Brad Penny took the No Decision on Tuesday night after going 5.2 innings, allowing 6 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Had he been able to retire Willie Harris in the 6th, he would have been eligible for the win.
Tony Massarotti from the Boston Globe mentioned on the NESN postgame show how it’s possible that Penny was more relaxed than he had been his previous two starts, where his spot in the rotation was on the line. This maybe so, but I’m also sure he’s aware that Clay Buchholz is still waiting eagerly in Pawtucket to return to the big leagues. That being said, last night’s start was not a bad one. He might not have dominated like he’s done in his last couple starts, but it was a very good outing. Massarotti also mentioned in the pregame show on NESN that considering Penny is our number five starter, it’s not a bad thing that he usually doesn’t pitch past the 6th inning. I agree.
If you couldn’t tell already, I’m a big Penny fan. Dice-K will be back eventually, and as mentioned previously, Buchholz is more than ready to come back to pitch for Boston. I’m all for removing Penny from the rotation if the situation calls for it. But so far, I haven’t seen that situation. Keep up the good work, Penny!
Keep the Faith.
Keywords: Boston Red Sox, Brad Penny, Tony Massarotti
