Boston Red Sox Blogs

With the Dog Days of August about to begin, now is the time for teams to decide whether they are buyers or sellers – that is, whether they should mortgage their future and go for it this year or trade away their veterans for up-and-coming prospects.  “Going for it” says to a team’s fans that the organization thinks it has a legitimate chance to win it all, but a more conservative approach can send just as strong a message.  While a middle-of-the-pack team may have to acknowledge that this isn’t the year, going out and building for the future – as long as it is not the distant future – can usually be taken to mean that the front office is willing to sacrifice an outside shot at the playoffs in order to increase its chances of winning in the long term.  Buyer or seller, every GM will be busy until tomorrow’s trade deadline.

Continue reading "Buyer or Seller?"

With All-Star rosters set to be announced this weekend, I’m hoping that fans made good decisions in for whom to cast their final ballots.  While voting began not long after spring training ended, the true All-Stars have revealed themselves over the entire first half of the season.

Continue reading "Who's on first at the Midsummer Classic?"

The hype over Washington Nationals’ phenom Stephen Strasburg has been followed by terrific pitching from the young right-hander, but the Nats’ front office also deserves a lot of credit.  In his first three starts, Strasburg has faced the Pirates, the Indians, and the White Sox, all of whom rank near the bottom offensively.  While I think Strasburg has a tremendous amount of talent and is going to be a great pitcher for quite some time, I’d like to see how he fares against the heavy-hitting lineups of the Yankees, Reds, and Red Sox.

Continue reading "Nationals handle Strasburg’s schedule ..."

Though it was overshadowed by Armando Galarraga’s nearly perfect game, Ken Griffey Jr. announced his retirement on Wednesday, marking the end of a historic career.  Griffey’s various injuries over the last 10 years prevented him from breaking the all-time home run record, but The Kid will still go down as one of the very best of his era.  He was a 13-time All-Star (including 11 in a row) and totaled 2,781 career hits, 630 homers (good for 5th all-time) and 1836 Runs Batted In.  He won 7 Silver Sluggers and an MVP Award, and his 10 Gold Gloves tie him for third-most among outfielders; he won them in consecutive years.  Known for his sweet swing, tremendous defense in center field, and contagious smile, Griffey will take his place in Cooperstown before we know it.

Continue reading "Junior hangs 'em up"

Give the Magic credit, they didn't lay down, roll over, or get swept out of Boston.

 J.J. Redick redeemed himself in game 4. Without his three pointers the Magic never would have had a second chance in OT. Jameer Nelson also found his three-point stroke. Howard played to his strengths. He scores more points by being in position for offensive rebounds, and it seemed as though he was there to dunk with authority immediately after every missed shot. Just once I'd like to see Perkins gather a rebound and throw down with that type of authority.

Continue reading "Real men don't need Brooms"

Ok, so it was only a two game series. At this point in the season, the Sox's will take whatever sweeps they can.

 Lester was efficient. He threw just over 100 pitches by the 9th inning, and there was no sign that even that effort had taxed him. His fastball still registered at 96  in the 9th. Allowing just one earned run, Lester took it upon himself to ensure that the bullpen will now be very well rested for its trip to the National League.

Continue reading "Sox sweep Twins"

I'll say it again. Since Easter and the very first game of the Sox season...when the Celtics win, the Sox win.

Now the Celtics game went down to the last seconds, so it was only fitting that Papelbon would then wait until 2 outs, a 3-2 count, and runners on Second and Third to finally get his first strike out of the 9th inning.

Continue reading "Celtics win close. Sox win closer."

I don't remember if it was Garciaparra or Boone who jinxed Pap with one of those, "A mistake over the plate could tie the game" comments, but as soon as they said it, I knew the next pitch was going out of the yard.

Continue reading "Papelbon needs more coffee"

The game of baseball lost two old-timers this week, as beloved Tigers broadcaster Ernie Harwell passed away at the age of 92 and Hall of Fame pitcher Robin Roberts died at 83.

Harwell is best known for his 42 years broadcasting Tiger games, but before his career in Detroit, Harwell made history.  For this, I turn to wikipedia:

Continue reading "Farewell to a pair of the game's greats"

Red Sox vs. Yankees. Celtics vs. Cavaliers in game 3 of a 1-1 series. Bruins vs. Flyers in possible series sweep.

There are so many story lines for this Friday night in Boston Sports.

Continue reading "The Tri-fecta, the Trinity, TGIF ..."

I heard a joke on WEEI today in which a caller asked "So, is Nomar Night tonight, and Ortiz Night tomorrow night? Or is Ortiz Night tonight?"  I laughed. Then I realized that Ortiz and Nomar have a lot in common.

Continue reading "Noma"h" Night"

Top of the 8th, game tied 4-4, men on first and second, two out: Big Sloppy strikes out on a 3-2 pitch.

Everyone wants to feel bad for Ortiz. They wonder why Francona waited until his formerly known as "clutch" hitter was almost to the batter's box before pinch hitting Lowell for him in Wednesday night's Toronto game. How Francona didn't tell Ortiz he was being pinch hit for sooner to avoid the embarrasingly long walk back to the dug out. Well, answer this: How else do you send a message to the "D.H." who you already pinch hit for once this year? Ortiz didn't learn anything from that experience, apparently. He's approaching the point where his batting average just might fall below his I.Q.

Continue reading "Big Sloppy..."

Most folks were nervous in the 8th inning with two on and no bullpen to go to. Not me, and my faith was not in thanks to Buckholz. See, the Celtics had just closed out their series with the Heat (a game later than they should have, I know...) but as I said in my last post...ever since the very first night of the 2010 season, when the C's win, the Sox win.

Continue reading "Lebron's Elbow"

The Miami Heat had a foul to give, and Paul Pierce still intimidated his defender enough to dribble within the arc and take a shot that was so clutch in this series it gave me the chance to shout, "Miami can't 

Continue reading "The Truth in Miami"

I'm currently listening to Terry Francona on the Dale & Holley show fence with those hosts about Ortiz's productivity. Folks really don't learn, I guess. I would rather talk about how the Sox now have an official losing streak when playing the opening of an opponents ball park. Honestly, it's just absurd. Sooner or later, Ortiz is going to remember how to be Grimace, the hulking force that crushed balls into right center, or pulled them deep into the right field seats. That's if he can still do those things. If he can't, well, there are a little less than three weeks left in April. If Ortiz is still going to strike out looking at balls he should be protecting the plate on regardless of whether it was just enough off the plate to be a ball, then he probably will start platooning with Lowell. I don't think he'll be outright benched, but even Francona's loyalty will last so long. Papi, I have the solution to all your problems. Swing the bat. Don't check swing the bat. Swing the bat like you want to hit the ball, not like you're at the plate just struggling to stay alive.

Continue reading ""

I have folded up the Tom Brady jersey and put it away.  I have set aside the Kevin Garnett jersey until i take it out for the Celtics playoff push.  It is time now to don the jersey of your favorite Red Sox players and get ready for another exciting Major League Baseball season.  Spring is finally here.  I have to hand it to Major League Baseball.  I think that this year they got it right.  They didn't ship the World Series winners overseas to play in Japan or China or somewhere and they didn't open the season with Royals vs Tigers or some other match-up without much appeal.  This year the season began on Easter Sunday with a match-up between the defending World Series champion New York Yankees and their arch rival the Boston Red Sox.  This is, hands down, the best rivalry in sports.  The series didn't go the way I wanted it to, but we did get our first win against the Yankees under our belt and the games were well played for the most part.  Hey, when you think about it last year the Sox won the first 8 games against the Yankees only to lose 9 out of the next 10 so maybe losing 2 out of the first 3 ain't bad.

Continue reading "Sox Begin 2010"

It's four hours before the second game of the 2010 season. I'm in the 9th in of the Opening Day- night- game and one out away from seeing the Sox win for the fourth time I've watched this game. It was that great of a game. Truly, it's taken me this long just to digest the game. I've been savoring it since the 8p.m. start and even now I think the 0-2 pitch to Curtis Granderson in the 9th was a strike, especially given home plate umpire Jerry West's expansion of the strike zone as the 4 hour game went on. I enjoyed a season's worth of emotions over the 9 innings, and ultimately I was reminded just how special a ball game at Fenway Park can be.

Continue reading "Opening Day Thoughts, two days later."

Former commissioner A. Bartlett Giamatti once wrote: “[Baseball] breaks your heart.  It is designed to break your heart.  The game begins in spring, when everything else begins again, and it blossoms in the summer, filling the afternoons and evenings, and then as soon as the chill rains come, it stops and leaves you to face the fall alone.” 

Continue reading "Fenway Home Opener 2010"

Today’s post is brought to you from Toledo, Ohio.  With Spring Training wrapping up in just over a week, every team has reason to be hopeful that this will be their year.  Though it is widely accepted that exhibition games are meaningless, the Giants should feel good about their 18-7 record this spring, and the Indians are certainly pleased that they have won 13 of their first 19 games.  The reigning World Series champion Yankees, meanwhile, can shake off their 9-12 record as rustiness.  It may not have the excitement of October, but April is when everyone’s glass is half full; no one has ground to make up or nagging injuries to play through.  Every team has a share of first place, and that’s what makes it the most promising time of the year.

Continue reading "The most promising time of the year"

In my life I have attended many more major league games than minor league ones, but 2010 will be a chance for me to experience the minors like never before.  I will be working in media relations for the Toledo Mud Hens of the International League.  The Mud Hens are the Triple-A affiliate of the Tigers and play at Fifth Third Field, just an hour from Detroit, which means that Tigers on rehab assignments will likely make cameo appearances throughout the season.

Continue reading "Next stop in my baseball career – ..."

There’s been a lot of griping recently over the state of Boston sports, serving (for me) as another ugly reminder of the developing, spoiled and cocksure nature of fans in this area. Let’s take a quick look, shall we?

Continue reading "A Message to Boston Sports Fans"

Big news from the Big Unit: 46-year-old Randy Johnson announced his retirement, concluding his career with a record of 303-166, a 3.29 ERA and a 1.17 WHIP.  His five Cy Young Awards – one with the Mariners and four in a row with the Diamondbacks – rank him behind only Roger Clemens, and his 4,875 career strikeouts are second only to Nolan Ryan.  He was a 10-time All-Star, starting the Midsummer Classic four times – twice for each league. Johnson made history in 2004 when he became the oldest player – at 40 – to throw a perfect game.

Continue reading "The Big Unit hangs ‘em up"

The Boston Redsox have begun shuffling their team this winter in hopes of making a title run. With Jason Bay headed to the Mets, The Redsox will post a OF of Mike Cameron, Jacoby Ellsbury and JD Drew. Ellsbury will slide over to left with Cameron taking over in center. While looking for a way to part with the oft injured but highly productive Mike Lowell, the Sox are a physical away from signing former Mariner Adrian Beltre to take over his position at third base. Boston will also have SS Jed Lowrie start in AAA Pawtucket as his wrist still is not healed from last years injury. To fill this void , Boston signed utility player Marco Scuturo. Marco has a reputation as a strong leader and a even stronger clutch performer. The former Athletic and Bluejay should help in the club house and on the Diamond. Scutoro is one of the leagues better pinch hitters over the lastfive plus years.

Continue reading "BOSOX Epstein: "OK, I've reloaded now""

While researching ballplayers of the nineties, I discovered that in 1993, Jeff King of the Pirates drove in 98 runs while hitting only nine home runs and slugging just .406.  I then wondered if any player has ever driven in 100 runs with fewer than 10 homers or with a slugging percentage under .400.  Upon further investigation, I found that in 1996 – the year he turned 40 during the Dog Days of August – Paul Molitor hit just nine homers but accumulated 113 RBI’s while playing for the Twins.  Thanks to his American League-leading 225 hits and batting two hitters behind leadoff man Chuck Knoblauch in the midst of his best season (.448 OBP), Molitor led the Twins in both hitting (.341) and Runs Batted In.  I have yet to find a player with a season of 100+ RBI’s despite a slugging percentage under .400 (Molitor’s was a healthy .468), but I will continue searching.

Continue reading "Run production and slugging: not ..."

Oh man, it’s been a bit too long and I’d like to apologize, first and foremost, to my legion of loyal readers. Who still checks in on occasion? Rogers? You still out there? Bark twice if you’re in Milwaukee!  Slim Bob? Herman? Dalton? Petey? Reginald? David Lefort from the Boston Globe? Fat chance of that… bastard…  Am I writing to myself here? Hello?

Continue reading "Checking In... And Talking Sox Shortstop Situation"

Should Roberto Alomar be elected to the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility?  The spitting incident with umpire John Hirschbeck does not help his case, but it really has nothing to do with his success on the field.  Fans may also remember that Alomar’s career ended with a couple of mediocre seasons, but when you look at his statistics, it’s a no-brainer.

Continue reading "A vote for Alomar"

Lefty Cuban pitching sensation Aroldis Chapman defected from his national team in July and he is currently a coveted unsigned Major League Baseball (MLB) free agent.

 

ESPN The Magazine

Continue reading "Yanks Need To Beat Sox Again and ..."

The Yankees, Not the Red Sox, Were the Team of this Decade

The New York Yankees defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 7-3 Wednesday night in the Bronx to win their record 27th World Series championship in team history.

Continue reading "Mike Tyson, Ricky Hatton, UFC, Tom ..."

The New York Yankees defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 7-3 Wednesday night in the Bronx to win their record 27th World Series championship in team history.

The Yankees, who went 103-59 to establish the best mark in Major League Baseball in the 2009 season, simply outclassed the Phillies over the course of six games.

Continue reading "The Yankees, Not the Red Sox, Were ..."

The Irish Should Axe Charlie Weis and Hire Jon Gruden

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish lost to the University of Southern California (USC) Trojans 34-27 Saturday afternoon in South Bend.  

Continue reading "Notre Dame vs. USC, Boxing, Manny ..."

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Manny Ramirez was showering when Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins hit a double to win Game Four of the NLCS 5-4 Monday at Dodger Stadium.

 

“I was taking a shower,” said Ramirez, 37, a 12-time All-Star selection and nine-time Silver Slugger Award winner. “I came out and saw it on television. Then everybody started coming in and they turned the television off.”

Continue reading "Manny Ramirez is not a Hall of Famer"

The New York Yankees bludgeoned the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 10-1 in Game 4 of the ALCS Tuesday night at Angel Stadium of Anaheim to move within one victory of their first trip to the World Series since the 2003 season.

Continue reading "CC Sabathia's The Greatest Free-Agent ..."

Its recently been brought to my attention that, over the past couple of weeks or so, my readership has doubled in volume, from 2 to 4. Thanks to these good natured and sympathetic followers, I’m left to wrestle with a serious question: Do I quit while on top (never had I anticipated the blog becoming this great a success), or do I continue to dribble out these “bi-weekly” blunderbusses, even though there is likely nowhere to go from here but down?

Continue reading "Late Night Rant"

The 12-inning thriller that was the last regular season game ever played at the Metrodome was exactly what I wanted to see.  When the Twins and Tigers played a four-game series in Detroit last week, I found myself rooting for the Twins to close the gap in order to create an exciting finish to the regular season – ideally a one-game playoff.  When that happened, I decided it would be great for the city of Detroit to send their team to the playoffs, but what I wanted most was to see a great game.  My wish came true when the two teams played a nail-biter that could have gone either way, but eventually sent Minnesota to the postseason.  Props to both teams for giving the fans what they deserved.

Continue reading "Twins-Tigers game was exactly what I wanted"

Yesterday was supposed to be a day of celebration; the Yankees officially clinched the AL East division title, Joe Girardi's has his first ever playoff birth, and the Yankees achieved their 100th victory. While champagne and beer was sprayed about the Yankess clubhouse after their 4-2 victory over division rival, the Boston Red Sox, the Yankees reality did not set in until today. Nothing has been accomplished when your the Yankees and you have made the playoffs.

Continue reading "The Yankees Clinch the AL EAST...and ..."

Last week I saw Andy Pettitte throw six and two-thirds innings of perfect baseball at against the Orioles at Camden Yards.  With two outs in the bottom of the seventh, Adam Jones hit a ground ball to third.  Alex Rodriguez was getting the night off, and his replacement at the hot corner, Jerry Hairston, booted it.  Having grown up an Orioles fan and somewhere along the way developing into a Yankee-hater, one might think I would have been rooting for the Birds to end Pettitte’s bid for perfection; however, this was not so.  As a fan of the game, I wanted to witness history.  Sure; I would have preferred seeing an Oriole pitcher throw a perfecto (though even a shutout by one of this year’s starters would have been historic), but I can’t expect miracles.

Continue reading "Nobody’s perfect"

  I don't think anyone expected that!  How about 8 shutout innings in a small ball park against the defending World Series Champion Phillies!  And it was the real line-up too:  Rollins, Victorino, Utley, Howard, Werth, Ibanez.  How many all-stars and/or MVP's are in that batting order?  Penny looked comfortable, and was surprisingly NOT rusty at all, throwing an easy 94 MPH as late as the 8th-inning.  His last start for Boston was August 21st when he allowed 8 earned runs to the Yankees in just four innings of work.  Wednesday, it was some timely double plays, good defense, and plenty of composure from a 10-year vet.  This was A BIT of an upgrade over Joe Martinez and Ryan Sadowski.  (By the way, sorry to see the team designate the "Big Sadowski" for assignment - we barely knew you.

Continue reading ""Digging Brad Penny in the Orange and Black""

  Hopefully for Giants' fans, Brad Penny can find his groove back in the National League.  In his three inter-league starts against national league teams this year, Penny posted a

Continue reading ""Brad Penny on the Bump for the Giants""

  The Giants desperately need a number five starter, and have apparently filled that void with today's waiver acquisition of former Dodger and Marlin Brad Penny.  After a brief stint in Boston, Penny was released after 24 starts, and cleared waivers.  The Giants were one of at least six teams interested in the one-time all-star; who won 16 games in back-to-back seasons with the Dodgers in '06 and '07.  

Continue reading ""Giants Have Reportedly Signed Brad Penny""

Despite Threats, Brockton Needs To Construct Statue For Rocky Marciano40 years ago next Monday, former undefeated heavyweight champion of the world Rocky Marciano died instantly when a private plane that he was a passenger in struck a tree near a small airfield outside Newton, Iowa.Marciano, who remains the only heavyweight champion in boxing history to retire having won every fight in his professional career with an unblemished record of 49-0, was pronounced dead on the eve of his 46th birthday. Marciano, the son of immigrants from Italy, was born and raised in Brockton, Massachusetts. “The Rock from Brockton,” who almost succumbed to a case of pneumonia when he was a toddler, is a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame.As a fitting tribute to the fighter that

Continue reading "Despite Threats, Brockton Needs To ..."

Former Boston Red Sox outfielder and undeserving Hall of Famer, Jim Rice inexplicably criticized New York Yankees icon Derek Jeter at a news conference Friday before the start of the Little League World Series in South Williamsport, Pa.

Continue reading "Derek Jeter's An Icon...Jim Rice ..."

Sunday August 16, 2009 following their 4-3 loss at Texas, is the first time since April 21st that the Red Sox do not have a share of the wild-card or AL East lead.  Does this mean that Red Sox nation should give up hope for the playoffs or a world series birth this year?  Probably not.  However, they should.  Sorry Red Sox fans and band wagoners, your team simply is not going to make the playoffs this year with the emergence of the Rangers pitching staff and the dominance of the Yankees offense.

Continue reading "Boston Red Sox to MISS Playoffs in '09"

In the last week, baseball fans have been exposed to a number of unfortunate incidents that involved big-name, All-Star players.  My thoughts on each of them follow.

Kevin Youkilis charging the mound: Youk let his emotions get the best of him on Tuesday night after getting plunked in the back for the second consecutive night.  The Red Sox need Youk’s bat in the lineup and his glove in the field.  Now they have neither for five games.

Continue reading "Poor behavior on and off the field is Bad for Ball"

 Last Night B. Penny and the Sox came out on a mission and that was to break this losing streak and they did. But I personally was more concerned about our hitting. After getting swept by the Yankees in a 4 game series which has not happened in over 20 years, I wasn't concerned about our pitching (except Smoltz which the Sox dealt with after that 1st game massacre and giving up 9 earned, they put him on assignment) I was worried about our line-up.

Continue reading "Red Sox Get Much Needed Win and End ..."

Fedor is a Yellow-Bellied Coward

Strikeforce announced that World Alliance of Mixed Martial Arts (WAMMA) Heavyweight Champion, Fedor Emelianenko, signed a multi-fight agreement to fight for their promotion Monday.

Continue reading "Fedor is a Yellow-Bellied Coward, ..."

The New York Times reported last week that Boston Red Sox World Series heroes of yesteryear, David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez, are two of a 104 players who tested positive for performance enhancing drugs when baseball conducted its "anonymous" testing survey in 2003.

Continue reading "Manny & Papi Are Juiceheads, Rickey ..."

Baseball families have made history in pinstripes. The Boones are in their 3rd generation playing baseball. Aaron Boone, whose brother Bret, father Bob, and grandfather Ray all had 10+ year careers in the majors, cemented his name in Yankee history. Jose Molina, whose brother Yadier plays for the Colorado Rockies and other brother Bengie plays for San Francisco Giants, also cemented his name in Yankee history. Now that the Yankees have acquired Jerry Hairston, Jr., whose brother Scott is playing for the Oakland Athletics, and father Jerry, Sr., uncle Johnny, and grandfather Sam also had MLB baseball careers. Now Jerry Jr. has a chance to continue this trend of success for baseball families playing for the Bronx Bombers. Before we get into the Hairstons, let’s take a look at what the Boones and the Molinas have accomplished in pinstripes.

Continue reading "Move over Boones. Move over Molinas. ..."

The MLB trade deadline came and went without the biggest name on the market being moved. Often times Mid-July festers numerous rumors within the Majors. The largest topic of discussion this year was Toronto ace Roy Halladay. Other notable players moved (most of them left Cleveland), but Halladay stayed.

Continue reading "Championship: Make It Happen"

Boston Red Sox-- Get a Much Needed Win and a Much Needed Player.
Friday being the trade deadline you knew the Sox were going to make some kind of move(because they always do) and they did. The Sox got the big bat they were looking for, by acquiring all-star slugger Victor Martinez from Cleveland for J. Masterson, and minor league pitcher N. Hagadone and B. Price. The 30 year old Martinez plays both catcher and 1st base and is a switch hitter and should be a huge help in the Sox lineup. Knowing Martinez is an every day player Boston sent A. LaRoche who was just traded here and had a hit in his 3 games, back to his former team the Braves for C. Kotchman who will be a solid backup to Youkilis and now Martinez. So overall this should help our offense and we didn't have to give up Clay so let's see how it plays out in the east.

Continue reading "Red Sox Get a Much Needed Win and ..."

Since I last posted before my trip to Spain, there have been a number of noteworthy occurrences in Major League Baseball.

The American League won yet another All-Star Game – by a single run for the fourth year in a row.  Manny Ramirez returned from his 50-game suspension.  The Nationals fired manager Manny Acta.  Jonathan Sanchez threw the season’s first no-hitter.  The Braves gave up on underachieving hometown boy Jeff Francouer, and traded him to the Mets for Ryan Church, who hit the foul ball I caught at RFK in 2007.  The most exciting news, however, took place the day I returned from my voyage: Mark Buerhle of the White Sox threw a perfect game.  The following day, the A’s traded slugger Matt Holliday to the Cardinals, who now have protection for Albert Pujols.

Continue reading "While I was out…"

The Boston Red Sox on Friday acquired C/1B Victor Martinez and 1B Casey Kotchman while giving up right hander Justin Masterson and 1B Adam LaRoche.

Martinez gives them a first baseman and catcher. With Mike Lowell's sore hip, Kevin Youkilis has been playing third base. Now, Martinez can play first. He can also play some at cather where backup Kattaras is batting .224 with one homerun in 85 at bats. This is a major upgrade in both spots. Meanwhile, LaRoche backing up first and pinch hitting is lost. But instead of power, they traded for average with Kotchman. Also, with Ortiz struggling, Kotchman can dh or Martinez can. There is now a lot of flexibility on this team.

Continue reading "Red Sox making push for Playoffs"

The Boston Red Sox have acquired Victor Martinez from the Cleveland Indians.  Here's who we've given up:

Justin Masterson

Nick Hagadone

Bryan Price

I'm sure gonna miss Masterson, but I guess this is the best deal.  We didn't lose Buchholz, and we didn't have to give up prospects like Bowden or Anderson.   Even still, I feel like this leaves a hole in the bullpen. 

Continue reading "UPDATE 3:26 PM : Details on the Victor ..."

I believe I speak on behalf of Red Sox Nation when I say NESN gave us a bit of a scare this afternoon. When we looked at our TVs  and saw Tom Caron saying the New York Times has reported David Ortiz being on the anonymous list of players who tested positive for Performance Enhancing Substances in 2003, no Red Sox fan was leaving the TV for the fridge – unless it for a couple of cold ones. 

Continue reading "Say It Ain’t So, Papi…Please?"

David Ortiz is the latest in a fearsome lineup of would-be hall of famers to be dragged under the worn tarmac of performance-enhancing drug speculation. In keeping with the overall theme from my previous, related posts, I would advocate for the lifetime ban of this once-proud slugger (if proven guilty), as I would for any player caught cheating the national pastime. One day, when the smoke finally clears (whenever that day may be), Major League Baseball could be faced with a cold reality: maybe 90% of ballplayers juiced. Maybe Cal Ripken, Ken Griffey Jr., Albert Pujols, Greg Maddux, Rickey Henderson-maybe they all were cheaters.

Continue reading "Initial Reaction to Ortiz Story"

I was filled with all sorts of emotions when I got a text a couple of hours ago saying that the Sox had offered Buchholz, Bowden, and Westmoreland for Roy Halladay.  Now rotoworld.com is saying that’s not the case.  For those of you that don’t know, rotoworld.com gives minute by minute updates on sports rumors and updates.  I was all ready to blog about this trade when I read the latest posting saying that this trade offer never happened.  What I want to know is how a rumor like that got started without having any validity to it…then again we’re in the world of sports, so I guess this happens.  I dunno though, I’m not ruling out any trade ideas yet.

Continue reading "Believe in the Sox, but not the Halladay rumors?"

and possibly in all of sports radio and media.

-He doesn't care if you like him or not.

-He doesn't take too many phone calls.  Yes, even your calls "Mr. Intellectual, Soccer guy" usually are uncessary.  Too many calls from mouth breathing booger eaters can only bring the show down.

Continue reading "Why Colin Cowherd is the best thing ..."

Moses spent 40 years in the desert before shepherding Israel through the desert enroute to the Promised Land. Michael Jackson grew up in a musical family and became the King of Pop over a span of 50 years. Don Zimmer tops them both. We're talking 61 years in the game and he's still going. Homeboy loves baseball. He was Joe Torre's bench coach when he managed the Yankees to 4 World Series championships. He had left Yankee management over a dispute with the boss George Steinbrenner after the 2003 season. Check out this interview with Kimberly Jones from the YES Network.

Continue reading "Much love for Don Zimmer at Yankee Stadium"

The Boston Red Sox fell out of first place this past week. They made two moves to try and regain the top spot. First they acquired Adam LaRoche from the Pirates for a couple of minor leaguers.  The move gives them some more pop off the bench.   He should take at bats away from Mark Kotsay.  He should also provide some rest for Mike Lowell and his hip.  LaRoche hit 32 home runs one year for the Atlanta Braves.

Continue reading "Red Sox making moves to stay atop"

At 1:51 PM today, I got a text saying that the Sox acquired Adam LaRoche from Pittsburgh.  I had heard the name many times, but had never followed him much.  So I looked him up online and found out that LaRoche is a first baseman and will be used to give Lowell some days off.  I was pretty excited about this.  And with our recent struggles, why not grab another bat?

Continue reading "Look out Kostay – LaRoche is coming through"

MLB Boston Red Sox; Beckett goes for his 12th win, close but no Support!!
The Red Sox had lost 3 in a row and went into this game versus the Texas Rangers with their ace Josh Beckett on the mound

Continue reading "Red Sox Fall Out of First Place"

Clay Buchholz Would get his First Start of the Year- and it would be a good one.

 This being the first game since returning from the all-star break the Sox looked to stay in command in the East.  Not knowing if Beckett and Wake would pitch in the all-star game(which they didn't and I personally thought they really should have got Wake in the game)so they made this move. The Sox brought up Clay Buchholz (7-2 in minors this year) for this one start knowing no matter how good he did, he would be sent back to the minors after the game. This did not matter to Clay Buchholz, he came out gunning, he threw 103 pitches, only allowed 4 hits and 1 earned run and had 3 strikeouts--Nasty!!  He went into the 6th and was relieved by Bard who ended the inning and looked great also. Makes you think should we keep Clay up here and sit Smoltz, what does Sox Nation think??? Log in and let me know!!!

Continue reading "Buchholz Gets First Win"

According to Ian Browne from redsox.com, Wakefield was one of the pitchers they were saving in the case that the game went into extra innings.  “Okay,” one might say, “then why did it have to be Wake? Why did they have to save both him and Beckett for extras?”  Ian Browne comes to the rescue again saying that Wakefield was well rested.  I also think that they took into consideration his ability to pitch more than one inning without hurting himself.   Wakefield is blessed with being able to pitch without his full five days rest because of the slow knuckleball.  In addition, Maddon was told to save extra pitchers because last year both the AL and the NL nearly ran out (who could forget that 15 inning game?)  So Wakefield was on the list of pitchers to save in case of extra innings. 

Continue reading "Why Wakefield Didn’t Get To Pitch ..."

The Boston Red Sox announced on Sunday that Clay Buchholz will be returning to Boston to start Friday night’s game against the Toronot Blue Jays. 

Buchholz has been waiting a while for this call, and who can blame him?  The twenty five-year old has pitched phenomenal in Pawtucket, posting a 7-2 record with a 2.36 era.  On May 25th, he nearly threw a perfect game, but had it broken up in the 9th with a hit.  He finished the game recording a complete game shut-out.  Who wouldn’t want out of Triple-A with a season like that?    

Continue reading "Buchholz is Back"

I saw the replay of last night’s game where Jacoby Ellsbury earned himself his first career ejection.  In the fifth inning, Ellsbury slid into home on a close play at the plate where he was called out.  Replays indicated that he was indeed safe.  Jacoby threw down his helmet violently in disgust.  Although home plate umpire Derryl Cousins had his back turned during all of this, he must have overheard Jacoby’s angry reactions.  In addition to that was Ellsbury’s helmet which was rolling around close to the on deck circle.  After seeing all this, Cousins decided that Ellsbury would have to leave the game. 

Continue reading "What Is It With All These Ejections??"

Is Tim Wakefield Destined For Cooperstown?

Boston Red Sox pitcher Tim Wakefield was selected last week as an AL All-Star for the first time in his improbable 18-year career and the knuckleballer will participate in Major League Baseball’s

Continue reading "Is Tim Wakefield Destined For Cooperstown? ..."

Boston Red Sox pitcher Tim Wakefield was selected last week as an AL All-Star for the first time in his improbable 18-year career and the knuckleballer will participate in Major League Baseball’s Midsummer Classic next Tuesday at Busch Stadium in St. Louis, Missouri.

Continue reading "Is Tim Wakefield Destined For Cooperstown?"

I very fortunate to be at last night’s game.  I say fortunate because there were some special moments last night.  That being said, it was one of the most frustrating Red Sox games I’ve ever been to. 

Continue reading "Being at Last Night’s Game - Welcome Back, Nomar"

I’ve said this many times, but today I need to say it again: What a time to be a Sox fan!  The Sox played a great game of baseball yesterday, beating Seattle 8-4.  Although Lester had a rough fourth inning, the Sox bounced back scoring five runs in the seventh inning which gave us the lead for good. 

Continue reading "Monday Night Baseball at Fenway: Very Exciting"

  Congratulations Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain!  The Giants' pitching staff, for a second year in a row, have two representatives on the National League All-Star team.  Third Baseman Pablo Sandoval did not make the roster today, but is one of five finalists that can still be voted in by the fans.  Go to sfgiants.com or mlb.com to log your votes for Pablo, and from what I understand, there is no limit on how many times one can vote.  The deadline to cast your ballot is Thursday. Here's a look at Pablo's competition for the final roster spot:

Continue reading ""Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain are very ..."

Ever since I was little, I remember going to Fenway Park and seeing Wakefield pitch.  About five or six years ago, I remember complaining to my friends in high school about how as much as we loved the guy, it felt like he was the pitcher we always saw on the mound.  I haven’t made it to Fenway yet this year, but when I do I personally can’t wait to see him pitch. 

Continue reading "Growing Up With Wakefield"

The New York Yankees defeated the Seattle Mariners 8-5 Tuesday night in the Bronx to move 12 games over .500 for the first time this season.

Yankees hurler Joba Chamberlain (4-2, 3.89 ERA) yielded three runs on nine hits over 5-1/3 innings to help the Yankees notch their sixth straight victory in the no-decision.

Continue reading "There Will Be No Homoerotic Riverdance ..."

I’ll tell you right now that it’s not better than viewing it as any other person. 

I’ll also tell you that even though it’s the summer, we still maintain some of the college atmosphere here in Salem.  A lot of us Salem Staters have off campus apartments so we get to see each other even when school is not in session. 

Continue reading "A College Student’s Perspective ..."

On Tuesday it was announced that all star third basemen, Mike Lowell would be placed on the Disabled List. With this being they have sent Jeff Bailey to Baltimore to finish out the rest of the series at 3rd. Mike Lowell is batting .282 with 75 hits this year and always makes great plays at the hot corner. The third baseman was treated for his right hip strain and a large amount of CeeCee's of fluid were taking out of his aling hip.

Continue reading "All star goes down, Pedroia and Youkss ..."

Boston Red Sox Bullpen Blows a 9 Run Lead!!
So last night the 42 year old John Smoltz would get his second start of the year!!  In the last game he pitched he gave up 3 runs in the first inning, but then he was lights out. So I believe it was because it was his the first start and 1st inning jitters, so I didn't know what to expect. Well he was on point again and looked great. He only gave up 3 hits, 1 earned run and had 2 strikeout-- awesome! But the story is far from over. Meanwhile the Red Sox bats looked like they where going to explode, scoring 9 runs giving Smoltz a 9-1 lead, but that's when the rain came and this was big trouble for Smoltz and the Sox.(rain always seems to be trouble for the Sox).

Continue reading "BoSox Bullpen Blows a 9 Run Lead!!"

  J. Lester and the Sox traveled to Baltimore last night to play the Orioles in what would be the Lester show. He has been amazing in his last 6 starts he hasn't giving up no more than 3 runs and has 4 wins and 48 strikeouts, Awesome!

Continue reading "Lester Amazing Again"

Last I updated, I mentioned Lowrie had to exit a rehab game early.  Fortunately for Lowrie, this wasn’t a setback.  However, yesterday word came out that Dice-K was going to be on the DL for longer than 15 days.  While we may have already known that, I don’t think any of us were expecting him to be on there for as long September 1st. 

Continue reading "Lowell Goes on the DL – Dice-K ..."

I was just looking up news trying to find out if anyone knew how Lowrie was doing and this is what I found out.  Apparently Lowrie had to leave in the fifth inning due to soreness in his knee.   This scared me a bit until I remembered that Lowrie is on the DL for a wrist injury – not a knee injury.  What happened was on Tuesday Lowrie was hit by a pitch in the knee.  It seems as if the eager shortstop might have been pushing a little too hard on the knee, which forced him to leave the game early.  Poor guy.  Hope he gets better soon.  I’m sure he was more than frustrated after leaving the game, but at least the soreness has nothing to do with his wrist. 

Continue reading "NESN.com Reports Jed Lowrie Exits ..."

I already knew that the Red Sox were in first, and that the Yanks were in second.  I also knew that whenever I looked at the standings, Toronto was not far behind New York.  What I didn’t know was that Tampa Bay is currently only a game behind Toronto. 

Continue reading "Take a Look at the Standings"

Last night I saw a funny production of Neil Simon’s play “Rumors” at Salem State College.  When I got out, I was hoping to catch the end of the game.  As it turned out, the game was over, and it was no laughing matter.  Smoltz had given up four runs alone in the first inning.  The Red Sox bullpen was very shaky.  And Jordan Zimmermann from the Nationals absolutely dominated the Red Sox through seven innings of work. 

Continue reading "Don’t Worry About Smoltz….Yet"

There's a new face on the New York pro baseball scene. His name is Francisco. Sorry Mets fans, I'm not talking about K-Rod, who granted has been perfect this year in saves opportunities except for that 1 save opportunity that slipped away when a route pop fly by second baseman Luis Castillo was dropped. A.J. Burnett might as well have snuck behind him during his interview on SNY and stuffed a whipped cream pie in his face.

Continue reading "Frankie serves up some spark for ..."

The Red Sox played a great game of baseball Wednesday night, as those of us in the Boston area were able to watch on NESN.  However, there was another fun game of baseball on ESPN 2 for their usual Wednesday Night Baseball game against the Braves and Yankees who were playing at the same time.  I found myself flipping between channels during commercial breaks for the Sox and caught some cool moments.  Meanwhile, the College World Series’ final game was on ESPN between Texas and LSU.  There was an awful lot of baseball on last night. 

Continue reading "Wednesday Night Baseball – Not ..."

The Minnesota Twins and Milwaukee Brewers are locked in a border battle of non-epic proportions.  Compared to the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox rivalry, we are the two douche-bags on the play ground yelling about an ill-advised Magic the Gathering card throw.  

Continue reading "Jason Kubel's White Rocket"

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. 

Continue reading "Penny Not Perfect, But Not Bad Either"

As the baseball world awaits the return of Manny Ramirez in a little over a week, many are wondering which Manny Ramirez will return after a 50 game suspension for violating Major League Baseball's steroid policy. This evening Ramirez begins a stint with the Albuquerque Isotopes, the AAA affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers, to help rid himself of nearly 2 months of rust and prepare to return to the Dodgers next Friday. The question remains though, which Manny will we see when Ramirez takes the field in San Diego next week?

Continue reading "Which Manny Ramirez will return to Los Angeles?"

I honestly feel bad for Matsuzaka.  He was placed on the DL, had a terrible start to the season, got booed in his last outing, and now back on the DL.  Personally I don’t think he deserved getting booed.  There was clearly something wrong, booing him isn’t going to help. 

Continue reading "Dice-K is OK in My Book"

Yesterday on the MLB Channel, they were replaying Game 4 of the 2007 World Series.  I tuned in during the 8th inning and was very content in watching the final innings.  What made it so much fun was  remembering who I was watching with and things that they were saying as the score changed.   It was a bit emotional to bring back those memories that were still fairly fresh.  And it was even more fun to remember how excited we all were after Papelbon recorded the final strikeout to win the game, and the series. 

Continue reading "Why 2009 is a Special Year"

Boston Red Sox; Rainey Night Costs the Sox!!

J. Lester started last night for the Sox and has been outstanding, winning his last 3 games in a row, 2 were almost no hitters and allowing only 1 run in the other and 11 strikeouts in all 3 games--Sick!!! So I expected Lester to come out last night and do the same thing as he has been doing.

Continue reading "Rainy Nite costs Red Sox"

Will Bryce Harper be LeBron James or Todd Marinovich?

Ron Harper announced earlier this week that his prodigious son, Bryce, will forego his final two years of high school eligibility to pursue a professional baseball career.

Continue reading "Will Bryce Harper be LeBron James ..."

The New York Yankees destroyed the New York Metropolitans 15-0 Sunday in the Bronx to win two out of the three games played during this weekend’s first installment of the 2009 Subway Series.

Continue reading "Yankees Destroy Mets....Will They ..."

Ball players and their fans are very superstitious creatures. Ballplayers will do anything to get a hitting streak going. Pitchers will do anything to get a winning streak going. The fans will go anything to get a rally going if their team is behind during a game. They'll do everything from not washing their socks, to putting tar on their helmets. When a pitcher is throwing a perfect game, the rest of the players stay away from him, thinking that their mere presence is going to mess up his chances to make that milestone. New York Yankees SS Derek Jeter, our beloved captain is very superstitious. If he or his team is approaching some kind of milestone that he is not aware of, he will dog the media and say that they jinxed the team by bringing it to his attention. Case in point: during a post-game interview a couple of days before the Yankees beat the 2006 Boston Red Sox team record for most consecutive games played without committing an error, Kimberly Jones brought it his attention. The first thing that he tells her is, "Why did you tell me that, it's bad karma, " then he answers the questions. In a commercial on the MLB Network, they show fans showing up at the gate to their favorite teams ballparks some of them have face-paint on. Others are dressed like Shamans carrying Voodoo beads. Come on, people. Enough with the superstitions all ready! How about praying for your team? I do it! Whenever the Yankees are behind in a game and they're rallying, I lean forward in my chair and put in my hands together and bring them to my face in a praying position thinking, sometimes saying, "Come on!" I do this because I believe it will bring God into the situation and the Yankees will bring home runs. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. Either way, I praise the Lord because ultimately the game is in His hands. Only He knows the outcome, but I believe prayer does more than just spark up a rally a bring in runs.

Continue reading "Yankee fans for Jesus, arise! Pray for your team!"

One of the most exciting games I’ve seen all year.  If I could compare it to any other game this season, it would have to be one of the two Red Sox-Yankee games back in April.  You can’t beat a walk off homer, but you gotta love pitchers duels that erupt in the late innings, only to have the Sox come back and win it in the 8th. 

Continue reading "“Go Crazy Folks, The Red Sox Win This One!”"

In the sports world, nothing compares to Game 7. At times, it defines careers, and it always defines the teams involved.

Although I am not a hockey fan, tonight's Stanley Cup Finals matchup between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings sparked a fire within me. There's something about Game 7 that does it. No other situation in sports can put both team's in such a do or die moment. Every play is put under a microscope. Player's entire careers can be made in a single Game 7. A Game 7 is for sports fans, what Christmas Day is for children. For that reason alone, I may become a hockey fan tonight.

Continue reading "That's So Game 7..."

What a great time to be a Sox fan! When was the last time the Yankees had taken their starter out of the game before the 3rd inning on back-to-back days?  This almost seems too easy…

Continue reading "Boston You’re My Home – New York, You Are Not"

These 5 deals need to be done by July 31st.

With the Nate McLouth trade still fresh on our minds, what other deals appear to be necessary, if not imminent? Atlanta was able to fill perhaps the single biggest hole of any team, in its lack of outfield production. Here are the five trades that need to be made sooner than later.

Continue reading "5 Trades that Need to Happen in Major ..."

The losing streak against the Red Sox continues. Yankee management needs to set up their rotation so that they have their best against against Boston. They need to come up with some kind of plan to keep the Boston offense in check every game. This losing is PATHETIC! Are the Yankees going to bow down to Boston all season, slide into the playoff picture via the Wild Card without beating them and spanking the other teams? It's been done before. During their World Series years (96, 98-2000), they were getting spanked by the Angels and they still won the World Series those years. Back to pitching, how can you set up a rotation where 2 opposing pitchers face off against each other back to back?  Every time A.J. Burnett takes on Boston this year so far, it's been against Josh Beckett. Are they going to do this again in their series against Boston in August and September? I hope not, Beckett seems to have A.J.'s number this year. How about putting in C.C. Sabathia against him? The Milwaukee Brewers worked him like a Hebrew slave in the time of Moses last year, pitching him on 3 days rest to win key games during the season. How come the Yankees can't do that? Unfortunately, Girardi's strategy is to keep the pitch count down on the rotation because he doesn't want to tire them out. Starting pitching needs to improve against the Red Sox. Mark Teixiera tried to get something going last night going 3 for 4, but the offense as usual fizzled out leading to a 5-4 Yankee lost. Oh well! Tonight, it's C.C. Sabathia against Brad Penny. Can even C.C. hold the Red Sox down in the early innings? Can Texieira, A-Rod, and the boys jump on Brad Penny's flamethrowing fastball? We'll find out tonight.

Continue reading "The Yankees need to get it together ..."

Although the Red Sox have dominated the Yanks thus far, many have pointed out that the first two series against the Bombers were “a different Yankees team.”  They did not have A-rod and we have yet to see Sabathia pitch against us.  While we still have yet to see Sabathia, we sure proved that we can beat the Yanks with or without A-rod last night – although it sure helps when AJ Burnett is on the mound and can’t get out of the third inning. 

Continue reading "Sox Are 6-0 Against Yanks for the ..."

He's been a Yankee killer for the past few years. He is a big hero up in Boston. Big Papi, yeah! What's been going on with David Ortiz? Bill Simmons wrote an article in the June 15 issue of ESPN the Magazine that will please Yankee fans everywhere. He's been slumping big time. Mr. Simmons compared him to Clark Kent in Superman II when he lost his powers and ended up getting beat down by a bully. He also said that in a game against the Twins that Big Sloppy couldn't even keep up with a 89 mph fast ball. Red Sox fans are even jokingly saying that they need to mail him some HGH. Well, they can do that all they want because it looks like Big Papi has become Big Sloppy.

Continue reading "Scouting the opposition: "Big Sloppy" ..."

I absolutely love the intensity of Kevin Youkilis.  The fact that he cares so much about the every swing of the bat shows great commitment to the game of baseball.  What a great guy to have on the team.  That being said, I’ve been a little disappointed in Youk lately. 

Continue reading "Disappointed in Youuuuk"

These days, going to a baseball game isn't what it used to be. Seldom will a pitcher throw into the 7th inning; the score is usually 7-6 or 10-9; and your favorite slugger is likely to hit one, if not two balls, out of the park. The game is shamelessly jacked up on HGH, and its obvious. The best hitter (Bonds) and pitcher (Clemens) of our generation used it, and more players are getting busted by the day (A-Rod, Manny). However, most fans don't care. They still go to the ballpark. That's because baseball, and pro sports in general, is merely another form of entertainment.

Continue reading "Rampant Steroid Use Brings Up Issue ..."

What do you do with David Ortiz? Here's a guy who has bled Red Sox red (note to self: this doesn’t work) for the better part of his career. He is arguably the greatest clutch hitter in team history. Would the Sox have won two World Series rings without him? Surely not.

Continue reading "What to do with David Ortiz?"