Since joining the Dodgers at the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, Manny Ramirez has been going off. The ball must look like a beach ball to him right now. And NL pitchers look like Little Leaguers against him. Dodger fans are ecstatic. And why wouldn't they be. The Dodgers have a swagger that was absent pre-Manny, and they are winning right now. What's not to like?
The way Manny behaved in Boston, forcing a trade, that's what. And all fans of the sport -- or anyone who still values integrity, commitment, and honoring an agreement -- should be concerned.
Apparently baseball's "powers that be" share this concern. MLB has reportedly begun an investigation into Manny's final days in Boston. And there is plenty of reason to do so.
All of a sudden, Manny's allegedly ailing knee now seems pretty healthy, doesn't it? Add to that the fact that he and/or Scott Boras reportedly petitioned the Red Sox to stay in Boston after the trade was initiated. All he wanted was for his two option years dropped and he would behave. That's ransom, or blackmail, depending on how you view it.
Manny held the Red Sox hostage to his demands by dogging it, and not hustling to first base or in the outfield. It was also reported that he refused to board the team bus in Anaheim for the trip to the airport. When Manny finally arrived in Seattle, he suddenly started complaining about a sore knee. It seemed to come out of nowhere. But he never sought treatment from the team trainers. A subsequent MRI showed no injury or damage to either knee.
The truth had been revealed; Manny was a bullshitter, a quitter, and a crybaby whiner who put his personal interests first, ahead of those of his team. Not exactly what you'd call a team player.
But all of that came after he'd already slapped teammate Kevin Youkilis in the face in the dugout (caught on live TV), and pushed a 64-year-old traveling secretary to the ground because the older gentleman wasn't certain he could secure all 16 of the tickets Manny had requested for that evening's game in Houston. Apparently Manny never considered the fact that it was a road game, in a National League park, and that maybe some of his teammates might also want some of the limited available tickets. It didn't matter; Manny comes first in Manny's World. And apparently Manny, the multi-millionaire, also never heard of Stub Hub.
Manny signed an eight-year contract that gave the Red Sox control over him for an additional two years, at their option -- all while compensating him at the rate of $20 mil annually. Then he decided he wanted to change the terms of the agreement.
Scott Boras filled Manny's head with visions of a new four-year, $100 million pact. But that could only be secured if the Red Sox didn't pick up Manny's option in 2009. And since he'll be 37 next May, the clock was ticking on such a long-term deal. The question is, who will pay a guy nearing age 40 $25 million per year? Furthermore, Boras stood to have Manny on his client list for three years with no compensation if Manny didn't somehow get out of his deal. That's why dropping the two option years was a requisite to approving any trade, including the one that ultimately sent him to the Dodgers.
This whole charade is so obvious. And the whole thing really stinks. There's a foul smell in the world of baseball, and the stench could affect the very heart and integrity of a great game.
MLB has got to show some backbone and issue some sort of punishment to both Ramirez and Boras. An awful precedent has now been established, and it could serve as the template for any disgruntled players that want to get out of their contracts and hit the open market. That's now a distinct possibility and that outcome is very disturbing.
American society lives by the rule of law; contractual obligations must be upheld. They are important, even critical, agreements between parties. Manny's actions turn this whole notion on its head. If you don't like your contract, act up and force your way out. That's supposed to be illegal. And the insane thing is that -- as opposed to the vast majority of personal contracts and obligations that most Americans will ever sign or hold -- this one called for the guy in question to be paid $20 mil annually!! And it wasn't good enough for him!! How much more out-of-touch can one man be?
MLB needs to take action and come down hard. And hopefully the rest of baseball will come together collectively and not reward Ramirez for his poor behavior. Cancers should be cut out, not fed.
Manny expects to be paid $25 million annually in the years that he will be 39 and 40. Please, let sanity -- and justice -- prevail.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
ZINK'S START AMOUNTS TO AN AUDITION
This is More Than Just a Spot Start for the Minor League Veteran
Tonight's start for Red Sox prospect Charlie Zink could prove to be be an audition for something bigger.
In 25 games with Pawtucket this season, the knuckleballer is 13-4 with a 2.89 ERA, third in the International League. Though he'll be 29 later this month, he's young for a knuckleballer and finally looks Major League ready. With his experience and success this season, he'll be a candidate for someone's rotation next year. Tonight's start could well be a showcase for other clubs.
Tim Wakefield is suffering the same injury that sidelined him last year, and you have to wonder if, at age 42, this puts his career in jeopardy. The Sox don't want two knuckleballers in their rotation but, one way or another, Wake will retire sooner than later. Depending on the veteran's health, that could make Zink a candidate for the rotation in '09.
There aren't many guys throwing the knuckleball in the modern game; Wakefield was the only knuckleballer on any Opening Day Major League roster. And Zink was one of just three knuckleballers pitching at the Triple A level to begin the season.
It's been a long and winding road for the California native. Though undrafted (he had to try out for a low minors spot), Zink has been with the organization since 2002. As a middle reliever, he lead the staff with a 1.68 ERA in his first season, and by 2003 he was the only Sox prospect ranked in the top-50 by Baseball Prospectus. That was after he learned to throw the knuckleball.
But then Zink tumbled in 2004, going an abysmal 1-10, and dealt with a demotion from Portland to Single A Sarasota. That year and the next, he struggled with far too many walks and home runs allowed. His development had gone backwards and his train to the Bigs had gone off the tracks.
Yet Zink bounced back to lead Pawtucket in wins in 2006. However, he was still demoted to Portland in 2007, where he made the Eastern League All-Star team.
Aided and encouraged by Wakefield, who gave Zink advice on his motion, stride and delivery, Zink put in the hard work that, matched with an indomitable spirit, has finally paid off.
He's improved on his 11-6, 4.63 numbers from last year (split between Portland and Pawtucket), and has been one of the PawSox top pitchers this season, leading the team in wins and ERA.
This is Zink's seventh season, the last year under Boston's control. If he does not remain on the team's 40-man roster, he will become a minor league free agent at year's end, meaning he will be free to sign with anyone.
Surely he has value at this point. Surely the Sox would like to get some compensation for him rather than just letting him walk and sign with another team.
It's a good bet that Charlie Zink will be on some Big League club's Opening Day roster next season, be it the Red Sox or another team.
Tonight's start for Red Sox prospect Charlie Zink could prove to be be an audition for something bigger.
In 25 games with Pawtucket this season, the knuckleballer is 13-4 with a 2.89 ERA, third in the International League. Though he'll be 29 later this month, he's young for a knuckleballer and finally looks Major League ready. With his experience and success this season, he'll be a candidate for someone's rotation next year. Tonight's start could well be a showcase for other clubs.
Tim Wakefield is suffering the same injury that sidelined him last year, and you have to wonder if, at age 42, this puts his career in jeopardy. The Sox don't want two knuckleballers in their rotation but, one way or another, Wake will retire sooner than later. Depending on the veteran's health, that could make Zink a candidate for the rotation in '09.
There aren't many guys throwing the knuckleball in the modern game; Wakefield was the only knuckleballer on any Opening Day Major League roster. And Zink was one of just three knuckleballers pitching at the Triple A level to begin the season.
It's been a long and winding road for the California native. Though undrafted (he had to try out for a low minors spot), Zink has been with the organization since 2002. As a middle reliever, he lead the staff with a 1.68 ERA in his first season, and by 2003 he was the only Sox prospect ranked in the top-50 by Baseball Prospectus. That was after he learned to throw the knuckleball.
But then Zink tumbled in 2004, going an abysmal 1-10, and dealt with a demotion from Portland to Single A Sarasota. That year and the next, he struggled with far too many walks and home runs allowed. His development had gone backwards and his train to the Bigs had gone off the tracks.
Yet Zink bounced back to lead Pawtucket in wins in 2006. However, he was still demoted to Portland in 2007, where he made the Eastern League All-Star team.
Aided and encouraged by Wakefield, who gave Zink advice on his motion, stride and delivery, Zink put in the hard work that, matched with an indomitable spirit, has finally paid off.
He's improved on his 11-6, 4.63 numbers from last year (split between Portland and Pawtucket), and has been one of the PawSox top pitchers this season, leading the team in wins and ERA.
This is Zink's seventh season, the last year under Boston's control. If he does not remain on the team's 40-man roster, he will become a minor league free agent at year's end, meaning he will be free to sign with anyone.
Surely he has value at this point. Surely the Sox would like to get some compensation for him rather than just letting him walk and sign with another team.
It's a good bet that Charlie Zink will be on some Big League club's Opening Day roster next season, be it the Red Sox or another team.
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Post-Manny Era Shaping up Nicely in Boston
Leading up to Thursday’s trade deadline, it was clear that the Red Sox needed a shake up. They were in a funk.
The other Red Sox players had grown tired of Manny Ramirez’s act. Lower paid teammates don’t like prima donnas who get special treatment. And Manny was already treated pretty differently anyway—he got paid a hell of a lot more money than the rest. That’s one of the reasons the Red Sox didn’t bring Pedro back. He played by his own set of rules—just like Manny.
And Sox management may have felt even more compelled to act as they watched rival A.L. teams rapidly improve with wise deals.
The Angels had already proven themselves a better team—even before they got Mark Texiera. And after acquiring Xavier Nady and lefty Damaso Marte, the Yankees then acquired Pudge Rodriguez in another trade. Both franchises had upgraded their ball clubs while the Sox stood pat. The Yankee moves, in particular, made Brian Cashman look like a genius.
So when the Angels, who had just swept the Sox in consecutive series, landed the best player available, the A.L.’s best team got even better. That, coupled with the Yanks’ bold moves, made the Sox feel compelled to do something. They simply had to act after losing eight of twelve games after the break. The team looked flat, as if Ramirez had completely drained them.
Indeed, Manny forced the Sox' hand. The relationship was way beyond repair.
The current ownership/management group didn’t sign him and never liked his massive, long-term contract. They had wanted to be free of it, and him, for quite some time. Jason Bay for Manny, straight up, was not an even trade. It showed just how much the Sox wanted to rid themselves of Manny.
But Bay has certainly given a fine accounting of himself in his first two games in Boston, reaching base safely in six of his first 11 at-bats, including a triple, a homer, four runs, and three RBI.
And how about this contrast in the first game of the Post-Manny Era:
Jason Bay reached base safely four times, including a triple in the bottom of the 12th, ultimately scoring the winning run.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers ninth-inning rally fizzled when Manny grounded into a double play during a 2-1 defeat against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium.
Poetic justice? Perhaps. An omen of things to come in Boston? We can only hope.
So far, the Post-Manny Era isn’t shaping up too badly for the Red Sox after all.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
The other Red Sox players had grown tired of Manny Ramirez’s act. Lower paid teammates don’t like prima donnas who get special treatment. And Manny was already treated pretty differently anyway—he got paid a hell of a lot more money than the rest. That’s one of the reasons the Red Sox didn’t bring Pedro back. He played by his own set of rules—just like Manny.
And Sox management may have felt even more compelled to act as they watched rival A.L. teams rapidly improve with wise deals.
The Angels had already proven themselves a better team—even before they got Mark Texiera. And after acquiring Xavier Nady and lefty Damaso Marte, the Yankees then acquired Pudge Rodriguez in another trade. Both franchises had upgraded their ball clubs while the Sox stood pat. The Yankee moves, in particular, made Brian Cashman look like a genius.
So when the Angels, who had just swept the Sox in consecutive series, landed the best player available, the A.L.’s best team got even better. That, coupled with the Yanks’ bold moves, made the Sox feel compelled to do something. They simply had to act after losing eight of twelve games after the break. The team looked flat, as if Ramirez had completely drained them.
Indeed, Manny forced the Sox' hand. The relationship was way beyond repair.
The current ownership/management group didn’t sign him and never liked his massive, long-term contract. They had wanted to be free of it, and him, for quite some time. Jason Bay for Manny, straight up, was not an even trade. It showed just how much the Sox wanted to rid themselves of Manny.
But Bay has certainly given a fine accounting of himself in his first two games in Boston, reaching base safely in six of his first 11 at-bats, including a triple, a homer, four runs, and three RBI.
And how about this contrast in the first game of the Post-Manny Era:
Jason Bay reached base safely four times, including a triple in the bottom of the 12th, ultimately scoring the winning run.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers ninth-inning rally fizzled when Manny grounded into a double play during a 2-1 defeat against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium.
Poetic justice? Perhaps. An omen of things to come in Boston? We can only hope.
So far, the Post-Manny Era isn’t shaping up too badly for the Red Sox after all.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Addition Through Subtraction?
Will Manny's Absence Really Make the Sox Better?
By most accounts, the three-way deal between the Red Sox, Marlins and Pirates died because the Sox felt that the Marlins and Pirates were asking for too much. Boston simply felt like they were being held hostage and squeezed in the Manny Ramirez negotiations.
Despite the Red Sox' willingness to give up a future Hall of Famer who is having another All Star season, and the fact that they were wiling to pick up all of his remaining 2008 salary, the Marlins and Pirates actually wanted the Sox to sweeten the pot even further with prospects and/or cash. Obviously, both clubs thought they could hold a desperate Red Sox club over the proverbial barrel. Incredibly, the Marlins were in a position to acquire a $20 million superstar and still make money on the deal. Yet, it wasn't enough.
So the Dodgers stepped in. They sent third baseman Andy Laroche -- a player who hit .226 in 35 games last year, and who is hitting just .203 in 27 games this year -- along with minor league pitcher Bryan Morris in exchange for the great Manny Ramirez. Oh yeah, and the Sox will be paying Manny to play for the Dodgers for the rest of the year. What a deal -- what a steal -- for the Dodgers.
To obtaIn left fielder Jason Bay from Pittsburgh, the Red Sox not only parted with the All Star and future Hall of Famer Ramirez, but in addition they also sent outfielder Brandon Moss and reliever Craig Hansen to Pittsburgh. Oh, and did I mention the fact that the Red Sox will also be paying Manny to play for the Dodgers?
This move reeks of desperation. The Red Sox acted out of emotion and a burning desire to rid themselves of Manny Ramirez. That's how bad the relationship had become.
That sense of desperation has resulted in a rather uneven swap. Undoubtedly, it's yet to be determined if this was ultimately the best move for the Red Sox. But one has to ask; is this really the best they could do? And that's for one simple reason; they probably aren't a better team -- at least on paper -- after this trade. Jason Bay is a very good player, but he's no Manny Ramirez. Despite Manny's mental and emotional deficiencies, and as much of a headache as he was to John Henry, Theo Epstein and co., he's still a very good hitter. His best years may be behind him, but he's still a threat to opposing pitchers at this moment.
It's easy to assume that there were some bad vibes in the Sox clubhouse; some players were said to be fed up with Manny, while others still publicly supported him. That's to be expected on a veteran club. Obviously the sentiment was bad enough to force the Red Sox to act. Veteran players were surely consulted about the effect Manny was having on the team. The Sox recent performances speak volumes; this was a highly distracted ball club. Terry Francona is said to have lost 15 pounds in recent weeks as the stress mounted.
But everyone had seen this movie before; Manny usually got over his emotional outbursts and played well. During past disputes/trade demands, there were still years remaining on his contract. This time it was just months. Yet, the Sox had no faith that, in little time remaining in the "Manny Era," they could actually count on him. He had quit on his teammates two years ago, and he did it again this month. He was temperamental, moody and unpredictable. For management it was enough to consummate a lopsided trade.
Obviously, every other A.L. team was hoping this deal would go through, and surely they are all celebrating this evening. A Red Sox team that's already looked suspect since the break, going 4-8, may have grown even weaker. Time will tell.
Yes, Bay is younger and cheaper, but he's not better than Ramirez. Cheaper doesn't matter to the Sox; they can afford any price tag. And they could have addressed left field and gotten younger in the offseason. As much of a prima donna, malcontent, "me first" player as Manny is, losing his presence in the lineup could hurt the Sox down the stretch. He provided protection for Big Papi in the batting order. That lineup will now be shuffled in a way it hasn't for years. Ortiz and Ramirez were married in the lineup and were the game's most lethal combo for the past six seasons.
Furthermore, putting a small-market-type player, like Bay, in the glare of the Boston spotlight and asking him to fill Manny's rather large shoes amounts to enormous pressure. Many players would wilt under such expectations. We can only hope that Bay is not one of them. He has never played in the post-season before. Baseball is an afterthought in Pittsburgh, and there is no pressure in playing there. No one expects the Pirates to win, or for Pirates' players to perform at the highest level. It's a perfect environment for the young Moss and Hansen. Perhaps they will thrive there.
For all the comparisons to the historic Nomar Garciaparra trade, Nomar was a faded star when the Sox dealt him in July of 2004. At the time he had just 7 doubles, 5 homers, and 21 RBI. If Manny had those sort of numbers, there wouldn't be nearly the same concern about the Red Sox losing him.
Here's how Ramirez and Bay stack up:
Ramirez: BA .299, HR 20, RBI 68, OBP .398, Slugging .590
Bay: BA .282, HR 22, RBI 64, OBP .375, Slugging .515
Yes, the numbers are quite similar. But.hanging on to Manny Ramirez would given the Red Sox a better chance of getting to the post-season and of winning. He has a history of being a clutch hitter the playoffs, as well as the World Series. The Sox could have picked up his option in November and then traded him. Manny had no leverage in this matter. He put himself at the Red Sox' mercy when he agreed to that contract in December 2000. Now he's gotten the leverage and control he wanted by forcing the Sox to move him at such a steep price. Keeping Manny would have given the Sox the opportunity to find the best possible trade partner in the offseason, with the luxury of more suitors and more time. This was clearly a rash decision made under duress and in a limited time frame. Not ideal circumstances for making a critical decision.
At this point in his career, Manny is a 30-homer, 100 RBI player -- not the monster hitting machine he was in years past. There are other players of similar calibre available at a much lower cost. That fact, in addition to Manny's attitude and antics, might have dissuaded potential trade partners this winter. It's very telling that the Sox found it so difficult to interest anyone in taking him today -- even though they were willing to eat the remainder of his 2008 salary.
Paying Manny to play for the Dodgers for the rest of the season, plus paying Jason Bay's salary this year and next, will still amount to less than the $20 million that the Sox would have owed Ramirez in 2009 had they exercised their option on him. Surely, that was part of their rationale.
Apparently, owner John Henry was the most hesitant to trade Ramirez. He felt that the Sox could not get sufficient value in return and that Manny would give the team the best chance of winning. After all, the Sox had been down this road with their savant slugger before, and it had worked out pretty well for them.
But the need to restore sanity in the clubhouse prevailed. Management believed that its very integrity was at stake. Manny had been treated differently than his teammates for far too long. There were the "Manny Rules," and then there were the rules that everyone else had to abide by. That sort of thing is like a cancer, and it undermines team unity and harmony. And for that reason, Manny had to go.
Excluding this season, Manny had already made $143,328,346 in his career. And yet he is still worried about things like money, respect, and "peace." The Red Sox will no longer have to put up with the headache that is Manny Ramirez. And they can only hope they are better without him than with him. The next two months will be a revelation.
It was inevitable; Manny's time with the Red Sox had to come to an end. It just came sooner, rather than later.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
By most accounts, the three-way deal between the Red Sox, Marlins and Pirates died because the Sox felt that the Marlins and Pirates were asking for too much. Boston simply felt like they were being held hostage and squeezed in the Manny Ramirez negotiations.
Despite the Red Sox' willingness to give up a future Hall of Famer who is having another All Star season, and the fact that they were wiling to pick up all of his remaining 2008 salary, the Marlins and Pirates actually wanted the Sox to sweeten the pot even further with prospects and/or cash. Obviously, both clubs thought they could hold a desperate Red Sox club over the proverbial barrel. Incredibly, the Marlins were in a position to acquire a $20 million superstar and still make money on the deal. Yet, it wasn't enough.
So the Dodgers stepped in. They sent third baseman Andy Laroche -- a player who hit .226 in 35 games last year, and who is hitting just .203 in 27 games this year -- along with minor league pitcher Bryan Morris in exchange for the great Manny Ramirez. Oh yeah, and the Sox will be paying Manny to play for the Dodgers for the rest of the year. What a deal -- what a steal -- for the Dodgers.
To obtaIn left fielder Jason Bay from Pittsburgh, the Red Sox not only parted with the All Star and future Hall of Famer Ramirez, but in addition they also sent outfielder Brandon Moss and reliever Craig Hansen to Pittsburgh. Oh, and did I mention the fact that the Red Sox will also be paying Manny to play for the Dodgers?
This move reeks of desperation. The Red Sox acted out of emotion and a burning desire to rid themselves of Manny Ramirez. That's how bad the relationship had become.
That sense of desperation has resulted in a rather uneven swap. Undoubtedly, it's yet to be determined if this was ultimately the best move for the Red Sox. But one has to ask; is this really the best they could do? And that's for one simple reason; they probably aren't a better team -- at least on paper -- after this trade. Jason Bay is a very good player, but he's no Manny Ramirez. Despite Manny's mental and emotional deficiencies, and as much of a headache as he was to John Henry, Theo Epstein and co., he's still a very good hitter. His best years may be behind him, but he's still a threat to opposing pitchers at this moment.
It's easy to assume that there were some bad vibes in the Sox clubhouse; some players were said to be fed up with Manny, while others still publicly supported him. That's to be expected on a veteran club. Obviously the sentiment was bad enough to force the Red Sox to act. Veteran players were surely consulted about the effect Manny was having on the team. The Sox recent performances speak volumes; this was a highly distracted ball club. Terry Francona is said to have lost 15 pounds in recent weeks as the stress mounted.
But everyone had seen this movie before; Manny usually got over his emotional outbursts and played well. During past disputes/trade demands, there were still years remaining on his contract. This time it was just months. Yet, the Sox had no faith that, in little time remaining in the "Manny Era," they could actually count on him. He had quit on his teammates two years ago, and he did it again this month. He was temperamental, moody and unpredictable. For management it was enough to consummate a lopsided trade.
Obviously, every other A.L. team was hoping this deal would go through, and surely they are all celebrating this evening. A Red Sox team that's already looked suspect since the break, going 4-8, may have grown even weaker. Time will tell.
Yes, Bay is younger and cheaper, but he's not better than Ramirez. Cheaper doesn't matter to the Sox; they can afford any price tag. And they could have addressed left field and gotten younger in the offseason. As much of a prima donna, malcontent, "me first" player as Manny is, losing his presence in the lineup could hurt the Sox down the stretch. He provided protection for Big Papi in the batting order. That lineup will now be shuffled in a way it hasn't for years. Ortiz and Ramirez were married in the lineup and were the game's most lethal combo for the past six seasons.
Furthermore, putting a small-market-type player, like Bay, in the glare of the Boston spotlight and asking him to fill Manny's rather large shoes amounts to enormous pressure. Many players would wilt under such expectations. We can only hope that Bay is not one of them. He has never played in the post-season before. Baseball is an afterthought in Pittsburgh, and there is no pressure in playing there. No one expects the Pirates to win, or for Pirates' players to perform at the highest level. It's a perfect environment for the young Moss and Hansen. Perhaps they will thrive there.
For all the comparisons to the historic Nomar Garciaparra trade, Nomar was a faded star when the Sox dealt him in July of 2004. At the time he had just 7 doubles, 5 homers, and 21 RBI. If Manny had those sort of numbers, there wouldn't be nearly the same concern about the Red Sox losing him.
Here's how Ramirez and Bay stack up:
Ramirez: BA .299, HR 20, RBI 68, OBP .398, Slugging .590
Bay: BA .282, HR 22, RBI 64, OBP .375, Slugging .515
Yes, the numbers are quite similar. But.hanging on to Manny Ramirez would given the Red Sox a better chance of getting to the post-season and of winning. He has a history of being a clutch hitter the playoffs, as well as the World Series. The Sox could have picked up his option in November and then traded him. Manny had no leverage in this matter. He put himself at the Red Sox' mercy when he agreed to that contract in December 2000. Now he's gotten the leverage and control he wanted by forcing the Sox to move him at such a steep price. Keeping Manny would have given the Sox the opportunity to find the best possible trade partner in the offseason, with the luxury of more suitors and more time. This was clearly a rash decision made under duress and in a limited time frame. Not ideal circumstances for making a critical decision.
At this point in his career, Manny is a 30-homer, 100 RBI player -- not the monster hitting machine he was in years past. There are other players of similar calibre available at a much lower cost. That fact, in addition to Manny's attitude and antics, might have dissuaded potential trade partners this winter. It's very telling that the Sox found it so difficult to interest anyone in taking him today -- even though they were willing to eat the remainder of his 2008 salary.
Paying Manny to play for the Dodgers for the rest of the season, plus paying Jason Bay's salary this year and next, will still amount to less than the $20 million that the Sox would have owed Ramirez in 2009 had they exercised their option on him. Surely, that was part of their rationale.
Apparently, owner John Henry was the most hesitant to trade Ramirez. He felt that the Sox could not get sufficient value in return and that Manny would give the team the best chance of winning. After all, the Sox had been down this road with their savant slugger before, and it had worked out pretty well for them.
But the need to restore sanity in the clubhouse prevailed. Management believed that its very integrity was at stake. Manny had been treated differently than his teammates for far too long. There were the "Manny Rules," and then there were the rules that everyone else had to abide by. That sort of thing is like a cancer, and it undermines team unity and harmony. And for that reason, Manny had to go.
Excluding this season, Manny had already made $143,328,346 in his career. And yet he is still worried about things like money, respect, and "peace." The Red Sox will no longer have to put up with the headache that is Manny Ramirez. And they can only hope they are better without him than with him. The next two months will be a revelation.
It was inevitable; Manny's time with the Red Sox had to come to an end. It just came sooner, rather than later.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
BEWARE THE MIDDLE RELIEVERS
Ron Mahay, Geoff Geary, Huston Street and other middle relivers being discussed as possible trade bait. We should all be concerned.
Middle relievers are the worst bunch; not good enough to start and not good enough to close. They seem to be up and down each year and change teams often. Good with one team, bad with the next. Good one year, bad the next. Yet there is a premium on their services (as much as they rarely deserve it) to bridge the gap between the starters and the closer.
Modern starters are six-inning pitchers. It's sad. The game has changed so much. Roy Halladay leads the Majors with seven complete games this year, and five others are tied at three. Contemporary starters have it easy compared to their predecessors. And contemporary closers have a chance to ring up the saves in a way that their predecessors never had.
No one expects a starter to be perfect every inning -- even the ace. If he gives up a couple of runs in an inning, it's probably manageable and not devastating. We tend to look at the big picture; their performance over six or seven innings, not just one.
That's the tough part about being a middle reliever. You only get one inning -- at best. Every pitch and every out is huge, and every run is magnified way beyond that of the starers. It's a thankless job.
That said, most of them are still pathetic. Let's hope the Red Sox don't do anything regrettable. Remember Larry Andersen? Remember Eric Gag-me?
Need I say more?
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Middle relievers are the worst bunch; not good enough to start and not good enough to close. They seem to be up and down each year and change teams often. Good with one team, bad with the next. Good one year, bad the next. Yet there is a premium on their services (as much as they rarely deserve it) to bridge the gap between the starters and the closer.
Modern starters are six-inning pitchers. It's sad. The game has changed so much. Roy Halladay leads the Majors with seven complete games this year, and five others are tied at three. Contemporary starters have it easy compared to their predecessors. And contemporary closers have a chance to ring up the saves in a way that their predecessors never had.
No one expects a starter to be perfect every inning -- even the ace. If he gives up a couple of runs in an inning, it's probably manageable and not devastating. We tend to look at the big picture; their performance over six or seven innings, not just one.
That's the tough part about being a middle reliever. You only get one inning -- at best. Every pitch and every out is huge, and every run is magnified way beyond that of the starers. It's a thankless job.
That said, most of them are still pathetic. Let's hope the Red Sox don't do anything regrettable. Remember Larry Andersen? Remember Eric Gag-me?
Need I say more?
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
DON'T LET THE DOOR HIT YOU ON THE ASS, MANNY
Hitting slump? "Don't worry about it," Many would intone. And sure enough, he'd come around, as always.
For all his misadventures in left field, and there have been many (none more obvious, or gruesome, as the one in Anaheim last weekend), Manny is actually an underrated fielder -- especially at Fenway, where he really knows how to play the wall. He has a great arm and a quick release, and he always seems to be among league leaders in outfield assists. How many base runners have tested Manny by trying to take second only to find themselves sitting in the dugout moments later?
The catch, high-five, and relay for a double play in Baltimore is one of my favorite plays -- ever. Baseball, after all, is a game and it should be fun. And no one seems to have more fun than Manny Ramirez.
But there's a difference between a carefree attitude and indifference. There's a difference between having fun and showing disrespect for your manager, your coaches, your teammates, the owners who pay your salary, and the fans who support you. Manny Ramirez has crossed that line.
Pushing 64-year-old traveling secretary Jack McCormick to the ground in Houston over a ticket allotment is way over the line.
Pissing and moaning about a contract extension when you are in the eighth year of a $160 milion contract is over the line. Countless Red Sox fans of average means have to pay the highest ticket prices in baseball to help pay that monster salary.
Quitting on your team in September 2006 was over the line, Manny. I didn't buy that "bad knee" story then, and I don't buy it now either. I call bullshit.
"Manny being Manny" was cute when he was doing something innocently odd and amusing to the point of being charming. Going inside the Monster during a pitching change was cute, at first. But now it's grown old. Been there, done that. It's old news. Just like the repeated trade demands got old.
The E-Bay grill and the classic car auction affairs -- who cares?
I'm more concerned about a guy who forgets Little League fundamentals and who doesn't care enough to run hard to first on infield grounders. What an an example; the highest paid player, the star, who won't hustle and who shows no fire, no passion.
Isn't that the issue? Manny is always so nonchalant. He has that Alfred E. Neuman, "What, me worry?" quality that can be maddening. In fact he says it all the time; "Don't worry about it."
It's arrogance, pure and simple. It's an attitude that says, I'm different. I'm special. I'm better than the others. I play by my own set of rules. It's the worst kind of attitude a teammate can have because it isn't the attitude of a true team player. With Manny it's always "Me First." But as the old saying goes, there's no "I" in team.
The Man Child behaves like a child. He is juvenile and often petulant. Bailing on his teammates during a pennant race was disgraceful the first time. It is disgusting and unforgivable this time.
Manny doesn't get it. He the center of his own universe. He lives in Manny Land -- population 1. But he is an aging star who is clearly in decline. Want to bet he won't knock in 100 runs again this year? There was a time when Manny routinely had a slugging percentage over .600, but this year it's .530. Not bad, but not what it once was.
Manny will be 37 early next season. I'm assuming -- I'm hoping -- that the Red Sox will read the writing on the wall and move on from Manny and look to the future. That $40 million, two-year, club option could be better spent elsewhere.
Thanks for the funny, kooky moments, Manny (my favorite was cutting off Johnny Damon's throw at about 20 feet -- absolutely hilarious!). And thanks for your contributions to two World Series teams. For all of that, thank you.
But don't let the door hit you on the ass on your way out of Boston this winter.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
THE ROAD WORRIERS
The good news is that the Red Sox have won two games in a row—on the road, no less. Unfortunately, that has been the exception. Losing on the road has become rather customary. The three-game sweep at the hands of the Angels over the weekend, though embarrassing, was hardly unusual or unexpected to anyone paying attention. The last time the Sox won a series on the road was June 16-18, when they took two out of three in Philly.
The Red Sox are now 59-43 -- sixteen games over .500. And that is largely due to their exceptional 36-11 record at Fenway Park. The club’s 77% home winning percentage is the best in baseball. But on the road, it’s another story entirely.
Away from Fenway, the Sox are 23-32, or nine games below .500. This deficiency is hard to figure since they lead the league in on-base percentage (.338) and slugging percentage (.425) in road games.
For whatever reason, when they are not in the comfy confines of Ye Ole Ballpark, the Red Sox manage to win just 42% of the time. That’s a clear indication that they need to win the AL East and gain home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Tampa Bay may fade down the stretch, but they’re not going away quickly or quietly. They have shown they won’t go down without a fight. The Rays have depth and will be buyers, not sellers, in the deadline trade market for the firs time.
And the Yankees aren’t dead yet. Aren’t they just like Freddy Krueger or Jason Voorhees? Just when you think they’re dead... With the trade deadline just over a week away, expect them to act. Loudmouth Hank would have it no other way. He’s got to prove himself as he hopelessly tries to live up to Daddy’s image and history.
Coming out of the All Star break, 49 of the Red Sox final 59 games are in the Eastern Time Zone. That will help the Sox. The Yankees, on the other hand, play 24 of their first 27 games after break against teams with winning records. That should hurt the Yanks. And the Rays have 12 games in 17 days during September against the Red Sox and Yankees. That will ultimately prove whether or not they are truly a playoff team.
Meanwhile, the Angels, at 61-39, have the best record in baseball. And after the way they handled the Sox in Anaheim, the Halos look like they are indeed the best AL team at this moment. We’ll see what happens in October. The month hasn’t been very good to them in recent years.
Notes......
- How happy are you that Julio “The $9 Million Man” is out of the lineup? What a relief!
The guy is a total rally killer with a penchant for grounding into double plays. He was batting a meager .268 this year, an improvement over the anemic .237 he posted last year. And his RBI (22) and home run (1) production were also way down this year. He was on pace for just 24 extra-base hits, which would have been his lowest total of any full season in his big league career, and he was the team’s worst hitter with runners in scoring position (.139, 11 for 79). As I said, rally killer.
And then there’s the other crucial element to the game—fielding, which he’s not very good at. Lugo’s 16 errors were the most by a shortstop in the American League and tied Florida’s Hanley RamÃrez for most in the majors. His .945 fielding percentage was the lowest among major league shortstops. Please, Julio.... don’t come back!
It will be nice to see Jed Lowrie play every day and find out if he is indeed the “shortstop of the future.” You know, the guy we’ve been waiting for since this same time four years ago. Thought we had him in Orlando Cabrerra, but that’s another story.
- Daisuke Matsuzaka has given up just three runs in his last 30 2/3 innings. Only twice in 17 starts has he allowed more than three runs, resulting in an impressive 2.63 ERA and 11-1 record this season. Opponents are 0-for-11 this season with the bases loaded against Matsuzaka.
- The best deadline pickup for the Red Sox would be the return of slugger David Ortiz, who leads the club with 297 RBI over the last three seasons. Mike Lowell is second with 257, and Manny Ramirez is third with 214.
- Though the All Star break is ostensibly the season’s halfway point, the Red Sox had already played 97 games, meaning that there were just 65 games remaining in the season’s “second half.”
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
The Red Sox are now 59-43 -- sixteen games over .500. And that is largely due to their exceptional 36-11 record at Fenway Park. The club’s 77% home winning percentage is the best in baseball. But on the road, it’s another story entirely.
Away from Fenway, the Sox are 23-32, or nine games below .500. This deficiency is hard to figure since they lead the league in on-base percentage (.338) and slugging percentage (.425) in road games.
For whatever reason, when they are not in the comfy confines of Ye Ole Ballpark, the Red Sox manage to win just 42% of the time. That’s a clear indication that they need to win the AL East and gain home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Tampa Bay may fade down the stretch, but they’re not going away quickly or quietly. They have shown they won’t go down without a fight. The Rays have depth and will be buyers, not sellers, in the deadline trade market for the firs time.
And the Yankees aren’t dead yet. Aren’t they just like Freddy Krueger or Jason Voorhees? Just when you think they’re dead... With the trade deadline just over a week away, expect them to act. Loudmouth Hank would have it no other way. He’s got to prove himself as he hopelessly tries to live up to Daddy’s image and history.
Coming out of the All Star break, 49 of the Red Sox final 59 games are in the Eastern Time Zone. That will help the Sox. The Yankees, on the other hand, play 24 of their first 27 games after break against teams with winning records. That should hurt the Yanks. And the Rays have 12 games in 17 days during September against the Red Sox and Yankees. That will ultimately prove whether or not they are truly a playoff team.
Meanwhile, the Angels, at 61-39, have the best record in baseball. And after the way they handled the Sox in Anaheim, the Halos look like they are indeed the best AL team at this moment. We’ll see what happens in October. The month hasn’t been very good to them in recent years.
Notes......
- How happy are you that Julio “The $9 Million Man” is out of the lineup? What a relief!
The guy is a total rally killer with a penchant for grounding into double plays. He was batting a meager .268 this year, an improvement over the anemic .237 he posted last year. And his RBI (22) and home run (1) production were also way down this year. He was on pace for just 24 extra-base hits, which would have been his lowest total of any full season in his big league career, and he was the team’s worst hitter with runners in scoring position (.139, 11 for 79). As I said, rally killer.
And then there’s the other crucial element to the game—fielding, which he’s not very good at. Lugo’s 16 errors were the most by a shortstop in the American League and tied Florida’s Hanley RamÃrez for most in the majors. His .945 fielding percentage was the lowest among major league shortstops. Please, Julio.... don’t come back!
It will be nice to see Jed Lowrie play every day and find out if he is indeed the “shortstop of the future.” You know, the guy we’ve been waiting for since this same time four years ago. Thought we had him in Orlando Cabrerra, but that’s another story.
- Daisuke Matsuzaka has given up just three runs in his last 30 2/3 innings. Only twice in 17 starts has he allowed more than three runs, resulting in an impressive 2.63 ERA and 11-1 record this season. Opponents are 0-for-11 this season with the bases loaded against Matsuzaka.
- The best deadline pickup for the Red Sox would be the return of slugger David Ortiz, who leads the club with 297 RBI over the last three seasons. Mike Lowell is second with 257, and Manny Ramirez is third with 214.
- Though the All Star break is ostensibly the season’s halfway point, the Red Sox had already played 97 games, meaning that there were just 65 games remaining in the season’s “second half.”
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
PAPELBON CHASING HISTORY
YOUNG CLOSER MOVING IN ON CLUB'S ALL TIME SAVES MARK
In just his third season as the Red Sox closer, Jonathan Papelbon is already poised to make Sox history. With his 28th save in 32 chances on Sunday, Papelbon became just the third Red Sox reliever to record 100 career saves. And in the coming weeks, Papelbon will move into second place on the team's all-time saves list.
Papelbon got his 100th save in his 176th career appearance. The only American League pitcher with more saves in his first 176 outings is Kazuhiro Sasaki, who had 111 with Seattle in that period. Sasaki got his 100th save in his 160th game.
"One hundred down, I guess three or four hundred more to go," said the Louisiana native after the game.
Possessing a fastball that has been clocked at 99 miles per hour, plus a nasty split and changeup, Papelbon is arguably the game's premier closer right now. Surely, he is the best closer most Sox fans have ever seen in Boston. Perhaps that's because he is. The affable hurler began the season in seventh place on the club's all-time saves list. But during the season's first half, Papelbon has leap-frogged past Derek Lowe, Jeff Reardon and Ellis Kinder, in succession.
But here's what's truly impressive; Papelbon will soon surpass Dick Radatz (104) and become #2 on the team's all time saves list -- in just his third year in the Majors. And it's worth noting that he missed the final month of the 2006 campaign, despite this impressive achievement.
Though he's averaged 36 saves over the last two seasons, Papelbon is currently on pace for 45-50 this year. It's a pace unmatched in team history. In fact, Papelbon is the first Boston pitcher to ever have two 30-save seasons, and he did it in back-to-back years. What's more, he's almost reached 30 already this season, and it's only the All Star break.
The club's all-time saves leader is Bob "The Steamer" Stanley, who amassed 132 career saves over 13 seasons with the Sox. Though Stanley has held the team record since retiring in 1989, at this point he is not long for that distinction. If history is a guide, Papebon will become the new Red Sox all-time saves leader before the conclusion of the 2009 season.
That would be an incredible feat, considering that it would only be his fourth season in the role of closer.
Papelbon is at the top of his game and says that he feels stronger than ever before. And he got the confidence to match. It can be seen each time he takes the mound. A fierce competitor with a bulldog mentality, the young righty is absolutely dominating and inspires fear in the hearts of opposing batters. For most, just making contact probably feels like an accomplishment. Papelbon went the entire month of April without walking a batter, and has granted just seven free passes all season. That coincides with 51 strike outs in just 40 2/3 innings.
Only three Red Sox closers have notched at least 40 saves in a season; Reardon, Ugueth Urbina, Lowe, and Tom Gordon, who had a club-record 46 saves in 1998. Papelbon is currently on pace to break that record by season's end.
The young phenom is both respected and feared throughout the baseball, and every team would rather have him than have to face him. The organization did a great job grooming him, and have the good fortunate of having the three-time All Star under their control for the next few years.
The numbers just keep piling up, and with each additional save Papelbon continues to stake his place in the Red Sox' storied history.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
In just his third season as the Red Sox closer, Jonathan Papelbon is already poised to make Sox history. With his 28th save in 32 chances on Sunday, Papelbon became just the third Red Sox reliever to record 100 career saves. And in the coming weeks, Papelbon will move into second place on the team's all-time saves list.
Papelbon got his 100th save in his 176th career appearance. The only American League pitcher with more saves in his first 176 outings is Kazuhiro Sasaki, who had 111 with Seattle in that period. Sasaki got his 100th save in his 160th game.
"One hundred down, I guess three or four hundred more to go," said the Louisiana native after the game.
Possessing a fastball that has been clocked at 99 miles per hour, plus a nasty split and changeup, Papelbon is arguably the game's premier closer right now. Surely, he is the best closer most Sox fans have ever seen in Boston. Perhaps that's because he is. The affable hurler began the season in seventh place on the club's all-time saves list. But during the season's first half, Papelbon has leap-frogged past Derek Lowe, Jeff Reardon and Ellis Kinder, in succession.
But here's what's truly impressive; Papelbon will soon surpass Dick Radatz (104) and become #2 on the team's all time saves list -- in just his third year in the Majors. And it's worth noting that he missed the final month of the 2006 campaign, despite this impressive achievement.
Though he's averaged 36 saves over the last two seasons, Papelbon is currently on pace for 45-50 this year. It's a pace unmatched in team history. In fact, Papelbon is the first Boston pitcher to ever have two 30-save seasons, and he did it in back-to-back years. What's more, he's almost reached 30 already this season, and it's only the All Star break.
The club's all-time saves leader is Bob "The Steamer" Stanley, who amassed 132 career saves over 13 seasons with the Sox. Though Stanley has held the team record since retiring in 1989, at this point he is not long for that distinction. If history is a guide, Papebon will become the new Red Sox all-time saves leader before the conclusion of the 2009 season.
That would be an incredible feat, considering that it would only be his fourth season in the role of closer.
Papelbon is at the top of his game and says that he feels stronger than ever before. And he got the confidence to match. It can be seen each time he takes the mound. A fierce competitor with a bulldog mentality, the young righty is absolutely dominating and inspires fear in the hearts of opposing batters. For most, just making contact probably feels like an accomplishment. Papelbon went the entire month of April without walking a batter, and has granted just seven free passes all season. That coincides with 51 strike outs in just 40 2/3 innings.
Only three Red Sox closers have notched at least 40 saves in a season; Reardon, Ugueth Urbina, Lowe, and Tom Gordon, who had a club-record 46 saves in 1998. Papelbon is currently on pace to break that record by season's end.
The young phenom is both respected and feared throughout the baseball, and every team would rather have him than have to face him. The organization did a great job grooming him, and have the good fortunate of having the three-time All Star under their control for the next few years.
The numbers just keep piling up, and with each additional save Papelbon continues to stake his place in the Red Sox' storied history.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, July 03, 2008
TEK IS TANKING
What was Terry Francona thinking in the 9th inning last night? Sending Mike Lowell -- a slow runner -- to second on a hit-and-run, with Jason Varitek -- a poor contact hitter -- at the plate, had disaster written all over it. And Lowell had already taken off on the previous pitch, which Varitek fouled off. So everyone at Tropicana Field knew what was up. The element of surprise was gone.
Instead of pulling magic out of his proverbial hat, Francona was left looking foolish. Lowell was out by about eight feet when Varitek missed the pitch. And when the captain proceeded to strike out in that same at-bat, the game, and the attempted rally, was over.
The Sox bullpen had given up the lead in a six-run seventh, and then the offense clawed their way back to within one run in the ninth. But then that truly ill-advised hit run was attempted, in which a guy who can't run was relying on a guy who can't hit; Varitek struck out three times in four plate appearances last night.
Undoubtedly, Jason Varitek is a leader. He calls a great game and his preparation is second to none. But hitting is no longer his forte. Varitek is now batting a meager .216, which is, sadly, less than his listed weight of 230 pounds. This should be a surprise to no one. Varitek hit a disappointing .255 last year, and that was a rebound from the pathetic .238 average he posted in 2006.
The most striking element of Varitek's decline at the plate this year is the fact that he is striking out 29% of the time, and is second on the team with 66 whiffs. The team leader in this ignominious category is Manny Ramirez, with 74. But Ramirez, though this hardly sounds much better, is fanning "just" 25% of the time.
Over the past few years, the drop-off in Varitek's power numbers is also glaring. The burly catcher hit just 12 homers in 2006, stroked 17 last season, and so far, more than midway through this season, has just seven. Only three times in his eleven-year career has Varitek hit at least 20 homers, the highest being 25 in 2003. At this point, it looks like his power days are long-since over. Varitek last knocked at least 20 dingers (22) in 2005, and at age 36 seems squarely in decline.
And it's not just the strike outs and home run drought that are of concern. Varitek hasn't been able to drive in more than 70 runs in three years, and with just 26 to date, he won't break 70 again this year. The truth is, Varitek has never had more than 85 RBI (2003), and his next best total was 76 (1999).
Varitek cannot be counted on for extra-base hits, and has never had more than 233 total bases in any season. In fact, he hasn't even cracked 200 in either of the past two seasons, and he won't reach 200 again this year. This has resulted in a slugging percentage of just .364 this year, and .443 lifetime.
The unfortunate truth is that Varitek has become a liability at the plate, and it was never more apparent than last night.
Catching is at an even higher premium than pitching these days. There is a dearth of quality catchers in the minors, in college, and even internationally. So much is required of the position; knowing the strengths and weaknesses of your pitchers and opposing hitters, as well as preventing passed balls, throwing out base runners, and hitting.
The Sox will take all of this into consideration during the offseason when they need to make a decision on whether to bring the captain back on a new contract. Since neither George Kottaras, Dusty Brown, or Mark Wagner seem prepared to make the jump from the minors to replace Varitek, odds are he'll be back. And, of course, he's a longtime fan favorite. Not re-signing him would present a PR problem.
But his anemic offensive performance is a concern, and will surely be taken into consideration when the Sox ultimately make their offer. In the meantime, we'll have to be thankful for his strengths, but his weaknesses can no longer be ignored.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Instead of pulling magic out of his proverbial hat, Francona was left looking foolish. Lowell was out by about eight feet when Varitek missed the pitch. And when the captain proceeded to strike out in that same at-bat, the game, and the attempted rally, was over.
The Sox bullpen had given up the lead in a six-run seventh, and then the offense clawed their way back to within one run in the ninth. But then that truly ill-advised hit run was attempted, in which a guy who can't run was relying on a guy who can't hit; Varitek struck out three times in four plate appearances last night.
Undoubtedly, Jason Varitek is a leader. He calls a great game and his preparation is second to none. But hitting is no longer his forte. Varitek is now batting a meager .216, which is, sadly, less than his listed weight of 230 pounds. This should be a surprise to no one. Varitek hit a disappointing .255 last year, and that was a rebound from the pathetic .238 average he posted in 2006.
The most striking element of Varitek's decline at the plate this year is the fact that he is striking out 29% of the time, and is second on the team with 66 whiffs. The team leader in this ignominious category is Manny Ramirez, with 74. But Ramirez, though this hardly sounds much better, is fanning "just" 25% of the time.
Over the past few years, the drop-off in Varitek's power numbers is also glaring. The burly catcher hit just 12 homers in 2006, stroked 17 last season, and so far, more than midway through this season, has just seven. Only three times in his eleven-year career has Varitek hit at least 20 homers, the highest being 25 in 2003. At this point, it looks like his power days are long-since over. Varitek last knocked at least 20 dingers (22) in 2005, and at age 36 seems squarely in decline.
And it's not just the strike outs and home run drought that are of concern. Varitek hasn't been able to drive in more than 70 runs in three years, and with just 26 to date, he won't break 70 again this year. The truth is, Varitek has never had more than 85 RBI (2003), and his next best total was 76 (1999).
Varitek cannot be counted on for extra-base hits, and has never had more than 233 total bases in any season. In fact, he hasn't even cracked 200 in either of the past two seasons, and he won't reach 200 again this year. This has resulted in a slugging percentage of just .364 this year, and .443 lifetime.
The unfortunate truth is that Varitek has become a liability at the plate, and it was never more apparent than last night.
Catching is at an even higher premium than pitching these days. There is a dearth of quality catchers in the minors, in college, and even internationally. So much is required of the position; knowing the strengths and weaknesses of your pitchers and opposing hitters, as well as preventing passed balls, throwing out base runners, and hitting.
The Sox will take all of this into consideration during the offseason when they need to make a decision on whether to bring the captain back on a new contract. Since neither George Kottaras, Dusty Brown, or Mark Wagner seem prepared to make the jump from the minors to replace Varitek, odds are he'll be back. And, of course, he's a longtime fan favorite. Not re-signing him would present a PR problem.
But his anemic offensive performance is a concern, and will surely be taken into consideration when the Sox ultimately make their offer. In the meantime, we'll have to be thankful for his strengths, but his weaknesses can no longer be ignored.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
MOST OVERRATED PLAYER?
While Jeter has had a distinguished career, this year year is certainly not among his best. In fact, by almost any measure, it simply isn't all that good. Despite this, Jeter is the number-two vote getter for this year's All Star Game, right behind teammate Alex Rodriguez. That's an undeserved place for Jeter, considering the mediocre year he's having.
Youkilis, on the other hand, has more hits, homers and a higher OBP than the Yankee shortstop. Once known as the "fat guy" at University of Cincinnati, Youkilis gets the utmost out of his limited athletic ability. The Sox first baseman set Major League records this year in consecutive games and chances at first without an error. But that's not all; his bat has been a potent weapon for the Sox all season.
Just look at the various offensive categories in which Youkilis ranks in the A.L.'s Top Ten:
RBI - 50
Average. - .313
Slugging - .544
OPS - .926
Doubles - 22
Total Bases - 153
Extra Base Hits - 37
JD Drew had a miserable 2007. His inaugural season in a Red Sox uniform was an embarrassment and certainly didn't live up to expectations. Simply put, he didn't earn his pay. But he's bounced back nicely this year.
Drew's Top Ten A.L. rankings:
OPS - .986
Runs - 57
Homers - 15
Walks - 45
On Base % - .417
Slugging - .570
But no one seriously considers Drew one of the game's greats. There is no talk about a future in Cooperstown for the Sox right fielder.
Jeter, on the other hand, is not in the Top Ten in any category. He's having a pretty uninspired year, just like the Yankees as a whole. But he is routinely referred to as a modern great who is even comparable to some of the all-time greats.
In 13 seasons, Jeter has amassed over 2,400 hits. Unless his career is derailed by injury, he will certainly surpass the 3,000 hit plateau. His next home run will be his 200th. And this year he will likely notch is 1,000th RBI. But those are hardly Hall of Fame numbers.
Perhaps Jeter's best stat is runs. He has reached 100 in eleven seasons, and has amassed a total of 1426. That's impressive.
But the number Jeter is most heralded for is four -- as in the World Series Championships he won over a five-season span with the Yankees. Jeter is also an eight-time All Star, and this year will mark his ninth trip to the Mid-Summer Classic.
But is he really that good? Is he an all-time great?
Aside from the hits, and the .316 career average, the numbers simply don't bear that out. If he weren't on those four Yankee Championship teams, playing for that marquee franchise, in the nation's biggest market, he wouldn't have nearly the same level of recognition or cache.
Jeter has struck out 100 times or more in eight seasons. Yet he's never had as many walks in any season. He's reached 300 total bases just three times, the highest being 303. And he's had just one 100-RBI season.
Jeter is also viewed as having limited range at short. Yet, he's won three Gold Glove Awards, all of which came after A-Rod became a Yankee and moved to third.
And Jeter won the Hank Aaron Award in 2007 as the A.L.'s best hitter -- despite having just 12 homers, 73 RBI, 100 strike outs, only 55 walks, and a modest .452 slugging percentage.
The truth is that Jeter is a good player, but not a great one. He benefits from being a Yankee, and from all of the hype and hoopla that come along with it.
His peers are right; Jeter is indeed overrated.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES, CURT
At the end of last season, perhaps Curt Schilling thought he saw the writing on the wall.
Schilling told the Providence Journal that his house in Medfield was going on the market, signaling that he figured his days in Boston were numbered. For what it was worth, Schilling wanted to finish his career with the team that drafted him.
“Boston would be my first choice, but we have to be ready in case that happens. We have to prepare for the alternatives.”
As it turned out, he didn’t need any alternatives. The Red Sox offered him a one-year deal worth $8 million, plus incentives. But there were reasons for concern, reasons to believe that such an offer was a mistake.
Over the previous three seasons, Schilling was 31-23 -- an average of 10-8 each year. And in that span his ERA was 4.54. He was clearly in decline.
In fact, Schilling’s last six regular season starts in 2007 resulted an 2-3 record. But his 2.79 ERA over that span, combined with strong October performances, persuaded the Red Sox to make their bid.
But for Schilling, pitching in 2008 was not to be.
As I wrote back in March when his shoulder injury was announced, I thought Schilling had thrown his last pitch. Having an understanding of the shoulder structure, I felt then - as I do now - that the number, level and severity of his injuries (damaged biceps tendon, torn labrum and rotator cuff) meant the end of his great career. So, if his playing days are indeed over, I’m not the least bit surprised.
But I'll always remember what Schilling meant to the Red Sox over four wonderful, and winning, seasons. And I’ll always be grateful for his numerous contributions to the team I love.
The recent report on the damage to his shoulder goes to show that he was pitching on fumes last October. He got by on will, guile, and craft. He’s one tough, committed dude, and he was a central figure on two Red Sox World Series teams.
Over the course of his 20-year career, Schilling compiled the best strikeout/walk ratio (4.38 K’s per walk) of all pitchers with at least 1,500 innings since 1900. He was a 20-game winner three-times. He had three 300-strikeout seasons. And he also had 3,116 Ks in his career—good enough for 14th all time.
Though Schilling may fall short of the Hall of Fame (due to his 216 wins), his .597 winning percentage and 3.46 career ERA are truly impressive.
Plus, the 41-year-old righty was 11-2 in 19 postseason starts, with a 1.93 ERA. He’s been a World Series MVP. He’s started a Game 7 in the World Series. He’s won elimination games and series clinchers. He will forever be remembered for the bloody sock and—especially to Sox fans—for helping to defeat the Yankees in the 2004 ALCS, and then the Cardinals for the team’s first World Series victory in 86 years.
For all of that, Red Sox Nation thanks you, Curt. And we’ll be forever grateful.
Lastly, I decided to compare how Schilling stacks up to Roger Clemens, arguably the greatest pitcher of the modern era.
Clemens had to leave Game 3 of last year’s ALDS, down 3-0 after 2 1/3 innings. It was hardly surprising. He has a history of such things. Remember Game 7, Yankees vs. Red Sox, in the 2003 ALCS? Clemens lasted just three-plus innings and exited down 4-0.
In fact, with his team facing elimination, Clemens had just one win in seven chances, and a 5.28 ERA. When was that win? Oct. 15, 1986.
So, why would anyone in their right mind call him a “Big-Game Pitcher”? Who knows? He simply wasn’t.
October 10th will mark the 18th anniversary of the day he got tossed in the second inning against Oakland. Of course, that was an elimination game, too. I remember it all too well. Thanks, Roger.
The difference between Schilling and Clemens is that Schilling consistently showed up when it counted—in the post-season—and Clemens didn’t.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
MASTERSON EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS
Justin Masterson will take the mound again for the Red Sox tonight. In five starts this season he has gone 4-1 with four quality starts—at least six innings pitched and no more than three earned runs allowed.
The 6’6” Masterson sports a nifty 3.00 ERA and has been been a wonderful surprise - a blessing even - for the Sox. He is just the latest example of the team’s remarkable organizational depth.
The 23-year-old righty went straight from Double A Portland to the Big Leagues on April 24th, skipping the customary initial visit to Pawtucket along the way. Masterson has been up with the Red Sox a total of three times so far this season, and he’s making his case to stay each time out.
Reds manager Dusty Baker compares Masterson to Hall of Famer Don Drysdale. Baker said that Masterson reminds him of the Dodger great with his three-quarters delivery and ability to “peel the plate” with his sinker and slider.
The Sox liked Masterson from the day they drafted him and projected him as a big league pitcher. But he certainly got to the Bigs much faster than anyone could have anticipated. And not all great minor league players become great big league players, or even make it to the Majors. It’s amazing how fast a minor leaguer’s fortunes can change. Take Cory Keylor, for example.
Keylor was the Orioles 2006 Minor League Player of the Year. The Sox obtained him last year in exchange for catcher Alberto Castillo. He was 28 when they Sox acquired him in March, and 29 when his contract expired in October.
Keylor is no longer with the organization. He did very little to advance his prospect status last season, batting .246/.320/.405 with 24 doubles, 6 triples and 9 HRs in 109 games. He also struck out a team high 109 times with Portland. He was viewed as a team leader, and some scouts projected him as a fourth outfielder with decent power and a good arm. But he washed out. The point is, you never can be too sure.
On the other hand, Masterson has certainly lived up to the promise, and perhaps even exceeded it.
As good as Masterson has been, the Sox can only hope that Bartolo Colon returns sooner than later and stays healthy in the second half. Young pitchers, such as Masterson, Jon Lester, and Clay Buchholz will be difficult to count on in the stretch run. They usually hit the wall, running into fatigue issues, as the season progresses. And Lester, of course, is the only one with post-season experience. On top of that, the pitcher with the most post-season experience and success, Curt Schilling, is done. So the Sox will be counting on everyone else to stay healthy and not burn out before October.
NOTES:
The Sox realized Sean Casey’s value last night when the suspended back-up first baseman was unavailable to sub for Kevin Youkilis, who took an errant practice grounder to the eye between innings. Youkilis had to come out of the game and was relieved by rookie Brandon Moss in his first big league appearance at first. A bobbled ball cost the Sox a run on what should have been a routine play and a thrown out runner at home.
Casey, the normally sure-handed fielder, does have two errors in 225 total chances, yet he’s batting an impressive .365 so far this season, despite limited at-bats. But Casey’s value may be even greater in the clubhouse and dugout. His teammates love him and he’s good for chemistry.
In a 2007 SI player’s poll, Sean Casey was overwhelmingly voted the friendliest player in baseball, with 46% of the vote. The next closest players were Jim Thome of the White Sox and Mike Sweeney, then of the Royals, both of whom received just 7% of the vote.
In 2005, Hal McCoy, a Cincinnati Reds beat writer for 35 years, said, “There’s no debate, and there never will be a debate. Sean Casey is the nicest guy in professional baseball. Ever.”
--------------------------
These are not your father’s Red Sox. The Sox are fourth in the Majors in steals, but they’re sixth in home runs. The Sox are second in the majors to Philadelphia with an 83.5 success rate on steals (71 for 85). The Phillies are at 89.4 percent.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
The 6’6” Masterson sports a nifty 3.00 ERA and has been been a wonderful surprise - a blessing even - for the Sox. He is just the latest example of the team’s remarkable organizational depth.
The 23-year-old righty went straight from Double A Portland to the Big Leagues on April 24th, skipping the customary initial visit to Pawtucket along the way. Masterson has been up with the Red Sox a total of three times so far this season, and he’s making his case to stay each time out.
Reds manager Dusty Baker compares Masterson to Hall of Famer Don Drysdale. Baker said that Masterson reminds him of the Dodger great with his three-quarters delivery and ability to “peel the plate” with his sinker and slider.
The Sox liked Masterson from the day they drafted him and projected him as a big league pitcher. But he certainly got to the Bigs much faster than anyone could have anticipated. And not all great minor league players become great big league players, or even make it to the Majors. It’s amazing how fast a minor leaguer’s fortunes can change. Take Cory Keylor, for example.
Keylor was the Orioles 2006 Minor League Player of the Year. The Sox obtained him last year in exchange for catcher Alberto Castillo. He was 28 when they Sox acquired him in March, and 29 when his contract expired in October.
Keylor is no longer with the organization. He did very little to advance his prospect status last season, batting .246/.320/.405 with 24 doubles, 6 triples and 9 HRs in 109 games. He also struck out a team high 109 times with Portland. He was viewed as a team leader, and some scouts projected him as a fourth outfielder with decent power and a good arm. But he washed out. The point is, you never can be too sure.
On the other hand, Masterson has certainly lived up to the promise, and perhaps even exceeded it.
As good as Masterson has been, the Sox can only hope that Bartolo Colon returns sooner than later and stays healthy in the second half. Young pitchers, such as Masterson, Jon Lester, and Clay Buchholz will be difficult to count on in the stretch run. They usually hit the wall, running into fatigue issues, as the season progresses. And Lester, of course, is the only one with post-season experience. On top of that, the pitcher with the most post-season experience and success, Curt Schilling, is done. So the Sox will be counting on everyone else to stay healthy and not burn out before October.
NOTES:
The Sox realized Sean Casey’s value last night when the suspended back-up first baseman was unavailable to sub for Kevin Youkilis, who took an errant practice grounder to the eye between innings. Youkilis had to come out of the game and was relieved by rookie Brandon Moss in his first big league appearance at first. A bobbled ball cost the Sox a run on what should have been a routine play and a thrown out runner at home.
Casey, the normally sure-handed fielder, does have two errors in 225 total chances, yet he’s batting an impressive .365 so far this season, despite limited at-bats. But Casey’s value may be even greater in the clubhouse and dugout. His teammates love him and he’s good for chemistry.
In a 2007 SI player’s poll, Sean Casey was overwhelmingly voted the friendliest player in baseball, with 46% of the vote. The next closest players were Jim Thome of the White Sox and Mike Sweeney, then of the Royals, both of whom received just 7% of the vote.
In 2005, Hal McCoy, a Cincinnati Reds beat writer for 35 years, said, “There’s no debate, and there never will be a debate. Sean Casey is the nicest guy in professional baseball. Ever.”
--------------------------
These are not your father’s Red Sox. The Sox are fourth in the Majors in steals, but they’re sixth in home runs. The Sox are second in the majors to Philadelphia with an 83.5 success rate on steals (71 for 85). The Phillies are at 89.4 percent.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Monday, June 02, 2008
MANNY'S MILESTONE MASH: SIMPLY MARVELOUS
Manny Ramirez finally joined an elusive and exclusive group, and in the process cemented his place in baseball history. Somewhat disappointingly, Manny's grand moment didn't occur in historic Fenway Park, but the beautiful Camden Yards served as a fitting stand-in since it has become a sort of Fenway South.
Manny became just the third player to hit his 500th home run as a member of the Red Sox, joining Jimmie Foxx and Ted Williams, both in the Hall of Fame. RamÃrez will undoubtedly join them one day -- on the first ballot. Williams, however, is the only Sox player to hit all 500 of his homers (521 to be exact) in a Sox uniform.
Manny's record blast, which travelled an estimated at 410 feet to the opposite field, was further evidence of his raw power and tremendous hitting ability. What made the shot all the more amazing is that it came off a pitcher -- former teammate Chad Bradford -- who doesn't yield many long balls. The sidewinder had surrendered only three home runs in the previous three seasons.
But the pressure leading up to the momentous occasion seemed to have gotten to Manny. After hitting No. 496 on April 19, he had only three homers in 34 games leading up to the historic shot.
The achievement is historic for a number of reasons; #24 is only he 24th player to achieve the feat. But beyond that, Ramirez joined an even smaller group. He is only the seventh player in baseball history with 500 homers, 1,500 RBIs, 1,000 walks, 475 doubles and a .300 batting average. The others are Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Mel Ott, Babe Ruth, Frank Thomas and Ted Williams.
The milestone homer came in his 7,263rd at-bat (eighth fastest all-time), on the day after his 36th birthday. That made Manny the 12th youngest player to accomplish the feat.
Ramirez says he intends to hit 600 homers before he's through. Don't bet against him. He's remained relatively injury free throughout his stellar career, and even though he appears to have slowed from the prodigious home run pace he kept prior to last season, he could easily play four more years, until he's forty.
If he hits 20 more dingers this season, he would need to knock just 26 homers in each of the next three seasons to reach 600. That seems entirely possible, perhaps even likely.
Manny has clearly established himself as more than just a prolific power-hitter; he is simply one of the game's greatest hitters -- period. His .312 career average is testament to that. In fact, only three members of the 500-homer club (Ted Williams, Babe Ruth, and Jimmie Foxx) have a higher career average.
It has truly been a pleasure and a privilege to watch Manny being Manny, wearing out one pitcher after another over these past 7 1/2 seasons with Boston. He's provided all of us with so many thrills and an equal number of laughs. We can only hope that a couple more productive seasons are yet to be played by him, and that #600 will also come in Red Sox uniform.
Perhaps in around 2011.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Manny became just the third player to hit his 500th home run as a member of the Red Sox, joining Jimmie Foxx and Ted Williams, both in the Hall of Fame. RamÃrez will undoubtedly join them one day -- on the first ballot. Williams, however, is the only Sox player to hit all 500 of his homers (521 to be exact) in a Sox uniform.
Manny's record blast, which travelled an estimated at 410 feet to the opposite field, was further evidence of his raw power and tremendous hitting ability. What made the shot all the more amazing is that it came off a pitcher -- former teammate Chad Bradford -- who doesn't yield many long balls. The sidewinder had surrendered only three home runs in the previous three seasons.
But the pressure leading up to the momentous occasion seemed to have gotten to Manny. After hitting No. 496 on April 19, he had only three homers in 34 games leading up to the historic shot.
The achievement is historic for a number of reasons; #24 is only he 24th player to achieve the feat. But beyond that, Ramirez joined an even smaller group. He is only the seventh player in baseball history with 500 homers, 1,500 RBIs, 1,000 walks, 475 doubles and a .300 batting average. The others are Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Mel Ott, Babe Ruth, Frank Thomas and Ted Williams.
The milestone homer came in his 7,263rd at-bat (eighth fastest all-time), on the day after his 36th birthday. That made Manny the 12th youngest player to accomplish the feat.
Ramirez says he intends to hit 600 homers before he's through. Don't bet against him. He's remained relatively injury free throughout his stellar career, and even though he appears to have slowed from the prodigious home run pace he kept prior to last season, he could easily play four more years, until he's forty.
If he hits 20 more dingers this season, he would need to knock just 26 homers in each of the next three seasons to reach 600. That seems entirely possible, perhaps even likely.
Manny has clearly established himself as more than just a prolific power-hitter; he is simply one of the game's greatest hitters -- period. His .312 career average is testament to that. In fact, only three members of the 500-homer club (Ted Williams, Babe Ruth, and Jimmie Foxx) have a higher career average.
It has truly been a pleasure and a privilege to watch Manny being Manny, wearing out one pitcher after another over these past 7 1/2 seasons with Boston. He's provided all of us with so many thrills and an equal number of laughs. We can only hope that a couple more productive seasons are yet to be played by him, and that #600 will also come in Red Sox uniform.
Perhaps in around 2011.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
MATSUZAKA KEEPS "WINNING UGLY"
Daisuke Matsuzaka just keeps on whistling his way though the graveyard.
Matsuzaka became the AL's first eight-game winner today, despite his continuing control issues. In just 5.2 innings, he allowed a whopping 12 baserunners (6 hits and six walks), in what has become a customary outing. His 38 walks this season lead the Majors.
The Japanese righty overcame a 34-pitch first inning, but still wound up tossing 118 pitches in less than six innings (67 for strikes).
But the walks and high pitch counts haven't hurt Matsuzaka so far. After all, he's still undefeated and his 2.40 ERA is seventh best in baseball -- fourth in the AL. But it makes you wonder, how long he can get away with it? As long as the Red Sox score 11 runs when he pitches, probably indefinitely.
More good news was Matsuzaka's seven strikeouts, which give him 53 this season -- seventh in the AL.
Watching a Dice-K start can be ugly -- even stomach-turning. In fact, a fine argument can be made that he is the best sloppy pitcher in baseball. Matsuzaka wins ugly. But he wins, nonetheless.
As the old saying goes, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
But fixing the high walk and pitch totals would really hurt, would it?
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Matsuzaka became the AL's first eight-game winner today, despite his continuing control issues. In just 5.2 innings, he allowed a whopping 12 baserunners (6 hits and six walks), in what has become a customary outing. His 38 walks this season lead the Majors.
The Japanese righty overcame a 34-pitch first inning, but still wound up tossing 118 pitches in less than six innings (67 for strikes).
But the walks and high pitch counts haven't hurt Matsuzaka so far. After all, he's still undefeated and his 2.40 ERA is seventh best in baseball -- fourth in the AL. But it makes you wonder, how long he can get away with it? As long as the Red Sox score 11 runs when he pitches, probably indefinitely.
More good news was Matsuzaka's seven strikeouts, which give him 53 this season -- seventh in the AL.
Watching a Dice-K start can be ugly -- even stomach-turning. In fact, a fine argument can be made that he is the best sloppy pitcher in baseball. Matsuzaka wins ugly. But he wins, nonetheless.
As the old saying goes, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
But fixing the high walk and pitch totals would really hurt, would it?
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
LESTER REACHES RED SOX IMMORTALITY
Johan who?
The Red Sox have always believed in Jon Lester. That is precisely why they wouldn't pull the trigger on a proposed trade for the then Minnesota ace. The Sox may not have predicted a no-hitter from the young lefty, but they expected great things nonetheless. After all, he'd just pitched the Game 4 clincher in the 2007 World Series.
When the Sox selected him in the second round of the 2002 draft, they hoped he'd be something special. And when his career took off like a rocket in 2006, going 7-2 in 15 starts, he looked special indeed. Then, when he started 2007 by going 4-0, he looked like a wunderkind.
But there have always been concerns; the lack of accuracy, leading to all too many walks and high pitch counts. Lester has typically been at 100 pitches, and done for the night, by the fifth inning. Yet the Sox saw something they liked, and still they believed.
Then came the cancer diagnosis and all the life-threatening drama that followed. Suddenly baseball seemed small and insignificant. At that point, all the Red Sox really hoped was that he'd survive and be well. But Lester did more than just survive; he's flourished.
Now 3-2, with a 3.41 ERA, Lester has shown flashes of brilliance this season -- even before last night. On April 29th, against Toronto, Lester out-dueled the great Roy Halladay, throwing eight innings of one-hit, six strikeout ball.
But Lester's season, much like his brief career, has been marked by inconsistency; less than a month ago his ERA was 5.40, and two starts ago it was still over 4.00.
Through it all, there was the belief that Lester was something special. And the Red Sox were not alone. After their ALCS defeat at the hands of the Sox last season, the Indians had an organizational meeting in which the consensus was that, after Josh Becket, Lester was the best pitcher on the Red Sox staff. That seems prescient now.
The no-hitter -- the masterpiece that all pitchers covet -- has eluded some of the best to ever play the game. Seven-time Cy Young Award winner Roger Clemens never did it. Nor has four-time winner Greg Maddux, or three-time winner Pedro Martinez, among others. In fact, of the 59 pitchers in the Hall of Fame, only 31 -- or roughly half -- have pitched complete-game no-hitters.
In 108 years of club history, there have only been 18 no-hitters thrown by Red Sox pitchers. To get a sense of how rare the feat is, at one point 33 years lapsed between Sox no-hitters, and at another point 27 years passed between such brilliant performances. Before Lester, the last Red Sox lefty to pitch a no-hitter was the greatest Sox lefty of them all, Mel Parnell. That amazing performance was delivered on April 14, 1956 -- 52 years ago.
But in this decade no-hitters have suddenly been occurring at a more regular pace for the Sox. Hideo Nomo and Derek Lowe pitched no-hitters in 2001 and 2002, respectively. And then, of course, just eight months ago, Clay Buchholz -- in only his second career start -- accomplished the feat. And now we can add Jon Lester to the list.
His remarkable performance last night is a stunning addition to his remarkable story. And consider how many chapters have yet to be written; Lester is only 24-year-old. In a decade he'll still be considered virtually in his prime. One can only imagine what he has yet to accomplish.
A no-hitter in just his 37th career start, a World Series clincher, and a sparkling 14-4 career record can only make us wonder in amazement, and watch with great hope.
With Lester, Becket, Matsuzaka, and Buchholz all so young, and so good, the future looks bright for years to come for the Red Sox.
Congratulations, Jon!
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
The Red Sox have always believed in Jon Lester. That is precisely why they wouldn't pull the trigger on a proposed trade for the then Minnesota ace. The Sox may not have predicted a no-hitter from the young lefty, but they expected great things nonetheless. After all, he'd just pitched the Game 4 clincher in the 2007 World Series.
When the Sox selected him in the second round of the 2002 draft, they hoped he'd be something special. And when his career took off like a rocket in 2006, going 7-2 in 15 starts, he looked special indeed. Then, when he started 2007 by going 4-0, he looked like a wunderkind.
But there have always been concerns; the lack of accuracy, leading to all too many walks and high pitch counts. Lester has typically been at 100 pitches, and done for the night, by the fifth inning. Yet the Sox saw something they liked, and still they believed.
Then came the cancer diagnosis and all the life-threatening drama that followed. Suddenly baseball seemed small and insignificant. At that point, all the Red Sox really hoped was that he'd survive and be well. But Lester did more than just survive; he's flourished.
Now 3-2, with a 3.41 ERA, Lester has shown flashes of brilliance this season -- even before last night. On April 29th, against Toronto, Lester out-dueled the great Roy Halladay, throwing eight innings of one-hit, six strikeout ball.
But Lester's season, much like his brief career, has been marked by inconsistency; less than a month ago his ERA was 5.40, and two starts ago it was still over 4.00.
Through it all, there was the belief that Lester was something special. And the Red Sox were not alone. After their ALCS defeat at the hands of the Sox last season, the Indians had an organizational meeting in which the consensus was that, after Josh Becket, Lester was the best pitcher on the Red Sox staff. That seems prescient now.
The no-hitter -- the masterpiece that all pitchers covet -- has eluded some of the best to ever play the game. Seven-time Cy Young Award winner Roger Clemens never did it. Nor has four-time winner Greg Maddux, or three-time winner Pedro Martinez, among others. In fact, of the 59 pitchers in the Hall of Fame, only 31 -- or roughly half -- have pitched complete-game no-hitters.
In 108 years of club history, there have only been 18 no-hitters thrown by Red Sox pitchers. To get a sense of how rare the feat is, at one point 33 years lapsed between Sox no-hitters, and at another point 27 years passed between such brilliant performances. Before Lester, the last Red Sox lefty to pitch a no-hitter was the greatest Sox lefty of them all, Mel Parnell. That amazing performance was delivered on April 14, 1956 -- 52 years ago.
But in this decade no-hitters have suddenly been occurring at a more regular pace for the Sox. Hideo Nomo and Derek Lowe pitched no-hitters in 2001 and 2002, respectively. And then, of course, just eight months ago, Clay Buchholz -- in only his second career start -- accomplished the feat. And now we can add Jon Lester to the list.
His remarkable performance last night is a stunning addition to his remarkable story. And consider how many chapters have yet to be written; Lester is only 24-year-old. In a decade he'll still be considered virtually in his prime. One can only imagine what he has yet to accomplish.
A no-hitter in just his 37th career start, a World Series clincher, and a sparkling 14-4 career record can only make us wonder in amazement, and watch with great hope.
With Lester, Becket, Matsuzaka, and Buchholz all so young, and so good, the future looks bright for years to come for the Red Sox.
Congratulations, Jon!
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
ORTIZ & RAMIREZ: FOREVER LINKED
Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz are widely recognized as the most potent power-hitting combo in the game today. In fact, the pair are often compared to legendary teammates Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. And for good reason; Boston's dynamic duo have combined for 477 home runs during their tenure with the Red Sox.
Ramirez, with 498 career longballs, is about to become just the 24th member of baseball's 500-home-run-club; 262 of those homers have come as a member of the Red Sox. That puts him firmly in fifth place on the team's all-time list, a spot he will likely hold on to for the reminder of his career with the Sox. The names ahead of him are a veritable who's who of Red Sox greats; Williams, Yastrzemski, Rice, and Evans. Evans, the longtime right fielder, has 379 career homers with the Sox, and it's hard to imagine Ramirez surpassing him for fourth place. Manny would need 118 more blasts to do so.
Meanwhile, Ortiz, who hit his eighth homer of the season yesterday, has 215 dingers with the club. Sox greats, Jimmy Foxx, Bobby Doerr, and Mo Vaughn are just ahead of him, and with just 16 more knocks Ortiz will jump ahead of Vaughn -- and into sixth place -- on the club's all-time list.
It's very fitting that one the greatest home run combos in Red Sox history (the other being Rice and Evans) will reside in fifth and sixth place, respectively, on the much vaunted list, forever connected as Rice and Evans are. Indeed, it's quite appropriate that the two will be bound together, just as they are in the batting order, for years to come.
Boston's modern-day slugging sensations will be remembered as much for what they did as teammates as for what they did individually. The pair have homered in the same game 47 times, which ties them for 15th all-time among any set of teammates. For comparison's sake, Rice and Evans accomplished the feat 56 times, Ruth and Gehrig 73 times, while Aaaron and Matthews did it 75 times.
For two of the most popular players in Red Sox history, who've enjoyed so many successful and productive seasons together, and who've shared such a special bond, it's appropriate that they will be paired together in the Sox record book, just as they are in the present.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Ramirez, with 498 career longballs, is about to become just the 24th member of baseball's 500-home-run-club; 262 of those homers have come as a member of the Red Sox. That puts him firmly in fifth place on the team's all-time list, a spot he will likely hold on to for the reminder of his career with the Sox. The names ahead of him are a veritable who's who of Red Sox greats; Williams, Yastrzemski, Rice, and Evans. Evans, the longtime right fielder, has 379 career homers with the Sox, and it's hard to imagine Ramirez surpassing him for fourth place. Manny would need 118 more blasts to do so.
Meanwhile, Ortiz, who hit his eighth homer of the season yesterday, has 215 dingers with the club. Sox greats, Jimmy Foxx, Bobby Doerr, and Mo Vaughn are just ahead of him, and with just 16 more knocks Ortiz will jump ahead of Vaughn -- and into sixth place -- on the club's all-time list.
It's very fitting that one the greatest home run combos in Red Sox history (the other being Rice and Evans) will reside in fifth and sixth place, respectively, on the much vaunted list, forever connected as Rice and Evans are. Indeed, it's quite appropriate that the two will be bound together, just as they are in the batting order, for years to come.
Boston's modern-day slugging sensations will be remembered as much for what they did as teammates as for what they did individually. The pair have homered in the same game 47 times, which ties them for 15th all-time among any set of teammates. For comparison's sake, Rice and Evans accomplished the feat 56 times, Ruth and Gehrig 73 times, while Aaaron and Matthews did it 75 times.
For two of the most popular players in Red Sox history, who've enjoyed so many successful and productive seasons together, and who've shared such a special bond, it's appropriate that they will be paired together in the Sox record book, just as they are in the present.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
SOX/ROX TALKS CENTER ON AA PITCHER
The Red Sox/Rockies negotiations continue. The Sox have eight days remaining to get a deal done for Julian Tavarez before they have to release him.
Indications are the Red Sox are interested in Rockies Double A pitcher Brandon Hynick in exchange for Tavarez. The 23-year-old Hynick is 2-2 so far this season for the Tulsa Drillers, posting a 4.89 ERA.
Numbers of this sort wouldn't seem to make the 6'3", 205 lb., right-hander untouchable, yet the Rockies claim they are unwilling to move him. In 46 innings Hynick has given up 55 hits to go along with 31 strike outs. And opposing hitters are batting .286 against him.
All of this leads one to wonder why both teams see him as so valuable?
Perhaps it was his performance last year with the Rockies Single A affiliate, the Modesto Nuts. There Hynick -- who was drafted by the Rockies in 2006 -- went 16-5 with a 2.52 ERA. In 182.1 innings, he allowed just 170 hits and only 31 walks, to go along with 136 strike outs. And opposing batters only managed to hit .243 against him.
For his efforts, MiLB.com named him Class A Starting Pitcher of the Year.
That's the kind of potential that both the Rox and Sox see as they assess Hynick. It's still early in the season, but so far the better Double A hitters have proven more difficult for him to handle. The question is, as the competition increases up the minor league ladder, will he be able manage it and make the jump? That's still an unknown.
Right now, the Rockies have to weigh their immediate needs against their belief in Hynick as a potential big league pitcher down the road.
That's a much easier decision for the Red Sox at present.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Indications are the Red Sox are interested in Rockies Double A pitcher Brandon Hynick in exchange for Tavarez. The 23-year-old Hynick is 2-2 so far this season for the Tulsa Drillers, posting a 4.89 ERA.
Numbers of this sort wouldn't seem to make the 6'3", 205 lb., right-hander untouchable, yet the Rockies claim they are unwilling to move him. In 46 innings Hynick has given up 55 hits to go along with 31 strike outs. And opposing hitters are batting .286 against him.
All of this leads one to wonder why both teams see him as so valuable?
Perhaps it was his performance last year with the Rockies Single A affiliate, the Modesto Nuts. There Hynick -- who was drafted by the Rockies in 2006 -- went 16-5 with a 2.52 ERA. In 182.1 innings, he allowed just 170 hits and only 31 walks, to go along with 136 strike outs. And opposing batters only managed to hit .243 against him.
For his efforts, MiLB.com named him Class A Starting Pitcher of the Year.
That's the kind of potential that both the Rox and Sox see as they assess Hynick. It's still early in the season, but so far the better Double A hitters have proven more difficult for him to handle. The question is, as the competition increases up the minor league ladder, will he be able manage it and make the jump? That's still an unknown.
Right now, the Rockies have to weigh their immediate needs against their belief in Hynick as a potential big league pitcher down the road.
That's a much easier decision for the Red Sox at present.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
SOX & ROX STILL IN TALKS
The Rockies/Red Sox trade talks regarding Julian Tavarez aren't dead yet. Now that Tavarez has been designated for assignment, leaving him in a virtual limbo, the Red Sox have nine days to trade or release him. Though discussions cooled when the Sox asking price was deemed too high, apparently they are heating up again, with a swap possibly coming within the next few days.
Colorado has said it is willing to deal from its outfield depth, in particular, at Triple-A, where Cory Sullivan is making $1 million. But Sullivan will be 29 in August and his stat line with the Rockies is hardly tantalizing.
In 2005 Sullivan hit .294, with 4 HR, 30 RBI, and 12 stolen bases in 139 games. The Rockies saw enough potential to grant him the center field position, as well as the lead off spot in the batting order, for 2006. That season he hit .267, with 2 HR, 30 RBI, and 10 stolen bases in 126 games. As if those numbers weren't lackluster enough, Sullivan actually went backwards the next year. In 2007 he hit .286, with 2 HR, 14 RBI, and 2 stolen bases in 72 games.
The sad truth is that Sullivan has only regressed as he's gotten older. He's simply not a Major League caliber player and obviously should be avoided.
The Red Sox are prepared to eat the majority of Tavarez's remaining $3.85 million salary this season, which could leave them in position to receive a better prospect. We can only hope.
One has to wonder why the Rockies think the Red Sox would want Sullivan and how he would serve the Sox needs? The answer is he wouldn't. They already have reserve outfielders Brandon Moss and Bobby Kielty, both of whom will come off the DL and become available shortly. So getting Sullivan wouldn't expedite a Coco Crisp trade. Sullivan couldn't possibly replace Crisp. Tavarez, while no pitching treasure, is an experienced big leaguer who can fill any roll asked of him. He is worth more than Cory Sullivan. Pitching is scare and sorely needed all over baseball.
The Rockies are simply floating Sullivan's name and hoping that someone -- anyone -- will bite. They're desperate to dump the excessive salary of an underachieving minor league player, and surely the Sox will be too smart to take the bait.
My best guess is that the Sox will wait for the best player they can get, regardless of position. Aside from additional bullpen help, they have no pressing needs right now. They'd be better off with a solid, young prospect who will help them in the future.
Cory Sullivan is not that guy.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Colorado has said it is willing to deal from its outfield depth, in particular, at Triple-A, where Cory Sullivan is making $1 million. But Sullivan will be 29 in August and his stat line with the Rockies is hardly tantalizing.
In 2005 Sullivan hit .294, with 4 HR, 30 RBI, and 12 stolen bases in 139 games. The Rockies saw enough potential to grant him the center field position, as well as the lead off spot in the batting order, for 2006. That season he hit .267, with 2 HR, 30 RBI, and 10 stolen bases in 126 games. As if those numbers weren't lackluster enough, Sullivan actually went backwards the next year. In 2007 he hit .286, with 2 HR, 14 RBI, and 2 stolen bases in 72 games.
The sad truth is that Sullivan has only regressed as he's gotten older. He's simply not a Major League caliber player and obviously should be avoided.
The Red Sox are prepared to eat the majority of Tavarez's remaining $3.85 million salary this season, which could leave them in position to receive a better prospect. We can only hope.
One has to wonder why the Rockies think the Red Sox would want Sullivan and how he would serve the Sox needs? The answer is he wouldn't. They already have reserve outfielders Brandon Moss and Bobby Kielty, both of whom will come off the DL and become available shortly. So getting Sullivan wouldn't expedite a Coco Crisp trade. Sullivan couldn't possibly replace Crisp. Tavarez, while no pitching treasure, is an experienced big leaguer who can fill any roll asked of him. He is worth more than Cory Sullivan. Pitching is scare and sorely needed all over baseball.
The Rockies are simply floating Sullivan's name and hoping that someone -- anyone -- will bite. They're desperate to dump the excessive salary of an underachieving minor league player, and surely the Sox will be too smart to take the bait.
My best guess is that the Sox will wait for the best player they can get, regardless of position. Aside from additional bullpen help, they have no pressing needs right now. They'd be better off with a solid, young prospect who will help them in the future.
Cory Sullivan is not that guy.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
THE ERROR OF HIS WAYS
JULIO LUGO'S MISHAPS ARE ALL TOO COMMON. AND IF YOU'RE FRUSTRATED BY THE SOX' SHORTSTOP -- GET USED TO IT. HE AIN'T GOING ANYWHERE.
How much do you regret Theo Epstein's free agent signing of Julio Lugo? How much do you think Epstein regrets it?
Lugo single-handedly blew the game last night in Detroit. And it came after his teammates -- particularly Mike Lowell and Kevin Youkilis -- made super human efforts to erase a four-run Tiger lead in the late innings. So much for their effort. So much for the Sox five-game win streak. And so much for Jonathan Papelbon's 10-game consecutive saves streak this season. In fact, Papelbon hadn't blown a save since last September against the Yankees. Oh well.
The Red Sox, as a team, now have 20 errors in 2008, and Lugo is responsible for exactly half that total all by himself. Yes, by May 7th, Julio Lugo already had 10 errors. His manager, always quick to defend his players, blames the three error game that Lugo had in Toronto.
"You know what happened is he made the three in Toronto that are going to bite him for the rest [of the season] 'cause he has a lot now," Francona said Monday. "He made those errors in Toronto. That's a bad day. That's going to up his total. We stay on him all the time about being that guy that's aggressive and fearless because that's when he's a better player."
It's hard to say when Lugo is a better player. He's committed more than 20 errors in a season three times and had 19 last year. He's on pace for about 45 this year.
Even if he had made just one error that dismal night north of the border, he'd still be tied for first in the Majors with eight errors. Let's be honest; that night wasn't really the problem. It was merely emblematic of Lugo's poor fielding ability. He's a great athlete, and his athleticism has carried him through his career. But his fundamentals -- the things he should have learned and polished as a teenager -- are terrible.
It's hard to explain Epstein's "man crush" on Lugo. Just what was it that made him bid against only himself, and offer a pretty average player a four-year, $36 million contract? I mean Lugo had just hit .219 with the Dodgers when Eptein made his bid. Is he really better than Error Renteria or Alex Gonzalez? I think not.
And the Sox are stuck with him. Wouldn't you just love to have Jed Lowrie as the everyday shortstop right now? Don't you think the Red Sox would be better off? And forget the idea of dumping or trading Lugo; no one will touch a human error machine -- who doesn't hit well -- at $9 mil per season. The Sox are in a pickle. And if they ever do find a taker, they'll be paying him to play for someone else -- just like Renteria.
Lugo hit a paltry .237 last year. This year he's off to a better start (.293), but I don't anticipate that it will last. Sure, he had 73 RBI last season, but considering how well the Red Sox hit as a team, there was almost always someone on base whenever he went to the plate. Make contact and you'll drive in runs. But so far this season, Lugo has eight RBI and no homers. Yeah, he's stolen four bases, but was caught twice. That's a one-third failure rate.
Bottom line; no glove, no love.
Yes, the Red Sox are stuck with Lugo. And we're stuck watching as his errors mount. If he cracks 20 homers or steals 40 bases it will help make up for his miscues in the field. But he's never done either before, and there's no reason to believe he'll start now.
If you can't reasonably help your team win with your bat, the least you can do is not help it lose with your glove.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
How much do you regret Theo Epstein's free agent signing of Julio Lugo? How much do you think Epstein regrets it?
Lugo single-handedly blew the game last night in Detroit. And it came after his teammates -- particularly Mike Lowell and Kevin Youkilis -- made super human efforts to erase a four-run Tiger lead in the late innings. So much for their effort. So much for the Sox five-game win streak. And so much for Jonathan Papelbon's 10-game consecutive saves streak this season. In fact, Papelbon hadn't blown a save since last September against the Yankees. Oh well.
The Red Sox, as a team, now have 20 errors in 2008, and Lugo is responsible for exactly half that total all by himself. Yes, by May 7th, Julio Lugo already had 10 errors. His manager, always quick to defend his players, blames the three error game that Lugo had in Toronto.
"You know what happened is he made the three in Toronto that are going to bite him for the rest [of the season] 'cause he has a lot now," Francona said Monday. "He made those errors in Toronto. That's a bad day. That's going to up his total. We stay on him all the time about being that guy that's aggressive and fearless because that's when he's a better player."
It's hard to say when Lugo is a better player. He's committed more than 20 errors in a season three times and had 19 last year. He's on pace for about 45 this year.
Even if he had made just one error that dismal night north of the border, he'd still be tied for first in the Majors with eight errors. Let's be honest; that night wasn't really the problem. It was merely emblematic of Lugo's poor fielding ability. He's a great athlete, and his athleticism has carried him through his career. But his fundamentals -- the things he should have learned and polished as a teenager -- are terrible.
It's hard to explain Epstein's "man crush" on Lugo. Just what was it that made him bid against only himself, and offer a pretty average player a four-year, $36 million contract? I mean Lugo had just hit .219 with the Dodgers when Eptein made his bid. Is he really better than Error Renteria or Alex Gonzalez? I think not.
And the Sox are stuck with him. Wouldn't you just love to have Jed Lowrie as the everyday shortstop right now? Don't you think the Red Sox would be better off? And forget the idea of dumping or trading Lugo; no one will touch a human error machine -- who doesn't hit well -- at $9 mil per season. The Sox are in a pickle. And if they ever do find a taker, they'll be paying him to play for someone else -- just like Renteria.
Lugo hit a paltry .237 last year. This year he's off to a better start (.293), but I don't anticipate that it will last. Sure, he had 73 RBI last season, but considering how well the Red Sox hit as a team, there was almost always someone on base whenever he went to the plate. Make contact and you'll drive in runs. But so far this season, Lugo has eight RBI and no homers. Yeah, he's stolen four bases, but was caught twice. That's a one-third failure rate.
Bottom line; no glove, no love.
Yes, the Red Sox are stuck with Lugo. And we're stuck watching as his errors mount. If he cracks 20 homers or steals 40 bases it will help make up for his miscues in the field. But he's never done either before, and there's no reason to believe he'll start now.
If you can't reasonably help your team win with your bat, the least you can do is not help it lose with your glove.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
WAKEFIELD REACHES MILESTONE
With his first strike out tonight, Tim Wakefield became just the second pitcher in Red Sox history to record at least 1700 career strikeouts. The 41-year-old veteran struck out a total of six Tigers, giving up just two hits and no walks, in eight shutout innings. That brings Wakefield's strikeout total to 1705 with the Sox, and counting.
Cy Young never reached 1700 strike outs in his legendary career with the Red Sox, and neither did Pedro Martinez, Luis Tiant, or Smokey Joe Wood. In fact, the only other Sox pitcher to reach the milestone was Roger Clemens, who fanned 2590 batters while with the Sox. It appears that Clemens mark will be safe for years to come.
Wakefield, the crafty knuckleball pitcher, dropped his ERA below four during his eight dazzling innings of work. However, he did pass Clemens in one area he probably would rather not have; he is now the Sox all-time leader in hits allowed, at 2361. Entering tonight's game, the two had been tied.
That's part of the mixed bag that you get with Tim Wakefield. You take the bad with the good.
For instance, Wakefield's 135 losses are the most in team history; his 324 home runs allowed are by far the most in team history; his 923 walks are the most in team history; and his 1177 earned runs are the most in team history. Much of that is the by-product of his longevity; if you stick around long enough the numbers pile up -- for better and for worse.
After earning his 157th career victory with the Red Sox tonight, Wakefield has an outside shot of surpassing Young and Clemens, who are tied with 192 wins apiece. He'd likely have to pitch another two seasons to do so, but for a knuckleballer that is possible. If he plays even one more season -- which seems likely at this point -- he will pass Clemens in in both innings pitched and starts, becoming the club's new all-time leader in both categories.
We may hold our collective breath whenever he starts, or when one of his knucklers flutters away from the catcher and toward the backstop. But we're used to it by now. Aren't we?
Enjoy it for what it's worth. Statistically speaking, we're watching one of the Red Sox all-time greats. And there's no doubt that we're watching one of the finest, most gracious men to have ever worn the Red Sox uniform.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Cy Young never reached 1700 strike outs in his legendary career with the Red Sox, and neither did Pedro Martinez, Luis Tiant, or Smokey Joe Wood. In fact, the only other Sox pitcher to reach the milestone was Roger Clemens, who fanned 2590 batters while with the Sox. It appears that Clemens mark will be safe for years to come.
Wakefield, the crafty knuckleball pitcher, dropped his ERA below four during his eight dazzling innings of work. However, he did pass Clemens in one area he probably would rather not have; he is now the Sox all-time leader in hits allowed, at 2361. Entering tonight's game, the two had been tied.
That's part of the mixed bag that you get with Tim Wakefield. You take the bad with the good.
For instance, Wakefield's 135 losses are the most in team history; his 324 home runs allowed are by far the most in team history; his 923 walks are the most in team history; and his 1177 earned runs are the most in team history. Much of that is the by-product of his longevity; if you stick around long enough the numbers pile up -- for better and for worse.
After earning his 157th career victory with the Red Sox tonight, Wakefield has an outside shot of surpassing Young and Clemens, who are tied with 192 wins apiece. He'd likely have to pitch another two seasons to do so, but for a knuckleballer that is possible. If he plays even one more season -- which seems likely at this point -- he will pass Clemens in in both innings pitched and starts, becoming the club's new all-time leader in both categories.
We may hold our collective breath whenever he starts, or when one of his knucklers flutters away from the catcher and toward the backstop. But we're used to it by now. Aren't we?
Enjoy it for what it's worth. Statistically speaking, we're watching one of the Red Sox all-time greats. And there's no doubt that we're watching one of the finest, most gracious men to have ever worn the Red Sox uniform.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
PAPELBON MAKES HIS MARK
YOUNG CLOSER SETTING STAGE FOR RED SOX HISTORY
In just his third season as the Red Sox closer, Jonathan Papelbon is already poised to make Sox history. After his 10th save in 10 chances on Monday night, Papelbon now has 82 career saves. And before this season is over, Papelbon could very well move into second place on the team's all-time saves list.
Possessing a fastball that has been clocked at 99 miles per hour, plus a nasty split and changeup, Papelbon is arguably the premier closer in baseball right now. Surely, he is the best closer most fans have ever seen in a Red Sox uniform. Perhaps that's because he is. At the least, he's creeping up on the best that preceded him in Boston.
As it stands, Papelbon is in sixth place on the Sox' all-time saves list. With just four more saves he will overtake Derek Lowe and move into fifth place. That could happen in the space of a week or so. With seven more saves he will move past Jeff Reardon into fourth place. And with 10 more saves he will pass Ellis Kinder for third place. Expect all of that to happen sometime this summer.
But here's what is truly impressive; if Papelbon -- who has averaged 36 saves over the last two seasons -- holds true to form, he will surpass Dick Radatz and become #2 on the team's all time saves list by the end of this season, just his third in the Majors.
The present "King of the Hill" is Bob "The Steamer" Stanley, who amassed 132 career saves over 13 seasons with the club. Though Stanley has held the team record since retiring in 1989, at this point he is not long for that distinction. If history is a guide, Papebon will become the new Red Sox all-time saves leader before the conclusion of the 2009 season.
That would be a truly amazing feat, considering that it would only be Papelbon's fourth season in the role of closer.
Papelbon is at the top of his game and notes that he feels stronger than ever before. "I just feel that I know my body more and more and what I'm capable of," said the closer. "It's amazing what my program has been able to do for me. I stick to it. I'm really committed to it and it has helped me stay strong."
For opposing hitters, just making contact probably feels like an accomplishment. Papelbon has gone 14 appearances without walking a batter. In fact, the last time he walked an opposing hitter was on March 25, against Oakland, in Japan. In that same period, he has struck out 21 batters.
The young phenom is both respected and feared throughout the baseball, and every team would rather have him than have to face him. The Sox, and their fans, consider themselves lucky.
And with each additional save, Papelbon continues to stake his place in the Red Sox storied history.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
In just his third season as the Red Sox closer, Jonathan Papelbon is already poised to make Sox history. After his 10th save in 10 chances on Monday night, Papelbon now has 82 career saves. And before this season is over, Papelbon could very well move into second place on the team's all-time saves list.
Possessing a fastball that has been clocked at 99 miles per hour, plus a nasty split and changeup, Papelbon is arguably the premier closer in baseball right now. Surely, he is the best closer most fans have ever seen in a Red Sox uniform. Perhaps that's because he is. At the least, he's creeping up on the best that preceded him in Boston.
As it stands, Papelbon is in sixth place on the Sox' all-time saves list. With just four more saves he will overtake Derek Lowe and move into fifth place. That could happen in the space of a week or so. With seven more saves he will move past Jeff Reardon into fourth place. And with 10 more saves he will pass Ellis Kinder for third place. Expect all of that to happen sometime this summer.
But here's what is truly impressive; if Papelbon -- who has averaged 36 saves over the last two seasons -- holds true to form, he will surpass Dick Radatz and become #2 on the team's all time saves list by the end of this season, just his third in the Majors.
The present "King of the Hill" is Bob "The Steamer" Stanley, who amassed 132 career saves over 13 seasons with the club. Though Stanley has held the team record since retiring in 1989, at this point he is not long for that distinction. If history is a guide, Papebon will become the new Red Sox all-time saves leader before the conclusion of the 2009 season.
That would be a truly amazing feat, considering that it would only be Papelbon's fourth season in the role of closer.
Papelbon is at the top of his game and notes that he feels stronger than ever before. "I just feel that I know my body more and more and what I'm capable of," said the closer. "It's amazing what my program has been able to do for me. I stick to it. I'm really committed to it and it has helped me stay strong."
For opposing hitters, just making contact probably feels like an accomplishment. Papelbon has gone 14 appearances without walking a batter. In fact, the last time he walked an opposing hitter was on March 25, against Oakland, in Japan. In that same period, he has struck out 21 batters.
The young phenom is both respected and feared throughout the baseball, and every team would rather have him than have to face him. The Sox, and their fans, consider themselves lucky.
And with each additional save, Papelbon continues to stake his place in the Red Sox storied history.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Monday, May 05, 2008
THE MARVEL OF MATSUZAKA
Exactly how Daisuke Matsuzaka earned a "W" tonight is tough to figure.
The unpredictable pitcher's stat line was schizophrenic to the point of unbelievable; just two hits, but EIGHT walks, resulting in just one run, over five innings. In that span he threw 109 pitches. And when all was said and done, the hurler -- who is ninth in the AL in strike outs -- had just one K.
As I said, tough to figure.
As one might imagine, the eight walks were a personal high for Matsuzaka, whose career spans less than two seasons. It also tied the major league high for walks this season. It's hard to imagine a pitcher with even seven walks being left in a game.
Matsuzaka went to three-ball counts on five of the first seven batters he faced. Through three innings, though he had allowed no hits, he had posted five walks. In fact, the Tigers didn't notch their first hit against him until the fourth inning. By the end of the fifth, Matsuzaka had allowed a stingy two hits, yet a staggering 10 Tigers had reached base. How he managed to surrender just one run is anybody's guess. If he had given up any more hits it may have lead to a blowout.
The issue of walks has plagued Matsuzaka all season. Tonight's struggle highlighted a larger problem; Matsuzaka is tied for the Major League Lead with 27 free passes. That makes his 5-0 record rather amazing. But since he only surrendered one run tonight, his ERA dropped to a meager 2.43 -- fourth best in the AL.
Say what you will, but the guy is a study in contrasts. You've got to give him credit; getting a win under those circumstances was quite remarkable. The last Red Sox pitcher who gave up eight walks and still got a win was Oil Can Boyd back in June of 1985.
Matsuzaka is a determined competitor. He won't give hitters anything to hit, and even when behind in the count, he won't back down. That kind of stubbornness has lead to the high walk total. He gets himself into jams, and more often than not he gets out of them.
A Matsuzaka start is often an adventure -- one that raises your blood pressure and keeps you on the edge of your seat. But ultimately it's tough to criticize 5-0 and 2.43. It may be unconventional, and heart-racing, but he gets the job done.
Remember tonight. It could be at least another 23 years before a Red Sox pitcher gives up eight walks en route to a victory. At least let's hope so.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
The unpredictable pitcher's stat line was schizophrenic to the point of unbelievable; just two hits, but EIGHT walks, resulting in just one run, over five innings. In that span he threw 109 pitches. And when all was said and done, the hurler -- who is ninth in the AL in strike outs -- had just one K.
As I said, tough to figure.
As one might imagine, the eight walks were a personal high for Matsuzaka, whose career spans less than two seasons. It also tied the major league high for walks this season. It's hard to imagine a pitcher with even seven walks being left in a game.
Matsuzaka went to three-ball counts on five of the first seven batters he faced. Through three innings, though he had allowed no hits, he had posted five walks. In fact, the Tigers didn't notch their first hit against him until the fourth inning. By the end of the fifth, Matsuzaka had allowed a stingy two hits, yet a staggering 10 Tigers had reached base. How he managed to surrender just one run is anybody's guess. If he had given up any more hits it may have lead to a blowout.
The issue of walks has plagued Matsuzaka all season. Tonight's struggle highlighted a larger problem; Matsuzaka is tied for the Major League Lead with 27 free passes. That makes his 5-0 record rather amazing. But since he only surrendered one run tonight, his ERA dropped to a meager 2.43 -- fourth best in the AL.
Say what you will, but the guy is a study in contrasts. You've got to give him credit; getting a win under those circumstances was quite remarkable. The last Red Sox pitcher who gave up eight walks and still got a win was Oil Can Boyd back in June of 1985.
Matsuzaka is a determined competitor. He won't give hitters anything to hit, and even when behind in the count, he won't back down. That kind of stubbornness has lead to the high walk total. He gets himself into jams, and more often than not he gets out of them.
A Matsuzaka start is often an adventure -- one that raises your blood pressure and keeps you on the edge of your seat. But ultimately it's tough to criticize 5-0 and 2.43. It may be unconventional, and heart-racing, but he gets the job done.
Remember tonight. It could be at least another 23 years before a Red Sox pitcher gives up eight walks en route to a victory. At least let's hope so.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, May 01, 2008
SOX RISE TO CHALLENGE IN APRIL
Despite a 30,000-mile road trip that included three nations, injuries, and a flu bug that invaded their clubhouse, the Sox still finished April in first place in the AL East, with the second best record in the league.
Josh Beckett. Mike Timlin, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Manny Delcarmen, Coco Crsip, JD Drew, Alex Cora, Sean Casey, David Ortiz and Jacoby Ellsbury all missed various amounts of time due to injury or illness.
The Sox had to call on Triple A players, such as Jed Lowrie, Brandon Moss, David Pauley, Justin Masterson, Craig Hansen, and Joe Thurston, because they were so decimated and undermanned. To win in the face of these challenges is very impressive. And that's not all.
The Sox lead the Majors with eight wins in their last at-bat this season, and are 8-2 in one run games.
However, while the Sox travel schedule was indeed challenging, the majority of their opponents were not. In April, the Sox played series' against Oakland, Toronto, Detroit, New York, Cleveland, Texas, Anaheim, and Tampa Bay. Of all those teams, only Tampa Bay, Anaheim, and Oakland had records of .500 or better. So the Sox clearly benefitted from a weak schedule.
Here's how the Sox stacked up in April versus last year:
2007 - 2008
16-8 Record 17-12
.262 Team Avg. .288
27 Home Runs 22
3.28 Team ERA 4.40
69 Walks 112
.228 Op. Bat Avg. .246
First the good news: The Sox are second in the Majors in hits and batting average. But the pitching could be a concern.
Here's the not-so-good news: The Sox team ERA is 19th in baseball, and 10th in the AL. They are fourth in walks -- second in the AL. They are also fourth in the AL in runs allowed. If you're looking for the upside on the pitching staff, they are tied for second in the majors with three shutouts, have allowed the ninth fewest hits, and are third in strikeouts -- first in the AL.
David Ortiz was mired in a slump for much of the month, but has finally come around and found his stroke. Mike Lowell was injured and couldn't produce while on the DL. Despite the struggle/absence of these two key leaders, the offense largely thrived. With both of them healthy and performing to their capability, the Sox offense will only get better.
Indeed, if there is an area of concern, it has got to be pitching. Walks have hurt the Red Sox, costing them runs and games. The only starter with an ERA under 4 is Dice-K (2.52). And the middle relief has been ugly and costly.
However, Jon Lester and Clay Bucholz should get better and more confident as the season progresses. Dice-K looks like the pitcher everyone had anticipated last season and is leading the team in ERA and strikeouts. Josh Beckett will compete for the Cy Young Award once again. And the combination of Bartolo Colon and Curt Schilling could add depth later this year. Their veteran presence and experience could also help in a playoff hunt. But for Schilling to pitch, and be effective, again will require a minor miracle.
In the meantime, we can only hope that the starters stay healthy. And if someone goes down, Justin Masterson gave us a reason for hope. And there is little doubt that Theo Epstein will be looking for bullpen help once again at the trade deadline (isn't he always?).
Despite their difficulties in April, the Red Sox gave us reason to believe that they will compete for a Championship again this year. But it won't be easy. The division has gotten stronger due to the improvements of Baltimore and Tampa Bay. Nine of fourteen AL teams have at least a .500 record. They're all beating up on one another and the competition, so far, has been fierce.
It will likely remain that way as the season continues to unfold.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Josh Beckett. Mike Timlin, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Manny Delcarmen, Coco Crsip, JD Drew, Alex Cora, Sean Casey, David Ortiz and Jacoby Ellsbury all missed various amounts of time due to injury or illness.
The Sox had to call on Triple A players, such as Jed Lowrie, Brandon Moss, David Pauley, Justin Masterson, Craig Hansen, and Joe Thurston, because they were so decimated and undermanned. To win in the face of these challenges is very impressive. And that's not all.
The Sox lead the Majors with eight wins in their last at-bat this season, and are 8-2 in one run games.
However, while the Sox travel schedule was indeed challenging, the majority of their opponents were not. In April, the Sox played series' against Oakland, Toronto, Detroit, New York, Cleveland, Texas, Anaheim, and Tampa Bay. Of all those teams, only Tampa Bay, Anaheim, and Oakland had records of .500 or better. So the Sox clearly benefitted from a weak schedule.
Here's how the Sox stacked up in April versus last year:
2007 - 2008
16-8 Record 17-12
.262 Team Avg. .288
27 Home Runs 22
3.28 Team ERA 4.40
69 Walks 112
.228 Op. Bat Avg. .246
First the good news: The Sox are second in the Majors in hits and batting average. But the pitching could be a concern.
Here's the not-so-good news: The Sox team ERA is 19th in baseball, and 10th in the AL. They are fourth in walks -- second in the AL. They are also fourth in the AL in runs allowed. If you're looking for the upside on the pitching staff, they are tied for second in the majors with three shutouts, have allowed the ninth fewest hits, and are third in strikeouts -- first in the AL.
David Ortiz was mired in a slump for much of the month, but has finally come around and found his stroke. Mike Lowell was injured and couldn't produce while on the DL. Despite the struggle/absence of these two key leaders, the offense largely thrived. With both of them healthy and performing to their capability, the Sox offense will only get better.
Indeed, if there is an area of concern, it has got to be pitching. Walks have hurt the Red Sox, costing them runs and games. The only starter with an ERA under 4 is Dice-K (2.52). And the middle relief has been ugly and costly.
However, Jon Lester and Clay Bucholz should get better and more confident as the season progresses. Dice-K looks like the pitcher everyone had anticipated last season and is leading the team in ERA and strikeouts. Josh Beckett will compete for the Cy Young Award once again. And the combination of Bartolo Colon and Curt Schilling could add depth later this year. Their veteran presence and experience could also help in a playoff hunt. But for Schilling to pitch, and be effective, again will require a minor miracle.
In the meantime, we can only hope that the starters stay healthy. And if someone goes down, Justin Masterson gave us a reason for hope. And there is little doubt that Theo Epstein will be looking for bullpen help once again at the trade deadline (isn't he always?).
Despite their difficulties in April, the Red Sox gave us reason to believe that they will compete for a Championship again this year. But it won't be easy. The division has gotten stronger due to the improvements of Baltimore and Tampa Bay. Nine of fourteen AL teams have at least a .500 record. They're all beating up on one another and the competition, so far, has been fierce.
It will likely remain that way as the season continues to unfold.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
LESTER SHINES AT FENWAY
This version of Jon Lester was the one everyone was waiting to see. From the ownership group, to the baseball operations department, to the coaching staff, to his teammates, to the fans of Red Sox Nation. This was delivering the goods. This was living up to the promise, and the expectations.
Lester out-dueled one of baseball's bona fide aces, Roy Halladay, throwing eight innings of one-hit, six strikeout ball. Though he allowed four walks, he didn't let them hurt him and got out of jams each time.
For his part, Toronto's resident stud threw yet another complete game, allowing just five hits and one run, while striking out six. Halladay has lost too many heartbreakers of this nature as his offense has stumbled.
Lester was the reason for that on Tuesday night.
But Lester's inconsistency has frustrated everyone, including himself. All too often he has been the victim of his own high pitch counts, numerous walks, and early exits. The poor performances even lead him to doubt himself. Good thing his confidence wasn't too shaken. And after such a compelling performance, he should be inspired.
The key was throwing first-pitch strikes and getting ahead in the count early. His changeup was elusive and made his fastball all the more effective. His consistency in the strike zone allowed him an economical 97 pitches.
This was surely one of Lester's finest moments in the Majors.
"Everything's coming along good," he said after the game. "Seems like every time I go out there, I take strides in the right direction."
Lets hope this is the beginning of the right kind of consistency.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Lester out-dueled one of baseball's bona fide aces, Roy Halladay, throwing eight innings of one-hit, six strikeout ball. Though he allowed four walks, he didn't let them hurt him and got out of jams each time.
For his part, Toronto's resident stud threw yet another complete game, allowing just five hits and one run, while striking out six. Halladay has lost too many heartbreakers of this nature as his offense has stumbled.
Lester was the reason for that on Tuesday night.
But Lester's inconsistency has frustrated everyone, including himself. All too often he has been the victim of his own high pitch counts, numerous walks, and early exits. The poor performances even lead him to doubt himself. Good thing his confidence wasn't too shaken. And after such a compelling performance, he should be inspired.
The key was throwing first-pitch strikes and getting ahead in the count early. His changeup was elusive and made his fastball all the more effective. His consistency in the strike zone allowed him an economical 97 pitches.
This was surely one of Lester's finest moments in the Majors.
"Everything's coming along good," he said after the game. "Seems like every time I go out there, I take strides in the right direction."
Lets hope this is the beginning of the right kind of consistency.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
MASTERSON MASTERFUL
In the past week we've witnessed a remarkable display of the Red Sox organizational depth and player development. We've been impressed by he likes of Jed Lowrie and Craig Hansen, while Joe Thurston and David Pauley contributed as well, though less spectacularly. Pauley may make a serviceable fifth starter for some Major League team, though it likely won't be the Red Sox.
And then today we had the Major League debut of Justin Masterson, who certainly opened some eyes with an impressive performance against a potent Angels offense.
In six innings of work, Masterson stymied Angel hitters with his tough sinker, allowing one earned run on two hits. The young righty struck out four batters and left the game with a 3-1 lead, only to be undone by the lamentable middle relief of the Red Sox.
Already it's become an old story, even though it's still so early in the season.
The Red Sox bullpen (three different pitchers) allowed four runs -- on four hits and three walks -- before recording a single out in an abysmal 7th inning that saw the Angels take a 5-3 lead. Javier Lopez and Manny Delcarmen were just awful (two earned runs apiece), and even Hideki Okajima didn't even look like his usual, dependable self. David Aardsma and Julian Tavarez were no better in their turns on the mound.
Whether it's Lopez, Delcarmen, Tavarez, Aardma, or Mike Timlin, it is often an adventure -- or misadventure -- for the Red Sox. No lead is safe when any member of this group takes the mound, as we've repeatedly seen in the season's opening month.
The powerful Red Sox offense has bailed out the bullpen with 10 come-from-behind wins already this year. That's the significant reason the Red Sox, despite the loss today, still have the best record in the American League at 15-9.
It's too bad that Masterson's masterful performance was spoiled by such futility and incompetence. But the Red Sox are not alone. The same problem prevails all over baseball. As I've said before, middle relief is no relief at all.
No matter, Justin Masterson gave us something to look forward to today, and he lived up to all the hype. That's often tough to do; many young players wilt under such expectations. His presence will provide depth and additional possibilities as the season progresses. We're sure to see him again this year, and at this rate it may be as a middle reliever.
Any one of the guys that let him and the rest of the team down -- again -- today could be out of a job before long.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
And then today we had the Major League debut of Justin Masterson, who certainly opened some eyes with an impressive performance against a potent Angels offense.
In six innings of work, Masterson stymied Angel hitters with his tough sinker, allowing one earned run on two hits. The young righty struck out four batters and left the game with a 3-1 lead, only to be undone by the lamentable middle relief of the Red Sox.
Already it's become an old story, even though it's still so early in the season.
The Red Sox bullpen (three different pitchers) allowed four runs -- on four hits and three walks -- before recording a single out in an abysmal 7th inning that saw the Angels take a 5-3 lead. Javier Lopez and Manny Delcarmen were just awful (two earned runs apiece), and even Hideki Okajima didn't even look like his usual, dependable self. David Aardsma and Julian Tavarez were no better in their turns on the mound.
Whether it's Lopez, Delcarmen, Tavarez, Aardma, or Mike Timlin, it is often an adventure -- or misadventure -- for the Red Sox. No lead is safe when any member of this group takes the mound, as we've repeatedly seen in the season's opening month.
The powerful Red Sox offense has bailed out the bullpen with 10 come-from-behind wins already this year. That's the significant reason the Red Sox, despite the loss today, still have the best record in the American League at 15-9.
It's too bad that Masterson's masterful performance was spoiled by such futility and incompetence. But the Red Sox are not alone. The same problem prevails all over baseball. As I've said before, middle relief is no relief at all.
No matter, Justin Masterson gave us something to look forward to today, and he lived up to all the hype. That's often tough to do; many young players wilt under such expectations. His presence will provide depth and additional possibilities as the season progresses. We're sure to see him again this year, and at this rate it may be as a middle reliever.
Any one of the guys that let him and the rest of the team down -- again -- today could be out of a job before long.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
LOWRIE MAKING AN IMPRESSION
Sure, it's early. But Jed Lowrie is increasingly looking like the real deal.
The kid had two more doubles on Sunday, scored once, and knocked in a run in yet another come-from-behind Red Sox victory. Solid and consistent play is quickly becoming routine for the 24-year-old infielder.
On Saturday night Lowrie knocked a single, a double, scored a run, and drove in an RBI on a sacrifice fly. And his three RBI against Cleveland on Tuesday were the most by a Sox player in his debut since Merrill Combs drove in four against the St. Louis Browns in 1947.
So far, in 12 at-bats over three games, the switch-hitter has five hits (three of them doubles), five RBI, three runs, and is batting a healthy .417. That's a pretty sweet stat line to begin a career.
The kid has already proven that he can hit big league pitching, and that he is also versatile enough to play third, short and second. That sort of ability increases his value to the team and could make him a sort of "super-sub" until the Sox can open a position for him.
The most obvious position in the near term would be shortstop, where the $9 million-a-year Julio Lugo currently resides. At that price, the Sox aren't likely to find any takers willing to assume all of Lugo's hefty salary, so they would likely have to eat some of it.
Some may find that sort of talk to be a bit premature. After all, the Sox did manage to win a World Series with Lugo hitting just .237, to go along with a paltry .294 OBP. And Lugo did manage to knock in 73 runs and steal 33 bases last year.
This year he's off to a better start, hitting a respectable .273. But his OBP is still just .304 and he has only two extra-base hits. Lowrie has already exceeded that. To top it off, Lugo has a whopping six errors in the season's first month, tying him for the major league lead. If the veteran shortstop keeps this up, calls for Lowrie to replace him will be heard loud and clear all over Red Sox Nation.
It sure would be nice to see Lowrie stick around for a while. The rest of the season would be nice. After all, who wants to see this kid back in Pawtucket? He's already earning his place and helping the team win.
At this point, Julio Lugo looks like the one with something to prove.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
The kid had two more doubles on Sunday, scored once, and knocked in a run in yet another come-from-behind Red Sox victory. Solid and consistent play is quickly becoming routine for the 24-year-old infielder.
On Saturday night Lowrie knocked a single, a double, scored a run, and drove in an RBI on a sacrifice fly. And his three RBI against Cleveland on Tuesday were the most by a Sox player in his debut since Merrill Combs drove in four against the St. Louis Browns in 1947.
So far, in 12 at-bats over three games, the switch-hitter has five hits (three of them doubles), five RBI, three runs, and is batting a healthy .417. That's a pretty sweet stat line to begin a career.
The kid has already proven that he can hit big league pitching, and that he is also versatile enough to play third, short and second. That sort of ability increases his value to the team and could make him a sort of "super-sub" until the Sox can open a position for him.
The most obvious position in the near term would be shortstop, where the $9 million-a-year Julio Lugo currently resides. At that price, the Sox aren't likely to find any takers willing to assume all of Lugo's hefty salary, so they would likely have to eat some of it.
Some may find that sort of talk to be a bit premature. After all, the Sox did manage to win a World Series with Lugo hitting just .237, to go along with a paltry .294 OBP. And Lugo did manage to knock in 73 runs and steal 33 bases last year.
This year he's off to a better start, hitting a respectable .273. But his OBP is still just .304 and he has only two extra-base hits. Lowrie has already exceeded that. To top it off, Lugo has a whopping six errors in the season's first month, tying him for the major league lead. If the veteran shortstop keeps this up, calls for Lowrie to replace him will be heard loud and clear all over Red Sox Nation.
It sure would be nice to see Lowrie stick around for a while. The rest of the season would be nice. After all, who wants to see this kid back in Pawtucket? He's already earning his place and helping the team win.
At this point, Julio Lugo looks like the one with something to prove.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
MIDDLE RELIEF AIN'T NO RELIEF AT ALL
Thank goodness for Josh Becket. The Red Sox resident ace managed to go eight innings against the potent Yankee lineup, giving up six hits and only one walk, resulting in just three earned runs. Through eight innings, Becket threw 105 pitches.
The Red Sox needed this sort of performance, coming on the heels of repeated short starts, and high pitch counts, by Jon Lester, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Clay Buchholz and Tim Wakefield.
In their last three starts, respectively, the stat line of the foursome looks like this:
Lester: 4.1 innings - 10 base runners; 5.1 innings - 9 base runners; 6.2 innings - 6 base runners
Matsuzaka: 5 innings - 11 base runners; 6.2 innings - 11 base runners; 6.2 innings - 2 base runners
Buchholz: 3.2 innings - 9 base runners; 6 innings - 7 base runners; 5 innings - 8 base runners
Wakefield: 6 innings - 11 base runners; 5 innings - 8 base runners; 6 innings - 9 base runners
So far this season, Sox pitchers are undermining themselves, and the team, with walks. The walks have lead to high pitch totals and starts that have been all too brief.
Despite Beckett's one-walk outing, Red Sox pitchers lead all of baseball with 74 walks. The league average is 49. Last season, the Sox allowed a total of 482 walks, which were sixth-fewest in all of baseball. This season, they are walking batters at a rate that would result in 739 walks by season's end. That would be the most in the majors since the Brewers granted 728 free passes in 2000.
In all of baseball, only Cleveland's Fausto Carmona has more walks than Daisuke Matsuzaka and Jon Lester (15 each). And Tim Wakefield isn't far behind with 12.
These high walk totals have been running up the Sox starter's pitch counts, and ultimately taxing a bullpen that is already overworked in just the first month of a six-month season.
Because they can't consistently throw strikes, the starters are wearing themselves out, and they're wearing out the bullpen too. This has got to stop, and soon. It won't work over the long haul of a 162-game season. Teams like the Yankees are stocked with patient hitters who tend to wear down pitchers. They make pitchers throw strikes, and so far Sox pitchers can't do that consistently.
Seemingly, every time a Red Sox starter takes the mound, at least three additional pitchers are needed to complete the game. So far, that's not working, and no one should expect it to.
The middle relievers can't be counted on to bail the starters out. Middle relievers are in that role because they're not good enough to close or start. Manny Delcarmen, Mike Timlin, Javier Lopez, Julian Tavarez -- do you really trust any of them? How could anyone?
Each time one of them comes out of the pen, you can almost hear the collective gasp go out from Red Sox Nation. Hold on tight, it's gonna be a bumpy ride!
To be fair, the Red Sox aren't the only team with a weak or unpredictable middle relief corps. And most A.L. clubs are lucky to have two decent starers -- at best. But to be champions again, the Red Sox will need to do better. If the bullpen remains this overworked and unreliable, the Sox will be forced to call on castoffs like Kyle Snyder or Bryan Corey again, or surrender a valuable asset/prospect in a trade they'd rather not make.
Being forced to make such decisions would surely be regrettable, but perhaps no more so than the current status quo.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
The Red Sox needed this sort of performance, coming on the heels of repeated short starts, and high pitch counts, by Jon Lester, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Clay Buchholz and Tim Wakefield.
In their last three starts, respectively, the stat line of the foursome looks like this:
Lester: 4.1 innings - 10 base runners; 5.1 innings - 9 base runners; 6.2 innings - 6 base runners
Matsuzaka: 5 innings - 11 base runners; 6.2 innings - 11 base runners; 6.2 innings - 2 base runners
Buchholz: 3.2 innings - 9 base runners; 6 innings - 7 base runners; 5 innings - 8 base runners
Wakefield: 6 innings - 11 base runners; 5 innings - 8 base runners; 6 innings - 9 base runners
So far this season, Sox pitchers are undermining themselves, and the team, with walks. The walks have lead to high pitch totals and starts that have been all too brief.
Despite Beckett's one-walk outing, Red Sox pitchers lead all of baseball with 74 walks. The league average is 49. Last season, the Sox allowed a total of 482 walks, which were sixth-fewest in all of baseball. This season, they are walking batters at a rate that would result in 739 walks by season's end. That would be the most in the majors since the Brewers granted 728 free passes in 2000.
In all of baseball, only Cleveland's Fausto Carmona has more walks than Daisuke Matsuzaka and Jon Lester (15 each). And Tim Wakefield isn't far behind with 12.
These high walk totals have been running up the Sox starter's pitch counts, and ultimately taxing a bullpen that is already overworked in just the first month of a six-month season.
Because they can't consistently throw strikes, the starters are wearing themselves out, and they're wearing out the bullpen too. This has got to stop, and soon. It won't work over the long haul of a 162-game season. Teams like the Yankees are stocked with patient hitters who tend to wear down pitchers. They make pitchers throw strikes, and so far Sox pitchers can't do that consistently.
Seemingly, every time a Red Sox starter takes the mound, at least three additional pitchers are needed to complete the game. So far, that's not working, and no one should expect it to.
The middle relievers can't be counted on to bail the starters out. Middle relievers are in that role because they're not good enough to close or start. Manny Delcarmen, Mike Timlin, Javier Lopez, Julian Tavarez -- do you really trust any of them? How could anyone?
Each time one of them comes out of the pen, you can almost hear the collective gasp go out from Red Sox Nation. Hold on tight, it's gonna be a bumpy ride!
To be fair, the Red Sox aren't the only team with a weak or unpredictable middle relief corps. And most A.L. clubs are lucky to have two decent starers -- at best. But to be champions again, the Red Sox will need to do better. If the bullpen remains this overworked and unreliable, the Sox will be forced to call on castoffs like Kyle Snyder or Bryan Corey again, or surrender a valuable asset/prospect in a trade they'd rather not make.
Being forced to make such decisions would surely be regrettable, but perhaps no more so than the current status quo.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
BULLPEN DEPTH COULD PROVE VALUABLE TO SOX
It has been said countless times that "pitching wins championships." That old adage may indeed be true, and that's what makes Big League pitching so valuable. With 30 Major League clubs, and fifth starters the modern day norm, many pitchers in the game today would have never made the grade in decades past.
That's why teams covet good pitchers, both young and old. Young guys are often cheaper and have less "mileage" on their throwing arms. The downside is that they are less experienced than older, more seasoned veterans.
Mike Timlin is very experienced; the 42-year-old reliever is the active leader among major league pitchers, with 1,011 appearances to start the season.
But Timlin, as would be expected, has become more susceptible to injury as he's gotten older. Timlin had been healthy since 2001, when he went on the DL because of knee surgery. But he's now been on the DL four times since the start of the 2006 season, when he was sidelined with a strained shoulder. Then he opened 2007 on the DL with a strained oblique muscle, and later went back on the DL with shoulder tendinitis. Those injuries limited him to 50 appearances last season. And Timlin missed the first nine games of this season with a lacerated ring finger on his pitching hand.
The rust showed immediately upon return last weekend; Timlin gave up home runs to the first batter he faced both Friday night and Sunday night against the Yankees. In each case, it was Jason Giambi, who had not hit a home run against anyone else this season After Giambi's home run Sunday, Jose Molina and Melky Cabrera singled, making opposing hitters 5 for 5 against Timlin in 2008. It was not the kind of return the veteran pitcher had planned.
But Timlin bounced back last night, pitching a 1-2-3 eighth, earning the win against Cleveland. Yet he is 42, with a history of injuries -- the shoulder issues being the most troubling.
To make room Timlin on the 25-man roster, the Red Sox designated 34-year-old righty Bryan Corey for assignment. Kyle Snyder had previously been designated to make room for the returning Josh Beckett. Both pitchers are younger and healthier than Timlin. But neither was consistent.
Why weren't Snyder and Corey just sent down to Pawtucket? They were out of options.
Each player can be optioned three times. One option is expended per year, regardless of how many times the player goes back and forth from Pawtucket. After three seasons of being called up and sent down, he is out of options and can no longer be returned to the minors without first clearing waivers. That means every other team in the major leagues has a chance to claim him for a nominal waiver fee.
The Sox ran into that same problem with 27-year-old, lefty-reliever Craig Breslow, who was out of options and subsequently designated for assignment at the end of Spring Training. The Indians promptly claimed Breslow and he is now on their big league roster.
But the 30-year-old Snyder was not claimed by another team. He cleared waivers and accepted an outright assignment to Triple A Pawtucket. And so far Corey has elicited little interest from other clubs either. Since pitching is at such a premium, why aren't teams more interested in Snyder and Corey? The simple answer is that they are viewed as fringe players by other clubs, who would be in the same position as the Sox, unable to option the pitchers out if they wanted to send them to the minors. Perhaps Corey could find his way back to Pawtucket within days as well.
That may be a good thing for the Sox. Having pitchers with Big League experience just a phone call, and 60 miles, away in Pawtucket could prove quite valuable. The season is long and injuries are sure to occur to Sox pitchers. You never know, Mike Timlin could again be one of them.
Another old adage goes like this: "You can never have enough pitching."
That's why teams covet good pitchers, both young and old. Young guys are often cheaper and have less "mileage" on their throwing arms. The downside is that they are less experienced than older, more seasoned veterans.
Mike Timlin is very experienced; the 42-year-old reliever is the active leader among major league pitchers, with 1,011 appearances to start the season.
But Timlin, as would be expected, has become more susceptible to injury as he's gotten older. Timlin had been healthy since 2001, when he went on the DL because of knee surgery. But he's now been on the DL four times since the start of the 2006 season, when he was sidelined with a strained shoulder. Then he opened 2007 on the DL with a strained oblique muscle, and later went back on the DL with shoulder tendinitis. Those injuries limited him to 50 appearances last season. And Timlin missed the first nine games of this season with a lacerated ring finger on his pitching hand.
The rust showed immediately upon return last weekend; Timlin gave up home runs to the first batter he faced both Friday night and Sunday night against the Yankees. In each case, it was Jason Giambi, who had not hit a home run against anyone else this season After Giambi's home run Sunday, Jose Molina and Melky Cabrera singled, making opposing hitters 5 for 5 against Timlin in 2008. It was not the kind of return the veteran pitcher had planned.
But Timlin bounced back last night, pitching a 1-2-3 eighth, earning the win against Cleveland. Yet he is 42, with a history of injuries -- the shoulder issues being the most troubling.
To make room Timlin on the 25-man roster, the Red Sox designated 34-year-old righty Bryan Corey for assignment. Kyle Snyder had previously been designated to make room for the returning Josh Beckett. Both pitchers are younger and healthier than Timlin. But neither was consistent.
Why weren't Snyder and Corey just sent down to Pawtucket? They were out of options.
Each player can be optioned three times. One option is expended per year, regardless of how many times the player goes back and forth from Pawtucket. After three seasons of being called up and sent down, he is out of options and can no longer be returned to the minors without first clearing waivers. That means every other team in the major leagues has a chance to claim him for a nominal waiver fee.
The Sox ran into that same problem with 27-year-old, lefty-reliever Craig Breslow, who was out of options and subsequently designated for assignment at the end of Spring Training. The Indians promptly claimed Breslow and he is now on their big league roster.
But the 30-year-old Snyder was not claimed by another team. He cleared waivers and accepted an outright assignment to Triple A Pawtucket. And so far Corey has elicited little interest from other clubs either. Since pitching is at such a premium, why aren't teams more interested in Snyder and Corey? The simple answer is that they are viewed as fringe players by other clubs, who would be in the same position as the Sox, unable to option the pitchers out if they wanted to send them to the minors. Perhaps Corey could find his way back to Pawtucket within days as well.
That may be a good thing for the Sox. Having pitchers with Big League experience just a phone call, and 60 miles, away in Pawtucket could prove quite valuable. The season is long and injuries are sure to occur to Sox pitchers. You never know, Mike Timlin could again be one of them.
Another old adage goes like this: "You can never have enough pitching."
Thursday, April 10, 2008
WILL THE REAL JON LESTER PLEASE STAND UP?
There's no doubt that the Red Sox organization thinks highly of Jon Lester; he is expected to become one of the anchors of the pitching staff for years to come. In fact, the Sox like him so much they wouldn't pull the trigger on the Johan Santana trade. Some see Lester as a #2 starter, and he has been compared to successful lefties such as Bruce Hurst and even Andy Pettitte.
But with those lofty expectations comes a pressure that could be tough for him to live up to.
It's very early in Lester's young career, and he could certainly live up to the hype and projections that have followed him since his days in the minors. At this point he is just a budding 24-year-old, and perhaps a rising star. The Red Sox have thought so since they selected him in the second round of the 2002 draft.
But Lester continues to have control issues, which have led to far too many base runners and high pitch counts. That, in turn, has ultimately led to short starts, resulting in additional stress on the Sox bullpen. For example, last night Lester only lasted 5 1/3 innings -- as has become customary -- and allowed 9 base runners (5 hits, 4 walks). Base runners usually mean trouble for Lester, and sure enough he allowed 4 earned runs.
Lester can be tantalizingly good, and then frustratingly bad. In fairness, he seems just average, which is better than bad. But he has long been expected to be better than that.
Inconsistency has plagued Lester from the beginning, and belies his 12-4 Big League record. The truth is, Lester has the privilege of playing for the best team in baseball, one with a high-powered offense that can put runs on the board in bunches, and in a hurry. He has clearly benefitted from that run production; his record is much better than it should be, as evidenced by his 4.66 career ERA.
Lester had a WHIP of 1.46 in 2007, and has allowed a staggering 249 base runners in his 160 career innings. You could say he is a victim of his own making. The high pitch counts have often led him to tire early, and he’s averaged just 5.5 innings per start. These statistics are not good, and not the sign of a rising star.
Lester needs to work on his control and lower his walk total; perhaps that would also help lower his ERA and extend his starts. He would be wise to put the ball over the plate and trust his defense. All of his attempts at finesse and painting the corners are not working for him (at least let's hope that's what he's trying -- if not, his control is even worse than it appears). He simply isn't throwing strikes, and to be a successful Big League pitcher he needs to.
So, the jury is still out on Jon Lester. But, as noted, it's still quite early in his career. Maybe he will develop in the next Bruce Hurst for the Red Sox, or even an Andy Pettitte. But at this point all of that seems like too much hype; the expectations should be much more realistic for him. He will continue to frustrate and to tantalize. At times he will look like an All Star, or even an ace. At others, he will look like he still belongs in Triple A.
Get used to it.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
But with those lofty expectations comes a pressure that could be tough for him to live up to.
It's very early in Lester's young career, and he could certainly live up to the hype and projections that have followed him since his days in the minors. At this point he is just a budding 24-year-old, and perhaps a rising star. The Red Sox have thought so since they selected him in the second round of the 2002 draft.
But Lester continues to have control issues, which have led to far too many base runners and high pitch counts. That, in turn, has ultimately led to short starts, resulting in additional stress on the Sox bullpen. For example, last night Lester only lasted 5 1/3 innings -- as has become customary -- and allowed 9 base runners (5 hits, 4 walks). Base runners usually mean trouble for Lester, and sure enough he allowed 4 earned runs.
Lester can be tantalizingly good, and then frustratingly bad. In fairness, he seems just average, which is better than bad. But he has long been expected to be better than that.
Inconsistency has plagued Lester from the beginning, and belies his 12-4 Big League record. The truth is, Lester has the privilege of playing for the best team in baseball, one with a high-powered offense that can put runs on the board in bunches, and in a hurry. He has clearly benefitted from that run production; his record is much better than it should be, as evidenced by his 4.66 career ERA.
Lester had a WHIP of 1.46 in 2007, and has allowed a staggering 249 base runners in his 160 career innings. You could say he is a victim of his own making. The high pitch counts have often led him to tire early, and he’s averaged just 5.5 innings per start. These statistics are not good, and not the sign of a rising star.
Lester needs to work on his control and lower his walk total; perhaps that would also help lower his ERA and extend his starts. He would be wise to put the ball over the plate and trust his defense. All of his attempts at finesse and painting the corners are not working for him (at least let's hope that's what he's trying -- if not, his control is even worse than it appears). He simply isn't throwing strikes, and to be a successful Big League pitcher he needs to.
So, the jury is still out on Jon Lester. But, as noted, it's still quite early in his career. Maybe he will develop in the next Bruce Hurst for the Red Sox, or even an Andy Pettitte. But at this point all of that seems like too much hype; the expectations should be much more realistic for him. He will continue to frustrate and to tantalize. At times he will look like an All Star, or even an ace. At others, he will look like he still belongs in Triple A.
Get used to it.
Copyright © 2008 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
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