Dad --
Well, as you know today, July 31st, is the trade deadline and as the day draws to a close, there was a flurry of activity. So much so, it may actually take a score card to keep track of everyone.
First off I have to thank a couple of my Twitter pals for the constant updates. There was so much going on today, my computer wouldn't stop chirping. So thanks to @intentionalwalk for the 140 character updates and bostondirtdogs.com for filling in the blanks.
Anyway, if you recall on July 22nd the Sox acquired 1st baseman Adam LaRoche from the Pirates. He only played a few games and did a great job. But now, 9 days later, he's been traded to the Braves for another first baseman - Casey Kotchman. Kotchman is 26 and is batting .282 with six homers and 41 RBIs this season. LaRoche is 29, has a batting average of .263, 13 homers and 43 RBIs. So other than the batting average, seems LaRoche is the better 1st baseman, not that it matters, because most of the time Youkilis will be playing 1st.
But the bigger deal is Justin Masterson. He, along with Nick Hagadone and Bryan Price, 2 pitchers I've never heard of, were traded to the Indians for catcher Victor Martinez. Although Masterson hasn't been doing well recently, he was 3-3 with a 4.50 ERA, he was still a good middle reliever and I'm sorry to see him go.
So, Dad, I ask you. Acquiring this new catcher makes me wonder if the Sox know something about Varitek we don't. He's been hitting this season, his .239 average is well above last year's .220, and he's still amazing behind the plate. Is he leaving? Are they going to give him more days off? Or is Kottaras disappearing? Or are they just covering their bases, no pun intended, in case something happens to either catcher. Martinez's average of .284 proves he has a powerful bat, but that can't be the only reason we traded him can it?
I don't think we need a catcher. What we need is pitching. Especially since it seems the only starters we can depend on pretty regularly are Lester and Beckett. But I guess Theo doesn't agree. There are 61 games left in the season, and only time will tell if these trades help or hinder. I for one hope they help, at least until we can get a good 6 or 7 games ahead of those dreaded Yankees and back where we belong in 1st place.
Jenn
P.S. As of 4:30 pm EST Roy Halladay had not been traded. Interesting, since he's the one everyone's been watching and talking about for the past few weeks.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
A Game Closer & Papi--Peter
Well, Jenn, as I suggested in my comment on your post of yesterday, the Sox could be 2.5 games out going into today's game if they'd not thrown away Tuesday's game. And now they are! They pulled a comeback that any Sox fan would be proud of today. After Lester gave up the lead in one rough inning, leaving the Hose behind 4-1, the Fenmen fought back, finally taking back the lead on Papi's 14th roundtripper of the season (more on Papi in a bit), and put it away with another pair in the 8th. Some of the team appears to have found their bats again, with Lowell really steaming and Ellsbury and Pedroia hovering around the .300 mark again. JD's staring to hit in the last few games too. Anyway, after TOM held on to the lead, Pap slammed the door and we had something for the Stripes to ponder on the scoreboard as they awaited their game tonight. Finally, completing a good Sox day, Mr. Hankie's Yankees lost on a walkoff single to the Chisox. I was getting a bit nervous, Jenn, on turning on the Chitown game to find those Sox up 2-1 in the top of the 9th with two outs and I'm hoping we'll pick up a game. Just in time for Swisher to tie the game with a shot of his own, and I'm thinking, "not now--not again!" Never fear, bottom of the 9th, the first two Chisox hitters get hits and then after a couple of outs, a pinch hitter settles the issue with a solid hit sending home the winner. Yes, Bosox close to 2.5 games! I can tell you, Jenn, I'd like them a game or three in front of the Stripes before the next series with them starts. I'd feel a lot more comfortable. I mean, think about it--eight straight is fabulous, but realistically, it can't last forever. Need to get some insurance.
Say hi to my grandson, the newest Sox fan.
Dad
Say hi to my grandson, the newest Sox fan.
Dad
Another Loss
Dad --
Just a short note today.
I was worried when I saw Penny was scheduled to pitch yesterday. And it turns out I was right to worry. In the first inning he gave up five runs. Five! While our men in red were able to come back with three in their half of the first, we never caught up to those guys in green. That was due in large part to the fact that Penny gave up another two runs before Francona finally pulled him.
The final score was 8-6. Which means we're now 3.5 games out of first. We haven't been this far back since the beginning of May. But there's one more game and hopefully we can at least split the series.
On the positive side of things, I've now got Aidan watching the games with me.
Jenn
Just a short note today.
I was worried when I saw Penny was scheduled to pitch yesterday. And it turns out I was right to worry. In the first inning he gave up five runs. Five! While our men in red were able to come back with three in their half of the first, we never caught up to those guys in green. That was due in large part to the fact that Penny gave up another two runs before Francona finally pulled him.
The final score was 8-6. Which means we're now 3.5 games out of first. We haven't been this far back since the beginning of May. But there's one more game and hopefully we can at least split the series.
On the positive side of things, I've now got Aidan watching the games with me.
Jenn
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Bad Day for Pap and Green
Dad -
What the hell happened to Papelbon and Green last night?
After a very nice ceremony for recent hall-of-famer Jim Rice, Buchholz took the mound and did a decent job. Although he allowed 9 hits, he kept the A's to just 2 runs. During his 5.2 innings he got something the Sox haven't been giving lately - run support. By the time he left the mound, the Sox were leading 5-2 and it looked as if he'd get the win.
Unfortunately the bullpen took over. Ramon Ramirez allowed a run and Okajima also allowed a run. But thankfully the Sox added two more runs to their score. So by the time Pap took the mound the score was 7-4 Sox. Which means with three runs, it should've been a slam dunk.
But slam dunk hasn't been in Pap's vocabulary as of late. Sure he's getting saves, before last night's fiasco he had 25 saves out of 27 opportunities. But it's been taking him a long time to get these saves. He's throwing way more pitches than he has in past seasons and he's given up way more walks. Where before it was a joy to watch him pitch, it's now torture. I don't even remember the last time I wore my "Papelbon Saves" T-shirt.
Anyway, Pap took the mound and he walked the first guy he faced. But that's okay, I thought, we're up by three runs. Even if he gives up a hit or two or even a run we're okay. But that walk was just the beginning. He got the next 2 guys out, thanks to some awesome defense. Unfortunately after that, everything went south.
Tommy Everidge, a guy making his major league debut, hits a ball high off the monster and drives in a run. Score's now 7-5. Dad, why is it that these guys we've never heard of before are always the ones to cause trouble for the Sox - Dent, Boone, the list goes on and on.
If that were the end of the trouble the Sox would've won. But as I'm sure you know, it wasn't. Mark Ellis then hit a little nubber back up the middle that Green got his hands on, but threw into the dugout making it his 10th error of the season. That error causes another run to score and now it's 7-6 Sox. At this point I'm watching the game through my fingers.
Finally Rajai Davis comes to the plate and hits a grounder to Green that he throws away AGAIN. Another run scores. The game is tied and Pap has his third blown save of the season.
The game would continue for two more innings. And while the Sox would get one more run, the A's outscored the Sox with two, which of course means they won the game. It was awful to watch.
Hope today's game turns out better.
Jenn
What the hell happened to Papelbon and Green last night?
After a very nice ceremony for recent hall-of-famer Jim Rice, Buchholz took the mound and did a decent job. Although he allowed 9 hits, he kept the A's to just 2 runs. During his 5.2 innings he got something the Sox haven't been giving lately - run support. By the time he left the mound, the Sox were leading 5-2 and it looked as if he'd get the win.
Unfortunately the bullpen took over. Ramon Ramirez allowed a run and Okajima also allowed a run. But thankfully the Sox added two more runs to their score. So by the time Pap took the mound the score was 7-4 Sox. Which means with three runs, it should've been a slam dunk.
But slam dunk hasn't been in Pap's vocabulary as of late. Sure he's getting saves, before last night's fiasco he had 25 saves out of 27 opportunities. But it's been taking him a long time to get these saves. He's throwing way more pitches than he has in past seasons and he's given up way more walks. Where before it was a joy to watch him pitch, it's now torture. I don't even remember the last time I wore my "Papelbon Saves" T-shirt.
Anyway, Pap took the mound and he walked the first guy he faced. But that's okay, I thought, we're up by three runs. Even if he gives up a hit or two or even a run we're okay. But that walk was just the beginning. He got the next 2 guys out, thanks to some awesome defense. Unfortunately after that, everything went south.
Tommy Everidge, a guy making his major league debut, hits a ball high off the monster and drives in a run. Score's now 7-5. Dad, why is it that these guys we've never heard of before are always the ones to cause trouble for the Sox - Dent, Boone, the list goes on and on.
If that were the end of the trouble the Sox would've won. But as I'm sure you know, it wasn't. Mark Ellis then hit a little nubber back up the middle that Green got his hands on, but threw into the dugout making it his 10th error of the season. That error causes another run to score and now it's 7-6 Sox. At this point I'm watching the game through my fingers.
Finally Rajai Davis comes to the plate and hits a grounder to Green that he throws away AGAIN. Another run scores. The game is tied and Pap has his third blown save of the season.
The game would continue for two more innings. And while the Sox would get one more run, the A's outscored the Sox with two, which of course means they won the game. It was awful to watch.
Hope today's game turns out better.
Jenn
Monday, July 27, 2009
From Out of the (recent) Past--Peter
Omygod! Hits! Can it be? The guys appear (if one game is to judge by) to be hitting again! Admittedly, Jake and Papi have been fairly consistent in the recent slide into second place, but in the nine games before tonight, Jenn, since the All-Star Game, the team has only scored 25 runs and batted a not so robust .225. Getting scary. However, tonight was a pleasant turnaround against the A's. The Hose collected 14 hits, six of them for extra bases, including a trip by Jake and a shot to the cheaps by Dusty. I tell ya', Jenn, it was enough to restore my hopes for the moment. This new guy they picked up from Pittsburgh, LaRoche, is, after three whole games, living up to his second half heroics. He's now batting .417 since joining the Sox, including his 2-4 evening tonight. Driving in runs too! That's what we need and want. The Sox twin to your hub, Bay, also has resumed collecting the ribbies, getting his first in what seems like forever. Maybe he can regain the league lead in ribs.
JB was JB for seven plus, picked up 10 K's and, in general, had the A's in check. I'd kind of hoped that Nomar would put in an appearance, but no show tonight. Of course the A's are in town for four, so he's got three more opportunities--just as long as he doesn't contribute to an A's win.
JB was JB for seven plus, picked up 10 K's and, in general, had the A's in check. I'd kind of hoped that Nomar would put in an appearance, but no show tonight. Of course the A's are in town for four, so he's got three more opportunities--just as long as he doesn't contribute to an A's win.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Moving From Mannywood--Peter
A quick comment about Manny, Jenn. With that slam, Manny now has 21 career slams and holds second place in MLB history for number of career slams. The all time leader is in the Hall. You may have heard of him--guy named Gehrig; played first base for 2130 consecutive games for the Yankees (which also once was a record).
Now, moving on to Sox history, although our heroes lost again today, simultaneously ending their two game win streak and falling once again 2.5 games astern of the Stripes, history was made. When Jake stole his 43d base of the year, he moved into sole possession of the career record for steals for the Hose. The steal was Jake's 103d career steal, breaking the old record held by Jimmy Collins and a guy you also may have heard of: Duffy Lewis. Yup! Same guy as our blog is named for. Shows you how old the record was. Also, this is the second historical ref to ol' Duffy that we've had here in the past couple of weeks. That's baseball.
Regarding today's game, although everybody says Smoltzie's heater is still really good, if this keeps up much longer, Terry and Theo are going to have to do something fast before it costs us the post season. This on top of our hitters suddenly forgetting how to hit en masse, although LaRoche has made a pleasant intro for himself to the team.
One other Sox point. You may not remember him all that well, but we had another Hose left fielder enter the Hall today--Jim Rice. Only guy in MLB history to hit at least 35 HR's and get at least 200 hits in three consecutive seasons.
Now, moving on to Sox history, although our heroes lost again today, simultaneously ending their two game win streak and falling once again 2.5 games astern of the Stripes, history was made. When Jake stole his 43d base of the year, he moved into sole possession of the career record for steals for the Hose. The steal was Jake's 103d career steal, breaking the old record held by Jimmy Collins and a guy you also may have heard of: Duffy Lewis. Yup! Same guy as our blog is named for. Shows you how old the record was. Also, this is the second historical ref to ol' Duffy that we've had here in the past couple of weeks. That's baseball.
Regarding today's game, although everybody says Smoltzie's heater is still really good, if this keeps up much longer, Terry and Theo are going to have to do something fast before it costs us the post season. This on top of our hitters suddenly forgetting how to hit en masse, although LaRoche has made a pleasant intro for himself to the team.
One other Sox point. You may not remember him all that well, but we had another Hose left fielder enter the Hall today--Jim Rice. Only guy in MLB history to hit at least 35 HR's and get at least 200 hits in three consecutive seasons.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Manny Rant
Dad -
Not only did we lose the first two games against the Rangers, we also lost last night, which means we lost the series. And since we're on a losing streak, I'm going take a break from the Red Sox to talk about a former Sock - Manny Ramirez.
As you know, Manny was traded to the Dodgers last year in the middle of the season and since then he's been crushing the ball on a regular basis to a place called Mannywood. While it sucks that he's hitting homers, I don't miss the left fielder because his attitude the last few seasons in Boston were awful. Manny can be Manny on the west coast and normally it doesn't phase me. But yesterday's homer is another story.
I guess it was Manny Ramirez Bobblehead night at Dodger Stadium, and Manny wasn't in the lineup due to a bruised hand. The Dodgers were playing Cincinnati. It was the sixth inning with the game tied at 2 when Joe Torre gave the nod to Manny to pinch hit. And on a 2-2 pitch the left fielder hit a grand slam to "Mannywood" to win the game.
Now I'm a big fan of nail biters. I've always said that what makes baseball so interesting for me is that the game comes down to a pitch. One pitch could be a home run to win or a strike out to lose and that still holds true.
But what upsets me about this grand slam that had not one, not two, but four different LA radio stations talking this morning, was that it happened in the 6th inning. The 6th! So the home team still had another three innings to score at least one run and beat the Reds. Who brings in a pinch hitter in the 6th? The ninth, I get, even the 8th. But the 6th? Give me a break!
I didn't realize baseball had become a six inning sport, Dad, did you? But then again with the economy the way it is, maybe America's National past time has to save money. So, as I said, I have no problem with a pinch hit grand slam, even one hit by Manny. But a pinch hit grand slam should only get national air time when it's a walk off or achieved during extra innings.
Okay, now that that's off my chest, I now return this blog back to its regularly scheduled Red Soxness.
Jenn
Not only did we lose the first two games against the Rangers, we also lost last night, which means we lost the series. And since we're on a losing streak, I'm going take a break from the Red Sox to talk about a former Sock - Manny Ramirez.
As you know, Manny was traded to the Dodgers last year in the middle of the season and since then he's been crushing the ball on a regular basis to a place called Mannywood. While it sucks that he's hitting homers, I don't miss the left fielder because his attitude the last few seasons in Boston were awful. Manny can be Manny on the west coast and normally it doesn't phase me. But yesterday's homer is another story.
I guess it was Manny Ramirez Bobblehead night at Dodger Stadium, and Manny wasn't in the lineup due to a bruised hand. The Dodgers were playing Cincinnati. It was the sixth inning with the game tied at 2 when Joe Torre gave the nod to Manny to pinch hit. And on a 2-2 pitch the left fielder hit a grand slam to "Mannywood" to win the game.
Now I'm a big fan of nail biters. I've always said that what makes baseball so interesting for me is that the game comes down to a pitch. One pitch could be a home run to win or a strike out to lose and that still holds true.
But what upsets me about this grand slam that had not one, not two, but four different LA radio stations talking this morning, was that it happened in the 6th inning. The 6th! So the home team still had another three innings to score at least one run and beat the Reds. Who brings in a pinch hitter in the 6th? The ninth, I get, even the 8th. But the 6th? Give me a break!
I didn't realize baseball had become a six inning sport, Dad, did you? But then again with the economy the way it is, maybe America's National past time has to save money. So, as I said, I have no problem with a pinch hit grand slam, even one hit by Manny. But a pinch hit grand slam should only get national air time when it's a walk off or achieved during extra innings.
Okay, now that that's off my chest, I now return this blog back to its regularly scheduled Red Soxness.
Jenn
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Can't We beat Anyone Besides the Yankees?--Peter
Sorry,Jenn--the streak continues. It's now four, now that the Sox have lost the first two in the series against the Rangers, including Beckett's complete game failure today. Same story--pitching was good enough to win, but we got no timely hits, actually almost none--Lowell's 9th inning hit brought home Bay with the final Sox run. Seriously, though, we're now out of first for the first time in over a month and no sign of any improvement in hitting. Bay and Drew, in particular, are both in long steady slumps; Papi's hitting, but still not up to his former level and Lowrie, even though he's a great fielder, is doing absolutely nothing other than that first game HR. He's so far below the Mendoza line, he'll be in Antarctica if he doesn't watch out. Things better turn around soon!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Bad Series Against the Jays
Dad --
Bucky may be back and he may have done a phenomenal job. Unfortunately it was the only win the Sox got this weekend. Penny was clobbered and Lester did a great job, unfortunately he was up against Halladay who did better.
I didn't actually see Saturday's game because MLB can't show the games when they're on FOX and if it's a 1 o'clock game (which means they air at 10 am here on the west coast) Fox airs the Saturnday morning cartoons and kids don't care about baseball. So, I couldn't see the game and after reading about the loss, I'm glad I didn't. Although I do know that Lowrie got a home run in his first game back since his wrist surgery, so that's great news. Even better news is that Julio Lugo's been released which gets a big YAY from me.
As for Sunday's game, I take it back. Halladay didn't do better, the Sox just did what they do best - left five men on base. They had their best opportunity to strike in the first inning when they got three men on. Unfortunately they could only get one man to make the round trip and score their only run.
So, that was the series against the Jays. Now it's on to Texas to face the Rangers
with Smoltz getting today's start. Hopefully he can get another win 'cause so far watching him has not been fun.
Jenn
Bucky may be back and he may have done a phenomenal job. Unfortunately it was the only win the Sox got this weekend. Penny was clobbered and Lester did a great job, unfortunately he was up against Halladay who did better.
I didn't actually see Saturday's game because MLB can't show the games when they're on FOX and if it's a 1 o'clock game (which means they air at 10 am here on the west coast) Fox airs the Saturnday morning cartoons and kids don't care about baseball. So, I couldn't see the game and after reading about the loss, I'm glad I didn't. Although I do know that Lowrie got a home run in his first game back since his wrist surgery, so that's great news. Even better news is that Julio Lugo's been released which gets a big YAY from me.
As for Sunday's game, I take it back. Halladay didn't do better, the Sox just did what they do best - left five men on base. They had their best opportunity to strike in the first inning when they got three men on. Unfortunately they could only get one man to make the round trip and score their only run.
So, that was the series against the Jays. Now it's on to Texas to face the Rangers
with Smoltz getting today's start. Hopefully he can get another win 'cause so far watching him has not been fun.
Jenn
Friday, July 17, 2009
Bucky's Back!--Peter
And I don't mean Bucky Beaver! Buchholtz got the start to get the Sox going for the second 'half' (although they've already played over half of their games on the reg season), and he pitched beautifully into the 6th. Left with a 4-1 lead, got the win--thanks, Pen; and looked pretty good doing it. I think that Terry had him on a very strict count, Jenn. Question now is how does the rotation break down? Is it six (I hope not) or who goes to the pen to combine middle relief and spot starting? I'll tell you, Jenn, some folks would say it's a problem everyone would like to have, but it can be a negative on the psyches of the guys on the team not knowing exactly who is the staff beyond JB & Lester. My guess is that either Penny or Smoltzie goes into the 'either-or' slot for a while, depending on how the rest of the race goes.
The relievers seem pretty set and Bard, Oki and Laser did their stuff beautifully tonight. Between the three of them, the Jays could only get a meaningless two out single, and both Bard and Pap were perfect--stand 'em up; sit 'em down! Goodbye! Done!
The relievers seem pretty set and Bard, Oki and Laser did their stuff beautifully tonight. Between the three of them, the Jays could only get a meaningless two out single, and both Bard and Pap were perfect--stand 'em up; sit 'em down! Goodbye! Done!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Eck's Color Commentary
Dad --
Thanks for covering the weekend series against the Royals. As seems to be a recurring theme these days, the weekend got away from me.
But while I didn't get a chance to post, I did see all the games and each and every one had my attention. Whether it was game one that we lost because of our recently failing bullpen, or games two and three that we won but were true nail biters. Game three was the worst because Smoltz left after the fifth inning with an 8 run lead that again our bullpen cut down to two. Yuck! But game four was awesome. Watching Beckett tune in and "punch out" guys with just a few pitches per inning was truly amazing.
But what's even more interesting has been the commentary. Unlike previous years when I watched the game on fast forward, this year since Aidan likes to graze when he eats, I watch the games at regular speed. All three to four hours of them. And watching the games on normal speed allows me to listen to Don Orsillo and his co-commentator discuss the game.
Normally Don's cohort in the booth is Jerry Remy. But this year the Rem Dawg has been out recovering from lung cancer surgery he had in the off season. So, Don's cohorts have changed depending on where they're broadcasting and who's available. But the guy who's spent the most time in Remy's chair while he's been away has been Dennis Eckersley. And Dad, let me tell you, he puts the "color" in color commentary.
Now I know there's baseball slang. And I also know that while I'm fluent in your basic baseball lingo - run, strike, in field fly rule, etc. - there's plenty of slang that I don't know. These days I need to watch the game with a dictionary just to know what Eck's saying. So, I thought I'd give some definitions for the other devoted Red Sox and NESN fans out there.
If you're watching the games on NESN, you know Eck's favorite term is "cheese." Whether it be "easy cheese" or "high cheese", it doesn't matter, cheese is his term of choice and it always comes during an at bat. So, I looked it up.
Cheese - A fast ball - So if Eck says that was "easy cheese," it was probably a fast ball that was easy to hit.
High cheese - A fast ball that's at the top of the strike zone or out of the strike zone that the batter swings at and misses.
There's also Educated cheese - A fastball thrown at an appropriate time by a veteran pitcher.
Some of Eck's other favorite terms are...
Can of corn - a high, easy-to-catch, fly ball hit to the outfield.
Easy gas - Throwing 95-plus miles per hour effortlessly
Hair Something that grows on fastballs. If a pitcher throws a 98-mile-per-hour fastball by a hitter, Eckersley might say, “That was big-league cheese. It had hair on it.”
Moss - An alternative to "hair".
Off the boards - A hit that reaches the wall in the air.
Punch out - A strike out. Eck used this phrase numerous times during yesterday's Beckett shut out.
Salad - An assortment of off-speed pitches. “With a two-run lead and nobody on base, Papelbon’s going to serve salad until he has to bring the cheese.”
Those are just a few of the Eckisms you might hear during one of the games on NESN. There are others, but those are his favorites.
Can't wait to hear what he comes up with next.
Jenn
Thanks for covering the weekend series against the Royals. As seems to be a recurring theme these days, the weekend got away from me.
But while I didn't get a chance to post, I did see all the games and each and every one had my attention. Whether it was game one that we lost because of our recently failing bullpen, or games two and three that we won but were true nail biters. Game three was the worst because Smoltz left after the fifth inning with an 8 run lead that again our bullpen cut down to two. Yuck! But game four was awesome. Watching Beckett tune in and "punch out" guys with just a few pitches per inning was truly amazing.
But what's even more interesting has been the commentary. Unlike previous years when I watched the game on fast forward, this year since Aidan likes to graze when he eats, I watch the games at regular speed. All three to four hours of them. And watching the games on normal speed allows me to listen to Don Orsillo and his co-commentator discuss the game.
Normally Don's cohort in the booth is Jerry Remy. But this year the Rem Dawg has been out recovering from lung cancer surgery he had in the off season. So, Don's cohorts have changed depending on where they're broadcasting and who's available. But the guy who's spent the most time in Remy's chair while he's been away has been Dennis Eckersley. And Dad, let me tell you, he puts the "color" in color commentary.
Now I know there's baseball slang. And I also know that while I'm fluent in your basic baseball lingo - run, strike, in field fly rule, etc. - there's plenty of slang that I don't know. These days I need to watch the game with a dictionary just to know what Eck's saying. So, I thought I'd give some definitions for the other devoted Red Sox and NESN fans out there.
If you're watching the games on NESN, you know Eck's favorite term is "cheese." Whether it be "easy cheese" or "high cheese", it doesn't matter, cheese is his term of choice and it always comes during an at bat. So, I looked it up.
Cheese - A fast ball - So if Eck says that was "easy cheese," it was probably a fast ball that was easy to hit.
High cheese - A fast ball that's at the top of the strike zone or out of the strike zone that the batter swings at and misses.
There's also Educated cheese - A fastball thrown at an appropriate time by a veteran pitcher.
Some of Eck's other favorite terms are...
Can of corn - a high, easy-to-catch, fly ball hit to the outfield.
Easy gas - Throwing 95-plus miles per hour effortlessly
Hair Something that grows on fastballs. If a pitcher throws a 98-mile-per-hour fastball by a hitter, Eckersley might say, “That was big-league cheese. It had hair on it.”
Moss - An alternative to "hair".
Off the boards - A hit that reaches the wall in the air.
Punch out - A strike out. Eck used this phrase numerous times during yesterday's Beckett shut out.
Salad - An assortment of off-speed pitches. “With a two-run lead and nobody on base, Papelbon’s going to serve salad until he has to bring the cheese.”
Those are just a few of the Eckisms you might hear during one of the games on NESN. There are others, but those are his favorites.
Can't wait to hear what he comes up with next.
Jenn
Sunday, July 12, 2009
GREAT Numbers--Peter
In contrast to yesterday, Jenn, today's game was the kind of game you can relax and enjoy to its fullest. Beckett was pitching for the Hose and 'PITCH' is exactly what he did. A three hit complete game shutout, no walks, another seven K's and his 100th career win. He was so in control that his game WHIP was 0.33 (1.0 is considered good), and he had his first five K's by the 3d inning. Adding to the Sox big numbers was Jake's 40th stolen base of the year. This makes him just the second player in Sox history to get 40 or more in consecutive years. You ask who the other was, Jenn? Just some guy named Speaker, as in Tris, from 1912-14. If you've never heard the name, he's only one of the inaugural class into the Hall of Fame. Hell of a center fielder, too! All Jake needs to do to start matching up totally with Tris is get his batting average up a bit. Ol' Tris had a lifetime B.A. of .345, along with over 3500 hits and 1500+ ribbies. He also holds the marks for most doubles and most outfield assists in a career, as well as being in the top ten in many other categories. He also was a team member of the man who this blog is named for, Duffy Lewis. Duffy, Speaker and Harry Hooper comprised what was known as the "Million Dollar Outfield" in the second decade of the 20th century. He even has a similar history to Babe Ruth, another early Sox hero, in that the team owner made a horrible trade and sent Tris to Cleveland--over a salary dispute. While he never hit .400, he did have four separate seasons in the .380's and another in the .370's--not too shabby.
I say matching up for Jake. At this stage in his career, the Speed Racer is actually ahead of Speaker for career B.A., as Tris suffered two of his very few sub-.300 seasons in his first two years with the Hose.
Anyway, congrats to today's two heroes--and the rest of the Sox who helped get the win--AND a three game lead over Mr. Hankie's Yankees, who were swept by the Halos down in la-la land.
I say matching up for Jake. At this stage in his career, the Speed Racer is actually ahead of Speaker for career B.A., as Tris suffered two of his very few sub-.300 seasons in his first two years with the Hose.
Anyway, congrats to today's two heroes--and the rest of the Sox who helped get the win--AND a three game lead over Mr. Hankie's Yankees, who were swept by the Halos down in la-la land.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Sox: Of Yesterday and Today!--Peter
Boy! If ever a Sox game exemplified the Sox of, say, 1925-1945, and the present day Sox, the Epstein-Francona era, it had to be tonight's. If anyone can find me a similar one, I'm open to considering. Here we were. From the 1st inning out of the gate, three zip, soon to expand to nine zip by the 4th. I'm thinking we're home free--another game up on Mr. Hankie's Yankees and also one on the Rays. I'm figuring the only way we lose today is a repeat of the nightmare against the O's a week or two back, and things like that don't happen to good teams--teams like our Hose.
I turn around and it's 9-4 and the Royals are still batting. Then it's rapidly 9-6 before Oki shuts off the spigot, and it's still only the 6th. Suddenly, we've got a ball game again! Bosox get zip in their half of the 6th and Oki is greeted by the R's leadoff man in the 7th with a shot to the cheaps--9-7. I'm thinking, "I can't watch." But, like watching someone pull the wings off a fly (sorry, PETA), I can't turn away. Fortunately, Bard comes in and zip, zip, zip, the inning is over. Sox seemingly put it out of reach in their half of the 8th with a trey, but the R's won't stay dead. They're like zombies and they're taking chunks out of our heroes! Suddenly, it's 12-9; the Royals still have baserunners and I'm thinking of losing my dinner. Fortunately, Bard finally shuts the door, all three Royals runs charged to him unearned. The Fenmen come up for their turn in the 8th and suddenly, it's NOW again. Guys are getting hits--even with runners on. They're taking walks, getting HBP and when I check the board,it's 15-9. Barring a complete reversion, this one's done. We're back from the Time Tunnel. It's 2009; Sox up by two and the world is right!
Individually, Smoltzie got his first W, going five and giving up just a run while striking out seven against only a single free pass. Yooooouk got three hits, two of them yard, and Papi continues his comeback assault with a two run drive into the seats. Dusty picked up his 28th two bagger, and Jake figured "why not" and swiped his 39th sack of the year, accompanied, by the way, by Jason Bay's tenth swipe of the season.
I turn around and it's 9-4 and the Royals are still batting. Then it's rapidly 9-6 before Oki shuts off the spigot, and it's still only the 6th. Suddenly, we've got a ball game again! Bosox get zip in their half of the 6th and Oki is greeted by the R's leadoff man in the 7th with a shot to the cheaps--9-7. I'm thinking, "I can't watch." But, like watching someone pull the wings off a fly (sorry, PETA), I can't turn away. Fortunately, Bard comes in and zip, zip, zip, the inning is over. Sox seemingly put it out of reach in their half of the 8th with a trey, but the R's won't stay dead. They're like zombies and they're taking chunks out of our heroes! Suddenly, it's 12-9; the Royals still have baserunners and I'm thinking of losing my dinner. Fortunately, Bard finally shuts the door, all three Royals runs charged to him unearned. The Fenmen come up for their turn in the 8th and suddenly, it's NOW again. Guys are getting hits--even with runners on. They're taking walks, getting HBP and when I check the board,it's 15-9. Barring a complete reversion, this one's done. We're back from the Time Tunnel. It's 2009; Sox up by two and the world is right!
Individually, Smoltzie got his first W, going five and giving up just a run while striking out seven against only a single free pass. Yooooouk got three hits, two of them yard, and Papi continues his comeback assault with a two run drive into the seats. Dusty picked up his 28th two bagger, and Jake figured "why not" and swiped his 39th sack of the year, accompanied, by the way, by Jason Bay's tenth swipe of the season.
A Real Nailbiter--Peter
Well, last night's game was a true nailbiter! It really was a great example of a pitcher's duel--and all the while, in another game, a more or less 'nothing' pitcher who'd lost his rotation spot for the Giants was tossing a no-no--even perfect into the 8th! So I guess Lester's duel was fitting for the evening. Things went back and forth all evening. First the Lester would put up a zero for his half inning's work. Then the Royals' hurler would give us his imitation. On and on it went inning after inning. The trouble with these things is that when you get into the later innings, it gets particularly nerve racking because you know that, God forbid--the other guys score first, you've got much less time to respond to avoid a loss--particularly when you're in a tight division race.
But finally, in the 8th, the Hose came through. Bates, pinch running, was waiting for someone to do something when Dusty stroked his 28th two bagger of the season and brought him home with the winning run, in fact the ONLY run. This time Papelbon didn't waste any time. Taking the mound in the 9th, he went right after the Royals. Eleven pitches later everyone could go home--no hits or free passes from The Laser this evening.
Lester was also sparkling. He's definitely back in the groove. Going into this game, he was 4-1, with a 1.74 ERA in his most recent seven starts, and that single loss was the rain shortened game that was called 'official' just after five innings with the Sox behind by a single run. On the season he's 8-6 with his ERA for the season back into the respectable range at 3.87. While we're on ERA's, by the way, Pap's is now down to 1.85 for the year.
Nerve racking, but a good night after all. Making things even better, Mr. Hankie's Yankees lost and dropped out of the first place tie they'd moved into a day earlier--against an Angels lineup that had been damaged by its two best players--Hunter and Guerrero--going on the DL earlier in the day.
Smoltz goes today. Keep your fingers crossed.
But finally, in the 8th, the Hose came through. Bates, pinch running, was waiting for someone to do something when Dusty stroked his 28th two bagger of the season and brought him home with the winning run, in fact the ONLY run. This time Papelbon didn't waste any time. Taking the mound in the 9th, he went right after the Royals. Eleven pitches later everyone could go home--no hits or free passes from The Laser this evening.
Lester was also sparkling. He's definitely back in the groove. Going into this game, he was 4-1, with a 1.74 ERA in his most recent seven starts, and that single loss was the rain shortened game that was called 'official' just after five innings with the Sox behind by a single run. On the season he's 8-6 with his ERA for the season back into the respectable range at 3.87. While we're on ERA's, by the way, Pap's is now down to 1.85 for the year.
Nerve racking, but a good night after all. Making things even better, Mr. Hankie's Yankees lost and dropped out of the first place tie they'd moved into a day earlier--against an Angels lineup that had been damaged by its two best players--Hunter and Guerrero--going on the DL earlier in the day.
Smoltz goes today. Keep your fingers crossed.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Athletics and Nomar
Dad --
Haven't seen you online in a few days, so I thought I'd catch you up on the past series against the Oakland Athletics.
As I'm sure you know, the Sox managed to take two out of three from the A's. But the rubberneck game was interesting to say the least. Yes, we won thanks to a three run blast by Big Papi. It was great and confirms what we both know - the man is back.
Unfortunately it wasn't smooth sailing from there. Thank God we got another run because Pap made what The Red Seat tweeted was a Papelblunder - ie he let Hairston crush a ball to center scoring Kennedy. If the wind hadn't been blowing in from center it would have been a three-run homer and the A's would have won. But the wind was blowing and only one run scored, allowing the Sox to keep their lead and Papelbon to get the save.
While the final game was a nice way to end the series, the best part happened Tuesday when Nomar returned to Fenway as the DH for the A's. He only started one game but that was all he needed.
He was thrilled to be back and Red Sox Nation welcomed him with open arms. They were so excited that at his first at bat he got a standing ovation that lasted at least five minutes. He tipped his cap several times and tapped his chest to thank the fans for their support and appreciation. It was a truly touching moment that sent chills down my spine. Wish I'd been there, but at least I got to watch it on TV.
Today's the first game in a four game series against the Royals. Since they're 10games back in the AL Central, it should be an easy win. Then again, the A's were last in the AL West and each game was a fight. So I guess we'll just have to keep our fingers crossed that this series goes a little more smoothly.
Jenn
Haven't seen you online in a few days, so I thought I'd catch you up on the past series against the Oakland Athletics.
As I'm sure you know, the Sox managed to take two out of three from the A's. But the rubberneck game was interesting to say the least. Yes, we won thanks to a three run blast by Big Papi. It was great and confirms what we both know - the man is back.
Unfortunately it wasn't smooth sailing from there. Thank God we got another run because Pap made what The Red Seat tweeted was a Papelblunder - ie he let Hairston crush a ball to center scoring Kennedy. If the wind hadn't been blowing in from center it would have been a three-run homer and the A's would have won. But the wind was blowing and only one run scored, allowing the Sox to keep their lead and Papelbon to get the save.
While the final game was a nice way to end the series, the best part happened Tuesday when Nomar returned to Fenway as the DH for the A's. He only started one game but that was all he needed.
He was thrilled to be back and Red Sox Nation welcomed him with open arms. They were so excited that at his first at bat he got a standing ovation that lasted at least five minutes. He tipped his cap several times and tapped his chest to thank the fans for their support and appreciation. It was a truly touching moment that sent chills down my spine. Wish I'd been there, but at least I got to watch it on TV.
Today's the first game in a four game series against the Royals. Since they're 10games back in the AL Central, it should be an easy win. Then again, the A's were last in the AL West and each game was a fight. So I guess we'll just have to keep our fingers crossed that this series goes a little more smoothly.
Jenn
Monday, July 6, 2009
One out of Three Sucks!
Well Dad, what can I say about the 4th of July weekend series against the Mariners? I had more fun on the beach with Aidan.
As I said in my previous post, what the hell happened to our bullpen? Isn't it supposed to be the best in the league? Shouldn't we be able to end a game with a one or two run lead? Evidently not.
On Friday, Green doubled to take the Sox into extra innings. But after a lights out Pap got the Sox through the 10th, Ramirez gave up two hits and two walks which allowed the Mariners to score the winning run in the 11th.
On Saturday the Sox were leading until the 5th inning when the Mariners tied it up. Then Saito came in, loaded the bases with three walks and gave up a bloop single to Chris Woodward that would score the winning run.
At least the offense showed up on Sunday. Sure it wasn't until the 7th inning, but hey, they showed up. After two solo shots in the first, the Mariners did what they'd been doing all weekend. Coming back and taking the lead. But unlike the two previous games, the offense didn't sit back and let them sweep us away. They came to life, scoring five runs in the 7th and giving the Sox a 4 run lead.
Then thankfully both Masterson and Okajima got through their innings without giving up a hit. Masterson even went so far as to strike out the side in the 8th. Pretty impressive. What I want to know is where these guys were Friday and Saturday. Oh well, guess it doesn't really matter. All that matters is that our beloved Sox escaped the Mariners' broom.
That welcome sight came on the day the All Star players were announced. The Sox have six men going. Jason Bay, Josh Beckett, Jonathan Papelbon, Kevin Youkilis, Dustin Pedroia and Tim Wakefield who finally get his wish and will make his All Star debut at the mere age of 42.
So while most of America was celebrating on Saturday the 4th, Red Sox Nation had to wait a day and celebrate on Sunday the 5th. But I'd say a win and a Red Sox heavy All Star team is a good reason to wait.
Jenn
As I said in my previous post, what the hell happened to our bullpen? Isn't it supposed to be the best in the league? Shouldn't we be able to end a game with a one or two run lead? Evidently not.
On Friday, Green doubled to take the Sox into extra innings. But after a lights out Pap got the Sox through the 10th, Ramirez gave up two hits and two walks which allowed the Mariners to score the winning run in the 11th.
On Saturday the Sox were leading until the 5th inning when the Mariners tied it up. Then Saito came in, loaded the bases with three walks and gave up a bloop single to Chris Woodward that would score the winning run.
At least the offense showed up on Sunday. Sure it wasn't until the 7th inning, but hey, they showed up. After two solo shots in the first, the Mariners did what they'd been doing all weekend. Coming back and taking the lead. But unlike the two previous games, the offense didn't sit back and let them sweep us away. They came to life, scoring five runs in the 7th and giving the Sox a 4 run lead.
Then thankfully both Masterson and Okajima got through their innings without giving up a hit. Masterson even went so far as to strike out the side in the 8th. Pretty impressive. What I want to know is where these guys were Friday and Saturday. Oh well, guess it doesn't really matter. All that matters is that our beloved Sox escaped the Mariners' broom.
That welcome sight came on the day the All Star players were announced. The Sox have six men going. Jason Bay, Josh Beckett, Jonathan Papelbon, Kevin Youkilis, Dustin Pedroia and Tim Wakefield who finally get his wish and will make his All Star debut at the mere age of 42.
So while most of America was celebrating on Saturday the 4th, Red Sox Nation had to wait a day and celebrate on Sunday the 5th. But I'd say a win and a Red Sox heavy All Star team is a good reason to wait.
Jenn
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Payback's a Biotch
Dad --
Yes, Tuesday's game was AWFUL!!! How the hell do you blow a 10-1 lead? Especially when you supposedly have the best bullpen in the majors? It was dreadful to watch. Especially since the last time the Sox lost when they were up by 9 or more runs was 1989.
But that was Tuesday. Let's talk about yesterday. Yesterday was wonderful. Why you ask? Because the Sox gave the Orioles a taste of their own medicine. That's right, we were losing 5-1. But then came back strong in the ninth.
Pedroia walked, then Youkilis got a home run, so it's now 5-3. The Orioles didn't want to take any chances so they brang in their closer. But after two quick outs, George Sherrill gave up a hit and 2 walks to load the bases. That's when things really went south for the O's.
Baldelli came in to pinch hit and singled up the middle, scoring both Ellsbury and Baily and tying the game at 5 runs a piece. The score remained tied until the 11th inning when Ellsbury doubled, and got to third on Bailey's fly out. Lugo stepped into the batters' box and unlike Tuesday when he struck out, he singled, allowing Ellsbury to score the Red Sox's sixth and final run. And that was all the Sox would need.
Papelbon came in for the bottom of the 11th and closed the game with 2 pop outs and a fly out.
Not since the Mother's Day Miracle in '07 have the Sox had such a great comeback. Coincidentally that come back was also against the Orioles and Lugo was the one to score the winning run with a single. Cool, huh?
Anyway, tomorrow we're back at Fenway for the beginning of a 10-day home stand that starts with the Mariners. I can't wait.
Jenn
Yes, Tuesday's game was AWFUL!!! How the hell do you blow a 10-1 lead? Especially when you supposedly have the best bullpen in the majors? It was dreadful to watch. Especially since the last time the Sox lost when they were up by 9 or more runs was 1989.
But that was Tuesday. Let's talk about yesterday. Yesterday was wonderful. Why you ask? Because the Sox gave the Orioles a taste of their own medicine. That's right, we were losing 5-1. But then came back strong in the ninth.
Pedroia walked, then Youkilis got a home run, so it's now 5-3. The Orioles didn't want to take any chances so they brang in their closer. But after two quick outs, George Sherrill gave up a hit and 2 walks to load the bases. That's when things really went south for the O's.
Baldelli came in to pinch hit and singled up the middle, scoring both Ellsbury and Baily and tying the game at 5 runs a piece. The score remained tied until the 11th inning when Ellsbury doubled, and got to third on Bailey's fly out. Lugo stepped into the batters' box and unlike Tuesday when he struck out, he singled, allowing Ellsbury to score the Red Sox's sixth and final run. And that was all the Sox would need.
Papelbon came in for the bottom of the 11th and closed the game with 2 pop outs and a fly out.
Not since the Mother's Day Miracle in '07 have the Sox had such a great comeback. Coincidentally that come back was also against the Orioles and Lugo was the one to score the winning run with a single. Cool, huh?
Anyway, tomorrow we're back at Fenway for the beginning of a 10-day home stand that starts with the Mariners. I can't wait.
Jenn
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