That's right, in the final game of the series the Sox bats woke up and took the rubber neck, giving our boys in red a 2-1 lead in what will be an 18 game series by season's end. Good thing our pitching staff didn't screw it up.
Dice-K was on the mound again. But unlike his last two starts where he went 6 2/3 innings, last night he'd only make it through 5 throwing the most pitches so far at 116. Over those 116, Matsuzaka gave up 6 walks, 5 hits, and 4 runs. He did have 2 strike outs, but that's nothing compared to what he usually has. Since the Sox got 7 of their 8 runs over the first three innings Dice-K would end up with the win. It got a little hairy in the 4th, though when he gave up three runs. But thanks to most of the bullpen, the Yanks would never catch up.
I say most of the bullpen because the man who tried real hard to give up our lead was none other than Mike Timlin. In his two outings the man has not retired a single batter. Not one. And his ERA is 81. That's not a misprint. I said 81. I didn't even know an earned run average could get up that high. Kyle Snyder, who was designated for assignment a couple weeks ago, only had an ERA of 21.6. Timlin's is almost 4 times that. What the hell is Theo waiting for? I'm happy to see that Dad has finally seen the light. But unlike my father who's willing to give Timlin another shot, I say trade him. Now. DO NOT, under any circumstances, let that man pitch again. Unless of course the score is something like 60-0 in the Sox's favor. Even he couldn't screw that up.
And try as Timlin might, he didn't screw up last night's score either. Yes, Giambi got his 2nd homerun off him, but Lopez stopped the bleeding and ended the inning when he got Damon to ground into a double play and Cano to ground out to 2nd. Two batters, three outs. That's what relief pitching's supposed to be. Hey Mikey, you taking notes?
Lopez was doing such a great job, I don't know why they pulled him for the last 2/3 of the 9th. But pull him they did and Manny Delcarmen finished the job Lopez started. He got the next two outs and the game was over. Incendentally, one of those outs was a strike out from former American League MVP, Alex Rodriguez. The amazing hitter of last season didn't get one hit last night. He didn't even get a walk. It was kinda nice.
Another man without a hit for the evening was David Ortiz. But not because he continued having trouble swinging the bat. No our Big Papi was hitless because he didn't play. As sad as it was having Papi on the bench last night, Francona felt he needed a day off. As I've said before, Papi's frustrated by this slump and when someone gets that beaten up, it's good to have a day off. My mom used to call them mental health days. And that's what it was. And who knows, maybe that's all he'll need to get back, excuse the pun, into the swing of things.
So, with the first of six series behind us, it's onto Cleveland and the Indians. But don't worry, if it's the best rivalry in sports you crave, you won't have to wait long for another battle. The Sox will be seeing the Yanks again starting this Wednesday. And this time we'll be the visitors, as the two game series will be at the House that Ruth built.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Truly a Team Effort/Jenn May Be Right-Peter
Well, tonight's game was the rubber of this first series of 2008 with the Yanks. We won and it was truly a team effort. The Yankee starter, Hughes, never had it and the Sox started in right away in the first. Ellsbury led off with a walk, stole second, continuing to third when the throw ended up in center field, and later scored on Manny's single. On that same single, JD took third, having reached base a moment earlier by a walk. When Yanks catcher Molina couldn't handle a Hughes pitch, JD came home, followed a few moments later by Manny on Youk's sac fly--3-0 Sox.
After the Diceman gave up a run in the third (he was wild all night--six walks in 5 innings), the Sox immediately struck back with four in their half of the inning. Fueled in part by three Sox singles, one by Manny, they drove Hughes to an early shower, following shortly after by getting their final two of the inning on a wild pitch and an Ellsbury single.
Dice gave up three the very next inning, again partly due to his inability to put the ball where he wanted consistently. But he gamely soldiered on, making it through the fifth, thereby being eligible for the W should the Sox win. It was tough, though. He deserves credit for fighting through the game. Usually, when you throw 116 pitches in only five innings, the letter you'll get at game's end is a big L. But tonight, Dice was equal to the task he faced. Now all the Sox had to do was have the remains of their overworked pen nail it down. Easier said than done, believe you me!
Francona had said before the game that he didn't want to use Papelbon or Okajima tonight as they'd both worked yesterday. So barring something cataclysmic, they weren't available. Sixth inning, in comes Aardsma. Now he's been kind of interesting. So far, his ERA looks good and he does get outs, but he has also given up key hits at the wrong time. He starts off with two walks, and I'm already thinking who Terry can throw out there next before things get out of hand. Little did I know what was coming. But Aardsma finds whatever he lost and, other than the two walks, pitches two perfect innings. ERA drops to 2.35, we're through seven, and I'm starting to breathe a tiny bit easier.
Then comes the eighth and with it, Jenn's bete noir, Timlin. I scream a few undeleted expletives, and he lives down to them--immediately. Before the first game of this series, Giambi had only a single hit of any kind all season. He faced Timlin that night and got his second, what became a game winning home run. Tonight he waited until the third pitch from Timlin to duplicate his earlier feat. Another home run, this time not quite as long a drive. It ended up in the right center bull pen, JD just missing what would have been a highlight film catch--7-4. Two more batters follow and the Yanks suddenly have two men on base, trailing by three with the tying run coming to the plate and nobody out.
Lopez replaces Timlin, getting all three batters out, and then, just to give solid little emphasis to his performance under pressure, faces Abreu leading off the ninth and blows him away. Three pitches, three strikes.
This brings on the 'Other Manny', Delcarmen. I'm a bit concerned. Again, he has explosive speed, but sometimes is a bit careless about placement and the results on those occasions are not good--not one bit. But, hey! He only has to face ARod followed by Matsui. I'm imploring him to pitch as well as he can, but to 'be careful' on every pitch. I figure I'd rather see ARod get walked from too much caution by Delcarmen than put one on Lansdowne Street. However, Delcarmen does not disappoint--not me; he very definitely disappointed ARod. He challenged him and soon ARod was gone. Back to your place at the end of the bench, Mr. Rod. Assume the position, please. Matsui, known in his native Japan as King Kong for good reason gives Delcarmen a real workout in his at bat, but, in the end, Delcarmen gets him as well and the game is over; Sox win, 8-5. See ya' next week for a pair at Yankee Stadium.
Now, back to Timlin. I hate to say it, but Jenn may have been right yesterday. The guy still throws in the 90's consistently, but he's become consistently very hittable. This is not a trait a reliever wants to even contemplate, much less lay claim to. He gave us a lot of good innings over the last four years, and for that I'm grateful, but it may be time to hang 'em up. These last two outings look too consistent, and in the wrong way. Terry may want to give him a couple more chances when the game isn't hanging on the line, but I think we're at the end of the line here.
On another matter that has nothing to do with the game: a pro-Boston construction worker working on the construction of the new Yankee Stadium apparently planted an Ortiz Red Sox jersey in the foundation work as the concrete was being poured somewhere along the third base line. He was trying to put a permanent curse on the 'Stripes. It came out earlier this week in the New York Post, and, after much Yankee front office pooh poohing of the possibility, a couple of other workers turned up who witnessed the placement of the jersey. So, today some of Hankie and the Boss' money was expended to pay for five hours of good union overtime to jackhammer up the concrete until they could locate and remove the offending shirt. Will the curse remain? Won't know until next year, but I'll bet Hankie will be thinking of it while he continues to mouth off about it. Watch out, Hankie--the spirit of 'The Shirt' will be with you---Oooooooooooo.....
After the Diceman gave up a run in the third (he was wild all night--six walks in 5 innings), the Sox immediately struck back with four in their half of the inning. Fueled in part by three Sox singles, one by Manny, they drove Hughes to an early shower, following shortly after by getting their final two of the inning on a wild pitch and an Ellsbury single.
Dice gave up three the very next inning, again partly due to his inability to put the ball where he wanted consistently. But he gamely soldiered on, making it through the fifth, thereby being eligible for the W should the Sox win. It was tough, though. He deserves credit for fighting through the game. Usually, when you throw 116 pitches in only five innings, the letter you'll get at game's end is a big L. But tonight, Dice was equal to the task he faced. Now all the Sox had to do was have the remains of their overworked pen nail it down. Easier said than done, believe you me!
Francona had said before the game that he didn't want to use Papelbon or Okajima tonight as they'd both worked yesterday. So barring something cataclysmic, they weren't available. Sixth inning, in comes Aardsma. Now he's been kind of interesting. So far, his ERA looks good and he does get outs, but he has also given up key hits at the wrong time. He starts off with two walks, and I'm already thinking who Terry can throw out there next before things get out of hand. Little did I know what was coming. But Aardsma finds whatever he lost and, other than the two walks, pitches two perfect innings. ERA drops to 2.35, we're through seven, and I'm starting to breathe a tiny bit easier.
Then comes the eighth and with it, Jenn's bete noir, Timlin. I scream a few undeleted expletives, and he lives down to them--immediately. Before the first game of this series, Giambi had only a single hit of any kind all season. He faced Timlin that night and got his second, what became a game winning home run. Tonight he waited until the third pitch from Timlin to duplicate his earlier feat. Another home run, this time not quite as long a drive. It ended up in the right center bull pen, JD just missing what would have been a highlight film catch--7-4. Two more batters follow and the Yanks suddenly have two men on base, trailing by three with the tying run coming to the plate and nobody out.
Lopez replaces Timlin, getting all three batters out, and then, just to give solid little emphasis to his performance under pressure, faces Abreu leading off the ninth and blows him away. Three pitches, three strikes.
This brings on the 'Other Manny', Delcarmen. I'm a bit concerned. Again, he has explosive speed, but sometimes is a bit careless about placement and the results on those occasions are not good--not one bit. But, hey! He only has to face ARod followed by Matsui. I'm imploring him to pitch as well as he can, but to 'be careful' on every pitch. I figure I'd rather see ARod get walked from too much caution by Delcarmen than put one on Lansdowne Street. However, Delcarmen does not disappoint--not me; he very definitely disappointed ARod. He challenged him and soon ARod was gone. Back to your place at the end of the bench, Mr. Rod. Assume the position, please. Matsui, known in his native Japan as King Kong for good reason gives Delcarmen a real workout in his at bat, but, in the end, Delcarmen gets him as well and the game is over; Sox win, 8-5. See ya' next week for a pair at Yankee Stadium.
Now, back to Timlin. I hate to say it, but Jenn may have been right yesterday. The guy still throws in the 90's consistently, but he's become consistently very hittable. This is not a trait a reliever wants to even contemplate, much less lay claim to. He gave us a lot of good innings over the last four years, and for that I'm grateful, but it may be time to hang 'em up. These last two outings look too consistent, and in the wrong way. Terry may want to give him a couple more chances when the game isn't hanging on the line, but I think we're at the end of the line here.
On another matter that has nothing to do with the game: a pro-Boston construction worker working on the construction of the new Yankee Stadium apparently planted an Ortiz Red Sox jersey in the foundation work as the concrete was being poured somewhere along the third base line. He was trying to put a permanent curse on the 'Stripes. It came out earlier this week in the New York Post, and, after much Yankee front office pooh poohing of the possibility, a couple of other workers turned up who witnessed the placement of the jersey. So, today some of Hankie and the Boss' money was expended to pay for five hours of good union overtime to jackhammer up the concrete until they could locate and remove the offending shirt. Will the curse remain? Won't know until next year, but I'll bet Hankie will be thinking of it while he continues to mouth off about it. Watch out, Hankie--the spirit of 'The Shirt' will be with you---Oooooooooooo.....
Even 2 hours, 11 minutes Can't Phase Pap - Jenn
It's the top of the 8th inning. Pap was in the bullpen warming. Oakjima was on the mound. The score was 4-3 Sox. The clouds were swarming over Fenway. This is what games are made of. This is when you're on the edge of your seat, gnawing on your nails. It's a one run game and the evil empire has already taken the first of the series.
The first batter Okajima faced was Gonzalez who grounded out to Lugo. Then Johnny Demon (you remember our center fielder who went to the dark side for a little extra money) flied out to right when JD Drew made an Ellsbury/Crisp-type diving catch. 2 out, nobody on. But then there was a four pitch walk to Cabrera and Abreu lined up the middle. Suddenly the Bronx Bombers are threatening with two men on and A Rod (the reigning American League MVP) coming to the plate. It's time for Papelbon. And Francona agreed. He signaled to the bullpen and out came our closer.
That should've been the end of it. The game should've been over. But Mother Nature got involved. The clouds opened up and the rain started to fall. Pap sits down, the tarps come out and now we wait. And wait. After an hour there was hope when Pap started warming up again and they pulled the tarps back. But the rain wasn't finished, the tarps came back out and Pap was forced to take his seat once more.
During this 2 hour delay we saw the Diamondbacks crush Colorado in a 10-3 victory, heard about the upcoming Subway Fresh NASCAR race and learned a little bit more about the Sox closer. Did you know he likes Metallica and the Dropkick Murphys? Did you know he wrote a children's book? Neither did I. And at this moment, I didn't really care. Just play the rest of the game or call it, but don't keep me in this agony. And just in case the two hour delay wasn't horrible enough, Fox decided to show us the last time Pap faced A Rod. June of '07, again with the game on the line. A Rod homered and the Yanks won the game 6-5. Ouch. It was like they were jinxing the final inning and a third before Pap even got the chance to pitch. One time seeing this blast from the past was unnecessary, but the half dozen times they showed it, well that's just plain mean.
Finally after two hours the rain stopped and Pap took his place in the bullpen for the third time. Now a closer usually comes out in the 9th, sometimes in the 8th, gets his outs and saves the game. He usually only has to warm up once. But tonight Pap warmed up three times which means he threw more pitches than he's accustomed to in one outing. And that means, when he's finally ready to face the opposing team on the mound he may be done before he's even started. This is what Francona was thinking when he went to his closer and asked him if he thought he could get A Rod out. Like a lot of managers, Francona trusts his pitchers. He trusted Papelbon to be honest with him and let him know if he really could take out one of the best batters in the league. Pap said yes. And with that the Sox closer took the mound and Rodriguez stepped into the batters box.
But just in case Papelbon couldn't get A Rod out Francona had Timlin and Lopez warming up in the bullpen. All I could think was please no, not Timlin. Not again. Papelbon has to get Rodriguez out.
First pitch - a 95 mph fast ball that A Rod fouled back. Then the 89 mph splitter that A Rod swung on and missed. And finally a 96 mph fast ball that Papelbon blew by the MVP. Three strikes, he's out and we go to the bottom of the 8th. It may have taken 2 hours and 11 minutes for Pap to throw his first official pitch of the evening. But it only took a minute and 15 seconds to get the most important out of the game.
In the bottom of the 8th the Sox didn't even make it on base, which means it's onto the 9th and one last chance to save this game and get Beckett his first win. But the real question is, who's pitching. Will Tito allow the Sox closer to finish what he started or is the ball going to another reliever? Thankfully, Francona stuck to his word and trusted Papelbon to do what he does best - save this game.
After getting the count to 2-2, Pap throws a 97 mph fast ball and Giambi goes down swinging. One down. Posada steps in. After two strikes, a foul, two balls, and two more fouls, Pap got Posada to swing at his signature 96 mph fast ball and strike out. That's two. Now the only thing that stands between Papelbon and the the Sox getting their first win of the series is Robinson Cano.
First pitch is a ball. Then a swinging strike. Then a pitch that should have been a strike but got away from the closer to make the count 2-1. Cano fouls the next pitch back and it's 2-2. Another ball and it's now a full count. You can cut the tension with a knife. I can't even breathe. A foul down the first baseline. Then another down the third. Then Cano fouls it back to stay alive. And then -- the Subway Fresh NASCAR race. I'm sorry, the SUBWAY FRESH NASCAR RACE?! Are you f-ing kidding me? It's a full count! It's the top of the 9th inning! This could be the tying run. What the f***?!
I quickly picked up the remote and switched the channel to FX, but by that time, the game was over. Yes, we won. But I have no idea how Papelbon got Cano out. I know he didn't strike out, but I don't know if he grounded to the infield or flew to the outfield. All I know is that Fox decided to switch to a stupid NASCAR race during a very tense moment during a very tense game. Helloooo, can anyone out there say Heidi? (Thanks Dad.)
Now, I'm sure Joe Buck has more important things to do than read this blog, but in case his eyes happen to find it, a word of advice. IF you're going to switch to another sporting event during a tense game between the two biggest rival in sports might I suggest one of two options. A split screen or even better, switch BETWEEN BATTERS! Give those of us that don't give a s*** about NASCAR the opportunity to change channels without missing a thing. Just an idea.
Anyway that's four saves for my beloved closer and a tie going into today's final game. While I doubt Pap will be on the mound after yesterday's see-saw, Dice-K will and barring any screw-ups from the relief we may just take this series.
The first batter Okajima faced was Gonzalez who grounded out to Lugo. Then Johnny Demon (you remember our center fielder who went to the dark side for a little extra money) flied out to right when JD Drew made an Ellsbury/Crisp-type diving catch. 2 out, nobody on. But then there was a four pitch walk to Cabrera and Abreu lined up the middle. Suddenly the Bronx Bombers are threatening with two men on and A Rod (the reigning American League MVP) coming to the plate. It's time for Papelbon. And Francona agreed. He signaled to the bullpen and out came our closer.
That should've been the end of it. The game should've been over. But Mother Nature got involved. The clouds opened up and the rain started to fall. Pap sits down, the tarps come out and now we wait. And wait. After an hour there was hope when Pap started warming up again and they pulled the tarps back. But the rain wasn't finished, the tarps came back out and Pap was forced to take his seat once more.
During this 2 hour delay we saw the Diamondbacks crush Colorado in a 10-3 victory, heard about the upcoming Subway Fresh NASCAR race and learned a little bit more about the Sox closer. Did you know he likes Metallica and the Dropkick Murphys? Did you know he wrote a children's book? Neither did I. And at this moment, I didn't really care. Just play the rest of the game or call it, but don't keep me in this agony. And just in case the two hour delay wasn't horrible enough, Fox decided to show us the last time Pap faced A Rod. June of '07, again with the game on the line. A Rod homered and the Yanks won the game 6-5. Ouch. It was like they were jinxing the final inning and a third before Pap even got the chance to pitch. One time seeing this blast from the past was unnecessary, but the half dozen times they showed it, well that's just plain mean.
Finally after two hours the rain stopped and Pap took his place in the bullpen for the third time. Now a closer usually comes out in the 9th, sometimes in the 8th, gets his outs and saves the game. He usually only has to warm up once. But tonight Pap warmed up three times which means he threw more pitches than he's accustomed to in one outing. And that means, when he's finally ready to face the opposing team on the mound he may be done before he's even started. This is what Francona was thinking when he went to his closer and asked him if he thought he could get A Rod out. Like a lot of managers, Francona trusts his pitchers. He trusted Papelbon to be honest with him and let him know if he really could take out one of the best batters in the league. Pap said yes. And with that the Sox closer took the mound and Rodriguez stepped into the batters box.
But just in case Papelbon couldn't get A Rod out Francona had Timlin and Lopez warming up in the bullpen. All I could think was please no, not Timlin. Not again. Papelbon has to get Rodriguez out.
First pitch - a 95 mph fast ball that A Rod fouled back. Then the 89 mph splitter that A Rod swung on and missed. And finally a 96 mph fast ball that Papelbon blew by the MVP. Three strikes, he's out and we go to the bottom of the 8th. It may have taken 2 hours and 11 minutes for Pap to throw his first official pitch of the evening. But it only took a minute and 15 seconds to get the most important out of the game.
In the bottom of the 8th the Sox didn't even make it on base, which means it's onto the 9th and one last chance to save this game and get Beckett his first win. But the real question is, who's pitching. Will Tito allow the Sox closer to finish what he started or is the ball going to another reliever? Thankfully, Francona stuck to his word and trusted Papelbon to do what he does best - save this game.
After getting the count to 2-2, Pap throws a 97 mph fast ball and Giambi goes down swinging. One down. Posada steps in. After two strikes, a foul, two balls, and two more fouls, Pap got Posada to swing at his signature 96 mph fast ball and strike out. That's two. Now the only thing that stands between Papelbon and the the Sox getting their first win of the series is Robinson Cano.
First pitch is a ball. Then a swinging strike. Then a pitch that should have been a strike but got away from the closer to make the count 2-1. Cano fouls the next pitch back and it's 2-2. Another ball and it's now a full count. You can cut the tension with a knife. I can't even breathe. A foul down the first baseline. Then another down the third. Then Cano fouls it back to stay alive. And then -- the Subway Fresh NASCAR race. I'm sorry, the SUBWAY FRESH NASCAR RACE?! Are you f-ing kidding me? It's a full count! It's the top of the 9th inning! This could be the tying run. What the f***?!
I quickly picked up the remote and switched the channel to FX, but by that time, the game was over. Yes, we won. But I have no idea how Papelbon got Cano out. I know he didn't strike out, but I don't know if he grounded to the infield or flew to the outfield. All I know is that Fox decided to switch to a stupid NASCAR race during a very tense moment during a very tense game. Helloooo, can anyone out there say Heidi? (Thanks Dad.)
Now, I'm sure Joe Buck has more important things to do than read this blog, but in case his eyes happen to find it, a word of advice. IF you're going to switch to another sporting event during a tense game between the two biggest rival in sports might I suggest one of two options. A split screen or even better, switch BETWEEN BATTERS! Give those of us that don't give a s*** about NASCAR the opportunity to change channels without missing a thing. Just an idea.
Anyway that's four saves for my beloved closer and a tie going into today's final game. While I doubt Pap will be on the mound after yesterday's see-saw, Dice-K will and barring any screw-ups from the relief we may just take this series.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Manny Being Manny--and Papelbon Saves-Peter
Well, Jenn, at least you didn't have to worry about Timlin again today. Beckett is slowly, but surely coming around. He pitched a very nice 6 2/3 innings today, including 5 K's and a WHIP (for today's game) of less than 1.0! But the stars of the game were Manny and Papelbon. The former accounted for the Sox's first three runs. The first came on a drive that would still be traveling if it hadn't slammed into the second 'V' on the Volvo billboard. The folks at Volvo may be considering a new commercial for the safety of their cars as a result: "Volvo--the car that took a hit from Manny and is still OK"; or something to that effect. The next two Sox runs came on a first pitch line shot to right center by Manny after Yankees manager Girardi decided that Mussina could get Manny out. Sorry, Joey. Youk finished off the scoring with an RBI single that drove in Manny, who was running like he was being chased by someone with a knife--a very big knife.
An inning later, top of the 7th, Cano doubled in Posada and, with two gone, it was time for Beckett to do likewise. The 'other Manny', Delcarmen, came in, struck out the only batter he faced and that ended that. Moving to the 8th Okajima kept his spotless ERA, but created a little anxiety as he surrendered a walk and a hit, but no harm done overall. Except for one thing, his two men on base were there when he was relieved by the Bosox answer to (pick your favorite Biblical figure: we're nondenominational on this blog), Papelbon. Like Jenn's T-shirt says: 'Papelbon Saves'. Talk about tension. Who does he come in to face? ARod, the same guy who homered to win a game off him last year (the Skankees' first win against the Sox in '07). This, however, is '08. Three pitches--three strikes--inning over. Take a seat on the end of the bench Mr. Rod. Papelbon actually was even more amazing than this sounds because he came in to face ARod, but before he could throw a single pitch, the skies opened up and a two and a half hour rain delay ensued. When the tarp finally came off, he has to again warm up and finally gets ARod on the aforementioned three lasers. I mean how else can you describe his pitches? These things have such speed and power, not to mention accuracy, a batter has about the same chance a tank does against the Army's wire-guided missiles. After the Sox' half inning, Papelbon came in and duplicated his feats. This time he took down all three batters on a total of 16 pitches, striking out two of the three. Game over, let's get dinner.
Non-game commentary: Papi continues to go deeper into the slump. It's unfathomable, because for his career as a Sox, the only guy with more slugging achievements in a wide variety of categories is Number 9. That's pretty good company, but he's now 3 for 45 on the season, and no sign of any reversal. Watching him in today's game, he's got a good eye and not swinging at bad pitches. He just isn't getting hits. Got my fingers crossed. It'd be great for him to win tomorrow's game for the Diceman with a shot off Pesky's Pole. I'm hoping, and any of you fellow Sox fans who read the works of another Sox fan, Stephen King, know what he says about hope. Definitely applies here.
An inning later, top of the 7th, Cano doubled in Posada and, with two gone, it was time for Beckett to do likewise. The 'other Manny', Delcarmen, came in, struck out the only batter he faced and that ended that. Moving to the 8th Okajima kept his spotless ERA, but created a little anxiety as he surrendered a walk and a hit, but no harm done overall. Except for one thing, his two men on base were there when he was relieved by the Bosox answer to (pick your favorite Biblical figure: we're nondenominational on this blog), Papelbon. Like Jenn's T-shirt says: 'Papelbon Saves'. Talk about tension. Who does he come in to face? ARod, the same guy who homered to win a game off him last year (the Skankees' first win against the Sox in '07). This, however, is '08. Three pitches--three strikes--inning over. Take a seat on the end of the bench Mr. Rod. Papelbon actually was even more amazing than this sounds because he came in to face ARod, but before he could throw a single pitch, the skies opened up and a two and a half hour rain delay ensued. When the tarp finally came off, he has to again warm up and finally gets ARod on the aforementioned three lasers. I mean how else can you describe his pitches? These things have such speed and power, not to mention accuracy, a batter has about the same chance a tank does against the Army's wire-guided missiles. After the Sox' half inning, Papelbon came in and duplicated his feats. This time he took down all three batters on a total of 16 pitches, striking out two of the three. Game over, let's get dinner.
Non-game commentary: Papi continues to go deeper into the slump. It's unfathomable, because for his career as a Sox, the only guy with more slugging achievements in a wide variety of categories is Number 9. That's pretty good company, but he's now 3 for 45 on the season, and no sign of any reversal. Watching him in today's game, he's got a good eye and not swinging at bad pitches. He just isn't getting hits. Got my fingers crossed. It'd be great for him to win tomorrow's game for the Diceman with a shot off Pesky's Pole. I'm hoping, and any of you fellow Sox fans who read the works of another Sox fan, Stephen King, know what he says about hope. Definitely applies here.
How Do I Hate Timlin, Let Me Count the Ways - Jenn
TIMLIN!!!! If anyone out there is a fan of the cartoon, "South Park", you all know the character of Timmy. He's a wheelchair bound 4th grader who when speaks can only scream his name. That's how I say Timlin's name now. And I do it because this man is just as challenged at throwing a baseball as Timmy is at speaking.
He's just bad. Sooooooooooooo bad. You know, it's funny. Last year whenever I was at a game and Timlin came up to pitch I would boo my head off. He usually gets us into more trouble than he would if he'd stayed on the bench. But every time I booed, Sox fans around me would scoff and say "how can you boo? He's great. Remember the '04 Series"? Seriously? That's what you're giving me? The '04 World Series? That was three (now four) years ago. A lot's changed in this ball club I love so much. We've got practically a whole new pitching staff (Wakefield and Schilling are all that remain), Varitek and Youk are all that's left of the infield, Manny in the outfield and Papi as our designated hitter. That's it.
Besides the staff changes, people get older. Their bodies wear out. Schilling is a perfect example. This was supposed to be his final year, and where is he? On the 60 day DL with a shoulder problem. So the Timlin of four years ago is not the Timlin of today. Every time I see him up in the bullpen, I get tense. Because I know, even if we're ahead, we won't be by the time he leaves the mound.
And last night, it happened again. His first day back after recovering from a finger laceration that put him on the 15 day DL and he can't even make it through one inning. The first batter he faced was Giambi. The only batter with a worse average than Papi at a frightening .056. Yes, Timlin got Giambi to a full count. But on the sixth pitch, Giambi crushed the ball to straight-away center field where it ricocheted off the television cameras and into the seats. 2-1 Yanks.
Okay, so we're losing by one, we can make that up. But then Molina came to bat. He already had a double off Buchholz. Maybe Timlin can get him out. Right. One pitch and Molina sent the ball to the gap in left center landing him on 2nd base with nobody out. Time for a conversation from pitching coach John Farrell. But that conversation didn't help number 50.
Gonzalez bunted moving Molina to 3rd and after 3 batters, one out, and 1 run that would turn into two, Timlin was pulled. And the agony was over. As was the game. The Sox couldn't recover and they lost.
Needless to say this is not the pitcher of 2004. As one of the oldest pitchers on staff, it may be time for Timlin to hang up his cleats. He's got 2 series rings and several good years behind him. But at some point you need to face the music. Now is that time. Corey was designated for assignment to make room for Timlin. And while Corey wasn't really helping the bullpen, he definitely wasn't any worse. And he was much younger. There was time to grow, to learn. There's no time left for Timlin. He needs to be put out to pasture. While I know last night won't be the last we see of Timlin, I can hope, can't I?
He's just bad. Sooooooooooooo bad. You know, it's funny. Last year whenever I was at a game and Timlin came up to pitch I would boo my head off. He usually gets us into more trouble than he would if he'd stayed on the bench. But every time I booed, Sox fans around me would scoff and say "how can you boo? He's great. Remember the '04 Series"? Seriously? That's what you're giving me? The '04 World Series? That was three (now four) years ago. A lot's changed in this ball club I love so much. We've got practically a whole new pitching staff (Wakefield and Schilling are all that remain), Varitek and Youk are all that's left of the infield, Manny in the outfield and Papi as our designated hitter. That's it.
Besides the staff changes, people get older. Their bodies wear out. Schilling is a perfect example. This was supposed to be his final year, and where is he? On the 60 day DL with a shoulder problem. So the Timlin of four years ago is not the Timlin of today. Every time I see him up in the bullpen, I get tense. Because I know, even if we're ahead, we won't be by the time he leaves the mound.
And last night, it happened again. His first day back after recovering from a finger laceration that put him on the 15 day DL and he can't even make it through one inning. The first batter he faced was Giambi. The only batter with a worse average than Papi at a frightening .056. Yes, Timlin got Giambi to a full count. But on the sixth pitch, Giambi crushed the ball to straight-away center field where it ricocheted off the television cameras and into the seats. 2-1 Yanks.
Okay, so we're losing by one, we can make that up. But then Molina came to bat. He already had a double off Buchholz. Maybe Timlin can get him out. Right. One pitch and Molina sent the ball to the gap in left center landing him on 2nd base with nobody out. Time for a conversation from pitching coach John Farrell. But that conversation didn't help number 50.
Gonzalez bunted moving Molina to 3rd and after 3 batters, one out, and 1 run that would turn into two, Timlin was pulled. And the agony was over. As was the game. The Sox couldn't recover and they lost.
Needless to say this is not the pitcher of 2004. As one of the oldest pitchers on staff, it may be time for Timlin to hang up his cleats. He's got 2 series rings and several good years behind him. But at some point you need to face the music. Now is that time. Corey was designated for assignment to make room for Timlin. And while Corey wasn't really helping the bullpen, he definitely wasn't any worse. And he was much younger. There was time to grow, to learn. There's no time left for Timlin. He needs to be put out to pasture. While I know last night won't be the last we see of Timlin, I can hope, can't I?
Friday, April 11, 2008
Here We Go Again-Peter
Well, they're here--the spawn of Steinbrenner, chaired this time around by 'The Boss's' little boy, Hankie (actually, he goes by Hank, but I like Hankie better--fits the personality, I think). You know Hankie--the one who this spring said the idea of Red Sox Nation was false--that there was no such entity all over the country--that the 'real' 'nation' was the Skankees.
Anyway, here's the setup--Wang v. Buchholtz; last year's 19 game winner v. last year's No-Hit rookie. For six innings things were going pretty well. The score was knotted at 1, the Sox having gotten on the board by virtue of another J.D. gem, a high fly to right that found its way into the seats. That's Drew's third 4-bagger of the young season. Coupled with a couple of other long flies that were caught in the inning, there was a hint that the Sox were just a batter or two away from getting to Wang, and maybe, taking over the game. Alas, it was not to be.
Entering the game at the start of the sixth (he didn't make it to the end of the inning) was Jenn's favorite (NOT) pitcher, the inimitable Mike Timlin. Unfortunately, tonight he showed the reason for Jenn's opprobrium. Giambi came up on a 1 for 22 famine as leadoff and promptly put one out of the park--2-1 'Stripes. As if that weren't enough, he then allowed the next batter, Jose Molina, a double, followed by a journey to third on a sacrifice. so he could score on a sac fly by the first batter Okajima faced in an emergency appearance to staunch the bleeding before it got totally out of hand. Three-one 'Stripes.
That was pretty much it for the evening. The only hit the Hose managed other than J.D.'s drive was a bunt single by Coco late in the game--too late to make any difference, especially since no-one else was hitting.
Speaking of which--with another 0-3 evening, Papi is now just one for his last twentyfive at bats! I mean, come on--this is getting serious! Is it possible his surgically repaired knee is bothering him and causing this? The Boston Globe reported that he was seen before the last Detroit game with a huge ice pack on the very same knee. I certainly hope not--it's one thing to call up a kid from the Pawsox. It's quite another to try to replace someone of Papi's ability. It's like they say for the best reason to invest in real estate--they aren't making any more.
Well, tomorrow's another day and the game is televised, as is Sunday night's--the ESPN Sunday game of the week. Win 'em both and we're back ahead of the Bronx crowd.
Anyway, here's the setup--Wang v. Buchholtz; last year's 19 game winner v. last year's No-Hit rookie. For six innings things were going pretty well. The score was knotted at 1, the Sox having gotten on the board by virtue of another J.D. gem, a high fly to right that found its way into the seats. That's Drew's third 4-bagger of the young season. Coupled with a couple of other long flies that were caught in the inning, there was a hint that the Sox were just a batter or two away from getting to Wang, and maybe, taking over the game. Alas, it was not to be.
Entering the game at the start of the sixth (he didn't make it to the end of the inning) was Jenn's favorite (NOT) pitcher, the inimitable Mike Timlin. Unfortunately, tonight he showed the reason for Jenn's opprobrium. Giambi came up on a 1 for 22 famine as leadoff and promptly put one out of the park--2-1 'Stripes. As if that weren't enough, he then allowed the next batter, Jose Molina, a double, followed by a journey to third on a sacrifice. so he could score on a sac fly by the first batter Okajima faced in an emergency appearance to staunch the bleeding before it got totally out of hand. Three-one 'Stripes.
That was pretty much it for the evening. The only hit the Hose managed other than J.D.'s drive was a bunt single by Coco late in the game--too late to make any difference, especially since no-one else was hitting.
Speaking of which--with another 0-3 evening, Papi is now just one for his last twentyfive at bats! I mean, come on--this is getting serious! Is it possible his surgically repaired knee is bothering him and causing this? The Boston Globe reported that he was seen before the last Detroit game with a huge ice pack on the very same knee. I certainly hope not--it's one thing to call up a kid from the Pawsox. It's quite another to try to replace someone of Papi's ability. It's like they say for the best reason to invest in real estate--they aren't making any more.
Well, tomorrow's another day and the game is televised, as is Sunday night's--the ESPN Sunday game of the week. Win 'em both and we're back ahead of the Bronx crowd.
The Good and the Bad - Jenn
Since Dad gave you a good synopsis of the game yesterday, I'm going to focus on some of the high points. And unfortunately a couple low points.
First the bad news. The biggest of which is David Ortiz. In his 36 times to the plate this season, Papi only has three hits. Three. That's Manny territory. We're used to seeing Manny be Manny and not make any real headway 'til late April and even early May. That's not the case this season. For some reason there's a new attitude from our left fielder and he's hitting. It's like Papi and Manny switched places. And Papi's frustrated. You can see it on his face. The man who usually has a smile as big as his frame has been a grouch. And it's understandable. After all every time he comes to hit, he either strikes out, grounds into that damn shift or walks. And thank God for the walks. At least those have kept his OBP above .200. But seeing Papi's batting average yesterday at a dismal .083 is frightening. Not just for the Fenway faithful, but for Papi himself. Yesterday each and every Sox batter that came to the plate got a hit. And Ortiz? He was hitless. I don't think I've ever seen a game when every member of the team has gotten on base and Ortiz hasn't. It's a little disconcerting. Now if this were Manny we'd all be saying, "be patient, it's still early in the season" And it is. But this is new territory - for us and for Papi. I'm sure he'll come out of this slump, the question is when. I hope, as I'm sure he does, it's sooner rather than later. Maybe seeing the evil team in pinstripes will get his bat up to snuff.
Then there's the bullpen. They have not been at their best. And yesterday when we were ahead 8-3 and there was no way we couldn't win, Tavarez came in. Not the starter of the '07 season, the reliever of '06. The man who couldn't strike anyone out. I was mortified as I watched our lead dwindle from the safety of five runs to just two. These are the times I, like most Sox fans I know, are yelling at the TV screen. And why Okajima was pulled in favor of Tavarez, no one except Francona knows. Thankfully he stopped the bleeding by getting that double play, but if the Tavarez of '08 is returning to the Tavarez of '06, I may need to fast forward through his innings.
Now the good news. Yes, it's unfortunate that this early in the season Lowell is out. But Youkilis, as we've seen in the past, is more than capable at 3rd and the new guy in Sean Casey was a great trade in the off season. This guy can hit! He may have only gotten two hits in his five at bats yesterday but with a double and three RBI's he can fill in for Youk any time. While it's true that there may have been some pent up anger fueling his bat because he was facing the team that let him go, he's been a great addition to this team. I'm sure when it comes to interleague play he'll be a nice substitute for the Papi, Youk, Lowell triangle.
Then there's Kevin Cash, aka Mirabelli's replacement. So far, this kid is doing a fine job as Wakefield's catcher. Yes, there were a couple miscues yesterday in his overthrow to 2nd and the passed ball, but he's holding his own. And he's hitting. With an average of .286, it's nice to see a catcher that can handle Wakefield's knuckler and get a hit or two.
Clay Buchholz takes the mound today for his first start against the evil empire. With Buchholz pitching, Manny and Casey hitting, this may be our chance to take an early lead in the standings. And as I said earlier, maybe seeing our nemesis is all the incentive Papi needs to wake up his bat. Can't wait 'til 4 o'clock.
First the bad news. The biggest of which is David Ortiz. In his 36 times to the plate this season, Papi only has three hits. Three. That's Manny territory. We're used to seeing Manny be Manny and not make any real headway 'til late April and even early May. That's not the case this season. For some reason there's a new attitude from our left fielder and he's hitting. It's like Papi and Manny switched places. And Papi's frustrated. You can see it on his face. The man who usually has a smile as big as his frame has been a grouch. And it's understandable. After all every time he comes to hit, he either strikes out, grounds into that damn shift or walks. And thank God for the walks. At least those have kept his OBP above .200. But seeing Papi's batting average yesterday at a dismal .083 is frightening. Not just for the Fenway faithful, but for Papi himself. Yesterday each and every Sox batter that came to the plate got a hit. And Ortiz? He was hitless. I don't think I've ever seen a game when every member of the team has gotten on base and Ortiz hasn't. It's a little disconcerting. Now if this were Manny we'd all be saying, "be patient, it's still early in the season" And it is. But this is new territory - for us and for Papi. I'm sure he'll come out of this slump, the question is when. I hope, as I'm sure he does, it's sooner rather than later. Maybe seeing the evil team in pinstripes will get his bat up to snuff.
Then there's the bullpen. They have not been at their best. And yesterday when we were ahead 8-3 and there was no way we couldn't win, Tavarez came in. Not the starter of the '07 season, the reliever of '06. The man who couldn't strike anyone out. I was mortified as I watched our lead dwindle from the safety of five runs to just two. These are the times I, like most Sox fans I know, are yelling at the TV screen. And why Okajima was pulled in favor of Tavarez, no one except Francona knows. Thankfully he stopped the bleeding by getting that double play, but if the Tavarez of '08 is returning to the Tavarez of '06, I may need to fast forward through his innings.
Now the good news. Yes, it's unfortunate that this early in the season Lowell is out. But Youkilis, as we've seen in the past, is more than capable at 3rd and the new guy in Sean Casey was a great trade in the off season. This guy can hit! He may have only gotten two hits in his five at bats yesterday but with a double and three RBI's he can fill in for Youk any time. While it's true that there may have been some pent up anger fueling his bat because he was facing the team that let him go, he's been a great addition to this team. I'm sure when it comes to interleague play he'll be a nice substitute for the Papi, Youk, Lowell triangle.
Then there's Kevin Cash, aka Mirabelli's replacement. So far, this kid is doing a fine job as Wakefield's catcher. Yes, there were a couple miscues yesterday in his overthrow to 2nd and the passed ball, but he's holding his own. And he's hitting. With an average of .286, it's nice to see a catcher that can handle Wakefield's knuckler and get a hit or two.
Clay Buchholz takes the mound today for his first start against the evil empire. With Buchholz pitching, Manny and Casey hitting, this may be our chance to take an early lead in the standings. And as I said earlier, maybe seeing our nemesis is all the incentive Papi needs to wake up his bat. Can't wait 'til 4 o'clock.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
