I'd like to see the Sox play Cleveland in the ALCS only if for no other reason than I'm sick of seeing the Yankees. Go Cleveland!!
But as per my last post, I predict the Yankees will win tonight. ;-)
Got it?
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Since the Prediction....
When I predicted that the Red Sox would cede the division to the Yankees, they were 3-1/2 games ahead of New York. Now they are only 1-1/2 games ahead with series coming up against Tampa Bay, Oakland and Minnesota to end the season.
The Yankees, on the other hand, just swept Baltimore and will face Toronto, Tampa Bay and the Orioles one last time again before October.
With a non-existent offense and a bullpen in disarray, I still think it's a safe bet to reiterate my prediction.
So now, the Red Sox have HAVE to make sure they don't give up the wild card.
Here's to seeing you on the other side.
The Yankees, on the other hand, just swept Baltimore and will face Toronto, Tampa Bay and the Orioles one last time again before October.
With a non-existent offense and a bullpen in disarray, I still think it's a safe bet to reiterate my prediction.
So now, the Red Sox have HAVE to make sure they don't give up the wild card.
Here's to seeing you on the other side.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
My Prediction
Not one to prognosticate (yeah, right!), I have decided to put my prediction in print (sort of) here with regards to the American League East pennant race.
Here is what I think.
Ready?
Really Ready?
OK... let's do it.
I think the Red Sox will cede first place to the Yankees in September. Their offense (the Red Sox) is inconsistent, and except for the first four spots in the order, practically nonexistent. The Yankees, on the other hand, have been productive all the way down through their batting order.
So, the Sox will make it into the playoffs as a wild card team, but not as a division winner.
That's my prediction.
Let's see what happens.
Here is what I think.
Ready?
Really Ready?
OK... let's do it.
I think the Red Sox will cede first place to the Yankees in September. Their offense (the Red Sox) is inconsistent, and except for the first four spots in the order, practically nonexistent. The Yankees, on the other hand, have been productive all the way down through their batting order.
So, the Sox will make it into the playoffs as a wild card team, but not as a division winner.
That's my prediction.
Let's see what happens.
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