Yesterday’s 10-3 loss to the Yankees was more of the same for the Red Sox. A bullpen that threw fuel on the fire and a lineup that managed only 3 runs. The bullpen is less of a worry for me. One new arm, one old arm deciding to step up, and the problem vanishes. But the Red Sox offense is more perplexing.
The Red Sox are batting only .229 as a team since the break and have scored three-or-fewer runs five times. Hopefully Ortiz shakes the rust off, Varitek gets a second wind, and Ellsbury regroups for the stretch run. But if not, if Ortiz needs the off season to become Big Papi again, if Varitek is indeed done, and if Ellsbury continues to struggle like the rookie he is, well, I doubt the pitching, no matter how good, will be enough to overcome the lack of run production.
Other thoughts:
- Hansen is so wild I have no idea if he threw at A-Rod on purpose. But either way it was a welcome sight. Every time Chamberlain buzzes a Red Sox player’s head, a Yankee should get the same; starting yesterday.
- Yankee Coach Bobby Meacham gave the Yankee lineup to TV viewers before the game. According to Meacham the Yankees have the best shortstop, the best second baseman, the best upcoming star, and the best player in the game. Fox should probably choose someone who’s vocabulary extends beyond the word best.
- Joe Buck went on ad nauseam that Girardi should be Manager of the Year if the Yankees make the playoffs. A manager that works with a payroll 50 million higher than any team in the majors should not touch that award.