Cheating & the Hall...

The recent Mitchell report has stirred the debate about cheating & who deserves to be in the Hall of Fame and who doesn't.

First, what is considered cheating? Obviously anything that breaks a rule. For pitchers, spitballs, sandpaper or other ways of changing the flight of the ball. For batters, corked bats & too much pine tar come to mind. Most recently, the use of performance enhancing supplements & drugs are in the forefront. Just because MLB & the players association didn't have an agreed upon policy regarding specific enhancements, players knew full well what they were doing was wrong. Not to mention that steroids aren't legal, and obtaining HGH from a dentist isn't exactly above board.

Whether it was curiousity, feeling inadequate, or just wanting to keep your job, it's cheating to take enhancements that aren't allowed. Some old timers like Gaylord Perry insist that players must have ability for these enhancements to work in the first place. He admittedly used corked bats but proclaimed it didn't help because he was a lousy hitter anyway. His point was that enhancements only help if you have enough talent. "It won't help you throw strikes".

He doesn't get it. The point is they had a premeditated thought about using a substance to give them an edge. To what degree it helped or not doesn't matter. The point is they did something wrong intentionally to improve their performance. If you rob a bank and only take $10,000 vs. $500,000 you still go to jail. The amount doesn't matter, it's the act.

Are there different levels of cheating? Can you consider a spitball or corked bat as serious as taking HGH? Cheating is cheating. If you are changing the game at any point, what is the difference? From a pure baseball standpoint, why is one worse than the other? All are against the rules. Is it any different from a moral standpoint? No - because they did it with forethought and intent.

People tend to think steroids & HGH are worse because they are illegal and ultimately harmful to the individual. Hard to disagree. But "greenies" or amphetamines have been around forever, and apparently their use was widespread. They provided an advantage but no one is up in arms about that. Why? No difference.

Recently, a couple of local columnists with Hall of Fame votes were disscussing how things have changed. It was an honor to have a vote in the past, but now that has switched to being a burden. They have now become more than a gatekeeper deciding whose numbers warrant entry. Now they have to determine if someone in fact cheated, and if that cheating should keep them out of the Hall.

It sounds like that type of decision should be made by a committee. Maybe MLB should form one with specific criteria to determine who is eligible & who is not and keep certain players off the ballott. Right now, they rely on the personal viewpoints of sportswriters who have their own agendas and criteria. This should be in place throughout the steroid era.

Respected journalists like Tim Kurkjian want more proof that Bonds willingly took steroids. Others think that certain players had Hall of Fame numbers before they were linked by the Mitchell report and should get in. It's hard to accept those points of view. There was intent and proof of cheating. One of the reasons the Mitchell report has so much weight is that the sources will go to jail if their statements are proven false. There is also corroboration of the facts by at least one other witness. Pettitte pretty much sunk Clemens's ship with his admission. Do you really need a picture of a needle in someone's behind for proof? Look at the size of Bonds head...

Keep your asterisk's in the record books, but out of the Hall. Whatever the reason was for cheating, it should keep you out of the Hall. It shouldn't matter when, especially because we will never truly know the where & when. Just because the Mitchell report shows one timeline doesn't mean there aren't more instances beforehand. Those players should be considered tainted & ineligible.

With only 200+ members of the Hall, it is MLB's responsibility to ensure that only the best of the best get into the Hall. Today's voters have too much power and use their own criteria and prejudice to decide who gets in. There is no accountability for their actions. The process is broken, plain and simple. MLB needs to step up & fix it.

Pete Rose is out for gambling, not altering his performance
Gaylord Perry is in despite cheating, alterting his perfomance
Mark McGuire is out for steroids, altering his performance

Cheating is cheating regardless of the "degree". Perry shouldn't be in, bottom line. He admitted it became part of his craft.

But gambling is worse? At least you can defend it as a disease. Not saying that Rose should get in, but doesn't this seem backwards?

Mitchell Report tarnishes Clemens, Pettite, and Yankee rings...

More than a dozen Yankees were named in Mitchell's findings with only Bonds being mentioned more often than Clemens. That's quite a statement. But the somewhat surprising news came in the form of Pettite. The other surprise? How many of these guys named were on any of the Yankee World Series teams of the late 90's:

1998: Andy Pettitte, Chuck Knoblauch, Mike Stanton, Darren Holmes

1999: Andy Pettitte, Chuck Knoblauch, Roger Clemens, Mike Stanton, Jason Grimsley, Daniel Naulty

2000: Andy Pettitte, Chuck Knoblauch, Roger Clemens, Mike Stanton, Jason Grimsley, David Justice, Jose Canseco, Glenallen Hill, Denny Neagle

While the timing of their indescretions vary, it still raises an eyebrow. Let's give them a free pass on 98 for arguments sake.

Now add in the fact that Clemens and Pettite use the same trainer, train together in the offseason, and are best buds, well, you do the math. You also have 4 other teammates on the juice as well. Coincidences are starting to pile up.

Even more so in 2000 when 9 teammates were juicing. Coincidence? Sure doesn't look that way. Let's not give Yankee management a free pass on this one either. If you were able to get your hands on internal memos you can bet your bottom dollar they knew most of these guys were juicing. Maybe 1 or 2 guys might slide through the cracks, but 9? Don't think so...

That being said, these Yankee teams were also very talented. The ultimate question is would they still have won if these guys weren't on roids? While no one can say for sure, you have to at least question it now knowing what we know. Two guys in your rotation is enough to raise a red flag, never mind 7 others.

Almost feel bad for the Yankee fans that have been clinging to the only thing they can - those precious rings. Sorry kids, but those rings and the "clean cut" image of the Yankees of yesteryear have been severly damaged. They can't take the rings back, but it doesn't matter. They don't have the same weight as say 2004 or 2007...

For those conspiracy theorists out there, Mitchell does have an interest in the Red Sox. However, he was part of a PANEL that included Federal Investigators and other officials. All of his interviews are documented and were held with other agencies present. If he chose to exclude something from his report, don't you think someone from the panel or other agency would speak up?

Takin care of business...

With the signings of Schill & Lowell, the Sox were able to reload for 08. Two of the most popular and productive guys are back - and both at a discount to what the market would bear. Can’t say that about any of the Yankees, can you?

They are back only because they want to be here. Schill would have commanded huge dollars on the open market (not to mention an extra year) and Lowell had a guaranteed 4th year and more money from two other teams. Speaks volumes about Boston & their Sox teammates. It’s a great feeling that not just one, but two guys leave money on the table. You almost never find that in professional sports, never mind the same team. That’s a pride you’ll never feel in NY. It’s only about the money in your backyard. How’s that working out by the way?

These signings are also significant to the 2008 squad. The rotation now has 6 viable starters. That gives them a lot of flexibility and also provides protection against injuries. Not sure if Farrell was sincere in talking about using a 6 man rotation, but why not. The Lowell signing was also big in that they retained a gold glove and #5 hitter. It also keeps the farm intact.

What are their needs this offseason?
They really could do nothing and be fine. But it’s almost a guarantee that Coco will be dealt. The amazing part is that the Sox are actually in the drivers seat. When did that happen last?

Pitching is always something they have their eye on, but they may go after a catcher to be the ultimate replacement of Varitek. They also have the luxury of grabbing a top tier prospect who isn’t ready for the show.

They'll also be extending Francona at some point soon, and don't be surprised to see Varitek sign a two year extension.

Bullpen
They are fairly solid again next year. With Papelbon, Okajima, and Delcarmen they have a solid base. Tavares is back, and they will probably make offers to Timlin and Donnelly. You’ve got Craig Hansen and Edgar Martinez on the farm, but don’t be surprised to see the Sox acquire someone in a Coco deal or even sign a Kerry Wood at the right price.

Will they pursue Santana?
No question. However, they will probably have to give up more than they want to. What will the Twins will ask for? How about Bucholtz, Elsbury, Lester, and another top prospect like Craig Hansen. For argument sake, let’s say you can lock up Santana long term for $18-20M per season (he's also looking for 7 years which puts him at age 35). Do you make that deal? Keep in mind that you would have a 1-2 of Beckett and Santana, followed by Dice-K, Schill, and Wake. Formidable to say the least. If you can replace Elsbury with Coco, even better.

The downside is that you have created a hole for your 2009 squad in the #4 & #5 starter positions. You’ve also relinquished control over 2 young arms as well as the financial benefit of their low salaries. That’s gold in today’s standards. What it comes down to is how you can fill those voids. Maybe there are guys within the system like Masterson who may be ready by then. But at the end of the day, how many GM’s would love to have the problem of only finding two back of the rotation guys? You’ll pay a premium for mediocrity, but that’s all you need back there anyway.

Pull the trigger?
You may be crazy not to. You never know what can happen. Cleveland’s top two starters only stand to get better, and meeting them in the playoffs next year could yield different results. Although Bucholtz tossed a no hitter, there’s no guarantee he’s a #1 stud. Lester will be a good major league pitcher. But Santana is a proven #1 stud over multiple seasons. Keeping him out of the Bronx would make the Yanks weaker as well. Sometimes we become too enamored with our own prospects, but at the end of the day are only prospects - despite our emotional connection. Can you imagine a two headed monster of Beckett/Santana? Let’s hope Theo can…

A-Rod signing secures 10 more years of Playoff futility in NY...

Yup, that’s right Yanks fans, you just landed your future 42 year old DH. You are now living the nightmare that some Sox fans thought they would be enduring, so congratulations from Red Sox Nation!

A-Rod decided to crawl back to the Bronx after the marketplace crumbled under the weight of Boras’s latest inflated price. With only a handful of teams ABLE to meet the financial burden, none were biting. He's barely earning more that the contract he opted out of. It's actually less over the next few years. That speaks volumes.

If he really wanted to be a Yankee, he wouldn't have opted out of his contract in the first place. The reasons he provided for his return are laughable. His family is welcome & comfortable? Let’s not forget the NY tabloids and his wife’s famous expletive t-shirt. But Yankee fans are savvy enough to recognize when they’re being BS’d. Otherwise you’re traveling on the biggest river in the Middle East & Africa (denial - get it). Sorry, it's the offseason...

What you see is what you get...

You’ll get your solid numbers in the regular season for maybe 6 or 7 years, but 10? Doubtful. Even with a guy that doesn't have a history of injuries, there are few in history productive at 38 & 39 - especially at that pricetag.





The biggest fear of Sox fans was to have this guy join the Sox and then proceed to kill the chemistry in the clubhouse & disappear in the playoffs. He can’t seem to handle the pressure or big moments, plain and simple. There are too many examples of him slapping balls & yelling "I got it". It would have been really tough for some of us to root for this guy. But now we don't have to. Sweet.

So how long will it be before A-Rod is playing first? Or will he be fighting Jeter for that honor in 5 or 6 years? Regardless, the "new" Yanks management has just slung an albatross across their backs. A 10 year deal is risky for a 25 yr old, never mind a 32 year old. It's only a matter of when it hurts them, not if. The Yanks motto of spend for all-stars on the back side of their careers continue. They can obviously afford to do so, but how's that been working out?


Well, enjoy Yanks fans. It's all A-Rod for a good long time...


Signing a 10 year deal for a 32 year old? Dumb.

You'll be disappointed until 2018. Classic.

Another 10 years without a ring. Priceless.

Sox Sweep 2nd World Series in 4 Years!

In impressive style, the Sox rolled off 7 straight playoff wins to take home the trophy. They not only survived but dominated each of the 3 elimination games against the Indians. Contributions came from every position. It's the first time in a while that the team with the best regular season record won the World Series.

Most people are pointing to the 8 day layoff for the Rockies leading to their downfall. But if you look at their stats during the ALDS & ALCS they weren't impressive. They had solid pitching against poor lineups. The Sox dominated them in every category.

World Series & Playoff Records - a few of the many...
Biggest run differential ever in WS – 29-10 (19 runs)
Greatest run differential in playoffs – 99-46 (53 runs)
7 game win streak – outscored opponents by astounding 59-15
Second highest BA ever in WS

Only mananger to win 8 straight WS games

Best stat from the Playoffs? Dice-K batted 1 for 1 with RISP with 2 RBI - while A-Rod is 0-21 and only 1 RBI in the last 3+ seasons...

Free Agents

The playoffs were redemption time for both JD Drew and Julio Lugo. Both had sub-par regular seasons but really stepped it up when it counted. You can't put a pricetag on that - just ask A-Rod. It's safe to say that their performances in the post season wiped out any poor performances during the regular season. Expect good things from these guys next season.

The Kids are alright...

We almost forget that Pedroia is a rookie because he performed all season. What a weapon the newest Dirt Dog will be now with playoff success under his belt. Ellsbury is going to be a star. Would he have been the first "rookie" to ever have won the World Series MVP the season BEFORE? (his status for next season will be a rookie) - Almost happened... Jon Lester looked really good in his first ever playoff start. He'll have nothing but confidence coming in next year bundled with a full offseason of conditioning. Delcarmen had a great season and should take the 7th inning role. Could be the most dominant bullpen in the majors next season.

Japanese Connection:

Dice-K & Okajima are also rookies. Just think about the cultural and baseball operational differences they encountered. Their diet is drastically different, not to mention finding appetizing food. Can you imagine needing a third person just to communicate every day? Now imagine yourself being dropped off in downtown Tokyo with no english signs anywhere. Now think about that happening each time you are on a road trip. You have trained your entire career to pitch every 6th day and now you are required to every 5th day. The extent of your road trips was confined to a ride on a bullett train and now you travel in a cramped airliner for 6 hours and subjected to time zone changes. Now that is an adjustment. Amazing how well they performed with all of those distractions. They'll be even better next season now that they know the routine.

Might be gone:

Mike Lowell - don't let Yanks get chance to bid on him. And we don't want A-Rod (see clubhouse, playoffs). 3rd option is Youkie & trade Crisp for a 1B

Schilling - Sox can afford the risk at $13M but they may not. Unfortunately may come down to him or Wake.

Wake - Will injuries force him to hang it up or will he give it another shot? Sox would be willing...

Mirabelli - actually may be expendable even if Wake stays...

Timlin - might be time to hang em up, but worth a shot for 1 more season

Tavares - good insurance policy, might want to be a starter elsewhere

Kielty - WS hero to be replaced with Kapler?

Sayonara Division:

Eric Gagne we hardly knew ye. Despite his #'s he enabled Okajima to get rest down the stretch.

Coco Crisp - Ellsbury dazzled the masses. We'll miss his defense. Never fully developed his bat.

Javier Lopez - cheap, but not reliable down the stretch

Pound Sand Division:

To all of you Yankee fans who proclaimed the Sox wouldn't win for another 86 years... Pound Sand & get a new slogan. We like the Sox to break the goals you set for them. Thanks.

Yankee Reaction:

Don't look now Yankee fans, but the "younger" Steinbrenners are wackier than the old man. So far in the media they have shown to be bitter, arrogant, and frankly dumb. Whatever quote they published about not dealing with A-Rod is just bad business. "Never let anyone outside the family know what you're thinking again." Thanks Vito!

Hank Steinbrenner (Sr. VP) didn't congratulate the Sox like Georgie did. He proclaimed; "The Red Sox can have their Nation. The Yankees have the universe." The universe of second place? One & done? Being dilusional is not a good trait for management. Kicking Torre out the door was their biggest mistake. They just let the glue (or what was left of it) of the franchise walk away after 12 years of outstanding service for $3M. $3M. That figure will haunt you for years. Perhaps 87 or so...

Congrats to the Sox & all of you lucky Jordan Furniture winners!!! Enjoy your offseason!

Full Throttle at Fenway!

Wow. What an amazing start for the Sox. Welcome to Fenway you Colorado Rockies!

Beckett is close to unbeatable. In 30 post season innings, he has 35K’s and only 2 walks with a 1.20 ERA. Legendary stuff. This is history in the making - so make sure you’re soaking it all in. If he pitches again he could be the first pitcher to win 5 post season games in a season – EVER. Only 2 guys in post season HISTORY have a better ERA with at least 70 innings pitched. Simply amazing.

Guess you can say the layoff had some effect on the Rockies. The Sox essentially opened up a can of whoop ass. The formula for success in game 1 was to have a dominating Beckett (almost automatic now) and to get some early runs. This would keep the upstart Rockies on their heels. From Beckett striking out the first 4 batters to Pedroia’s lead-off homer, they executed the plan perfectly. The Rockies had no chance.

As good as the Rockies were playing, the Sox are on their own roll after dominating the Indians 30-5 in a 3 game stretch. This patient and relentless lineup is on pace to scorch the record books. They broke numerous World Series and postseason offensive records last night:
- Only team to score double digits in 3 straight postseason games
- Most runs ever scored in WS Game 1
- Largest margin of victory in any WS Game
- Tied most extra base hits in any WS Game (by the 5th inning!)
- Pedroia is only 2nd batter to lead off WS Game 1 with a HR (never mind rookie)
- With 2 outs: they went thru their entire lineup – 9 hitters – who all reached base in the 5th
What kind of company is this team in? How about the 1927 & 1936 Yankees, the Big Red Machine of Cincinnati, and even the 2004 edition of the Sox. For those of you concerned about this offense before the playoffs started, they could NOW be considered the best ever in the postseason. Staggering. Didn’t realize it was happening? Us either…

While all this history is happening right in front of you, it is only Game 1. The Rockies have to be rattled after that display. A message was definitely sent. Fenway was much more than anticipated. That feeling of invincibility has to be shaken to the core. It doesn’t mean they’re done by any means, but we’ll see how they respond and if it will be in time.

It’s going to be a tough road tonight for the Rockies especially with Schilling going against rookie Ubaldo Jimenez. Schilling was made for this. He lives for the big stage. Even if he doesn’t have his best stuff, he’ll be able to keep the Sox in it for 5 or 6 innings. Jimenez has a plus fastball in the high 90’s but also walks guys and throws a lot of pitches. He has trouble getting past 6 innings – and that’s been in the NL with a pitcher in the lineup. Look for a patient Sox lineup to grind him early. After watching last night’s display, he’s probably worried about making any mistakes. Add in a 12 day layoff, and it could be a short outing for their starter and another long outing for the pen.

Soak it all in folks. History is unfolding in front of you. Remember too that this could be Schilling’s last performance in a Sox uniform. He most likely won’t disappoint. If things go really well, this may be the Sox last home game of the season. So, if you have tickets – really Enjoy the Moment. Feel free to contact us if you have extras!!!

GO SOX!!

ALCS Champs take on Rockies...

Sox kick off their second World Series in 4 seasons after 3 impressive come from behind wins over the Tribe. When their backs were against the wall, they rose to the occasion. Beckett was masterful and guys up and down the lineup contributed. You know things are going your way when JD Drew crushes a grand slam to deep center. Fenway was absolutely electric and the Indians felt the pressure. Sox pitching kept them at bay allowing only 5 runs over the last 3 games. That’s very impressive considering each game was an elimination game.

Rock & Roll
Speaking of impressive, their World Series opponent is no slouch. The Rockies are absolutely rolling. Having won 21 of their last 22, and 14 of 15 just to get into the playoffs, this squad of “no-names” looks unstoppable. They’ll be looking to join the 2003 Marlins & 1987 Twins as the no-name teams that came out of nowhere.


Rockies Strengths
They are on an unprecedented & historic roll: 21-1
Confidence – they think they are a team of destiny
Holliday is one of the best players in the league
Formidable lineup – hit .280 during season, 4 guys with 24+ HR
Defense is outstanding
Pitching has been best in majors in 2nd half
Coors Field advantage – breaking balls staying flat & no DH in Sox lineup

Can the Rockies win the Series?
Absolutely. It’s going to take quite an effort to stop a team on that much of a roll. They have some great young talent and Holliday is an MVP candidate. The key to September is always pitching and they’ve been getting it. Their defense has been stellar and they don’t give teams second chances. Coors Field gives them a distinct advantage because the Sox can’t use a DH. Youkilis & Lowell have been huge and one will have to sit. There is also the psychological advantage of the thin air and breaking balls staying flat.

What can hurt the Rockies?
Starters: Despite their incredible roll, their competition hasn’t exactly been formidable. Facing Tony Clark as a clean-up hitter? They haven’t faced a deep lineup that will grind the count quite like the Sox. Only one of their starters has averaged more than 6 IP.
The 8 day layoff: Just ask last years Tigers team (6 day layoff) who lost to a clearly inferior Cardinals team with barely a .500 record during the season.
Josh Beckett: Recent performances combined with an 8 day layoff, it may seem like he’s pitching 200 miles an hour. Colorado confidence killer.
Fenway: October is nothing like June. As ready as they think they are, it’s a different animal. Ask Cleveland. The monkey is gone & you can feel it.
Vegas: They are 2-1 dogs. The folks in the desert tend to know a lot more than we do.

Game 1 is Pivotal
The Rockies are riding high but have had a long layoff. If Beckett is anywhere close to his recent performances, the Rockies hitters wouldn’t stand much of a chance anyway. It doesn’t matter how many “simulated” games you play. You need the real deal to remain sharp especially at the level the Sox have been playing at. If the Sox win game 1, that Rockies confidence is now shaken. The thought about the long layoff will be on their minds. Doubt in a Fenway Playoff environment spells doom.
If the Rockies manage to steal game 1, the confidence grows and puts huge pressure on Boston. Now 3 games in Colorado are daunting and game 2 becomes a must win.

Outcome
This will more than likely be a long series but the Sox should win for the same reason they did against the Indians – more pitching depth. While you can’t ever say Beckett is a virtual lock, you can surmise he’ll win games 1 & 5. That means the Sox only need to win one of games 2-3-4 to bring the series back to Boston 3-2. If this was anyone other than a 21-1 rolling team, the Sox would win hands down. Look for Colorado to be tough and hang around – but that all hinges on their pitching. Game 7 is a real possibility if they pitch well – especially at home. Expect the team with more experience and guile to pull thru. We could be looking at 2 banners in four years kids!

Good Luck Boys!

Go SOX!

Yanks can't overcome limp Wang, go down 3-1 to Indians...

Yup, the playoffs are over kids. Again.

No ALCS to blow. No division crown. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200M dollars...

That's 3 straight one and done. Wow.


Yeah, gotta be the bugs...




While the division crown is a nice cherry on top, the Sox haven't gotten to the sundae yet. We here in Boston don't care about the division. Just ask those Braves or even closer to home, our Bruins. But actually, we can ask you how that's worked out!





So what happened - this time?


Yanks couldn't overcome their lack of pitching depth:

Wang - ERA near 20, so much for a #1 guy
Jaba the Hut - couple of bugs, wild pitches, and ERA near 5
Clemens - repeat of Houston injury in playoffs, all done...



Yanks couldn't hit their way out of a paper bag:

Jeter - captain clutch only hit .176 and into 3 DP's
A-Rod - soon to be $30M man, only 4-15, 1 RBI
Posada and Matsui were invisible...


* * *

In case you haven't noticed Yankee fans, the Dynasty is O-V-E-R. Not that it really hasn't been for a while. How long has it been since there was a parade in NY? Oh yeah, a while...




The Torre effect...


According to the Boss, he's already gone. Maybe the younger Steinbrenners are attempting to talk him out of it. If he does go, it's one of the worst calls the Yanks could make - and not just in the short term. It will be an easy call for guys on the fence about staying in NY.



Posada - Let's see, contend with the Mets or tutor 4 young starters?
Rivera - has basically said he pitched his last game as a Yankee
Pettite - no Roger, no Torre, no dice. Who wouldn't pay him more than his option?




Big Decisions:


A-Rod - yeah, like Boras won't let him opt out. Will Yanks fork over $30M+ per season?
Abreu - pick up that $16M option? Go after Andruw Jones or Torii Hunter instead?
Johan Santana - who would the Twins take in return? Do they trade Melky & Kennedy?
DH - will you be booing Bonds or welcoming him?
Closer - how about Gagne? Or should we say "Gag"-ne?
Bullpen - no Mariano, no dice. Absolute shambles. Playoffs are bye-bye...



Albatross Division:


Damon - injuries finally caught up. How happy will he be as #4 OF?
Giambi - turns 37. He's not aging like a fine wine...
Mussina - will be replaced by Kennedy in May the latest, may even retire


Misc:


New manager - never measure up to Torre, could get ugly in 2008
Free agents - who wants to play under a huge microscope for a struggling team?






So enjoy your offseason!!!





You may want to ask Santa for some golf clubs & lessons this holiday season. How else will you fill your days when your rebuilding team is in the crapper?

Sox Win Wilcard!!!

Well it certainly feels that way to many in Red Sox Nation... It’s been a “what-the-hell are they doing” frustrating week for fans.

If actions speak louder than words, it appears this team is content to back into the playoffs. With a magic number of 3 over the Tigers, it's a virtual lock. Why? The Tigers will lose at least three more...

The Sox are obviously more concerned with surviving in the playoffs than capturing the AL East crown or getting home field. Okajima has been shut down, Crisp and Youkilis have been kept out of the lineup, Manny is nowhere to be seen, and they are giving starters extra days rest to line them up for the playoffs. Francona also admitted to leaving Gagne in too long - which cost them the game. He needed to know if he'd be useful in Oct. Until he starts throwing his change effectively he won't be. Apparently Francona will give him every opportunity...

This has all been compounded by the team not playing well. Without 3 regulars in the lineup they've been struggling to score runs. The bright spot is that the starters have been performing - which is the real key in Oct.

All that being said, the Sox are still in the drivers seat. As poor as they have played recently, they still sit 1 1/2 games up. The ChiSox had a similar struggle down the stretch two years ago - and how did that work out for them? As fans we still expect an AL East crown. Remember too that the Yanks will soon clinch a playoff birth and will rest their starters and regulars. So there won't be a dramatic fight to the finish - especially with starters soon to be throwing 80 pitches per start and having the kids come out of the pen. And as many of you Yanks fans can attest, winning the Division crown doesn't mean a World Series (not for the last 6 season anyway). It's all about late Oct...

Yanks sneak 2 of 3 out of Fenway...

The Sox just couldn't put the hammer down. Fri was a gimme. Okajima & Papelbon having a meltdown is one thing, but both in the same game? Never happening again. Give the Yanks some credit for pulling it out, but they're playing with their backs against the wall.

Sat? Hah...

Sun? Another classic. Just when you thought there wasn't possibly more drama left, it comes again. Hats off to the ailing Jeter - who connected on one of Schill's few mistakes in what was a gem. Joba was finally human, and Mariano almost blew a big one for the Yanks. We heard the collective sigh all the way from the Bronx when Papi flew out with the bases loaded. It would have been justice for Fri. We know you were sweating it...

Hang on Yanks fans, Detroit is a comin quickly... They managed to hold them off in this series, but watch out.

Why?

Blame Shelly Duncan for the Karma. See the inscription before his "autograph"? What a classless piece of crap. He really showed that 10 yr old Sox fan looking for an autograph. Whoo! You got em!

What's next Shelly? Will you kick a cripple? Punch a blind woman? Kill a baby bird?

You are a DISGRACE to any uniform. To even THINK of actually doing something like that is ridiculous never mind doing it.

So when the Yanks don't make the playoffs, send Shelly a nice note...

Sox giftwrap series sweep...

Christmas came early this year to the Bronx as the Sox hand over three games. Apparently the Sox left their offense back in Chicago. Despite the loss of Manny, what an awful performance. At least starting pitching held its ground - other than a Damon blooper...

Hats off to the Yanks starters who pitched well enough to win. Let's not get ahead of ourselves Yanks fans - they weren't dominant by any means. With 4+ walks given up by Wang & Clemens, it was the Sox inept bats that are the cause. Your sluggers didn't exactly light up the sky either.

For those of you thinking the Yanks would sweep after this past series, raise your hand... Yeah right. So you must have based that on the 16-0 trouncing in Detroit and the Sox lighting things up in Chicago. Riiiight...

Well, enjoy it while it lasts. It won't last too long - as we've seen all season. You're still down 5 games and you have Seattle coming up. By the way, who is pitching for Mussina these days?

Think the next meeting will be more significant than this one? Try & hold your breath that long... Dare ya...

These aren't "Your Daddy's" Yankees...

Hee hee. After climbing back to within 4 games of the AL East lead, the Yanks have fallen back to 8. On the eve of what could have been their biggest series of the season they get trounced by the Tigers 16 - 0. Not exactly a momentum builder. After playing .700 ball for the beginning of the second half, the Yanks have lost 5 of their last 7 at the worst possible time. It also looks like Mussina just pitched himself out of the starting rotation.

Doesn't feel like 1978 all over again? The Yanks finally fell victim to a tougher schedule. Even though they've still managed a 29-16 record since the break, the Sox have been almost as good at 26-17. So those thoughts of catching the Sox are all but dead. Oh, and with Matsuzaka, Beckett, and Schill all pitching this series, kiss your sweep dreams bye-bye. In fact the Sox should take at least 2 if not all 3. It's time to hit the gas petal and leave the Yanks in the dust. The Sox are playing with a ton of confidence and are comfortably in the drivers seat.

We here at Red Sox Nation can sleep soundly until the playoffs start. Our Sox are in. The Yanks have to struggle the rest of the way just to keep up with the Mariners. They've also let Detroit crawl back to within a game in the wild card. The entire rotation has been slipping. When did Wang's Era pop up to almost 4? Clemens has been pedestrian, and Hughes has only been an average #5 guy. Now with Mussina on the outs, who steps up? Torre may have to leave him in there. Too bad Wells is in LA, huh?

Is that the sound of the Yanks coming? Nah...










Even with the herculean effort expended (until last week), they're still in rough shape. Looks like the tease of 2007 has just about ended for you Yanks fans. With only 30 games left, their biggest series could be with Seattle.

Good luck with the whole wild card thing. We'll be waiting at Fenway, if you make it that far.

The Yanks are Coming! The Yanks are Coming!

Thats right folks, the Yanks are actually making a race out of this season. And panic has officially set in throughout Sox Nation. Well, at least part of it after GaG-me's performance over the weekend...

Your 43 - 43 Yanks at the break have been feasting on sub par teams to the tune of 23 - 8 since the break. They have been an absolute hitting machine.

However, pitching isn't much improved over the first half. Surprised? It sure seems like it has but the numbers don't lie. Before the break, the team Era stood at 4.36 - while since the break it's been 4.25. What does that tell you? They've been hitting and scoring runs against lesser pitching opponents.

Curiously, the Yanks traded away one of their most reliable relievers in Proctor & picked up a utility infielder. They are also going against their past history, relying on young pitching to take them down the stretch and into the playoffs. Based on years of playoffs, you'd think this is a recipe for disaster. Heck, the Sox teams of the 70's & 80's were built the same way & where did that get them?

The Yanks finally begin a tough stretch of schedule. Although, if their sweep of the Indians over the weekend is any indicator, they'll still be standing at the end of the month. Nevertheless, we'll all know how good this Yankee team really is in another couple of weeks.

Despite the bullpen blowing two very winnable games this weekend, the Sox starters are getting the job done. That's what really counts this time of year. It looks like Schilling is back to old form and it looks like we'll get a look at the phenom Buckholtz at the double header later in the week (don't be shocked to see him replace Lester). The bullpen will straighten itself out with or without Gagne, but he can't be worse than what we've seen already. And despite perception, this offense is 3rd in runs scored and 2nd post all star break. So those of you still pining for Jermaine Dye, he's not as needed as you think.

The lead is still 4 games, and the Yanks really can't play much better than they have been. In turn, the Sox won't struggle as much as they have been either. Look for the Sox to build the lead back up to a more comfortable level before facing them on the 28th...

Hey you, off the ledge!!!

Second Half kicks off...

It's was a solid first half for the Sox despite their average June. The good news is that pitching is the strongest it's been in a long time, despite the shoulder injury to Schill. His replacement in Gabbard has been OK and Lester (just pitched a 2H CG) still awaits a call-up. Manny Delcarmen is starting to emerge as their 7th / 8th inning guy, and they boast the third best ERA in the MAJORS. Guess what wins in Oct? While batting seems to be an issue, they still rank in the top 5 of runs per game. Crisp seems to be out of his funk, JD Drew is showing some life finally, but Lugo remains awful. Manny has always been a second half guy, and lets hope Ortiz can survive the nagging leg injuries.

The Yanks have had their worst half of baseball since the early 90's. There was way too much off field nonsense surrounding this team as well. Giambi, Stray-Rod, F-Rod (classic), was all just embarassing for the once mighty bombers. The NY papers haven't been kind, and many columnists have already printed their obituary. No argument here...

If not for A-Rod's amazing statistical season, they'd be much further under .500. Other than Jeter and Posada, none of the regulars are hitting over .275. Pitching has been an issue all season. Outside of Wang and the most recent performances of Clemens, it's been horrible. Pettite has been terrible of late and Mussina still has an Era hovering in the high 4's. It doesn't really matter who is in the 5 spot at this point.

It's true the Yanks have one of the easiest remaining schedules in the second half. But guess who has the easiest? The Sox. They only have 30 games against teams over .500, with the Yanks having 33. Heck, the Sox only played doormat Tampa Bay 4 times, with 15 to go...

Trading deadline? Not much going on for either squad. Even if the Yanks really turn it on quickly, who would they get? Is Cashman willing to sacrifice his youth for a shot at the wildcard? Gagne isn't enough. What starter is avaliable? The Sox will probably dabble in a few minor league deals or just unload Wily Mo.

So it begins... The Yanks try once again to reach the .500 plateau... See you in late Aug boys...

Burning down the House (that Ruth built)...

Things are getting just plain strange in the Bronx. The reeling Yanks and their bullpen have now resorted to lighting the stadium on fire. Well, at least one of their relievers has.

Scott Proctor literally lit his equipment on fire outside of the Yankee dugout after his 4th straight poor outing. Torre has commented that he doesn't know what to expect from his pen and Guidry thinks they are just "dead tired". Proctor himself stated; "I wouldn't trust myself right now the way I am throwing". "It's pretty pathetic."

The Yanks have fallen 4 games back under .500 and into 3rd place. It's July now and it doesn't look good despite the cream puff schedule after the break.

Just ask Posada. "I'm not talking about unlucky; luck comes when you go after it". And it seems like at times we just go through the motions and today was one of those cases. That's the way it is, I think everybody knows what I'm talking about." Apparently we're not the only ones that think most of the Yanks have already mailed it in.

Or how about NY Daily News Bill Madden? His latest column "Pity the pinstripes -
Future looks even worse than present" pretty much says it all. Wow!(http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/yankees/2007/07/01/2007-07-01_pity_the_pinstripes.html) Not only is he talking about this year, but also 2008 & 2009. This guy should be writing in Boston. It's a harsh look at reality if you're a Yanks fan. He chronicles failure at every level of the organization and how it will extend into the near future. Apparently 1965 was a bleak time for your Bombers, and it appears history is about to repeat itself.

Just plain embarassing for such a proud franchise. We almost feel bad for you...

Interleague finally comes to an end...

Although if you're an AL team (other than ChiSox, O's, or D-Rays) you're sad to see it go. Only those three teams has a losing record vs. the NL. If not for the ChiSox 4-14 record, the AL margin of victory would have been much higher than .544...

There are many flaws within the interleague system with the biggest being the DH. Do we really want to see pitchers hitting? With what appears to be a significant NL advantage, at least the records say differently. But that may also point to the AL as having more overall talent. The second biggest problem is the "natural" rivals. Outside of a handful of examples; Mets-Yanks, Cubs-ChiSox, etc, there aren't many compelling match-ups. For example, Red Sox fans don't want to see the Braves anymore.

These match-ups also allow for an unbalanced schedule. It really becomes a big deal when a division or playoff spot is decided by a game or two. What if you play a team that grinds out each win and wears you down, and your rival plays a cream puff and allows the pen to get rest? While it's great to play a team you never get to see, it just feels broken. Stick to Division A vs Division B and be done with it. MLB has failed at creating new rivalries - they have to create themselves.

Change the system boys. It's time...

Rocket crashes Yanks back to .500...

The savior isn't living up to his namesake just yet... The mighty Rocket can't play the role of stopper and prevent the sweep. Off to a 1-2 record with a 4.86 ERA isn't exactly what you bargained for? Nice crash Roger...

It's been a quiet a few days now that the Yanks "recharged" offense has sputtered to 5 runs over 3 games. Isn't Colorado the home of home runs? What an embarassing performance. Looks like that big push to get back in the AL East race is back to a goof. Must be frustrating to reel off 9 straight and then serve up a 3 game sweep.

It's back to status quo for the 2007 bombers - dancing near the .500 mark and double digits behind the leader. But don't worry Yanks fans, they'll put toghether a win streak here or there just enough to keep you interested. Then they'll tank it once you're riding high.

By the way, ESPN is taking shots at your team. Great front page & article on the woes of Pavano. Ouch...

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/eticket/story?page=pavano

Enjoy the rest of 2007...

Bonds makes his way thru Fenway.

The Barry Bonds home run tour finally made its way thru the fens. He was greeted with the same boos he’s been hearing at every other ballpark except of course, his home stadium. Not to mention some creative signs. The asterisks are the way to go…

He wasn’t able to do much damage although he went 3 for 9, with 3 walks, and of course, a HR. He hit number 748 off Wakefield and could surpass Aaron before the trading deadline.

Until then we’ll have the shameless ESPN nightly Bonds watch. Now, you can’t blame ESPN for being a ratings whore in this situation, but it doesn’t mean we have to like it. At least they cancelled “Bonds on Bonds”.

The good news (not really “good”)
The road to 22 homers is almost two thirds of the way there. As of mid June, Bonds is averaging a home run a little over 4 games. Using strictly math, Bonds is on pace to hit 38, and his record breaking homer should happen late during game #92 on July 18th vs. the Cubs. At 41, even Teddy Ballgame only hit 29 homers. Point is at least it will be OVER sooner rather than later!!!

When will it really happen?
His actual trend is to hit homers in bunches and then have a drought when he hits none. There’s also the argument about WHERE he will hit it. Most people think that there is no way he’ll hit it away from home. Some others think he’s just brazen enough to hit it regardless of where he is. Best guess is during the home series from July 23rd thru July 29th. After that, try Aug 6th thru Aug 12th… (That is - barring any injury or positive test)

Why don’t we like this guy?
ME, ME, ME. He’s standoffish, antagonistic, and is basically a selfish jerk. He knowingly used steroids, denied knowledge of what the cream & clear was, and proceeded to throw his long time friend under the bus to save his own skin. Many believe that he was driven by the bright light that shined on McGuire & Sosa during the epic HR race. This situation is entirely self-created. Barry Bonds is a one way street. How appropriate was the name of his ESPN documentary/reality debacle “Bonds on Bonds”? He’s just not likeable. All this without mention of his moral & legal transgressions…

It’s just a shame
Bonds would easily have made the Hall without steroids. His numbers were outstanding prior to the cream & the clear. Didn’t notice your hat size growing?
Americans love when records are broken – especially the landmark ones. The most revered record in all of sports is about to be captured by a cheater. That’s the bottom line. It’s tarnished even more so due to his despicable character. Will the record ever be the same, say if someone like A-Rod eclipses it? Only time will tell, but it may be tarnished for good.

Yankees Reach .500! The Yankees Reach .500!

Woo hoo!!! Clear the streets, and get ready for the parade! Ticker tape for everyone!

Congrats Yankee fans, your team has officially reached mediocrity - and it took 7 straight to get there. They finally beat a real team. Good for you. Looks like Abreu just found the HGH in Giambi's locker. Or is Posada finally sharing?

Now the pressure is on to stay above .500. Can they do it? You may have to wait until the Mets series is over. But with 10 games upcoming with Oak, Minn, and the Angels don't count on it.

Clemens get his first real test on Fri. We'll shut the site down for a week if he finishes 6 full innings.

Rocket re-launch brings hope...

Yanks find themselves rolling for the first time all season. Their new super savior in Clemens has arrived, fatigued groin and all, and still managed to get them a win. Optimism is alive and sprouting for the moment in NY.

While six straight is nice in the short run, let’s take a peek against the competition shall we? The struggling ChiSox are in the midst of a 3-12 slump. The Pirates, perennial doormats, have gone 4-10. After all this success, the Yanks still haven’t been able to peek above .500. Must be difficult to take.

Clemens did pitch relatively well, but who doesn’t against the AAA Pirates at home. He wasn’t horrible his first time back, but he did have 80+ pitches after 4. He’s going to give you a consistent 5+ innings most nights. While that’s an upgrade over the guys they’ve been trotting out there, it still leaves a hole in the pen, and questions about his physical breakdowns will continue to linger.

According to Torre, “Roger doesn't have to be Superman, just Reliable Man”. OK Joe. Let’s see how he stacks up against the Mets in round 2. Probably more like “Rubber Man” with that hammy… Maybe we’ll see some t-shirts in the house?