Dad --
In talking about yesterday's final game against the Twins, you forgot to mention the most surprising thing that happened. The home plate umpire, Todd Tichenor, ejected four players in one inning.
Now I know ejections aren't that uncommon these days, especially with the amount of brawls that happen in a season. But what is uncommon is seeing the exact same members of both teams get thrown out within the same inning.
It all started in the top of the 7th when Twins catcher, Mike Redmond, argued a close call at home that gave the Red Sox their third, final, and winning run. Redmond believed he'd tagged Bailey before Bailey touched home. Tichenor disagreed, and after a minute or two of arguing, threw out Redmond. Then when Twins manager, Ron Gardenhire, came out to argue the ejection, he also was thrown out of the game. Okay so two ejections for a minor disagreement isn't that unusual.
But then in the bottom of the 7th inning there were two more ejections. This time it was over arguing balls and strikes, which you're evidently not allowed to do anymore. On a 2-2 pitch, Beckett threw a ball that both he and Varitek believed to be a strike. Unfortunately Tichenor again disagreed. Beckett was visibly pissed, but Varitek was the one to turn on Tichenor and argue the call, mainly so Beckett wouldn't get in trouble. Unfortunately Varitek did, and was thrown out of the game. Then Francona came out to argue Tichenor's third ejection and the Sox manager made it four of a kind.
In all my years watching America's Oldest Past Time, I've never seen the same members of both teams get ejected for arguing calls or protecting their players. It's absolutely absurd how touchy the umps are these days. I'm happy we didn't lose Beckett, but throwing out Redmond, Gardenhire, Varitek and Francona just for arguing a couple calls is insane. And while it may make for a good show, it doesn't make for good baseball.
Dad, I know you agree.
Jenn
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Lester Festers;Sox Split et al--Peter
Well, Jenn, I share your concerns over Lester. Usually when a pitcher succeeds, it's because at some point in the game(s), he gets into a rhythm. Makes no diff whether he's throwing heat, junk or some other combination of stuff. At some point, he gets into a groove, gets comfortable and that rhythm takes over. At that point, he starts to run off four, five, six innings or more without a baserunner; or, if he lets one guy reach base, he quickly regains control and eliminates any chance that it will grow into a rally. Lester's got his velocity, but he seems somehow uncomfortable. It's as if he starts to roll along and then realizes things are OK and unconsciously reacts by changing things just enough that suddenly he's a target. I hope he gets it straight. Right now, the Sox Big 3 aren't looking to impressive. Dice was going along OK until he had one bad inning and that was that. At least JB looked good today--8 K's in 7 innings and only three hits. Even better: his game WHIP was under 1.0 today. Sox back in sole possession of First.
Other stuff: Too bad, Jake's streak ended at 22 as he went 0fer today. Tek still isn't what you'd call a good hitter yet, but, including today's pair of circuits, he's doing a hell of a lot better than last year. I'll take anything I can get. There's some talk that the Sox may pick up a third catcher just in case he or Wake's caddy gets hurt. I even saw a suggestion on the web that Posada could be available. Wouldn't that be something? Doubt he'd agree to come--too much history in the rivalry. Years ago, when players didn't have the right of refusal, there was serious talk of an even-up trade of Teddy Ballgame for Joe D. Fortunately, for the Hose, it never went through. Just over a year later, DiMag was retired and TW was still going for another decade.
Regarding Aidan's arrival at Fenner's, I guess this means he's got one up on Pops. I never got to a sports bar (or any other kind) until well into my teens. As far as falling asleep, I went to my first ball game at age four and it was a twinbill. I fell asleep in the 4th inning. It wasn't a Sox game either. It was the Boston Braves vs. the Phillies. Saw my first Sox game a couple of weeks later--stayed awake for that one. Both Beantown teams weren't too bad. The Sox had gone to the Series the year before and missed the next year's ('48) Series by losing a one game playoff against the Tribe, while the Braves won the Series in '48. Could have been a Boston Series. Oh, well.
Enough rambling. It's late; the book needs more work and I'm exhausted.
Other stuff: Too bad, Jake's streak ended at 22 as he went 0fer today. Tek still isn't what you'd call a good hitter yet, but, including today's pair of circuits, he's doing a hell of a lot better than last year. I'll take anything I can get. There's some talk that the Sox may pick up a third catcher just in case he or Wake's caddy gets hurt. I even saw a suggestion on the web that Posada could be available. Wouldn't that be something? Doubt he'd agree to come--too much history in the rivalry. Years ago, when players didn't have the right of refusal, there was serious talk of an even-up trade of Teddy Ballgame for Joe D. Fortunately, for the Hose, it never went through. Just over a year later, DiMag was retired and TW was still going for another decade.
Regarding Aidan's arrival at Fenner's, I guess this means he's got one up on Pops. I never got to a sports bar (or any other kind) until well into my teens. As far as falling asleep, I went to my first ball game at age four and it was a twinbill. I fell asleep in the 4th inning. It wasn't a Sox game either. It was the Boston Braves vs. the Phillies. Saw my first Sox game a couple of weeks later--stayed awake for that one. Both Beantown teams weren't too bad. The Sox had gone to the Series the year before and missed the next year's ('48) Series by losing a one game playoff against the Tribe, while the Braves won the Series in '48. Could have been a Boston Series. Oh, well.
Enough rambling. It's late; the book needs more work and I'm exhausted.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Another Bad Night for Lester
Dad --
I don't know what it is about Lester this year, but he can't seem to get past the 5th inning without giving up several runs. Well, last night it was de javu all over again.
He was great for the first four innings. Even had a couple that were three up, three down. Then the fifth inning came. Lester saw seven batters come to the plate. And although Ellsbury made a phenomenal catch for an out early on, he couldn't prevent five other Twins from rounding home. It was really tough to watch.
Lester did pitch one more inning, but the damage was done and Lester knew it. He was so upset with himself, he stormed into the clubhouse when Francona told him between the 6th and 7th that he was done for the day.
I don't know what to make of him, do you? He's got good speed, he's throwing all the right balls, I think he's just missing his spots. He seems to be leaving stuff up in the zone a little too often and that's what's killing him. Francona moved Papi down in the batting order yesterday to take some pressure off. Maybe he should do the same for Lester.
On a brighter note, Ellsbury extended his hitting streak to 21 games in his first at bat. That's the longest of his career. Hope he makes it to 22 today. Guess we'll just have to wait and see.
Jenn
I don't know what it is about Lester this year, but he can't seem to get past the 5th inning without giving up several runs. Well, last night it was de javu all over again.
He was great for the first four innings. Even had a couple that were three up, three down. Then the fifth inning came. Lester saw seven batters come to the plate. And although Ellsbury made a phenomenal catch for an out early on, he couldn't prevent five other Twins from rounding home. It was really tough to watch.
Lester did pitch one more inning, but the damage was done and Lester knew it. He was so upset with himself, he stormed into the clubhouse when Francona told him between the 6th and 7th that he was done for the day.
I don't know what to make of him, do you? He's got good speed, he's throwing all the right balls, I think he's just missing his spots. He seems to be leaving stuff up in the zone a little too often and that's what's killing him. Francona moved Papi down in the batting order yesterday to take some pressure off. Maybe he should do the same for Lester.
On a brighter note, Ellsbury extended his hitting streak to 21 games in his first at bat. That's the longest of his career. Hope he makes it to 22 today. Guess we'll just have to wait and see.
Jenn
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
A Win Coupled with Aidan's First Trip to Fenners
Dad --
Yes, Pap's first blown save was upsetting, to say the least. Thankfully he didn't have to go out for the final game since the Sox won by 7 runs. And while the Sox lost the series against the Mets, at least it wasn't a sweep.
But now we're onto Minnesota and a four game series against the Twins. Yesterday's game was a win, but another dramatic one where Pap almost got his second blown save in three days. Pap came in for the 9th, and after getting two strike outs gave up a two run shot to pinch hitter, Joe Mauer. Luckily Mauer's shot didn't tie the score. Instead the Sox were still ahead by one and the Laser got the next guy out on a flyout to right and got his 12th save of the season. Whew!
I don't know what it is about Pap this season, but he can't seem to get three outs in a row. Is it something to lose sleep over? Not yet. But if this drama keeps up, I may lose a lot more sleep than from just Aidan waking up in the middle of the night for another feeding.
On that note, Aidan actually made his first visit to Fat Faced Fenners yesterday, Dad. He had on his little Red Sox booties that his Aunt Ellen bought him and he sat in the corner booth for a couple hours. Granted he slept through the game, but at least he got to the bar. I'm sure we'll be back several times over the season, and who knows, maybe Aidan will even be awake for some of our time there. But I figure it's never too late for Aidan to get to know our favorite Sox bar. And who knows, maybe one of the visits will even include his Pops.
What do you say, Dad?
Jenn
Yes, Pap's first blown save was upsetting, to say the least. Thankfully he didn't have to go out for the final game since the Sox won by 7 runs. And while the Sox lost the series against the Mets, at least it wasn't a sweep.
But now we're onto Minnesota and a four game series against the Twins. Yesterday's game was a win, but another dramatic one where Pap almost got his second blown save in three days. Pap came in for the 9th, and after getting two strike outs gave up a two run shot to pinch hitter, Joe Mauer. Luckily Mauer's shot didn't tie the score. Instead the Sox were still ahead by one and the Laser got the next guy out on a flyout to right and got his 12th save of the season. Whew!
I don't know what it is about Pap this season, but he can't seem to get three outs in a row. Is it something to lose sleep over? Not yet. But if this drama keeps up, I may lose a lot more sleep than from just Aidan waking up in the middle of the night for another feeding.
On that note, Aidan actually made his first visit to Fat Faced Fenners yesterday, Dad. He had on his little Red Sox booties that his Aunt Ellen bought him and he sat in the corner booth for a couple hours. Granted he slept through the game, but at least he got to the bar. I'm sure we'll be back several times over the season, and who knows, maybe Aidan will even be awake for some of our time there. But I figure it's never too late for Aidan to get to know our favorite Sox bar. And who knows, maybe one of the visits will even include his Pops.
What do you say, Dad?
Jenn
Saturday, May 23, 2009
What Is This: 1986?--Peter
What's going on here? The Mets come to town to face the Hose who are on a three game win streak and in each of the first two games, come back to win by a run? Even worse, in today's game we waste a really good effort by JB--only one unearned run over eight innings when Pap, of all people gives up a game winning two run shot by a banjo-hitting catcher in the top of the 9th. Since when does someone like this take a laser deep? Very sad. Worse, Papi continues in the dumps after his nice HR the other night, and the middle of the order isn't doing much better right now.
The only other bright note is Jake extended his hit streak to 18 games and stole a base, also his 18th. With this loss, the Yankees have tied the Sox for second, a half game behind the Jays.
The only other bright note is Jake extended his hit streak to 18 games and stole a base, also his 18th. With this loss, the Yankees have tied the Sox for second, a half game behind the Jays.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Bring Out the Brooms!--Peter
Yes, Jenn--I did "see" Papi's homer--pretty deep ball too considering where it landed. Also was aware of Jake's fielding feat. The tied record was only done twice previously--first in 1929 and then again in 1977, I believe. Pretty cool. Not only that, Jake's on a hitting streak, and with tonight's hit, extended it again to 16 games. Now, if he triples that total, he'll only be eight games behind the Clipper, but he'll have long broken the Sox club streak,held by Joltin' Joe's brother Dom, at 34 straight.
Tonight's game, while I'm on the subject, completed the sweep against the Jays and got us back to within a half game of the Jays. The difference is just one more game the guys from north of the border have played (and won). A bit more good news from tonight was Bay's 13th circuit shot, coupled with the first hint of a decent showing in quite a while by Lester. The Sox' second ace went just over six innings and got five K's, but, more important, started to get guys out like he did last year and in '07. Now, if the Diceman can do likewise in his return tomorrow against the Mets, all will be moving much more smoothly. Speaking of smooth, Smoltzie was almost lights out in his first rehab start yesterday. If he can make it back and Dice starts rolling sevens, the Fenmen are going to really be in a position to grab the division and league by the throat and squeeeeeeze!
Tonight's game, while I'm on the subject, completed the sweep against the Jays and got us back to within a half game of the Jays. The difference is just one more game the guys from north of the border have played (and won). A bit more good news from tonight was Bay's 13th circuit shot, coupled with the first hint of a decent showing in quite a while by Lester. The Sox' second ace went just over six innings and got five K's, but, more important, started to get guys out like he did last year and in '07. Now, if the Diceman can do likewise in his return tomorrow against the Mets, all will be moving much more smoothly. Speaking of smooth, Smoltzie was almost lights out in his first rehab start yesterday. If he can make it back and Dice starts rolling sevens, the Fenmen are going to really be in a position to grab the division and league by the throat and squeeeeeeze!
A Night of Firsts
Dad --
Did you see? Oh my God. It was awesome.
Papi hit his first home run of the season!
Varitek continued his tradition of homering on May 20th.
And Ellsbury tied the major league record for most putouts in the outfield during a 9 inning game.
Pretty Damn Cool!
Let's start with Papi. In the 5th with Pedroia at 3rd and two outs in the inning, Papi got a pitch that stayed over the plate and swung for the bleachers as he always does. But unlike every other time Papi's swung this season, this time, the ball actually ended up there. It was a great moment. For the club, for the fans, but most of all for David Ortiz himself. He finally got that one out of the way. The sigh of relief that came as he crossed the plate was like Atlas finally taking the globe off his shoulders. It was truly a sight to see.
Then there was Varitek, who last year couldn't hit to save his life. Well this year he seems to be doing quite well. Before last night's game he'd already gotten five home runs. Well last night he added to that tally, not once, but twice. And as it turns out, getting home runs on May 20th is standard issue for the Captain.
Dad, did you know that starting in 2001 Varitek has gotten at least one home run every May 20th except for '06, '07, and '08? And in those three years he's gotten at least one hit. So it appears if the Sox want to do well, they need to continue to start Varitek on May 20th.
And finally there's Ellsbury. The speedy center fielder tied a major league record last night. And it wasn't for stolen bases. He recorded not one, not five, not even ten putouts which tied the Red Sox record. Nope, Ellsbury went two better and recorded an astounding 12 putouts over the nine innings he played. It was actually starting to appear that he wouldn't even make that. But as the perfect end to what was already a pretty amazing night, Ellsbury tied that record with the final out of the game.
Overall Dad, I'd say the game was pretty awesome. Of course the Sox won and have one more game left against the Jays before this series is over. Tonight probably won't be as special, but a win and a sweep would be pretty cool just the same.
XO
Jenn
Did you see? Oh my God. It was awesome.
Papi hit his first home run of the season!
Varitek continued his tradition of homering on May 20th.
And Ellsbury tied the major league record for most putouts in the outfield during a 9 inning game.
Pretty Damn Cool!
Let's start with Papi. In the 5th with Pedroia at 3rd and two outs in the inning, Papi got a pitch that stayed over the plate and swung for the bleachers as he always does. But unlike every other time Papi's swung this season, this time, the ball actually ended up there. It was a great moment. For the club, for the fans, but most of all for David Ortiz himself. He finally got that one out of the way. The sigh of relief that came as he crossed the plate was like Atlas finally taking the globe off his shoulders. It was truly a sight to see.
Then there was Varitek, who last year couldn't hit to save his life. Well this year he seems to be doing quite well. Before last night's game he'd already gotten five home runs. Well last night he added to that tally, not once, but twice. And as it turns out, getting home runs on May 20th is standard issue for the Captain.
Dad, did you know that starting in 2001 Varitek has gotten at least one home run every May 20th except for '06, '07, and '08? And in those three years he's gotten at least one hit. So it appears if the Sox want to do well, they need to continue to start Varitek on May 20th.
And finally there's Ellsbury. The speedy center fielder tied a major league record last night. And it wasn't for stolen bases. He recorded not one, not five, not even ten putouts which tied the Red Sox record. Nope, Ellsbury went two better and recorded an astounding 12 putouts over the nine innings he played. It was actually starting to appear that he wouldn't even make that. But as the perfect end to what was already a pretty amazing night, Ellsbury tied that record with the final out of the game.
Overall Dad, I'd say the game was pretty awesome. Of course the Sox won and have one more game left against the Jays before this series is over. Tonight probably won't be as special, but a win and a sweep would be pretty cool just the same.
XO
Jenn
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
A Very Short Win
Dad --
Something unusual happened in last night's game against the Blue Jays. It was only two hours and 13 minutes. I think that might be the shortest game the Sox have played this season, if not ever. I couldn't believe how fast the innings were going. And that was all due in part to our knuckler, Wakefield.
He threw a great 97 pitches over 8 innings and only gave up the one run. And the reason he only gave up the one run was because he induced 16 fly outs. It was nice to see, especially after his fiasco against the Angels.
So Wake took us through eight and Pap finished off the ninth with three up three down that amounted to a strikeout and 2 grounders. It's good to see the laser's got his stuff back.
As to your concern over Papi, I'm worried as well. Everyone thought giving him the series against the Mariners off and getting him back to the Fens was all the original "clutch hitter" would need. But alas that was not the case. Even all the fan support at home couldn't muster up homer. Hell, it couldn't even muster up a single.
I think Papi's now at the point where it's stuck in his head that he can't homer. And until he gets one out of the park, any park, he's going to continue down this homerless path.
But at least the fans still have faith. And so evidently does Francona because he refuses to make matters worse by bumping Ortiz to a later slot in the lineup. Yes, he is considering it, but he's not making the move yet. He's got the same faith in his designated hitter that the fans do. Now if only Papi would have faith in himself.
Jenn
Something unusual happened in last night's game against the Blue Jays. It was only two hours and 13 minutes. I think that might be the shortest game the Sox have played this season, if not ever. I couldn't believe how fast the innings were going. And that was all due in part to our knuckler, Wakefield.
He threw a great 97 pitches over 8 innings and only gave up the one run. And the reason he only gave up the one run was because he induced 16 fly outs. It was nice to see, especially after his fiasco against the Angels.
So Wake took us through eight and Pap finished off the ninth with three up three down that amounted to a strikeout and 2 grounders. It's good to see the laser's got his stuff back.
As to your concern over Papi, I'm worried as well. Everyone thought giving him the series against the Mariners off and getting him back to the Fens was all the original "clutch hitter" would need. But alas that was not the case. Even all the fan support at home couldn't muster up homer. Hell, it couldn't even muster up a single.
I think Papi's now at the point where it's stuck in his head that he can't homer. And until he gets one out of the park, any park, he's going to continue down this homerless path.
But at least the fans still have faith. And so evidently does Francona because he refuses to make matters worse by bumping Ortiz to a later slot in the lineup. Yes, he is considering it, but he's not making the move yet. He's got the same faith in his designated hitter that the fans do. Now if only Papi would have faith in himself.
Jenn
Monday, May 18, 2009
Concerns--Peter
Well, Jenn--Welcome Back! Good to have my daughter and writing partner on the page again! I agree with almost all of what you had to say in your return blog, though, let's face it, Green is only caddying for Lugo, who is subbing for the supposed first line Sox SS, who is out injured and will be for some time yet. In fact, the only Sox regular starting infielder who's not missed any time injured yet this season is Lowell. Yoouk's still suffering from a strained oblique, but may start a rehab with the Pawsox this week. Dusty's missed a couple of game's from straining a groin muscle with that huge swing of his. We've already covered the SS situation.
But my real concerns are twofold--Papi and the Sox starting pitching. In inverse order, Lester is still not able to successfully pitch beyond the 3d or 4th inning before getting lit up. Yes, his K's are still among the league leaders, but who cares if his WHIP is somewhere over 2 and his ERA approaching 7! JB finally had a good outing, but I'm withholding judgment until a see another one or two like it. Dice K is, well....not even here because of a tired arm--and it's only May! Of the potential replacements down "there", wherever "there" is, Smoltzie's been shut down due to new problems in his surgically repaired shoulder--won't be up before July now, if then; don't hear anything new, good or bad, about Buchholtz; and Bard just came up. Bard did OK for his first outing and may be a beacon for the future, but for now, I'm concerned. Thank God Ramirez, TOM and Oki have been almost spotless. The Laser also looks pretty good so far. Just hope he doesn't get gassed with his new power generation motion.
Things have got to improve and soon! We're now three games back of the Jays and guess who's coming to the Fens tomorrow! Right, the Jays! Also, the Yanks are on a run, led in part by our former center fielder, Damon; as are the Rays, now winners of five in a row, I think.
But my real concerns are twofold--Papi and the Sox starting pitching. In inverse order, Lester is still not able to successfully pitch beyond the 3d or 4th inning before getting lit up. Yes, his K's are still among the league leaders, but who cares if his WHIP is somewhere over 2 and his ERA approaching 7! JB finally had a good outing, but I'm withholding judgment until a see another one or two like it. Dice K is, well....not even here because of a tired arm--and it's only May! Of the potential replacements down "there", wherever "there" is, Smoltzie's been shut down due to new problems in his surgically repaired shoulder--won't be up before July now, if then; don't hear anything new, good or bad, about Buchholtz; and Bard just came up. Bard did OK for his first outing and may be a beacon for the future, but for now, I'm concerned. Thank God Ramirez, TOM and Oki have been almost spotless. The Laser also looks pretty good so far. Just hope he doesn't get gassed with his new power generation motion.
Things have got to improve and soon! We're now three games back of the Jays and guess who's coming to the Fens tomorrow! Right, the Jays! Also, the Yanks are on a run, led in part by our former center fielder, Damon; as are the Rays, now winners of five in a row, I think.
I'm Back - Sort Of
Hey Dad --
First, I want to thank you for covering the blog over the past couple weeks since, as you know, I've been otherwise preoccupied with my new son and your new grandson. He may take up a lot of time, but don't worry, I've been sitting him down to watch our favorite team. (Actually I watch while he nurses.)
As you posted, he joined Red Sox nation just over a week ago and after seeing the past few games, I'm not sure he wants to be a member of this great nation. But Aidan, this west coast trip is not normal for the Red Sox. They're usually better than this. Especially when they're at home. But for some reason this season, they just don't have their stuff when they're away.
Yes Aidan, we did win Saturday and Beckett looks to be returning to his "ace"-like past going 7 innings, giving up 2 earned runs and striking out 5. Bay hit his 11th home run and Ellsbury continued his hitting streak. It was a nice game that ended in a 5-3 victory.
Unfortunately the joy would not last. Masterson made a much better showing Sunday in Washington than Los Angeles going 6 and a third innings and giving up only 2 runs. Ellsbury extended his hitting streak to 13 games and JD Drew got another home run, his 6th of the season. But the Sox still lost and it wasn't Masterson's fault. Nope yesterday's loss lands squarely on the shoulders of Nick Green - the short stop filling in for a recovering Julio Lugo.
Now Dad, you know my detest for Lugo and the amount of errors he's made over his Red Sox career. But this new kid is doing a pretty good impression of the qualities I hate most in Lugo. The error he made that cost the Sox the game yesterday was his 7th - in only 22 starts. That's not a good ratio. And Aidan, trust me when I tell you Green is not a good example of the Sox abilities.
If you want to see players worthy of the nation, look to Jason Varitek, our captain and catcher who's hitting quite well this season. Or Jason Bay, the left fielder who took over for Manny Ramirez and is making quite a splash with his 11 home runs. There's also Youkilis and Pedroia and Lowell. Three of the four infielders who all have rabid fans in their own right.
Aidan, I know these games since your birth have been disappointing and not worthy of membership to the Nation, but tomorrow they're back at home and hopefully you'll see why both your mommy and your pops are such big fans, they had to start a blog.
XO
Jenn (Mom to you)
First, I want to thank you for covering the blog over the past couple weeks since, as you know, I've been otherwise preoccupied with my new son and your new grandson. He may take up a lot of time, but don't worry, I've been sitting him down to watch our favorite team. (Actually I watch while he nurses.)
As you posted, he joined Red Sox nation just over a week ago and after seeing the past few games, I'm not sure he wants to be a member of this great nation. But Aidan, this west coast trip is not normal for the Red Sox. They're usually better than this. Especially when they're at home. But for some reason this season, they just don't have their stuff when they're away.
Yes Aidan, we did win Saturday and Beckett looks to be returning to his "ace"-like past going 7 innings, giving up 2 earned runs and striking out 5. Bay hit his 11th home run and Ellsbury continued his hitting streak. It was a nice game that ended in a 5-3 victory.
Unfortunately the joy would not last. Masterson made a much better showing Sunday in Washington than Los Angeles going 6 and a third innings and giving up only 2 runs. Ellsbury extended his hitting streak to 13 games and JD Drew got another home run, his 6th of the season. But the Sox still lost and it wasn't Masterson's fault. Nope yesterday's loss lands squarely on the shoulders of Nick Green - the short stop filling in for a recovering Julio Lugo.
Now Dad, you know my detest for Lugo and the amount of errors he's made over his Red Sox career. But this new kid is doing a pretty good impression of the qualities I hate most in Lugo. The error he made that cost the Sox the game yesterday was his 7th - in only 22 starts. That's not a good ratio. And Aidan, trust me when I tell you Green is not a good example of the Sox abilities.
If you want to see players worthy of the nation, look to Jason Varitek, our captain and catcher who's hitting quite well this season. Or Jason Bay, the left fielder who took over for Manny Ramirez and is making quite a splash with his 11 home runs. There's also Youkilis and Pedroia and Lowell. Three of the four infielders who all have rabid fans in their own right.
Aidan, I know these games since your birth have been disappointing and not worthy of membership to the Nation, but tomorrow they're back at home and hopefully you'll see why both your mommy and your pops are such big fans, they had to start a blog.
XO
Jenn (Mom to you)
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Another Boston Tri-Fecta--Peter
Well, Jenn, i could get comfortable with this as a regular thing. On Sunday, the Sox win completed the Boston sports team sweep for the day, following the wins by the Bruins and Celtics. How often could that threesome happen? Well, how about again today? The Sox, playing near you, in Anaheim against the Halos, started behind, and then took turns swapping the lead with the Angels for most of the balance of the game until they finally got their last run in the top of the 9th to take the lead, 4-2. Laser came on and blew away the Halos; maybe not as dramatically as Sunday's close against the Rays, but I'll take it. Pap looked good tonight.
I'm still concerned about Papi's power outage. He's got to get this homerless string behind him and soon, not to mention up his overall stats. I mean the guy's really a liability in his present situation. I mean when was the last time you saw him training the team ribbie leader (Bay) by more than two to one?
Well, here's to the Herald's sports lead tomorrow: Sox, B's, C's win. The subhead will deal with the miracle comeback by the Celts. By the way, does Fenner's only follow the Sox & Pats, or are they also actively supporting the Bruins and Celtics?
I'm still concerned about Papi's power outage. He's got to get this homerless string behind him and soon, not to mention up his overall stats. I mean the guy's really a liability in his present situation. I mean when was the last time you saw him training the team ribbie leader (Bay) by more than two to one?
Well, here's to the Herald's sports lead tomorrow: Sox, B's, C's win. The subhead will deal with the miracle comeback by the Celts. By the way, does Fenner's only follow the Sox & Pats, or are they also actively supporting the Bruins and Celtics?
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Absolutely AMAZING!--Peter
Well, Jenn, if tonight's last two innings--OK, the whole game--mean anything at all (besides getting the win), things may be turning around for a couple of the leaders of the team. JB took the ball for the start against the Rays, the Sox newest nemesis, and pitched better than he has for a while. True, he gave up three in the six innings he pitched, but through it all, he was in control, getting five K's and then turning it on with a 96 mph heater when things got tight in the 6th. After Oki and Ramirez followed with a combined two innings of perfect ball, the Sox came to bat in the bottom of the 8th. Papi led off and took one huge swing. The ball initially took off towards the Monster and I thought, the drought is over. I mean his swing was beautiful (all night it was looking good, in fact), the ball's trajectory was climbing, climbing, climbing as it neared the Wall. Finally, it ran out of gas a few feet too soon, but it did make the wall and Papi was standing on second. No outs and Bay came up and immediately took one of the pitcher's offerings even higher off the wall. Sox up 4-3. They get nothing else the rest of the inning even though the Sox had Bay on second with no outs after the ribbie. On to the 9th. Papelbon comes in--game over, right? Well, not so fast. Laser appeared to briefly (thank God) take a page from the book on how to pitch by your favorite, Julian Tavarez. Right--Jekyll and Hyde. Apparently, according to Jon Miller, Pap's slightly altered his motion this year to try to get more power into his pitches. More power? How much do you need? I mean trying to get around on one of his heaters is like trying to catch a slug from a Sig Sauer with your teeth. It's not easy on the best of days and usually the hitters facing Pap aren't having their best day.
But tonight? Well, he walks the first batter on four pitches, then throws the ball away on a pickoff attempt and then gives up a hit to the next batter, sending the runner to third . So, here we are with men on first and third, no outs and the Laser is misfiring. I mean his speed is there, but unfortunately, he can't find the plate. Pap's version of Mr. Hyde. What to do? Is Dr. Jekyll in the house? Indeed!He stops throwing at 93-94 and starts firing lightning bolts--like a bunch at 97, occasionally dropping to 'only' 95. The next three batters who have to face this searing heat, including the A.L.'s HR leader, Pena, all K. Bang, Bang, BANG! Game over! Nerve racking until Dr. Jekyll's Pap showed up. I can relax. Tomorrow's Boston Herald will read Sox, C's, B's win. A true Boston sports sweep for Mother's Day.
But tonight? Well, he walks the first batter on four pitches, then throws the ball away on a pickoff attempt and then gives up a hit to the next batter, sending the runner to third . So, here we are with men on first and third, no outs and the Laser is misfiring. I mean his speed is there, but unfortunately, he can't find the plate. Pap's version of Mr. Hyde. What to do? Is Dr. Jekyll in the house? Indeed!He stops throwing at 93-94 and starts firing lightning bolts--like a bunch at 97, occasionally dropping to 'only' 95. The next three batters who have to face this searing heat, including the A.L.'s HR leader, Pena, all K. Bang, Bang, BANG! Game over! Nerve racking until Dr. Jekyll's Pap showed up. I can relax. Tomorrow's Boston Herald will read Sox, C's, B's win. A true Boston sports sweep for Mother's Day.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Getting Serious and Looking Back--Peter
Well, Jenn, things are really getting serious here with Tampa Bay. After coming back with five in the 6th last night, we had Lester going today, and he'd looked as if his early season problems might be working out in his last start. Unfortunately, he gave up eight big ones in less than five innings and took another loss. Not sure what the problem is. His K's are still among the tops in the league, but everything else is getting hammered. If he & JB don't get squared away, and fast, we could be in deep trouble. I mean we can bring up Buchholz, but Smoltz has been shut down due to pain in his surgically repaired shoulder, and we're already into May.
Separately I want to go back in time to a gentler era. Back to the '40's and 50's when I began my addiction to the Sox. Yesterday one of the Sox leading players of that era died, a guy who batted nearly .300 for his career and was among the best defensive centerfielders of his day; a guy who hit over .300 in his rookie year and STILL holds the Sox record for consecutive games with a hit. I'm talking about the Little Professor, Dom DiMaggio, or as Teddy Ballgame always called him, Dommy.
Joe's younger brother, and the third member of the family to play MLB, Dom came up in 1940, missed three years in WWII at the height of his career and retired after the 1953 season. In addition to the hitting streak, 34 games, he also had more hits than anyone--ANYONE--over the ten years he played, and held the record for RBI's for the American League by a leadoff man--until another Sox player, Nomar Garciaparra, broke it. Yet he still never made the Hall--an embarrassment for MLB in my opinion. Although he wasn't quite the hitter his brother, Joe, was due to his diminutive stature, he was a better fielder and even held the record for career putouts by a centerfielder in the AL, 503, until it was broken in 1977. He was selected to eight All-Star teams, and may have been the indirect reason the Cards won the 1946 Series from the Sox. Nothing he did wrong. He drove in two runs in the 8th Game Seven, knotting the score at 3, but injured his leg running out the hit. He had to come out and, in the bottom of the inning, with a man on first, the Cards' Walker hit a ball to his sub, who wasn't half the fielder Dom was. To compound things, the fielder, Culbertson, made a poor throw to Johnny Pesky at short for the relay to try to catch the runner from first, Slaughter. Because of this poor throw, Slaughter tried for home and easily scored the winning run of the Series. He later admitted that had DiMaggio been in the field he'd never have tried for home. Maybe there really was a curse. Anyway, the rest is history. "You could look it up", as Ol' Case would say.
After Dom retired, he became a multimillionaire by building a very successful business manufacturing vinyl interior material for cars. Had to be successful in business--his top salary was only $40,000. When he died yesterday, he still lived in the Boston area, a faithful member of Red Sox Nation to the last.
Bye, Dommy. You were truly a treasure.
Separately I want to go back in time to a gentler era. Back to the '40's and 50's when I began my addiction to the Sox. Yesterday one of the Sox leading players of that era died, a guy who batted nearly .300 for his career and was among the best defensive centerfielders of his day; a guy who hit over .300 in his rookie year and STILL holds the Sox record for consecutive games with a hit. I'm talking about the Little Professor, Dom DiMaggio, or as Teddy Ballgame always called him, Dommy.
Joe's younger brother, and the third member of the family to play MLB, Dom came up in 1940, missed three years in WWII at the height of his career and retired after the 1953 season. In addition to the hitting streak, 34 games, he also had more hits than anyone--ANYONE--over the ten years he played, and held the record for RBI's for the American League by a leadoff man--until another Sox player, Nomar Garciaparra, broke it. Yet he still never made the Hall--an embarrassment for MLB in my opinion. Although he wasn't quite the hitter his brother, Joe, was due to his diminutive stature, he was a better fielder and even held the record for career putouts by a centerfielder in the AL, 503, until it was broken in 1977. He was selected to eight All-Star teams, and may have been the indirect reason the Cards won the 1946 Series from the Sox. Nothing he did wrong. He drove in two runs in the 8th Game Seven, knotting the score at 3, but injured his leg running out the hit. He had to come out and, in the bottom of the inning, with a man on first, the Cards' Walker hit a ball to his sub, who wasn't half the fielder Dom was. To compound things, the fielder, Culbertson, made a poor throw to Johnny Pesky at short for the relay to try to catch the runner from first, Slaughter. Because of this poor throw, Slaughter tried for home and easily scored the winning run of the Series. He later admitted that had DiMaggio been in the field he'd never have tried for home. Maybe there really was a curse. Anyway, the rest is history. "You could look it up", as Ol' Case would say.
After Dom retired, he became a multimillionaire by building a very successful business manufacturing vinyl interior material for cars. Had to be successful in business--his top salary was only $40,000. When he died yesterday, he still lived in the Boston area, a faithful member of Red Sox Nation to the last.
Bye, Dommy. You were truly a treasure.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
A New Sox Fan--Peter
Actually, Jenn, the five zip was first since 1985, as we discussed yesterday. But,MORE IMPORTANT THAN THAT, I want to announce the newest member of Red Sox Nation, Aiden Edward, Jenn's first son and my first grandchild. He's a beautiful baby and YES, I'm prejudiced, but I say, "Welcome, Aiden. You're truly a beautiful addition not only to Red Sox Nation, but to the world. In celebration of your arrival, the Sox didn't just win tonight. They also scored 12 runs in the 6th on the way to a 13-2 slaughter of the Tribe last night. Tonight, continuing what wouldn't be a bad tradition, they scored five runs without an out in beating the Rays.Your dad's spitting image, in my opinion, Jason Bay, finished it off last night with a three run shot to right center. It's a great team you're following, and a fabulous Nation to be a part of. Welcome, I love you.
Pops
Pops
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Joba Takes Rivalry to A Higher Level
Hey Dad --
Well, the sweep continues. We're now 5-0 with the Yankees in the Season Series and that's a very nice number to see. Did you know it's the first time since 1971 that the Red Sox have had that record against their rivals? Pretty cool, huh?
What wasn't cool however, was Joba Chamberlain's reaction to David Ortiz's walk in the 5th inning. If you didn't see it, you must've heard about it.
Chamberlain came to the mound in the 5th with the Sox leading 4-3. He got two quick outs in Van Every and Pedroia. Then all hell broke loose. Papi walked on a 3-2 pitch that New York's pitcher thought should have been a strike. He was pissed. He walked off the mound shouting expletives as Papi trotted down to first base. Then Jason Bay stepped in the batter's box.
Chamberlain threw one pitch. Just one. And it landed square between Bay's shoulder blades. There was no way Bay could get out of the way of that laser. It had his name on it from the moment it left Chamberlain's hand. In my opinion, and the opinion of at least two other professional commentators, it was intentional. There's no way that ball "got away from him".
Now we can all wonder why Chamberlain did it. Maybe the pitcher was upset about his mother's arrest for dealing meth earlier in the day. Maybe he was still pissed off about Bay hitting a 3 run shot in the first inning to give the Sox their early lead. Or maybe he would've hit whoever came to bat after Papi and Bay just happened to draw the short straw. The point is, that laser was not an accident. And everyone in the Sox dugout knew it.
What's equally surprising though, is that Beckett didn't retaliate. No one from the Sox organization did. But then again, revenge is a dish best served cold. Something tells me the next time these two teams meet, someone on the Yankees side is going to get tagged. What do you think?
Jenn
Well, the sweep continues. We're now 5-0 with the Yankees in the Season Series and that's a very nice number to see. Did you know it's the first time since 1971 that the Red Sox have had that record against their rivals? Pretty cool, huh?
What wasn't cool however, was Joba Chamberlain's reaction to David Ortiz's walk in the 5th inning. If you didn't see it, you must've heard about it.
Chamberlain came to the mound in the 5th with the Sox leading 4-3. He got two quick outs in Van Every and Pedroia. Then all hell broke loose. Papi walked on a 3-2 pitch that New York's pitcher thought should have been a strike. He was pissed. He walked off the mound shouting expletives as Papi trotted down to first base. Then Jason Bay stepped in the batter's box.
Chamberlain threw one pitch. Just one. And it landed square between Bay's shoulder blades. There was no way Bay could get out of the way of that laser. It had his name on it from the moment it left Chamberlain's hand. In my opinion, and the opinion of at least two other professional commentators, it was intentional. There's no way that ball "got away from him".
Now we can all wonder why Chamberlain did it. Maybe the pitcher was upset about his mother's arrest for dealing meth earlier in the day. Maybe he was still pissed off about Bay hitting a 3 run shot in the first inning to give the Sox their early lead. Or maybe he would've hit whoever came to bat after Papi and Bay just happened to draw the short straw. The point is, that laser was not an accident. And everyone in the Sox dugout knew it.
What's equally surprising though, is that Beckett didn't retaliate. No one from the Sox organization did. But then again, revenge is a dish best served cold. Something tells me the next time these two teams meet, someone on the Yankees side is going to get tagged. What do you think?
Jenn
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
The Rivalry at the New Yankee Stadium--Peter
Well, Jenn, I agree with you, it was strange seeing that many empty seats for a Sox-Yanks game anywhere. But, the rain had something to do with it. Then you add in the seat prices. Only the Yankees could charge over six large for a seat to a ball game. What other stadium has a shopping mall and a custom butcher shop there as well. You can buy Manolo's and Gucci while you have a custom cut rack of lamb of filet cut and grilled for you. This isn't baseball; it's Steinbrenner Yankee bullshit! What's worse is having part of the stadium paid for with public funds, especially at a time when everything else worthwhile is financially suffering.
Great to see the Sox get back on track last night, between a decent six innings from Lester, Papi with two two-baggers (maybe he's coming back), and Bay and Lowell continuing to get those timely hits. Laser's tough 9th wasn't so much his fault as you imply. I still do not think even a part of Jeter's uniform was brushed by the ball, and the single was an infield hit. He had the heat when he needed it--I mean the way Cano's started the year, getting a K was great!
What a way t open the rivalry at the new stadium!
Great to see the Sox get back on track last night, between a decent six innings from Lester, Papi with two two-baggers (maybe he's coming back), and Bay and Lowell continuing to get those timely hits. Laser's tough 9th wasn't so much his fault as you imply. I still do not think even a part of Jeter's uniform was brushed by the ball, and the single was an infield hit. He had the heat when he needed it--I mean the way Cano's started the year, getting a K was great!
What a way t open the rivalry at the new stadium!
A Less Than Respectable Turnout
Dad --
It was another waaaaay too close one between the Sox and the Evil Empire last night. Papelbon somehow managed to hold on to the save after loading the bases in the bottom of the 9th, but it was more of a nail biter than it should have been.
What really amazed me though, was how empty the new Yankees stadium was. This was the first time our Sox were playing in the new stadium and if there's one thing you could always depend on it was a sold out game. It never seemed to matter if the two teams were facing each other at Fenway or at Yankee Stadium, it was always Standing Room Only. Well not last night.
Now I don't know if the 2 hour rain delay had something to do with it, but I'm sure the outrageous ticket prices do. It was so bizarre watching the game last night and seeing at least 50% of the seats behind home plate empty. Dad, when was the last time you witnessed that for any game, let alone one between the greatest sports rivalry in history?
Just in case you want to buy some tickets, season or otherwise, for a game at Yankee stadium, here's the breakdown. If you buy field level tickets day of the game you have to spend $375 dollars per ticket. If you buy season tickets, that's tickets to at least 69 games, on the field the total comes to $16,087.50. And that's after the organization decided to give fans a break and sell them 4 tickets for the price of 3.
Now I know season tickets can be expensive. But this is absurd. It does however explain the lack of attendance last night.
I guess in the future, I'll be seeing fans packing the upper decks. See, up in the clouds, where the air is thinner, tickets are significantly cheaper. Grandstand seats range between $29 and $22 each and the bleachers are $14. So go and have a dog in the cheap seats. Now that the stadium's a wind tunnel, you'll probably have a better chance of catching a home run ball up there anyway.
Jenn
It was another waaaaay too close one between the Sox and the Evil Empire last night. Papelbon somehow managed to hold on to the save after loading the bases in the bottom of the 9th, but it was more of a nail biter than it should have been.
What really amazed me though, was how empty the new Yankees stadium was. This was the first time our Sox were playing in the new stadium and if there's one thing you could always depend on it was a sold out game. It never seemed to matter if the two teams were facing each other at Fenway or at Yankee Stadium, it was always Standing Room Only. Well not last night.
Now I don't know if the 2 hour rain delay had something to do with it, but I'm sure the outrageous ticket prices do. It was so bizarre watching the game last night and seeing at least 50% of the seats behind home plate empty. Dad, when was the last time you witnessed that for any game, let alone one between the greatest sports rivalry in history?
Just in case you want to buy some tickets, season or otherwise, for a game at Yankee stadium, here's the breakdown. If you buy field level tickets day of the game you have to spend $375 dollars per ticket. If you buy season tickets, that's tickets to at least 69 games, on the field the total comes to $16,087.50. And that's after the organization decided to give fans a break and sell them 4 tickets for the price of 3.
Now I know season tickets can be expensive. But this is absurd. It does however explain the lack of attendance last night.
I guess in the future, I'll be seeing fans packing the upper decks. See, up in the clouds, where the air is thinner, tickets are significantly cheaper. Grandstand seats range between $29 and $22 each and the bleachers are $14. So go and have a dog in the cheap seats. Now that the stadium's a wind tunnel, you'll probably have a better chance of catching a home run ball up there anyway.
Jenn
Monday, May 4, 2009
What Is It About the Rays?
Dad --
Seriously. What is it about this little team that has barely any fan base and finally made it to the post season last year for the first time? Why is it that no matter whether the Red Sox play them at Fenway or the Trop the Rays seem to beat us - hard! What is it that makes them that much better than us?
And for that matter are they really any better? Sure all they're starting pitchers are under the age of 30. And they do have some pretty incredible players on their team. But is Evan Longoria really better than Mike Lowell? Is Carl Crawford really better at stealing bases than Jacoby Ellsbury? (Yesterday's 6 steals seem to answer "yes".)
Whatever the answer may be, facing the Rays is starting to feel like facing the Yankees. There used to be only one serious rival for our little team from the Fens. But now there seems to be two.
I don't know how the Rays have our number or why, but for some reason whenever the Sox face them our guys either can't get hits or if they do, they can't get the runners home. The Rays on the other hand not only get hits, they get timely hits that score runs. Because after all, it doesn't matter how many times you get on base. If you can't get home, there's no score and so no win.
It's too bad we'll be seeing them yet again at the end of the week. Sure, the Sox will be back on their home turf, but based on the last two series, I think it could be a very painful weekend.
But that's five days from now. Today, we're meeting our other rivals on their new turf; what I affectionately like to call the wind tunnel. I hope it helps us out the way it helped out the Indians a few weeks ago. Guess I'll have to wait til this afternoon to find out.
Jenn
Seriously. What is it about this little team that has barely any fan base and finally made it to the post season last year for the first time? Why is it that no matter whether the Red Sox play them at Fenway or the Trop the Rays seem to beat us - hard! What is it that makes them that much better than us?
And for that matter are they really any better? Sure all they're starting pitchers are under the age of 30. And they do have some pretty incredible players on their team. But is Evan Longoria really better than Mike Lowell? Is Carl Crawford really better at stealing bases than Jacoby Ellsbury? (Yesterday's 6 steals seem to answer "yes".)
Whatever the answer may be, facing the Rays is starting to feel like facing the Yankees. There used to be only one serious rival for our little team from the Fens. But now there seems to be two.
I don't know how the Rays have our number or why, but for some reason whenever the Sox face them our guys either can't get hits or if they do, they can't get the runners home. The Rays on the other hand not only get hits, they get timely hits that score runs. Because after all, it doesn't matter how many times you get on base. If you can't get home, there's no score and so no win.
It's too bad we'll be seeing them yet again at the end of the week. Sure, the Sox will be back on their home turf, but based on the last two series, I think it could be a very painful weekend.
But that's five days from now. Today, we're meeting our other rivals on their new turf; what I affectionately like to call the wind tunnel. I hope it helps us out the way it helped out the Indians a few weeks ago. Guess I'll have to wait til this afternoon to find out.
Jenn
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Finally, A Win!
Dad --
Did you see the game yesterday? After two seriously disappointing losses to the Rays, Wakefield took the mound and we finally won one. So now there's actually a chance we could split the series since the final game is today.
Wakefield wasn't as awesome as he has been in his previous starts, going only 6+ innings and giving up five runs in the process, but he was still on enough to get the job done. Well, Wake plus the bullpen. You know Ramirez still has an ERA of 0? He's spectacular!
But it wasn't just Wakefield. The Red Sox bats finally woke up last night too as they scored 10 times over the nine innings. And Ellsbury stole not one, not two, but three bases. As a matter of fact, the Sox were doing so well early on, they chased Rays' starter Jeff Niemann from the mound after only three innings.
So Dad, overall I'd say it was a very positive outing. One I hope they can repeat this afternoon.
Jenn
Did you see the game yesterday? After two seriously disappointing losses to the Rays, Wakefield took the mound and we finally won one. So now there's actually a chance we could split the series since the final game is today.
Wakefield wasn't as awesome as he has been in his previous starts, going only 6+ innings and giving up five runs in the process, but he was still on enough to get the job done. Well, Wake plus the bullpen. You know Ramirez still has an ERA of 0? He's spectacular!
But it wasn't just Wakefield. The Red Sox bats finally woke up last night too as they scored 10 times over the nine innings. And Ellsbury stole not one, not two, but three bases. As a matter of fact, the Sox were doing so well early on, they chased Rays' starter Jeff Niemann from the mound after only three innings.
So Dad, overall I'd say it was a very positive outing. One I hope they can repeat this afternoon.
Jenn
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
