According to a report by Jeff Passan on Yahoo! Sports there was a secret meeting held between Red Sox ownership and some players, including Adrian Gonzalez and Dustin Pedroia, on July 26 to discuss disdain for their manager.
It's the latest in a series of bad relations between troops and leader in a clubhouse that is crumbling from within.
The report also suggests that their is not only a unified dislike of Bobby Valentine among the players but also grudges being held between players. The situation is a mess.
GM Ben Cherington confirmed the meeting although gave a very non specific answer about details.
"The intent of the meeting was to provide a forum for people to express
whatever frustration needed to be expressed at a time during the season
when things were not going exactly the way we wanted to on the field in
hopes that we could put whatever issues were there aside and focus on
playing games the rest of the season. That was the intent of the
meeting. That was the focus of ownership. It was a productive meeting."
It's hard to believe the Red Sox are in worse shape in 2012 than they were at the end of last season when they completed their historic collapse but here we are. The team isn't performing. They clearly don't like or trust their manager. Changes once again will have to be made (both to the roster and to the coaching staff).
Bobby Valentine was the anti-Francona when he was hired by Boston ownership. It seemed like the right move at the time. It seemed as though it was exactly what was needed in the Red Sox clubhouse to fix any lingering issues.
It clearly has not worked.
Valentine appears to be the manager through the end of the 2012 season ... appears to be.
That will change come the off-season. The Red Sox will fire him and try to wipe their hands clean of an awful 2012 campaign. While it's the right move and it will need to be made is Bobby Valentine really the bad guy here?
Certainly he's part of the problem but what about the players, what role do they have in this matter?
Clearly the players think they run the show and own the clubhouse. Making Valentine a scapegoat only covers up deeper rooted issues. The next manager, whomever it will be, is going to have the same problems that Valentine has faced this season and that Terry Francona faced before him. The so-called star players who do not care about their job and under perform.
The Red Sox would be lying if they said they were not aware of these players who are causing problems. Ben Cherington practically begged other teams to take Josh Beckett off his hands at the deadline (apparently offering to eat a ton of salary to get rid of him) but to no avail.
DL'd SP John Lackey created another media storm last week upon being spotted in the clubhouse double fisting after a loss last week. In two seasons in Boston Lackey has been down right awful and like Beckett doesn't appear to care.
The two of them anchored the collapse in 2011.
So fire Bobby V, he deserves it. There's far bigger problems in Boston though.
Showing posts with label Red Sox. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Red Sox. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Friday, August 10, 2012
Chicken and Beer Scandal Returns to Red Sox
According to a report on Boston.com at least one half of the Chicken and Beer scandal has made a return to the Red Sox clubhouse.
After a 5-3 loss to the Indians last night SP John Lackey, who is out for the season, was seen walking aroung the clubhouse "double-fisting".
Lackey has been on the DL since undergoing Tommy John surgery in February but has traveled with the team for the majority of the season. He was one of the three pitchers who took the majority of the blame for the Chicken and Beer episode last September when the Red Sox collapsed and missed the playoffs. In March new manager Bobby Valentine banned all alcohol from the clubhouse as a result of the previous season.
The Red Sox signed Lackey to a 5-year/$82.5 million dollar deal as a free agent in December of 2009. In his first two seasons with Boston he started 61 games, posted a 26-23 record with an awful, awful 5.26 ERA. In his previous 8 seasons with the Angels his ERA was 3.81 in 234 appearances.
Lackey has two more seasons remaining on his deal and is owed $30.5 million.
It's hard to imagine a guy who's not even on the active roster is causing problems for a team who is a walking soap opera.
It's just one more issue to add to the on-going drama that is the Boston Red Sox the last two seasons.
After a 5-3 loss to the Indians last night SP John Lackey, who is out for the season, was seen walking aroung the clubhouse "double-fisting".
Lackey has been on the DL since undergoing Tommy John surgery in February but has traveled with the team for the majority of the season. He was one of the three pitchers who took the majority of the blame for the Chicken and Beer episode last September when the Red Sox collapsed and missed the playoffs. In March new manager Bobby Valentine banned all alcohol from the clubhouse as a result of the previous season.
The Red Sox signed Lackey to a 5-year/$82.5 million dollar deal as a free agent in December of 2009. In his first two seasons with Boston he started 61 games, posted a 26-23 record with an awful, awful 5.26 ERA. In his previous 8 seasons with the Angels his ERA was 3.81 in 234 appearances.
Lackey has two more seasons remaining on his deal and is owed $30.5 million.
It's hard to imagine a guy who's not even on the active roster is causing problems for a team who is a walking soap opera.
It's just one more issue to add to the on-going drama that is the Boston Red Sox the last two seasons.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Boston Red Sox: Time for Tough Decisions
The MLB Trade Deadline is quickly approaching and the Boston Red Sox find themselves consistently flirting with the .500 mark. After Sunday's loss the Red Sox found themselves swept away - at home no less - by the division rival Blue Jays. The Jays came into Fenway having been swept be the East leading Yankees and looked primed to take a pounding. Instead it was the Red Sox pitching staff who took the beating.
GM Ben Cherington has nine days left to figure out what to do with this team. Does he try to add to the roster and make a run at one of the Wild Card spots? The Red Sox are within striking distance afterall finding themselves 3.5 back. On the flip side of that there are 8 teams all within that same distance of the two Wild Card spots. The Red Sox have, as one would expect, almost a .500 record against those teams (25-26). This team, which is largely the same in 2012, blew a massive lead in the Wild Card in 2011. The result was wholesale changes on the management side of things. It could be time to look at the players themselves and make wholesale changes on the field.
If Cherington decides to add to the team, what are moves are likely? Adding pitching help seems the most likely. The likes of Ryan Dempster, Matt Garza, Zack Greinke and Cole Hamels are going to command top level prospects - something the Red Sox don't have a lot of - and are going to have a number of contenders bidding for their services. It then begs the question who gets bumped from the rotation should the Sox acquire one of these starters? Franklin Morales has already been bumped back to the bullpen despite being one of the Red Sox stronger options the last month or so. The likely candidates become Aaron Cook or Felix Doubront. It would seem unwise to drop one of those two guys from the rotation as they both possess earned run averages lower than the other Red Sox starters, Beckett, Lester and Buchholz, who are supposed to be the ace. Doubront has a 4.24 ERA, Cook has a 3.50 ERA. While they're not spectacular numbers they're better than the 4.53, 5.46 and 5.19 ERAs put up by Beckett, Lester and Buchholz respectively. It seems highly unlikely that, despite their awful performances this season, that either of those three would be bumped to the bullpen.
No, adding pitching doesn't really help the team unless those three start pitching better.
The solution then becomes a clear one, even if it is not simple. Blowup this roster and start again.
The Yankees are running away with the division and although they have an aging roster they have a number of talented young pitchers that will anchor their rotation (injured Michael Pineda and Ivan Nova) into the future. They'll always have the money to acquire offense if their current stars begin to falter.
The Orioles have had a wonderful season and continue to stay alive in the playoff chase despite injuries and and ranking in the bottom third in offensive and pitching categories. While they may not pose a legitimate threat this season they're certainly an up and coming squad.
The Rays have a ton of young starting pitchers and could leverage any of them and turn them into the offense they've been desperately lacking this season. Or they could just wait it out and see what happens when 3B Evan Longoria returns (he's been out since May 1st with a hamstring injury). They're a team that has made the playoffs in 3 of the last 4 seasons and were considered to be a threat to win the division this season.
Just like the Red Sox the Blue Jays have floated around .500 for most of the season. However they are a much younger team and have suffered injuries three of their five starters, two of which are season ending. Their offense is young and consistently improving. While they might not make the playoffs this season they're a team that's going to contend very, very soon.
Where does that leave the Red Sox? They have a number of large contracts with aging stars. Aside from 3B Will Middlebrooks (23) and SP Felix Doubront (24) there isn't much youth on the Major League roster. Their "stars" are all approaching 30 or older. In August Crawford will turn 31, Pedroia will turn 29 and Buchholz will turn 28. In September Ellsbury will turn 29. Gonzalez and Beckett are both 30+. Lester is 28. They do not have a single prospect in MLB's Top 100. C Ryan Lavarnway is pretty much Major League ready, one of their few prospects that is, and he's going to be 25. There's a lot of money tied up in aging stars and not a lot of youth to infuse into the roster.
Realistically the Red Sox do not appear talented enough to make a long run into October. They certainly possess the ability to sneak into one of the Wild Cards and maybe they win the one game playoff. Assuming they could do that they'd likely find themselves up against the two-time defending AL Champion Texas Rangers, a far superior club (the Sox open a three game series in Texas on Monday).
It'd be a tough sell to the players, fans and media but it certainly seems as though this Red Sox team needs a revamp.
Josh Beckett and Jon Lester have been downright awful this season. Over the weekend both pitched against the Blue Jays and both lost. Beckett allowed 4 ER (5 total runs) over 6 innings on Friday night. He took the loss as the Red Sox fell 6-1. On Sunday Lester took to the mound have owned the Jays in his career. He allowed a career high 11 ER in 4 innings including 4 home-runs. Neither will have the kind of trade value they should possess because of their rough seasons. With some many teams in contention this season though it's possible Cherington could unload both of them for teams desperate for pitching. However unlike other options available through trade both Beckett and Lester are signed through 2014. If a team is wary to acquire a Dempster, Garza, Greinke or Hamels because of pending free agency Beckett and/or Lester could be an intriguing option.
DH David Ortiz is having a great season. His contract runs out at the end of the 2012 season. Any team looking for middle of the order power would sure love to get their hands on Ortiz. He's had a wonderful run in Boston but at 36 (37 in the off-season) he simply does not fit into the Red Sox long-term plans. He definitely should be shopped around.
The tougher decisions come with the likes of Ellsbury, Crawford and Gonzalez.
Can the Red Sox afford to sign Ellsbury to a long-term deal. More importantly, do they want to? His 2011 season was the best of his career but otherwise he's been injured. He's a great talent and could bring a lot in return if he can continue to hit before the deadline.
Crawford and Gonzalez are both signed to long-term contracts through 2017 and 2018, respectively. Their were rumors swirling around last week that the Red Sox were in talks with the Marlins about a trade involving Crawford and Hanley Ramirez. Ben Cherington shot those rumors down insisting that Crawford is and would continue to be the Red Sox LF. Gonzalez on the other hand has seemingly lost his power since joining the Red Sox last season. In the spacious Petco Park in San Diego Gonzalez had four straight seasons of 30+ HRs. Fans salivated over the prospect of what he'd accomplish in a much smaller Fenway. The results haven't been good. Between two seasons, totaling 252 games, with the Red Sox Gonzalez has only managed to knock out 36 HRs total. They wouldn't be easy contracts to move and neither players hold the value that was expected of them when they signed these massive deals.
There are other pieces that could easily be moved but wouldn't bring a whole lot back in return. Pieces in the bullpen could be had, guys like Matt Albers, Andrew Miller, Vincente Padilla and Alfredo Aceves are expendable. OF Cody Ross has had a strong season but is only signed for 2012. Despite missing time on the DL Ross has hit 16 HR. A team looking for a corner outfielder with some pop would like send a decent prospect in return. Guys like Ryan Sweeney, Mike Aviles, Nick Punto, Kelly Shoppach and even Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Aaron Cook aren't likely to figure in any long-term plans or success. For the right price they could be available too.
It's not a simple choice but it is a necessary one. This team has proven time and time again that they are not a true contender. They are far too inconsistent and likely to be passed by all four teams in their division.
Blowing up the roster and spending a few years in the basement of the AL East may not be a popular decision but ultimately it is what is best for the club.
GM Ben Cherington has nine days left to figure out what to do with this team. Does he try to add to the roster and make a run at one of the Wild Card spots? The Red Sox are within striking distance afterall finding themselves 3.5 back. On the flip side of that there are 8 teams all within that same distance of the two Wild Card spots. The Red Sox have, as one would expect, almost a .500 record against those teams (25-26). This team, which is largely the same in 2012, blew a massive lead in the Wild Card in 2011. The result was wholesale changes on the management side of things. It could be time to look at the players themselves and make wholesale changes on the field.
If Cherington decides to add to the team, what are moves are likely? Adding pitching help seems the most likely. The likes of Ryan Dempster, Matt Garza, Zack Greinke and Cole Hamels are going to command top level prospects - something the Red Sox don't have a lot of - and are going to have a number of contenders bidding for their services. It then begs the question who gets bumped from the rotation should the Sox acquire one of these starters? Franklin Morales has already been bumped back to the bullpen despite being one of the Red Sox stronger options the last month or so. The likely candidates become Aaron Cook or Felix Doubront. It would seem unwise to drop one of those two guys from the rotation as they both possess earned run averages lower than the other Red Sox starters, Beckett, Lester and Buchholz, who are supposed to be the ace. Doubront has a 4.24 ERA, Cook has a 3.50 ERA. While they're not spectacular numbers they're better than the 4.53, 5.46 and 5.19 ERAs put up by Beckett, Lester and Buchholz respectively. It seems highly unlikely that, despite their awful performances this season, that either of those three would be bumped to the bullpen.
No, adding pitching doesn't really help the team unless those three start pitching better.
The solution then becomes a clear one, even if it is not simple. Blowup this roster and start again.
The Yankees are running away with the division and although they have an aging roster they have a number of talented young pitchers that will anchor their rotation (injured Michael Pineda and Ivan Nova) into the future. They'll always have the money to acquire offense if their current stars begin to falter.
The Orioles have had a wonderful season and continue to stay alive in the playoff chase despite injuries and and ranking in the bottom third in offensive and pitching categories. While they may not pose a legitimate threat this season they're certainly an up and coming squad.
The Rays have a ton of young starting pitchers and could leverage any of them and turn them into the offense they've been desperately lacking this season. Or they could just wait it out and see what happens when 3B Evan Longoria returns (he's been out since May 1st with a hamstring injury). They're a team that has made the playoffs in 3 of the last 4 seasons and were considered to be a threat to win the division this season.
Just like the Red Sox the Blue Jays have floated around .500 for most of the season. However they are a much younger team and have suffered injuries three of their five starters, two of which are season ending. Their offense is young and consistently improving. While they might not make the playoffs this season they're a team that's going to contend very, very soon.
Where does that leave the Red Sox? They have a number of large contracts with aging stars. Aside from 3B Will Middlebrooks (23) and SP Felix Doubront (24) there isn't much youth on the Major League roster. Their "stars" are all approaching 30 or older. In August Crawford will turn 31, Pedroia will turn 29 and Buchholz will turn 28. In September Ellsbury will turn 29. Gonzalez and Beckett are both 30+. Lester is 28. They do not have a single prospect in MLB's Top 100. C Ryan Lavarnway is pretty much Major League ready, one of their few prospects that is, and he's going to be 25. There's a lot of money tied up in aging stars and not a lot of youth to infuse into the roster.
Realistically the Red Sox do not appear talented enough to make a long run into October. They certainly possess the ability to sneak into one of the Wild Cards and maybe they win the one game playoff. Assuming they could do that they'd likely find themselves up against the two-time defending AL Champion Texas Rangers, a far superior club (the Sox open a three game series in Texas on Monday).
It'd be a tough sell to the players, fans and media but it certainly seems as though this Red Sox team needs a revamp.
Josh Beckett and Jon Lester have been downright awful this season. Over the weekend both pitched against the Blue Jays and both lost. Beckett allowed 4 ER (5 total runs) over 6 innings on Friday night. He took the loss as the Red Sox fell 6-1. On Sunday Lester took to the mound have owned the Jays in his career. He allowed a career high 11 ER in 4 innings including 4 home-runs. Neither will have the kind of trade value they should possess because of their rough seasons. With some many teams in contention this season though it's possible Cherington could unload both of them for teams desperate for pitching. However unlike other options available through trade both Beckett and Lester are signed through 2014. If a team is wary to acquire a Dempster, Garza, Greinke or Hamels because of pending free agency Beckett and/or Lester could be an intriguing option.
DH David Ortiz is having a great season. His contract runs out at the end of the 2012 season. Any team looking for middle of the order power would sure love to get their hands on Ortiz. He's had a wonderful run in Boston but at 36 (37 in the off-season) he simply does not fit into the Red Sox long-term plans. He definitely should be shopped around.
The tougher decisions come with the likes of Ellsbury, Crawford and Gonzalez.
Can the Red Sox afford to sign Ellsbury to a long-term deal. More importantly, do they want to? His 2011 season was the best of his career but otherwise he's been injured. He's a great talent and could bring a lot in return if he can continue to hit before the deadline.
Crawford and Gonzalez are both signed to long-term contracts through 2017 and 2018, respectively. Their were rumors swirling around last week that the Red Sox were in talks with the Marlins about a trade involving Crawford and Hanley Ramirez. Ben Cherington shot those rumors down insisting that Crawford is and would continue to be the Red Sox LF. Gonzalez on the other hand has seemingly lost his power since joining the Red Sox last season. In the spacious Petco Park in San Diego Gonzalez had four straight seasons of 30+ HRs. Fans salivated over the prospect of what he'd accomplish in a much smaller Fenway. The results haven't been good. Between two seasons, totaling 252 games, with the Red Sox Gonzalez has only managed to knock out 36 HRs total. They wouldn't be easy contracts to move and neither players hold the value that was expected of them when they signed these massive deals.
There are other pieces that could easily be moved but wouldn't bring a whole lot back in return. Pieces in the bullpen could be had, guys like Matt Albers, Andrew Miller, Vincente Padilla and Alfredo Aceves are expendable. OF Cody Ross has had a strong season but is only signed for 2012. Despite missing time on the DL Ross has hit 16 HR. A team looking for a corner outfielder with some pop would like send a decent prospect in return. Guys like Ryan Sweeney, Mike Aviles, Nick Punto, Kelly Shoppach and even Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Aaron Cook aren't likely to figure in any long-term plans or success. For the right price they could be available too.
It's not a simple choice but it is a necessary one. This team has proven time and time again that they are not a true contender. They are far too inconsistent and likely to be passed by all four teams in their division.
Blowing up the roster and spending a few years in the basement of the AL East may not be a popular decision but ultimately it is what is best for the club.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Five Players Who Should Be Traded ...
... But (likely) won't be.
With 13 days before the 2012 Trade Deadline here are five guys that could/should/would benefit from being traded by their current clubs. That or they should be traded for the sheer fact that they no longer fit on their current roster. In no particular order.
The Mariners are not going to be contending for a World Series any time soon. Ichiro isn't the same dynamic player he once was. A trade to a contender in hopes of a World Series ring is a chance that Ichiro deserves. He's done a lot for the game since arriving in Seattle in 2001 and even though seeing him don another uniform would be weird at first it'd feel oh so right if it got him a ring.
Trading James Shields makes sense for the Rays for two reasons: first he's under conrol until 2014 (unlike many other SP available) and second he could bring a lot in return to a team that needs offense. Shields is a proven competitor that's been pitching in the tough AL East for years now. He's due $9 million with a $1.5 million buyout in 2013 and $12 mil ($1 mil buyout) for 2014. For those teams that aren't willing to trade top prospects for a half season rental player he's an attractive option. The Rays also have Wade Davis sitting the in pen. Davis made 29 starts in each of 2010 and 2011 before being forced to the pen this season. He could slot right into the rotation to replace Shields.
Just like Ichiro before him Helton deserves another shot at a World Series Ring. He hasn't been the same player he once was since 2005 and has been declining ever since. He's going to be 40 next season and his career is winding down. Surely some contender would be interested in his services, potentially as a DH. He is currently on the DL but that doesn't stop him from being traded. What does is Helton's willingness to leave the only organization he's played for.
Halladay just returned from the DL on Tuesday and pitched 5 innings in a win over the Dodgers. The Phillies should try to trade Halladay and not trade Cole Hamels. The money freed up from Halladay being trade could be used to re-sign Hamels. Halladay won't bring as much back in return because of his age (35) but he does have two more years (at $20 mil a season) left on his deal. The Phillies are an old team that need to reload. Trading Hamels and keeping Halladay doesn't make much sense to me unless they're sure they can't re-sign Hamels.
Beckett needs to go. Boston needs an ace and Beckett just isn't that guy. He's not a particularly consistent pitcher. He does make a lot of trips to the DL and he's owed a lot of money ($31.5 million through 2014). However with so many teams in contention for the playoffs there's someone out there willing to trade for a guy with two World Series rings. The Red Sox are looking for pitching help themselves so it seems counter intuitive to trade Beckett but a change of scenery could be good for both parties. At 32 Beckett is a younger option than Roy Halladay and comes slightly cheaper.
I'd be a little surprised if any of these five guys were actually traded by their respective teams. But if they do get traded it'll make a lot of sense.
With 13 days before the 2012 Trade Deadline here are five guys that could/should/would benefit from being traded by their current clubs. That or they should be traded for the sheer fact that they no longer fit on their current roster. In no particular order.
 |
| Mariners RF Ichiro |
 |
| Rays SP James Shields |
 |
| Rockies 1B Todd Helton |
 |
| Phillies SP Roy Halladay |
 |
| Red Sox SP Josh Beckett |
I'd be a little surprised if any of these five guys were actually traded by their respective teams. But if they do get traded it'll make a lot of sense.
Monday, July 16, 2012
Two Hole Hitters Dominate Headlines at Fenway
Monday Night at Fenway Park sees the White and Red Sox begin a 4-game set. It's a pretty big series for both clubs as they look to continue their strong starts to the second half. Both teams are in playoff contention and it is always important to beat those you're competing against for playoff positioning. The White Sox currently lead the AL Central by 3.5 games while the Red Sox sit a game and a half back in the Wild Card chase.
But who am I kidding, no one cares about that right now.
The big story line going into Monday's contest is the return of two players, coincidentally, both hitting in the 2 spot for their respective teams.
Former Red Sox 3B Kevin Youkilis returns for the first time since being traded by the Red Sox on June 24. In recent days Red Sox Manager Bobby Valentine criticized Youkilis for his inability to move past negative comments Valentine made in April.
In the home dugout LF Carl Crawford returns to the Red Sox lineup, playing in his first meaningful game since last September when the Red Sox officially completed an historic collapse and missed out on the playoffs.
Both players will be crucial to their teams success in the remaining months and realistically this one game will have little impact on the season as a whole.
But it sure is interesting for the media and fans to talk about.
But who am I kidding, no one cares about that right now.
The big story line going into Monday's contest is the return of two players, coincidentally, both hitting in the 2 spot for their respective teams.
Former Red Sox 3B Kevin Youkilis returns for the first time since being traded by the Red Sox on June 24. In recent days Red Sox Manager Bobby Valentine criticized Youkilis for his inability to move past negative comments Valentine made in April.
In the home dugout LF Carl Crawford returns to the Red Sox lineup, playing in his first meaningful game since last September when the Red Sox officially completed an historic collapse and missed out on the playoffs.
Both players will be crucial to their teams success in the remaining months and realistically this one game will have little impact on the season as a whole.
But it sure is interesting for the media and fans to talk about.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Valentine Takes Another Shot at Youkilis
It was bad enough when Bobby Valentine decided to question Kevin Youkilis' dedication when he was actually a Red Sox player.
Now Valentine and has gone and stuck his foot in his mouth again regarding Youkilis.
Valentine blamed Youkilis for their poor relationship over their few months together.
"I think the comment I made early, he made a big issue about and I don't think he ever wanted to get over it."
The timing is intriguing as Youkilis is set to return to Fenway Park as a member of the Chicago White Sox on Monday.
Maybe Valentine should employ the old adage "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all". It seems all the things he has to say about Youkilis are negative and frankly Kevin is a well respected player. It can't make current Red Sox players feel especially good about their manager.
You just wonder what Valentine hopes to accomplish by saying these things ...
UPDATE at 2:51 p.m.
When asked about Valentine's comments Youkilis had this to say, ''I got nothing about any of that stuff. I'm over all the Boston thing of this year. There is a lot of great past history, but the focus is on the White Sox.''
Now Valentine and has gone and stuck his foot in his mouth again regarding Youkilis.
Valentine blamed Youkilis for their poor relationship over their few months together.
"I think the comment I made early, he made a big issue about and I don't think he ever wanted to get over it."
The timing is intriguing as Youkilis is set to return to Fenway Park as a member of the Chicago White Sox on Monday.
Maybe Valentine should employ the old adage "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all". It seems all the things he has to say about Youkilis are negative and frankly Kevin is a well respected player. It can't make current Red Sox players feel especially good about their manager.
You just wonder what Valentine hopes to accomplish by saying these things ...
UPDATE at 2:51 p.m.
When asked about Valentine's comments Youkilis had this to say, ''I got nothing about any of that stuff. I'm over all the Boston thing of this year. There is a lot of great past history, but the focus is on the White Sox.''
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Top Stories of the First Half
With the final weekend of baseball before the All-Star break upon us let's look back at the five most interesting stories to sweep through baseball, so far, in 2012.
R.A. Dickey
How could this man not be included? In October he will turn 38 and all he's done this season is dominate the NL like he's never done before. This is a guy who a few seasons ago not only couldn't hold down a job in a rotation but struggled to say in the Majors. He bounced between franchises (Texas, Seattle and Minnesota) before the Mets finally gave him a chance at being a full-time starter in 2010. His knuckleball seems to be mystifying hitters and has allowed him to notch, an MLB leading, 12 wins. He ranks third in ERA (2.40) and first in Ks (123) in the NL. He has more strikeouts than names like Kershaw, Strasburg and Cain. His WHIP sits at a very pretty 0.93 and leads all of baseball. On June 13th and 18th he tossed back-to-back 1 hitters. He's an early favorite for the NL Cy Young. Oh and before the season even began he released a book titled Wherever I Wind Up: My Quest for Truth, Authenticity and the Perfect Knuckleball. In the book he spoke about how he was sexually abused as a child. The man's overcome a lot to have, without a doubt, the best season of his career.
No-Hitters, Perfect Games and Cycles
These feats are impressive during any season but 2012 has already seen its fair share of them. Chicago White Sox Phil Humber started us off by tossing a Perfect Game at Safeco Field versus the Seattle Mariners on April 21. Eleven days later on May 2nd Jered Weaver tossed a no-hitter against the Minnesota Twins. Just about a month after that (June 1) Johan Santana tossed the first ever no-hitter in the 50 year history of the N.Y. Mets. Exactly a week later six Seattle Mariners combined to no-hit the L.A. Dodgers. Then only 5 days later Matt Cain tossed the second perfect game of the season versus the Giants.
Hitters haven't been outdone though as less than a week after Humber tossed his perfect game Scott Hairston of the Mets hit for the cycle. Then in June when there was a break from pitching feats Aaron Hill accomplished one of the more remarkable feats in MLB history. On June 18th Hill hit for the cycle against the Mariners (Seattle has been involved in a lot this season already). Twelve short days later Hill was at it again hitting for the cycle against the Milwaukee Brewers becoming only the 4th player in MLB history to hit two cycles in one season, the second since 1900 and the first since 1931. If Hill were to hit another cycle in the remaining three months of the season he'd not only become the first player ever to do it but he'd also be tied atop the list of career cycles (3).
Cycles now outnumber no-hitters 293-272. What a season we're having already.
Washington Nationals Rotation
First things first the Nationals have only used 6 starters all season with Stephen Strasburg, Gio Gonzalez, Jordan Zimmerman and Edwin Jackson all making at least 16 starts (Ross Detwiler has made 12). Not only has the rotation stayed healthy though they've all performed. All five starters have an ERA that is lower than 3.74. Four of the five have WHIPs less than 1.16. If they continue at this pace it would be hard to imagine the Nationals not winning the NL East. They could use another bat or two in the lineup and it will be interesting to see what they decide to do at the deadline. Additionally the Nationals plan to limit Ace Stephen Strasburg's innings to 160. Hard to imagine how they'll accomplish that if the Nationals are in a playoff race.
Here are all the starters numbers:
(W-L, ERA, WHIP, BAA, K, BB)
Strasburg - 9-4 2.82 1.10 .225 128 28
Gonzalez - 11-3 3.01 1.12 .195 112 39
Zimmerman - 5-6 2.70 1.15 .252 72 20
Jackson - 5-4 3.73 1.13 .228 76 30
Detwiler - 4-3 3.43 1.27 .249 55 26
I'll take a 5th starter with a 3.43 ERA any day.
Rookies
The performance of various rookies all across MLB have caught the attention of fans and media alike. Angels Mike Trout is being hailed as the AL MVP by many. Rangers Yu Darvish hasn't been a complete flop as an import from the Japanese League and recently won the last chance vote for the AL All-Star team. Red Sox Will Middlebrooks has performed so well Boston was forced to trade fan favourite Kevin Youkilis to keep him on the field. Nationals Bryce Harper is one of the most highly touted prospects in years and at age 19 is having a solid season for the NL East leaders. Anthony Rizzo was just recently called up by the Cubs and has hit in virtually every game. Lance Lynn has moved from the Cardinals World Series winning bullpen to the rotation and all he's done is win 11 games.
Pittsburgh Pirates and Baltimore Orioles
Isn't it nice to see someone else atop of the standings, especially two franchises that have struggled for so long. The Orioles haven't made the playoffs since 1997 while the Pirates haven't made the playoffs since 1992.
The Orioles started out the season strong and have held their own in the AL East all season. Right now they sit at 45-38. That's good enough for 2nd place in the East 6 games back of the Yankees.
The Pirates on the other hand have played well as of late and have surged into 1st in the NL Central. They currently sit at 46-37 and hold a 1 game lead over the Reds.
With the added Wildcard this season both franchises will have a realistic chance at the playoffs if they can continue their strong play. It would be nice for baseball to have an infusion of new teams into the playoffs. At first I was against the additional Wildcard but it has certainly done its job. So many teams are in contention that normally wouldn't be. I'm glad to see Baltimore and Pittsburgh are two of those franchises.
Imagine they faced off in the World Series? I bet no one would have predicted that in Spring.
That's almost it for the first half, let's hope the second half is just as interesting.
R.A. Dickey
How could this man not be included? In October he will turn 38 and all he's done this season is dominate the NL like he's never done before. This is a guy who a few seasons ago not only couldn't hold down a job in a rotation but struggled to say in the Majors. He bounced between franchises (Texas, Seattle and Minnesota) before the Mets finally gave him a chance at being a full-time starter in 2010. His knuckleball seems to be mystifying hitters and has allowed him to notch, an MLB leading, 12 wins. He ranks third in ERA (2.40) and first in Ks (123) in the NL. He has more strikeouts than names like Kershaw, Strasburg and Cain. His WHIP sits at a very pretty 0.93 and leads all of baseball. On June 13th and 18th he tossed back-to-back 1 hitters. He's an early favorite for the NL Cy Young. Oh and before the season even began he released a book titled Wherever I Wind Up: My Quest for Truth, Authenticity and the Perfect Knuckleball. In the book he spoke about how he was sexually abused as a child. The man's overcome a lot to have, without a doubt, the best season of his career.
No-Hitters, Perfect Games and Cycles
These feats are impressive during any season but 2012 has already seen its fair share of them. Chicago White Sox Phil Humber started us off by tossing a Perfect Game at Safeco Field versus the Seattle Mariners on April 21. Eleven days later on May 2nd Jered Weaver tossed a no-hitter against the Minnesota Twins. Just about a month after that (June 1) Johan Santana tossed the first ever no-hitter in the 50 year history of the N.Y. Mets. Exactly a week later six Seattle Mariners combined to no-hit the L.A. Dodgers. Then only 5 days later Matt Cain tossed the second perfect game of the season versus the Giants.
Hitters haven't been outdone though as less than a week after Humber tossed his perfect game Scott Hairston of the Mets hit for the cycle. Then in June when there was a break from pitching feats Aaron Hill accomplished one of the more remarkable feats in MLB history. On June 18th Hill hit for the cycle against the Mariners (Seattle has been involved in a lot this season already). Twelve short days later Hill was at it again hitting for the cycle against the Milwaukee Brewers becoming only the 4th player in MLB history to hit two cycles in one season, the second since 1900 and the first since 1931. If Hill were to hit another cycle in the remaining three months of the season he'd not only become the first player ever to do it but he'd also be tied atop the list of career cycles (3).
Cycles now outnumber no-hitters 293-272. What a season we're having already.
Washington Nationals Rotation
First things first the Nationals have only used 6 starters all season with Stephen Strasburg, Gio Gonzalez, Jordan Zimmerman and Edwin Jackson all making at least 16 starts (Ross Detwiler has made 12). Not only has the rotation stayed healthy though they've all performed. All five starters have an ERA that is lower than 3.74. Four of the five have WHIPs less than 1.16. If they continue at this pace it would be hard to imagine the Nationals not winning the NL East. They could use another bat or two in the lineup and it will be interesting to see what they decide to do at the deadline. Additionally the Nationals plan to limit Ace Stephen Strasburg's innings to 160. Hard to imagine how they'll accomplish that if the Nationals are in a playoff race.
Here are all the starters numbers:
(W-L, ERA, WHIP, BAA, K, BB)
Strasburg - 9-4 2.82 1.10 .225 128 28
Gonzalez - 11-3 3.01 1.12 .195 112 39
Zimmerman - 5-6 2.70 1.15 .252 72 20
Jackson - 5-4 3.73 1.13 .228 76 30
Detwiler - 4-3 3.43 1.27 .249 55 26
I'll take a 5th starter with a 3.43 ERA any day.
Rookies
The performance of various rookies all across MLB have caught the attention of fans and media alike. Angels Mike Trout is being hailed as the AL MVP by many. Rangers Yu Darvish hasn't been a complete flop as an import from the Japanese League and recently won the last chance vote for the AL All-Star team. Red Sox Will Middlebrooks has performed so well Boston was forced to trade fan favourite Kevin Youkilis to keep him on the field. Nationals Bryce Harper is one of the most highly touted prospects in years and at age 19 is having a solid season for the NL East leaders. Anthony Rizzo was just recently called up by the Cubs and has hit in virtually every game. Lance Lynn has moved from the Cardinals World Series winning bullpen to the rotation and all he's done is win 11 games.
Pittsburgh Pirates and Baltimore Orioles
Isn't it nice to see someone else atop of the standings, especially two franchises that have struggled for so long. The Orioles haven't made the playoffs since 1997 while the Pirates haven't made the playoffs since 1992.
The Orioles started out the season strong and have held their own in the AL East all season. Right now they sit at 45-38. That's good enough for 2nd place in the East 6 games back of the Yankees.
The Pirates on the other hand have played well as of late and have surged into 1st in the NL Central. They currently sit at 46-37 and hold a 1 game lead over the Reds.
With the added Wildcard this season both franchises will have a realistic chance at the playoffs if they can continue their strong play. It would be nice for baseball to have an infusion of new teams into the playoffs. At first I was against the additional Wildcard but it has certainly done its job. So many teams are in contention that normally wouldn't be. I'm glad to see Baltimore and Pittsburgh are two of those franchises.
Imagine they faced off in the World Series? I bet no one would have predicted that in Spring.
That's almost it for the first half, let's hope the second half is just as interesting.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
A Change of Socks Was All He Needed
Don't look now Red Sox fans but Kevin Youkilis seems to be finding himself at the plate ever since Boston gift wrapped him and shipped him to the Chicago White Sox. In his 10 games with the other Sox Youk has 12 hits in 39 at bats (.308) including two home runs. He's averaging an RBI a game with the White Sox.
What must be particularly pleasing for White Sox fans is that Youkilis is doing it when it matters most. Last night he hit a walk-off single in the 10th inning to defeat the Texas Rangers and then today in the bottom of the 8th he hit what would end up being the game winning home run. It helped the ChiSox sweep one of the best teams in baseball.
Even more frustrating for Red Sox fans is the fact that Will Middlebrooks has not played a game since July 1st because of a hamstring injury.
Moving Youkilis made a lot of sense at the time. Middlebrooks needed to be in the lineup and Youkilis was flat out struggling. A change of Sox seems to have brought back the Youk of old and likely has some fans in Boston shaking their heads.
What must be particularly pleasing for White Sox fans is that Youkilis is doing it when it matters most. Last night he hit a walk-off single in the 10th inning to defeat the Texas Rangers and then today in the bottom of the 8th he hit what would end up being the game winning home run. It helped the ChiSox sweep one of the best teams in baseball.
Even more frustrating for Red Sox fans is the fact that Will Middlebrooks has not played a game since July 1st because of a hamstring injury.
Moving Youkilis made a lot of sense at the time. Middlebrooks needed to be in the lineup and Youkilis was flat out struggling. A change of Sox seems to have brought back the Youk of old and likely has some fans in Boston shaking their heads.
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Red Sox to Employ Rare 6 Man Rotation
With Josh Beckett returning to the team on Saturday in Seattle the Red Sox have decided to carry an extra starting pitcher on their staff. For the time being - until at least the all-star break- they'll use a 6 man rotation.
It's a tricky situation for those involved and carries a number of positives as well as negatives.
The biggest positive is that Franklin Morales will continue his audition as a starter. He's had three very successful starts for the Sox since filling in for Josh Beckett on June 17th. Morales has pitched 18 innings in three starts and has only allowed a total of 5 runs (4 earned) while striking out 24 and issuing only 3 free passes.
It also means that Aaron Cook will stay in the rotation, again for the time being. Cook has made 2 starts since being activated from the DL himself. He's coming of a two-hit shutout of the Mariners on June 29th.
Another positive is the fact that it will reduce the number of innings being pitched by the starting staff. Doubront and Morales have each made less than 20 career starts in the Majors. Limiting innings pitched for young starters seems to be an emerging trend in baseball (see Stephen Strasburg). Meanwhile Beckett, Dice-K and Cook have all been on the DL this season and limiting their innings may prevent further injuries.
The negatives? It means Lester and Beckett will pitch less. Take your pick of any of the other four starters and Beckett or Lester are more likely to give you a chance to win on any given night.
It also means changing up routines. Pitchers are creatures of habit and all of them have routines in between starts. Having a six man rotation coupled with off days and some of these guys could be pitching once a week. That's something that none of them are used to.
However, above all else it seems like it could be a good idea for one very important reason: depth. The Red Sox starting staff has been decimated by injuries this season. Having someone who could step in (without needing to sign or trade for someone new) will likely aid them in their efforts to make the postseason.
It also provides an interesting decision when Clay Buchholz returns. There is no way the Sox will go to a 7 man rotation. It means 1, and at some point 2, guy(s) will be sent to either the bullpen or the minors. The Red Sox could use the pitching depth to make additions at the trade deadline. There will be no shortage of teams looking for starting pitching.
It's the first time this season injuries have proven to be helpful. It's given some unlikely pitchers the chance to prove what they can do.
It's a tricky situation for those involved and carries a number of positives as well as negatives.
The biggest positive is that Franklin Morales will continue his audition as a starter. He's had three very successful starts for the Sox since filling in for Josh Beckett on June 17th. Morales has pitched 18 innings in three starts and has only allowed a total of 5 runs (4 earned) while striking out 24 and issuing only 3 free passes.
It also means that Aaron Cook will stay in the rotation, again for the time being. Cook has made 2 starts since being activated from the DL himself. He's coming of a two-hit shutout of the Mariners on June 29th.
Another positive is the fact that it will reduce the number of innings being pitched by the starting staff. Doubront and Morales have each made less than 20 career starts in the Majors. Limiting innings pitched for young starters seems to be an emerging trend in baseball (see Stephen Strasburg). Meanwhile Beckett, Dice-K and Cook have all been on the DL this season and limiting their innings may prevent further injuries.
The negatives? It means Lester and Beckett will pitch less. Take your pick of any of the other four starters and Beckett or Lester are more likely to give you a chance to win on any given night.
It also means changing up routines. Pitchers are creatures of habit and all of them have routines in between starts. Having a six man rotation coupled with off days and some of these guys could be pitching once a week. That's something that none of them are used to.
However, above all else it seems like it could be a good idea for one very important reason: depth. The Red Sox starting staff has been decimated by injuries this season. Having someone who could step in (without needing to sign or trade for someone new) will likely aid them in their efforts to make the postseason.
It also provides an interesting decision when Clay Buchholz returns. There is no way the Sox will go to a 7 man rotation. It means 1, and at some point 2, guy(s) will be sent to either the bullpen or the minors. The Red Sox could use the pitching depth to make additions at the trade deadline. There will be no shortage of teams looking for starting pitching.
It's the first time this season injuries have proven to be helpful. It's given some unlikely pitchers the chance to prove what they can do.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Franklin Morales Should Remain a Starter
Last week over on Get Real Baseball I chronicled Franklin Morales' rise to the majors and asked the question whether or not the Red Sox should use him as a starter or a reliever.
In his first start, against the Cubs, he posted this line:
5 IP 4 H 2 R 2 ER 9 K 0 BB 80 pitches, 65 strikes
His second start was versus the Braves:
6 IP 7 H 3 R 2 ER 8 K 1 BB 86 pitches, 62 strikes
Tonight he got the call against the Mariners and faced off against King Felix. His final line:
7 IP 3 H 0 R 0 ER 7 K 2 BB 109 pitches, 70 strikes
After tonight, even though it has only been three starts, I'm convinced the Red Sox should continue to allow Morales the opportunity to show what he's got as a starter. His providing, arguably, the best performance of any of the Red Sox starters right now. The 5 man rotation currently consists of Lester, Doubront, Dice-K, Aaron Cook and of course Morales. Beckett and Buchholz are both on the 15-day DL.
Again as I mentioned in the previous article Morales is only 26-years old and it appears the Rockies gave up on him too soon and the Red Sox never gave him a chance; until now.
It would be wise if Bobby Valentine and the Red Sox continued to hand him the ball every 5th game.
In his first start, against the Cubs, he posted this line:
5 IP 4 H 2 R 2 ER 9 K 0 BB 80 pitches, 65 strikes
His second start was versus the Braves:
6 IP 7 H 3 R 2 ER 8 K 1 BB 86 pitches, 62 strikes
Tonight he got the call against the Mariners and faced off against King Felix. His final line:
7 IP 3 H 0 R 0 ER 7 K 2 BB 109 pitches, 70 strikes
After tonight, even though it has only been three starts, I'm convinced the Red Sox should continue to allow Morales the opportunity to show what he's got as a starter. His providing, arguably, the best performance of any of the Red Sox starters right now. The 5 man rotation currently consists of Lester, Doubront, Dice-K, Aaron Cook and of course Morales. Beckett and Buchholz are both on the 15-day DL.
Again as I mentioned in the previous article Morales is only 26-years old and it appears the Rockies gave up on him too soon and the Red Sox never gave him a chance; until now.
It would be wise if Bobby Valentine and the Red Sox continued to hand him the ball every 5th game.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Jacoby Ellsbury Begins Rehab Assignment
OF Jacoby Ellsbury has joined injured teammate Carl Crawford in the Gulf Coast rookie league in Florida as both prepare to return to the Boston Red Sox lineup.
Ellsbury has been out since virtually the beginning of the season (April 14th to be exact). Ellsbury injured his shoulder on a collision at 2nd base.
Ellsbury was one of the Red Sox best players last season hitting a team high 32 home-runs while posting a .928 OPS.
No time table has been set for Ellsbury's return to the Majors.
The sooner the Red Sox get both players back the better.
Ellsbury has been out since virtually the beginning of the season (April 14th to be exact). Ellsbury injured his shoulder on a collision at 2nd base.
Ellsbury was one of the Red Sox best players last season hitting a team high 32 home-runs while posting a .928 OPS.
No time table has been set for Ellsbury's return to the Majors.
The sooner the Red Sox get both players back the better.
Clay Buchholz Uses DL Trip to Party
No Red
Sox fan will forget the collapse of September 2011 and the reports that
followed about the in game “activities” of the starting rotation. On nights
when certain starters (Beckett, Lester, Lackey) were not pitching they
descended into the club house to play video games, drink beer and eat fried
chicken. The immature actions became the poster of failure for the 2011 Red
Sox. It led to Terry Francona being ousted as the manager. It led to Theo
Epstein jumping to take the President of Baseball Operations job for the Cubs.
It forced ownership to make a change and bring in a disciplinarian (Bobby
Valentine). Early in Spring Training all alcohol was banned from the clubhouse.
Yet despite all the changes made by the Sox the immaturity of their roster,
particularly their starters, continues to rear its ugly head.
On Wednesday
night Clay Buchholz, he of a recent trip to the DL, was spotted a charity pool
party at Foxwoods which was sponsored by Stoli Vodka. Normally doing charity
work would be a positive story but in this case one has to question the
judgement of Buchholz. He was released from hospital less than 24 hours earlier
after being treated for esophagitis; the ailment that landed him on the DL. It
was reported that Buchholz did not drink at the event.
It’s
hard to fault someone for doing charity work but Buchholz should have thought
about how the media would perceive his attendance at this party.
Buchholz
said of the illness, "It was real scary. Whenever you got doctors telling
you, 'All right, come on over to my office and we'll check you out,' and you're
like, 'I can't get there, I can't walk,' it was pretty scary for about three
days.”
If you’re
that concerned about your health what is the first thing you’re going to do
when you get released from hospital? You’re right I was thinking pool party as
well.
The
saga continues in Boston.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Sports and Politics Just Don't Mix
I'm not going to start this article out by suggesting I know anything about American Politics, because I don't. I am only 75% sure there is an election this year ... that's how much I care or know. But when politics crosses over into sports that's when I'll throw my two cents in.
Today President Obama was in Boston (campaigning?). It is a well known fact that Obama is a staunch supporter of Chicago sporting teams. Once he went out to the mound at Nationals Park and pulled out a White Sox hat before throwing out the first pitch. Nationals fans weren't too impressed.
(See there's picture proof).
Now back to today, Obama, White Sox, in Boston ... get where this is going?
No, Obama didn't lament his team trading Brent Lillibridge to the Red Sox.
However, if you said Obama ribbed the crowd about the White Sox recent acquisition of Kevin Youkilis you'd be correct.
Now this is where the story gets a little muddled. Depending on who you ask the crowd responded with either "boo", "Youuuuk"' or a mix of the two.
Obama heard it as boo's:
''I'm just saying,'' a smiling Obama told the audience. ''I didn't think I'd get any boos out of here. I guess I should not have brought up baseball. My mistake.''
When Obama conceded, ''You've got to know your crowd,'' he received some laughter.
I'm fine with all that. It's just a bit of lighthearted fun. Sports poke at each other all the time. Why shouldn't the President of U.S. do the same? He was just happy that his team finally has a bat at the hot corner and the Red Sox practically paid the White Sox to take Youkilis off their hands. Comment, boo's/Youk's ... should be the end of the story.
Instead Mit Romney's Press Secretary had to throw some fuel on the fire:
''Maybe the president should have congratulated the team for winning the World Series in 2004 and 2007,'' Andrea Saul said in an email. ''Instead, he chose to mock them for trading away one of its favorite players at a time when the team is struggling.''
Stick to politics, please. You're out of your element here Andrea. Mocking is too harsh a term to describe what Obama did. I wish politicians would just take things a little less seriously. Romney's camp make it sound like Obama's not fit to run a country because, as some people seem to feel, his comments were inappropriate. If you don't like him or his politics that's fine. But don't try to make him out to be a bad President because he's a devout Chicago sports fan (it's not the best choice but hey we all make mistakes).
His comments were far from inappropriate. They were timely and they were funny from one sports fan to another (or a group of them).
Republicans, stop pandering for votes.
Today President Obama was in Boston (campaigning?). It is a well known fact that Obama is a staunch supporter of Chicago sporting teams. Once he went out to the mound at Nationals Park and pulled out a White Sox hat before throwing out the first pitch. Nationals fans weren't too impressed.
Now back to today, Obama, White Sox, in Boston ... get where this is going?
No, Obama didn't lament his team trading Brent Lillibridge to the Red Sox.
However, if you said Obama ribbed the crowd about the White Sox recent acquisition of Kevin Youkilis you'd be correct.
Now this is where the story gets a little muddled. Depending on who you ask the crowd responded with either "boo", "Youuuuk"' or a mix of the two.
Obama heard it as boo's:
''I'm just saying,'' a smiling Obama told the audience. ''I didn't think I'd get any boos out of here. I guess I should not have brought up baseball. My mistake.''
When Obama conceded, ''You've got to know your crowd,'' he received some laughter.
I'm fine with all that. It's just a bit of lighthearted fun. Sports poke at each other all the time. Why shouldn't the President of U.S. do the same? He was just happy that his team finally has a bat at the hot corner and the Red Sox practically paid the White Sox to take Youkilis off their hands. Comment, boo's/Youk's ... should be the end of the story.
Instead Mit Romney's Press Secretary had to throw some fuel on the fire:
''Maybe the president should have congratulated the team for winning the World Series in 2004 and 2007,'' Andrea Saul said in an email. ''Instead, he chose to mock them for trading away one of its favorite players at a time when the team is struggling.''
Stick to politics, please. You're out of your element here Andrea. Mocking is too harsh a term to describe what Obama did. I wish politicians would just take things a little less seriously. Romney's camp make it sound like Obama's not fit to run a country because, as some people seem to feel, his comments were inappropriate. If you don't like him or his politics that's fine. But don't try to make him out to be a bad President because he's a devout Chicago sports fan (it's not the best choice but hey we all make mistakes).
His comments were far from inappropriate. They were timely and they were funny from one sports fan to another (or a group of them).
Republicans, stop pandering for votes.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Marlon Byrd Tests Positive For PED
Former Red Sox OF Marlon Byrd has been suspended 50 games for testing positive for a banned, performance enhancing, substance.
Byrd was designated for assignment by the Red Sox three weeks ago and was subsequently released. He has yet to sign with another team and the suspension makes that even more unlikely.
Byrd released the following statement through the Major League Baseball Players Association:
"I made an inexcusable mistake. Several years ago, I had surgery for a condition that was private and unrelated to baseball. Last winter, I suffered a recurrence of that condition and I was provided with a medication that resulted in my positive test. Although that medication is on the banned list, I absolutely did not use it for performance-enhancement reasons."
For once I actually believe the offender. If he was taking it for performance enhancing reasons I can only assume he'd have put up better numbers. At the time of his release he was hitting .210 with 1 HR and 9 RBI in 143 AB (with the Cubs and Red Sox). Not the typical power numbers you'd expect from a guy on PEDs.
Byrd was designated for assignment by the Red Sox three weeks ago and was subsequently released. He has yet to sign with another team and the suspension makes that even more unlikely.
Byrd released the following statement through the Major League Baseball Players Association:
"I made an inexcusable mistake. Several years ago, I had surgery for a condition that was private and unrelated to baseball. Last winter, I suffered a recurrence of that condition and I was provided with a medication that resulted in my positive test. Although that medication is on the banned list, I absolutely did not use it for performance-enhancement reasons."
For once I actually believe the offender. If he was taking it for performance enhancing reasons I can only assume he'd have put up better numbers. At the time of his release he was hitting .210 with 1 HR and 9 RBI in 143 AB (with the Cubs and Red Sox). Not the typical power numbers you'd expect from a guy on PEDs.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Red Sox deal Youkilis to White Sox
A move that has been expected for some time has completed. Everyone seemed to know Youkilis was on his way out of Boston, it was simply a question of where would he end up. On Sunday that question was answered as Youkilis trades in his Red Sox for White ones (not actually since the White Sox actually wear black socks).
On an emotional Sunday Youkilis played his final game for the Red Sox, at home in front of the Fenway faithful. When he was removed for a pinch runner he was given a standing ovation and tipped his cap to the fans. Youkilis received hugs from his teammates as he left the field.
The Red Sox will pay a large portion of Youkilis' remaining contract (which expires at seasons end). In return Boston received RHP Zack Jackson and Utility Infielder Brent Lillibridge. Neither player are likely to see significant playing time for the Red Sox.
On an emotional Sunday Youkilis played his final game for the Red Sox, at home in front of the Fenway faithful. When he was removed for a pinch runner he was given a standing ovation and tipped his cap to the fans. Youkilis received hugs from his teammates as he left the field.
The Red Sox will pay a large portion of Youkilis' remaining contract (which expires at seasons end). In return Boston received RHP Zack Jackson and Utility Infielder Brent Lillibridge. Neither player are likely to see significant playing time for the Red Sox.
Youkilis Trade Appears Imminent
Kevin Youkilis' days in a Red Sox uniform are dwindling and a number of teams appear to have some degree of interest in acquiring his services.
Most reports have narrowed the teams interested in Youkilis to the Chicago White Sox, Cleveland Indians, Atlanta Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates and Los Angeles Dodgers. The White Sox and Pirates appear to be the two most serious suitors.
Youkilis has been made expendable by the performance of rookie Will Middlebrooks. Middlebrooks has homered in 3 of his last 4 games and has 9 total for the season (Youkilis has 4). The Red Sox are 17-1 in games that Middlebrooks has recorded an RBI.
Youkilis has struggled in recent seasons with a multitude of injuries and numerous trips to the DL. His performance on the field has dipped and he doesn't appear to be the same player that hit 29 and 24 HRs in 2008 and 2009.
Youkilis is owed $12 million for 2012 and his contract runs out at the end of the season (the Red Sox do have a $13 million option that they are certain to decline, at a cost of $1 million). Any trade will almost certainly require the Red Sox to eat a large portion of what is owed to him.
The White Sox seem to be the most interested and the most logical destination for Youkilis. Brent Morel, their starting 3B, is on the DL. Prior to injuring his back he was hitting .177. Fill-in Orlando Hudson hasn't been much better, hitting .160 with the White Sox. Even though Youkilis isn't playing particularly well he'd almost certainly be an upgrade for a team that is 0.5 games out of the lead in the AL Central.
The Pirates also seem to have a serious interest in Youkilis. The Pirates are once again having a solid season and could use an additional veteran presence in their clubhouse. Their current 25 man roster has 8 infielders listed who have a combined 24 years of Major League service. A veteran like Youkilis might help the Pirates young roster from collapsing like they did in 2011. The Pirates were tied for their division lead on July 25th last season before collapsing and finishing 24 games out in the NL Central. The Pirates have shown a willingness to take on slumping veterans with expensive contracts, providing the team they are leaving pays a large chunk of that contract. In February the Pirates acquired AJ Burnett from the Yankees. Burnett was owed $31.1 million over two seasons. The Pirates managed to get $18.1 million of that off Yankees. Burnett is 8-2 for the Pirates.
The Indians, Braves and Dodgers have all contacted the Red Sox but do not seem to be seriously interested.
Most reports have narrowed the teams interested in Youkilis to the Chicago White Sox, Cleveland Indians, Atlanta Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates and Los Angeles Dodgers. The White Sox and Pirates appear to be the two most serious suitors.
Youkilis has been made expendable by the performance of rookie Will Middlebrooks. Middlebrooks has homered in 3 of his last 4 games and has 9 total for the season (Youkilis has 4). The Red Sox are 17-1 in games that Middlebrooks has recorded an RBI.
Youkilis has struggled in recent seasons with a multitude of injuries and numerous trips to the DL. His performance on the field has dipped and he doesn't appear to be the same player that hit 29 and 24 HRs in 2008 and 2009.
Youkilis is owed $12 million for 2012 and his contract runs out at the end of the season (the Red Sox do have a $13 million option that they are certain to decline, at a cost of $1 million). Any trade will almost certainly require the Red Sox to eat a large portion of what is owed to him.
The White Sox seem to be the most interested and the most logical destination for Youkilis. Brent Morel, their starting 3B, is on the DL. Prior to injuring his back he was hitting .177. Fill-in Orlando Hudson hasn't been much better, hitting .160 with the White Sox. Even though Youkilis isn't playing particularly well he'd almost certainly be an upgrade for a team that is 0.5 games out of the lead in the AL Central.
The Pirates also seem to have a serious interest in Youkilis. The Pirates are once again having a solid season and could use an additional veteran presence in their clubhouse. Their current 25 man roster has 8 infielders listed who have a combined 24 years of Major League service. A veteran like Youkilis might help the Pirates young roster from collapsing like they did in 2011. The Pirates were tied for their division lead on July 25th last season before collapsing and finishing 24 games out in the NL Central. The Pirates have shown a willingness to take on slumping veterans with expensive contracts, providing the team they are leaving pays a large chunk of that contract. In February the Pirates acquired AJ Burnett from the Yankees. Burnett was owed $31.1 million over two seasons. The Pirates managed to get $18.1 million of that off Yankees. Burnett is 8-2 for the Pirates.
The Indians, Braves and Dodgers have all contacted the Red Sox but do not seem to be seriously interested.
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Crawford Begins Rehab
Boston Red Sox OF Carl Crawford saw his first game action of the 2012 season, albeit in the Gulf Coast League. Crawford is expected to be on a rehab assignment for three weeks before rejoining the Red Sox. He was 0-3 with 2 BB in his first game.
The three week schedule would mean Crawford could be back for the first series after the All-Star break. The Red Sox will be taking on Crawford's former team the Rays in Tampa Bay.
It's good news for the Red Sox who are starting to play well and are starting to get some of their injured stars back.
The three week schedule would mean Crawford could be back for the first series after the All-Star break. The Red Sox will be taking on Crawford's former team the Rays in Tampa Bay.
It's good news for the Red Sox who are starting to play well and are starting to get some of their injured stars back.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Red Sox Bats Come Alive
For the first time in exactly a month the Red Sox managed to score double digit runs in defeating the Miami Marlins 10-2.
Unfortunately it wasn't an all around effort with 3 of the 8 starters not contributing on the stat sheet. Even so it's a good sign for a struggling offensive.
The biggest contributor was 1B David Ortiz who went 2-2 driving in 3 runs and connecting on his 15th home run of the season. It was a solo shot in the 4th that gave the Sox an early 2-0 lead.
Adrian Gonzalez who was 0 for in the last 4 games went 3-5.
Felix Doubront pitched 7 strong innings for the victory. Doubront didn't allow a hit until Jose Reyes stepped to the plate with 2 out in the 5th. On the 82nd pitch of the night Reyes hit a high fly ball over the LF fence ending the no-hit bid and cutting the Sox lead to 4-1.
Doubront came out for the 7th but was clearly running out of gas. He allowed a lead off single to Hanley Ramirez before Giancarlo Stanton doubled. After a pop out Justin Ruggiano ground out to Aviles at short. Stanton made a base running error trying to advance from 2nd to 3rd. With the play right in front of him Aviles threw to third and got Stanton easily for the 2nd out. A run scored on the play cutting the lead to 4-2. Doubront then got a fly out to end the inning and his night.
In the Top of the 8th the Red Sox sent 11 men to the plate scoring 6 times. Nick Punto led off, pinch hitting for Doubront, with a double. Four straight singles by Podsednik, Pedroia, Gonzalez and Ortiz plated 3. A sac fly by Salty scored another before Punto came up again and singled in 2.
There was some minor controversy in the bottom of the 8th when Bobby Valentine pulled Vincente Padilla after one pitch (a single to Brett Hayes). Padilla seemed miffed that he was being pulled after 1 pitch and such a large lead.
The Red Sox are now 31-32 for the season.
Unfortunately it wasn't an all around effort with 3 of the 8 starters not contributing on the stat sheet. Even so it's a good sign for a struggling offensive.
The biggest contributor was 1B David Ortiz who went 2-2 driving in 3 runs and connecting on his 15th home run of the season. It was a solo shot in the 4th that gave the Sox an early 2-0 lead.
Adrian Gonzalez who was 0 for in the last 4 games went 3-5.
Felix Doubront pitched 7 strong innings for the victory. Doubront didn't allow a hit until Jose Reyes stepped to the plate with 2 out in the 5th. On the 82nd pitch of the night Reyes hit a high fly ball over the LF fence ending the no-hit bid and cutting the Sox lead to 4-1.
Doubront came out for the 7th but was clearly running out of gas. He allowed a lead off single to Hanley Ramirez before Giancarlo Stanton doubled. After a pop out Justin Ruggiano ground out to Aviles at short. Stanton made a base running error trying to advance from 2nd to 3rd. With the play right in front of him Aviles threw to third and got Stanton easily for the 2nd out. A run scored on the play cutting the lead to 4-2. Doubront then got a fly out to end the inning and his night.
In the Top of the 8th the Red Sox sent 11 men to the plate scoring 6 times. Nick Punto led off, pinch hitting for Doubront, with a double. Four straight singles by Podsednik, Pedroia, Gonzalez and Ortiz plated 3. A sac fly by Salty scored another before Punto came up again and singled in 2.
There was some minor controversy in the bottom of the 8th when Bobby Valentine pulled Vincente Padilla after one pitch (a single to Brett Hayes). Padilla seemed miffed that he was being pulled after 1 pitch and such a large lead.
The Red Sox are now 31-32 for the season.
Do The Red Sox Have a Legitimate Ace?
Pitching has been a concern for the Boston Red Sox all
season. Despite the recent run of strong starts the pitching staff ranks 12th
in the American League with a 4.40 ERA and 9th in WHIP (1.34). If
Boston wants to move out of the basement of the American League East the pitching
is going to need to continue to improve. Going into play on June 13th
the Red Sox starters have these stats (Daisuke Matsuzaka has only made 1 start
this season and thus not included):
Stats displayed are ERA/WHIP/K/BB Ratio
Josh Beckett (4.14/1.15/3.29/1)
Jon Lester (4.47/1.36/2.48/1)
Clay Buchholz (5.38/1.53/1.67/1)
Felix Doubrount (4.34/1.42/2.67/1)
These numbers should hardly strike fear in any
opponent facing the BoSox. It begs the question; are the Sox missing a key ingredient
in the rotation?
In order to succeed in MLB it is imperative a team has
an Ace. Does the Boston rotation possess a pitcher who fits that billing? Well first
let’s define the Ace as someone who is: a) a consistent performer b) has the
ability to dominate for long stretches c) A Cy Young competitor/winner. There
are certainly some names that will come to mind from around the Majors. However
for the sake of this article I’m going to define the role even further. To be
considered a pitcher must have made at least 100 career starts. Additionally
the pitcher must have started one of his team’s first two games in 2012 (unless
on the DL). If there is more than one pitcher that fits into these requirements
the Opening Day starter was used. The Red Sox rotation has three pitchers that
meet the requirements and I’ll look at all three to determine the potential Ace.
Stats are all career numbers, same stats as above
Josh Beckett (3.85/1.22/3.11/1)
Jon Lester (3.61/1.30/2.47)
Daisuke Matsuzaka (4.27/1.40/1.91/1)
It doesn’t come as much surprise that Dice-K is out of
the running for the label “Ace”. Beckett and Lester each have solid numbers and
could make a case for being named the Ace.
Before I continue here are the teams that don’t possess
a pitcher who fits the requirements (or have a pitcher that does but whose
career stats are worse than Beckett and Lester’s stats).
Orioles, Indians, Royals, Twins, A’s, Rangers, Cubs,
Astros, Pirates, Diamondbacks, Rockies and Padres.
Now look at that list and tell me how many of those
teams have succeeded without an Ace. The only team on the list that has had any
sustained success recently is the Texas Rangers. They don’t have a pitcher that
fits the billing, however they lost C.J. Wilson to the Angels in the
off-season. He would have fit the requirements. Also the Rangers continue to
get career performances from guys like Colby Lewis. Additionally this season
the Rangers acquired Yu Darvish and converted Neftali Feliz into a starter. Both
potentially could be considered Aces in the future. Every other team on that
list has had little or no success in the past few seasons.
Now on to the teams that DO have a Starting Pitcher
that fits the requirements of an Ace.
Yankees, Jays, Rays, White Sox, Tigers, Angels,
Mariners, Marlins, Phillies, Mets, Braves, Cardinals, Reds, Brewers, Giants and
Dodgers.
Note: You may have noticed the Nationals do not appear
on either list. This is because they have Stephen Strasburg, definitely an ace,
who has only started 29 games in his career.
There is a lot more success
among these franchises. There seems to be a trend emerging here.
For the 16 franchises
that have “Aces”:
11/16 have a lower
career ERA than Lester
15/16 have a lower
career ERA than Beckett
14/14 have a lower
career WHIP than Lester (2 have the same)
8/16 have a lower
career WHIP than Beckett
13/16 have a higher career
K/BB ratio than Lester
5/16 have a higher
career K/BB ratio than Beckett
So what do these
numbers mean? Who is the Red Sox Ace?
If you ask me it
doesn’t matter who you call the Red Sox Ace. Both Lester and Beckett have a
strong claim. The problem is neither compare relatively well to the top
pitchers in the game. Therefore in my mind the Red Sox lack a true Ace, one
that measures up against the Halladay’s, Verlander’s and Kershaw’s of baseball.
The Red Sox have
spent a lot of money the last few years addressing the offence. Maybe it’s time
they had a look at the top of the rotation instead.
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