Papi To The Rescue! : Peter

Well, for the second day in a row against the Bengals, things were looking bleak. The Sox starter, Dice in this case, got well behind early (four zip today) in spite of getting a good number of K's and the opposing hurler was basically setting the Sox down almost as fast as they came up. They did get to within two in the 7th, but Papi, for the second consecutive inning ended the inning leaving men on base. In the 6th he struck out with men on 2d and 3d to end the inning and repeated again in the 7th with the sacks jammed to end that rally. Then came the fateful 9th. Tigers hurler Coke, who'd entered the game to start the 9th had previously faced Papi eight times and was perfect against him, getting him out all eight times, including three K's. So when he loaded the bases with just one out, you had to think he was more than happy at the prospect of facing his old "sure thing".
Well, this time Coke was anything but the Real Thing. Finally getting his pitch, Papi drove a shot deep into the gap in left center clearing the bases and winning the game for the Hose. For those of you keeping a record, it was his eighteenth walkoff hit of his career, and one that couldn't have come at a better time. It allowed the Sox to pick up a game on the second place Rays and maintain pace with Mr. Hankie's Yankees as the latter beat the former today. The win for the Sox was their fourth of five games and sixth of nine, either of which would be a good pace to maintain for the balance of the season and get to the playoffs.
The pen was well represented, allowing no hits over three innings and having it all capped by Oki's perfect 9th for the 'W'. Offensively, besides Papi's 2-5 and three ribbies, Martinez, Hall, Kalish (more in a bit) and McDonald all had a pair of hits on the day. Kalish was a late callup to replace Hermida, who was sent down to the Pawsox.The Sox also sent Ramirez to the Giants, where he can face the other Ramirez that the Sox shed two years ago, and picked up some catching insurance from Texas in the form of Saltalamacchia (think I guessed right on the spelling)in exchange for a couple of prospects. Actually, you could use his last name as one of the words in the final stages of the national spelling bee championship and you'd probably eliminate one of the contenders right there. I can see it now, but I digress. Good day all around for the Sox and on to the series finale tomorrow.

Ups & Downs: Peter

First of all: WELCOME BACK, JENN! Good to have you again, even if only occasionally; and a great series to do so! Aidan looked way cool; can't wait to see him swing his first bat! That WAS a very interesting bit of history--first time ever the whole infield had HR's--who'da thunk it--particularly with some of the great infielders the Sox have had over the years: Dropo; Junior Stevens; Petrocelli; Kell; Boudreau; Malzone--really amazing it's never happened before. Anyway, better late than never!
Now for the down: tonight's game. Lester unfortunately let things get a little too far away from him too early. Although he did strike out seven in just six innings, allowing four runs via a game WHIP of more than 2 isn't the best way to get a 'W'--for yourself or the team. What made it more infuriating is that three of the four runs came off the bat of Peralta, a recent pickup from the Tribe. Hell, the guy can't even spell his own first name: Jhonny. That's the way he spells Johnny, with the 'h' before the 'o', not after. Hits in the low .200's and he gets a pair of shots off one of the best hurlers in the league. Go figure. Add in Wake's two runs allowed and the Sox were in too deep a hole to come all the way back. However, they almost got there. Last of the 9th, they crawled from a 6-1 deficit to within a run on Papi's Grand Slam, his 22d HR of the year. That came with only one out, but that was it for the evening. Once again, too many left on base--an even dozen this time. Other than Papi's shot, and Scut's way earlier in the game, nothing timely about the Sox' delivery tonight. It's especially hurting when you have the Rays and Stripes squaring off against each other, so you know there's ground to be gained one way or the other. Tonight the Stripes lost, so we could have gotten a game closer to first, but no--didn't happen. Maybe tomorrow--still a chance to at least take the series against the Bengals--and have a run of seven of ten.

Photo Blog and a Sweep

Dad --

Yes, we couldn't have chosen a better game to go to. It was warm. We got a great table at the Knothole Restaurant and the Sox won the game to complete the sweep of the Angels. That means the Angels are now 0 and 7 this season against our Sox.



As you can see Aidan was excited for the game too. He was all geared up in his little baseball romper and cute little Red Sox cap. (Thank you Nana and Pops.) He was ready for a great game and although he didn't pay too close attention, he did have a ball walking up and down the aisles. We even tried to get some autographs, but were too late. Our favorite players had warmed up before we got there. Next time.



After Aidan got a close up view of the field, we walked back up to the restaurant for tons of food and an intense game. As you can see Aidan was totally into it. He especially liked the grandslam from Scutaro. I was pretty impressed as well. And while Aidan missed that phenomenal catch by Bill Hall because he was cruising up and down the aisles with Daddy, Nana, and Grandpa Westerland, I was cheering loud enough for the both of us.

So, in short, we all had a great time at the park. Next time, we'll have to do it with you, Pops. It'll be a blast.

And now a little trivia for you sports fans out there. Last night while watching ESPN's Baseball Tonight I discovered that while the Sox have been around since 1901, yesterday's game was the very first time in team history that every member of the infield has gotten a home run. That's right, it started with Beltre (3rd base) and Hall (2nd base) in the 2nd. Then Yooooouk (1st base) tied it up with a homer in the 3rd. And Scutaro (Shortstop) slammed the door with that salami in the 8th. Pretty cool, huh? Aidan thought so.

Jenn

Break Out The Brooms!: Peter

Well, after last nite's win and today's afternoon victory, the Sox have completed a sweep for the first time in a while. Even better, in addition to their three game streak, they are now five of their last seven! The regulars are slowly coming back, and the results are starting to show it. In last nite's game, Lackey went into the 8th, limiting the Halos to a pair of runs and seven hits. He's now in double figures in wins, the third Sox staff member this season at that level. He was followed in due course by Bard (2/3 of as hitless inning on 11 pitches) and The Laser (perfect 9th on just nine pitches for his 24th save).Lowrie, another returnee, drove in the deciding runs to put it on ice with a ringing double in the 7th.
Then, we have this afternoon's game, a game played when baseball was meant to be played--in the sunlight! I'm guessing Jenn had her broom ready for the sweep. Irrespective of that, her son, Aidan (my grandson), was in attendance for his second or third Sox game, so I'm certain that helped the team get the 'W'. I'm betting that Jenn will have something to relate from her point of view on the game later today once she gets home. Looks like you got a good game, Jenn.
Sox, behind another returnee, JB, were up two zip early on, only to be tied in the next half inning and to fall behind in the middle of the game, 3-2. At that point, the Sox bats took over. When the smoke cleared, the Sox had first tied the game at 3 on Yooouuuk's shot in the 7th, and then jumped back into the lead for good in the 8th on Scutaro's grand slam the following inning. These two shots added to the pair of solos the Sox had in the 2d by Beltre and Hall. Overall, the Sox lumber accounted for not only the four roundtrippers, but also a dozen hits, including a double and triple by Eric Patterson. The guy may not hit for much of an average, but when he does put it in play, his speed gets him a long way around the bases before anyone can react.
Through all of this, JB carried on, getting better as he went on, and finally getting the 'W'. For the game, he had a WHIP of 0.86 and struck out five. While he did give up all of the Angels' three runs, he definitely reduced his injury-burdened season ERA, a trend that hopefully will continue.
If there was anything negative about today's game, it was the fact that, once again, the Hose are leaving far too many baserunners stranded. Today, the number totalled 13 LOB. As things turned out, they weren't needed, but something has to be done, so that when a single run may make the difference, it gets to cross the plate instead of dying on the basepaths.
So, Jenn, show us your broom--or at least tell us about it and our fav little fan's reactions.

Papi Goes Deep Squared:Peter

Well, Jenn, last night was another of those sudden burst of Pure Papiean Power. Facing the Halo's, another pre-season contender that, like the Sox, has been having troubles meeting its preseason forecasts,Papi laid into a pitch and sent it screaming deep into the cheap seats--TWICE!In addition to picking up three more ribbies to lead the team in that category, he also provided some breathing room for the Hose as they begin preparations for their run through the final two months and, hopefully, a playoff slot.
Separate from Papi's heroics, the game marked the return to active play of the Sox catcher, Victor Martinez. He picked up a hit and a single RBI on the evening. At the same timwe, he added some strength to that position on the Sox roster that has been missing since both he and Tek went to the DL.Also separately, last night was the second start for Bucky since he came off the DL. It was decidely better than the prior one. He gave up just a single run and nailed seven K's in seven innings, getting the win for his efforts.
Late in the game, it got a bit tense as Atch allowed a pair of runs to the Halos, getting them within a run of the Hose. However, The Laser came in with two gone in the 8th and slammed the door on the Angels' rally, and then JD settled things with a ringing double to plate a pair of insurance runs before Pap closed out the game in the 9th.

Another Wasted Start Means A Split w/Seattle: Peter

Today's game might have been, at least to some degree, a replay of yesterday's, Jenn. Yesterday Lester had an outstanding start and then it all fell apart. Today, the Diceman, in spite of five walks in six innings, had a good outing going. He even retired ten of the last eleven batters he faced, avoiding any serious trouble from his early wildness. Then, leaving after six due to his high pitch count (all those freebies), he gave way to the pen. Now Bard, he of the triple digit heater was OK. He did earn another Hold, although the tying run was later charged to him. Unfortunately, Bard was followed by Oki, who gave up enough hits in his time on the hill to plate the tying run and also allow the winning and insurance run for the M's. Deservedly, he took the loss. Result: the Sox are now trailing the Stripes by eight and the Rays by four, I believe. Not good; not at all.
The only good things offensively all were clustered in the middle of the order. Drew (a pair of hits), Ortiz (a hit and a run scored), Yooouk ( a pair of hits, including his 25th double and his 61st ribbie) and Beltre (a hit for his 63d ribbie) were it. But, when they had the Seattle starter on the ropes in the 4th with a pair of runs already across the plate, two men on base and only one out, they couldn't deliver the coup de grace. A K and a line out ended the Sox offense for the day. After that, they went quietly.

Separately, good news: Terry announced there's a good chance that Martinez will return to the lineup sometime during the Sox series with the Halos. That will be the fourth major DL listee to come back within a week's time. Hopefully, they can start performing at their former levels soon so it won't be too late.

Perfection Ends Too Soon: Peter

Jenn, it's best you don't watch this one on your Tivo--or anywhere else. It's almost emblematic of the issues (other than injuries) that the Sox have had this year. Lester going against the worst offensive team in MLB in multiple categories; only Ichiro with any real history of success against Lester--should be a win, right? Well, for 5 1/3 it looked like a lock. Although the Sox only had a single run to that point (complements of Papi's 19th shot of the season), Lester was not only perfect, he was overwhelming.
Then, it all hit the fan.An error broke the perfecto and one batter later the Hose were trailing by 2-1 on a homer that was Lester's first hit allowed. They ultimately lost, 5-1, but, as has happened too many times this year, had ample opportunities to get even. They left seven men on base, ending up with just five hits on the night. Need a timely hit? Not tonight. Results: another needless loss, made even harder to take because the Stripes also had already lost, so the Sox had a chance to pick up a game in the standings. Try again tomorrow.

JB's Back!!: Peter

Jenn, I hope you watch tonight's game against the Mariners. Yes, the Sox won and that's ALWAYS good. The hitting was sufficient to win, and the pen was excellent. But the story tonight, it says here, was the return of Beckett. Out almost since the start of the season with back spasms and related issues, it's taken half of the season without one of our two aces to get here. The team has more or less held together at least well enough to stay within striking distance of the division lead and there's still just over two months to go, and some more games against Mr. Hankie's Yankees. Based on tonight's relatively brief showing, The rest of the season could be a most memorable one, assuming JB keeps on from here and the other walking (Those who can walk) wounded also make successful returns.
But tonight, for 5 2/3 innings, JB was the JB we've all come to expect and respect. In those innings, he gave up five scattered hits, a lone earned run and grabbed five K's. Though he also allowed three free passes, it looked more like he was just getting tuned in as he rolled on through the M's lineup. The heater was moving like it used to, and he was just....Beckett. Tonight's stint was a little expansion from his last rehab of four innings, and, I'd give you even money that Terry will give him at least six, maybe seven, innings next time around.
The effort wasn't wasted either. Atch came in to close out the 6th and then pitch the 7th and allowed a single BB--nothing else. He got the 'W' for his efforts. After that it was heater after heater lasering across the plate. First Bard threw all of eight pitches to get a perfect inning, including a pair of K's. Then The Laser showed up, atoned for last night's BS, and closed out the game adding another pair of K's to his record.
In addition to JB, the long missing Hermida, returned briefly to the lineup, pinch hitting for Hall in the 9th. He got a single and then was lifted for the Sox's latest speedster, Patterson. Another DL refugee, Lowrie, played his second game since his return, starting tonight at second and going 1-4. Looking encouraging.

A Win, But Scary: Peter

Well last nite's game with the Mariners was one, Jenn, where you think a win's almost a slam dunk guarantee. Then, reality butts in. There the Sox were entering the 9th inning with a 6-1 lead and Lackey probably pitching his best game of the year. Looked for all the world like a sure thing. Tito, for whatever reason and I'm not second guessing what it was, had Manny come in for the 9th to close out things. Manny got absolutely nothing accomplished, at least from a Sox point of view. He left without recording an out, but the M's were that much closer. Papelbon came in to shut things down, and while he didn't allow an earned run, he did allow the tying run to cross the dish, getting a blown save in the process. So, the 9th ends 6-6, and we play....and play....and play until finally in the 13th inning, the Hose pick up a pair and Oki holds the M's in the bottom half.During the game, the Hose had multi HR's and Papi got his 60th ribbie.
So what did we get? We stayed seven to the Yankees' stern and picked up a half game on the idle Rays.
Injuries: Bucky got back two days ago, but wasn't crisp and took the loss to the A's. Hermida came off the DL yesterday, and Nava was sent down as a result. But he'll be back later on when rosters are expanded. JB is scheduled to pitch tonight on his return from the DL. Keeping my fingers crossed. If he's even a semblance of his old self, it would be a tremendous boost to the team. If not, I don't want to think of it.

Balk, My Ass!: Peter

I'll get to the title issue momentarily, but tonight was one of those games that just drive a fan crazy, Jenn. Sox go up 4-0 by the 2d, and then go to sleep. They left 11 men on base, including two instances of bases loaded. In either case a timely hit would have opened things up, and presumably they would have secured the win. But, Nooooo. Yooouk, after an early double had three K's himself! Wake, assisted by a passed ball early on gave up a tying four runs in the 3d, and afterwards neither team could seem to score.
More frustrating, Wake, at one point, followed by Bard, retired 16 consecutive A's batters--all to no avail.
Why? Because the plate umpire needs a transplant--an eye transplant, and maybe some new instructions of what constitutes a balk. Here we are in the 10th, still tied at four, and the Sox pitcher hasn't even started toward the plate when the umpire (he'd been making loopy decisions all night, as confirmed by the Oakland telecasters constantly)calls a balk. Result: the A's runner on first goes to second, where he's in perfect position to score on a single. That's exactly what happened a few moments later--game over; A's win. Even the A's telecasters kept replaying the call, and said they couldn't figure out what the ump was talking about. In the process, Sox pitching coach Farrell was tossed by the ump for protesting from the dugout too loudly.

Papi,Belt-re and Some Damn Fine Pitching!: Peter

Well, tonight was a tense, but exciting game, and, like so many before it in this injury plagued year, a true team victory. The Diceman was masterful, once again showing strong signs of the return of the pitcher who went 18-3 with a sub-3.00 ERA in 2008. He went 6 2/3 innings tonight, allowing just a pair of hits and a pair of walks, while collecting six K's. One of the hits was a solo HR that just made it over the yellow HR line on Oakland's center field wall before bouncing back onto the field. After that shot, Dice pretty much held the A's at bay, retiring ten in a row at one point.
Although the HR put the A's in the lead, the Sox wasted little time setting things right. In the very next inning, Papi drove in the tying run with a long sacfly that allowed Petterson to casually stroll home after his own triple had started the inning. Then, two batters later, Beltre applied the first syllable of his name to an offering from A's pitcher Sheets and that was all the scoring the Hose needed. Outtathere and it's 2-1, Sox.

From there on, the Hose had other opportunities to pad the score, but were unable to do so. But the Sox moundsmen made sure it wasn't necessary. After Dice's performance, Bard came in with two gone in the 7th and a pair of runners, and quickly shut the A's down. He also kept them from scoring in the 8th to secure his 20th Hold (leading the A.L), and then gave way to The Laser for the 9th. Pap came on and retired the side in order, including a K. Few if any of his pitches were under 94 mph. Speaking of velocity, Bard frequently was above 97 while he was on the mound, topping out in a couple of cases at 99.

It's interesting contrasting the two Sox fireballers. When Pap throws, you can almost feel the heat just watching his motion. It's powerful and explosive. You know it's in the high 90's. Bard, living up to his name, is more poetic in his motion. He throws, usually in the very high 90's and occasionally in triple digits and you never see it in the force of his body motion--just on the gun when you look at the numbers. Either way--it's a combo that must have hitters talking to themselves.

A word to Jenn--I understand how you are feeling, and KNOW that you'll be back--maybe not too long after the Sox casualties are again in fine fettle--just in time for the run for the playoffs. So do what you need to do; we all understand, and look forward to more from Jenn in the near future. Without you this blog would not have gotten where it is today; believe me, Jenn, you're entitled. Let's see, now. Bucky pitches the day after tomorrow; JB is now set for Seattle a day or two later, and Hermida is scheduled back in the next week or so. After that, Bucky may be back early in August, V-Mart about the same and the Dustman by mid-August (he's now walking without crutches or cane, although still with a protective boot). See ya' for my birthday.
Dad

Taking a Break

Dad --

As you've noticed, I've been absent from the blog recently. I'm sorry it's taken me so long to write this note but I was hoping I'd start contributing again on a regular basis. But unfortunately I've finally realized that between Aidan, the web series, my other blog and my other scripts, I just don't have the time I need to devote to Duffy's Cliff.

This doesn't mean I've given up on baseball or the Red Sox for that matter. (Although with where we are in the standings and the fact that I barely recognize the team anymore due to the unbelievable amount of injuries, one might.) I'm still a die hard fan and after 31 years, wouldn't dream of giving up on my team even if we were all the way in last place.

The fact is, I'm just not really into baseball right now. I still Tivo every game, but when I tune in, I find myself not caring what happens or who wins. Dad, you know how passionate I was about the Sox and that's where I need to be again to do you and this blog justice.

What does all this mean? In short, I need a break. From the games and the blog. I'll still tune in occasionally and blog as well. I mean, we're going to see the Sox play the Angels next week with Aidan. So, of course I'm going to blog about that. I'm actually pretty excited about it. But in general, I'm sorry to say you're going to have to carry the blog without me for awhile. Don't worry, I'll be back, I'm just not sure when.

To all our followers, I'm sorry for my absence. It hasn't been fair to you and for that I feel horrible. When I have the time and excitement for the game I'll be back with a vengence. Until then, please keep the bench warm for me.

Love,

Jenn

No Offense Trumps Lester: Peter

Well, back to the worst of games. Today, though he didn't pitch his best, Jon Lester was more than good enough to get a win had he decent offensive support. Unfortunately, once again, it was case of too little, too late--and middle--and early as well. Although the Hose did take a one zip lead in the 2d, it lasted until the 4th and the Sox never saw the lead again. The chances were there as they ended up with eight men LOB, twice what the Rangers had. However, when a timely hit was needed to bring some of these guys home, nothing, nada, no how. In fact, the Sox totalled only five hits, and had three of those not been for extra bases, they might not have scored at all.

Beltre added his 15th error of the campaign, which directly contributed to one of the R's runs. Additionally, although the Sox cut down an opposing runner for the third time in the last two games, the Rangers still managed to steal a pair.

Rehab wise, the announcement was made that Bucky will start out here on the Left Coast against the A's this Wednesday, a relatively midweek daytime start. I remember, Jenn, not too many years ago when baseball was predominantly a daytime game, and you could sneak out of the office to get some sun, have cold one and watch the Hose try to hose down an opponent for a big 'W'. Largely, that's a thing of the past. Thank you television. Speaking of which, Jenn, could you write a script for a few of these games that has a healthy Sox team getting bunches of hits to back up real sharp pitching, thereby getting the team from the Fens lots of wins? Well, once everybody's back in harness and up to speed, maybe we won't need the script. Maybe, hopefully, it will come naturally.

Sox Having A Dickens of A Time: Peter

It was the worst of games, it was the best of games. If that sounds like the start of 'A Tale of Two Cities', you're right--and very literary! After yesterday's heartbreaking loss (once again triggered by Bengie Molina--and a cycle to boot?), the Hose came back today and rose to the occasion by besting perhaps the best pitcher in the Bigs (Sorry, CC, it isn't you!), tying on Yooouuk's two-bagger in the bottom of the 9th, and then winning on a Yooouuk sacfly in the 11th. Yooouuuk drove in two of the Sox three runs, while the other run was plated by Big Papi.

Pitching was also good for the Sox. Lackey finally pitched like the Fenmen had hoped when they acquired him, holding the Rangers to a pair of runs over seven innings, giving up just seven hits and a pair of free passes. He also K'd three batters. The Sox relief was even better. Starting with Bard and his triple digit heater, the Hose allowed no hits and no runs over four innings. In fact, only Bard's lone BB spoiled perfection for this part of the game. Total pen pitch count: 38 for the four innings, which, if carried out for a full game is only 85 pitches! Not much shy of incredible in this day and age! After Bard, whose heater was poetry in motion, The Laser came on and it was three up and down--in two consecutive innings. Finally, Manny finished things off and got the 'W'. This is the way things are supposed to be!
Added to this are the following encouraging signs from the hospital ward: JB went four the other day, and struck out a like number. He's going to do at least one more rehab and then come back to the parent club. The Dustman is looking as if he'll be back in early August, and Martinez finally was able to get his hand with the broken thumb comfortably into a glove. If that's not enough, Hermida's ribs have healed to the point that he went 2-4 with a double in his first rehab game, and early signs are that Jake may not be too far behind.
With today's win, Sox pick up a game on Mr. Hankie's Yankees in the division race.

Not The Way to Start the 2d Half: Peter

Not much to say--at least not much good--about tonight's game against the Rangers. Definitely not the way to pick up the season after the All-Star break. After the 1st inning, the Hose were behind six zip. Wake definitely didn't have the flutterball fluttering. It just hung out there saying, in essence, "hit me hard". That's exactly what the guys from Texas did, topped off by a homer: by Benjie Molina? Anyway, a couple of innings later it was seven zip, and the Sox were doing not much of anything with the bat in reply. Finally, the pen put a stop to the Rangers' onslaught, keeping them at seven, but the offense was limited to a pair of solo shots by JD and Hall. JD was 2-4 on the evening. The only reason Hall was playing third was that Beltre tweaked a muscle just before the All-Star, then played briefly with it and is now picking up splinters. Hopefully, he won't join the rest of the regulars on the DL.
Speaking of that, it appears that Bucky is pitching a rehab start at Pawtucket this weekend, JB got four K's in a four inning stint in the minors and Jake may be back on the field by August 1. We'll see. Things gotta' turn around with this injury skein. It's like a new curse, perish the thought.

Papi-HR Derby King: Peter

Normally this space is reserved for the daily goings on of the Red Sox and their players. However, as regular visitors know, when a Sox player does something special or gets some award beyond the daily play, we also take note of that. So too today. In the All-Star break, in the last several years MLB has decided that it needs to hype the game and get more fan attention by having a Home Run Derby the evening before the game itself. I never understood why they felt the need given the array of talent on hand to begin with. However, they do and so we follow it.

This year, the Home Run Derby has been won by none other than our own Sox star, Big Papi! He tied for the lead through the first two of the three rounds at 21 HR's. In the final round he overwhelmed his opposition, Hanley Ramirez by a count of 11-5. Way to go, Papi! An interesting footnote is in order here: Hanley Ramirez also began his career as a Red Sox player, being their top minor league prospect at the time they sought more good pitching. They traded him to the Marlins for Beckett, a deal that has benefitted both teams over the long run, this year's DL being an exception.

Again, cheers to Papi.

Nice Dice! : Peter

Hey, Jenny! Today we're the hammer! Sox did a great job combining quality pitching with a couple of quick power strikes. The power first: In the 6th inning, three consecutive Sox hitters gave the ball a good ride. First, Scutaro sent a double to the deeper confines of the Jays yard, but it stayed in. So with him standing on second, McDonald went him one better for a pair of runs and shot one into the cheap seats for a two zip Sox lead. Next up: Big Papi. What does he do? What else? On a 1-2 offering, he goes over the wall for his 18th and it's three zip, Sox. As it turned out, that was all of the scoring the Hose required. Yes, the Jays made it interesting the very next inning with a two run blast of their own, but the Sox hurlers nipped that in the bud.
The Sox moundsmen today were what we've come to expect from starter through closer. Dice started and went a strong six, allowing six hits and no walks--none, nada.His only mistake came in the 6th when he gave up the HR. Even so, holding the powerful Jays lineup to just a pair of runs in six is satisfactory, especially when you remember that they lead the majors in home runs for a team. The Diceman's game WHIP: a nice tidy 1.0.
Following Dice, Bard came on and burned his way through two innings of Toronto's lineup, nailing a K and allowing just a single hit--all on a total of just 14 pitches. For the final inning, Bard was picked up by The Laser and he quickly disposed of the Jays. After a pair of quick outs, he gave up a scratch single to short and then slammed the door, forcing a weak first pitch popup from Buck. Buck isn't Wells, but he's got 13 HR's so far, so he's got power. Pap's line: eight pitches, no walks, his 20th save.
Now, for a bit of something extra for you loyal followers: On this date in 1914, Babe Ruth made his debut for the Hose, getting the win in a 4-3 decision over Cleveland. But that's not what's special, from the point of view of this blog. In what is probably one of the few times he was ever pinch hit for, a part time (then) Sox outfielder came in from the bench to get a single and drive in the winning run. Who was that hitter? None other than our namesake, Duffy Lewis! Duffy, we salute you!

Win By Homers; Lose By Homers: Peter

Well, Jenn, one day you win, the next, you lose--or as Lance said the other day, " One day you're the hammer, the next day you're the nail." Today, the Sox were the nail. However, it didn't start out like that. In fact, after briefly being behind 3-1, they opened a 5-3 lead in the 3d and acted (for an inning or so) as if they might just hold it. Not to be, however. By the end of the 4th, it was tied and as the game progressed from there, the hole got deeper and deeper for the Hose.
On the good side, the Hose had just as many hits as the Jays, 11, and among them a total of four doubles. Four players were two for, including Papi, but once again, the timely hit was missing for the Hose. As an illustration, had all of both teams' men LOB been plated, the Sox would have had the 'W', 17-16. But they weren't and they didn't. Lackey once again seemed to Lack something, pun definitely intended.
On the larger scale, place in the division, the Sox lost a game to the Rays and again are three behind them, but maintained the same distance behind the Stripes that they had before the game as Mr. Hankie's Yankees lost to the Mariners.
Another plus is that Jake is apparently back with the parent club. However, no indication yet when he'll be back on the field. I think that Tito and company are being cautious about getting him back again before he's totally healed and in game shape.

Great Team Effort!: Peter

Well, last nite, the whole team contributed with many players having multi-hit games (Cameron: three w/ one HR); four HR's sailing out of the park and the Sox having seven extra base knocks of a 14 hit total. Lester on the mound was equally effective and came out after six. He ended up with a like number of K's and his 11th victory, tying for second in the league and remaining second in K's in the league. Among the offensive stars, Yooouuuk got his team, leading 18th dinger and his 57th ribbie. Results: Picked up a game on the Rays for 2d and stayed 5 behind the Stripes. Hope we can continue the action for the rest of the trip.

Uglier and Uglier: Peter

Jenn, if the last three games made you sick, you'll be in the ER and on life support after tonight's ugly. I tell you, it's not often that you outhit the other team 11-5, out extra base them 5-1 and still lose. Not often except when you make two errors (originally three, but the official scorer later changed one) give up a passed ball and have two wild pitches from your starter. That's the capsule explanation of tonight's abortion. In spite of this, the patchwork crew that Tito has cobbled together still made a game of it late, and came within one or two base knocks in the 9th of taking the game. We had a pair of runs already in, getting us within two, McDonald was on 2d with a double, Papi had just walked and there were two outs with Yooouukk coming to the plate. Normally, this is where he thrives. Tonight (and he's not using the ankle as an excuse--I am) he lined out hard to center, completing an 0-5 evening. Game over; series sweep to the Rays. The deficit to second in the division grew to 2.5 games, and the gap to the Stripes awaits tonight's play against our opponents of a few weeks hence, the A's.
McDonald was 3-5 with a two bagger and Cameron was a perfect 3-3 with a homer. Papi got his 55th ribbie and now is the latest Sox player with at least 20 doubles on the season. Still not enough.

Win As A Team, Lose As A Team:Peter

Jenn, are you out there? Helloooooooo.... Well, assuming you are and you're still watching the Sox, you have to admit. It's getting very frustrating these past few games. With tonight's 3d loss in a row, the Sox are now a full game and a half behind the Rays in third. And not a week ago, we were knocking on the door just a half game astern of the Stripes. It's these damn injuries! Entering tonight's game, Jenn, we had nine starters on the DL. NINE! Was that enough? Noooooo! Barely a few innings into tonight's game, Yooouukk is striding to the plate for a whack at the ball, and suddenly--an excruciating pain in his ankle. No contact with anything; no foul ball off it; no-one slid into it--just sudden pain. Before you know it, he's limping off the field and into the X-Ray room. Nothing showed, and he says he'll be "good to go" tomorrow, but the way this injury bug is biting, I'll believe it when I see it. Look who's gone: Jake and Hermida both out with busted ribs; JB has back problems; the Dustman and Tek both have foul ball broken feet;Martinez a busted thumb; Bucky a strained hammy; and on and on and on. It's like a war zone out there. Tonight with Yoouk gone, the Rays manager, Madden, realized that Papi had no protection in the lineup and just intentionally walked him three times, even to the point of putting him on in the 9th as the tying run. Why not? Not Yoouk to worry about making the Rays pay for this audacity. I mean, it had to happen eventually. Water seeks its own level, and, while I think that the lineup that Terry cobbles together on a daily basis has done an admirable job since the second week of the season, you have to face facts. At some point the bench guys just aren't going to be able to keep up.
So, maybe tomorrow Yoouk will feel OK and help right the ship, but the DL guys are still out. There's a bit of possibly encouraging news on the horizon. JB tossed 65 pitches in a simulated game against minor leaguers and is set to pitch for the Pawsox this weekend, and Jake is starting to throw again, and could be back with the club this weekend, but at least initially only as part of his rehab. At least he seems to be on the way back though. Strange to look at the daily league leaders and not see him listed under stolen bases.
I keep hoping that the regulars will all be back together and the result will be a surge in the standings for the team, but that's at least until August--if no-one else gets hurt in the meantime. Oooouuuuccchhhh!!

Happy 4th-NotFor Sox: Peter

Well, the Sox sure failed to give your mom a present for her birthday today, Jenn.Not that she cares. Her interests today were centered on Wimbledon where Rafa Nadal made her happy. Anyway, the Sox really shut down today. Other than a 9th inning solo shot by Yoooukk, they only had two hits for the entire balance. When you do that, even against a pitcher with a season ERA in the fours, you'll probably lose. And lose they did. Lackey pitched well enough to win had he any run support, but he didn't and so he didn't. Gave up four (just three earned) in seven and a third innings. He grabbed seven K's against a single free pass and his game WHIP was about 1.25, so he deserved better, but that's baseball. Unfortunately, both the Stripes and Rays won, so we're now 1.5 behind Mr. Hankie's Yankees and just a half game ahead of the Rays.

Both Hearts Beating: Peter

Jenn: One of the traditional expressions of the meat of a lineup in baseball is the Heart of the Order. It usually refers to the three through five hitters of the batting order because that's where the best and/or strongest hitters of a lineup are to be found. Well, tonight that heart and the Sox starter, Lester, who personifies heart both were beating loud and clear. Lester went seven giving up a single run in the 5th and getting 7 K's along the way. Better yet, he really pitched when it counted in the 1st when the O's were looking like they might break out and score. His WHIP for the game was ).857--pretty classy.

The other heart I referred to above was the Heart of the Order: Ortiz, Yooooukk and JD. Among them they were 8-12, JD being 3-3. They also collected six ribbies, four doubles and a HR. Beating quite loudly I'd say.

Let's hope they finish off the Birds tomorrow.

JD & The Team: Peter

Well, Jenn, tonight's game is simple to discuss in retrospect. JD put a pair in the cheaps and the moundsmen, both of 'em, kept the O's pretty much at bay. The roundtrippers were his 9th & 10th of the season. The finishing touch was then added by one of the Sox injury dictated callups from the PawSox, Nava. Wake started, thus passing The Rocket for all time lead in games started at the Fens by a Sox hurler, and, while he did allow two runs, he kept it manageable for the Sox hitters to take control. Allowing just seven hits and a single free pass in eight innings, he had a game WHIP of 1.0, nailing down four K's while he was at it. The Laser then took over for the 9th and it was classic Pap--three up, three down, including a pair of K's. This, after Nava pinch hit and drove in Scutaro from second where he'd landed after a two bagger with the winning run. Game, set and match.

On the negative side of things, I couldn't believe today when I learned that Tek is now on the DL with a broken foot. Not sure how he broke it, but this is getting way beyond ridiculous! I mean the team now has ten players on the DL for one thing or another. But two good things are coming of it. First, it's allowing the healthy guys to band together and chip in to keep things going well in spite of the injuries. Every player is contributing and that's the mark of a good team--you don't have to rely on the same individual every game. Second, the callups are gaining valuable MLB experience that you just can't get any other way. This benefits the Hose in two ways. First, it allows them the advantage of more MLB game experienced players when the need arises. That always helps. Second, when it's trade time, as much as you hate to give up quality experienced young players, you often can get more in the trade than you could otherwise. A good example of this is the way we got JB from the Marlins. We gave up one of the best young infielders around, Hanley Ramirez. Both teams benefited and look at the good stuff from JB for the Sox!
Now, if we can just manage to keep nine players on the field and a couple of good pitchers....
Tonight's win got us within a half game of Mr. Hankie's Yankees too.