Sox.Rox

2012 Predictions: NL West

2012-01-29T09:59:00.000-08:00

1st Place: Arizona Diamondbacks- The Diamondbacks haven't really lost anything from a team that went 94-68 last year. In fact, if anything, they've improved. They acquired Trevor Cahill (right) and Craig Breslow in a shrewd trade with the A's that will net them a solid reliever in Breslow (0-2/3.79/44 in 2011) and a solid starter in Cahill (12-14/4.16/147 in 2011). I expect Aaron Hill (.246/8/61) and Lyle Overbay (.234/9/47) to have rebound years with a change of scenery. The D-Backs could be among the league's elite without a doubt in 2012.

2nd Place: San Francisco Giants- After winning the World Series in 2010, 2011 was a disappointment for the Giants as they went 86-76 and missed the playoffs. If anything, 2011 just showed that 2010 was a fluke. While they do have fantastic pitching: Tim Lincecum (13-14/2.74/22), Matt Cain (12-11/2.88/179), and Madison Bumgarner (13-13/3.21/191) highlighted the second best rotation in baseball last year, they have no hitting. While they were battered by injuries, Buster Posey (.305/18/67 in 2010) and Freddy Sanchez (.292/7/47 in 2010) will be back for the full year, they just don't have enough offense to compete. The acquired a couple of outfielders in Angel Pagan (.262/7/56) and Melky Cabrera (left) (.305/18/87) but they don't have the offense to compete.

3rd Place: Colorado Rockies- The Rockies were a major disappointment to many who thought that they would ride a great offense to a playoff berth; however, they finished 4th and went 73-89. Still, they have done nothing but improved this offseason, acquiring Michael Cuddyer (right)(.284/20/70), Casey Blake (.252/4/26), Marco Scutaro (.299/7/54), and Ramon Hernandez (.282/12/36) to bolster an offense that was 7th in the league last year. Their pitching is a bit weak, but Jhoulys Chacin (11-14/3.62/150) is a stud and Jorge De La Rosa (5-2/3.51/52 in 10 starts) should be healthy.

4th Place: Los Angeles Dodgers- Like the Rockies, the Dodgers were a disappointment to many in 2011. However, unlike the Rockies, they haven't done much to improve in the offseason. They do have a strong pitching staff, led by NL Cy Young Award Winner Clayton Kershaw (21-5/2.28/248), Chad Billingsley (11-11/4.21/152), and Ted Lilly (12-14/3.97/158). However, their offense lacks any firepower whatsoever behind Matt Kemp (.324/39/126) and Andre Ethier (.292/11/62). Plus, this offseason, the only real players they acquired were replacement level middle infielders like Mark Ellis (.248/7/41), Adam Kennedy (.234/7/38), and Jerry Hairston Jr. (left)(.270/5/31). In other words, the Dodgers lack the offensive firepower to compete, even in a weak division like the NL West.

5th Place: San Diego Padres- Like all too many teams in this division, the Padres have a stellar pitching staff and a terrible offense. However, they have made a move to fix that, trading Mat Latos to the Reds for gifted first baseman Yonder Alonso (.330/5/15 in 47 games), Edinson Volquez (5-7/5.71/104), and a bucket of prospects. They also netted Carlos Quentin (right) (.254/24/77) in a trade with the White Sox-- however, Petco Park should keep Quentin's undeniable power at bay. The Padres haven't done enough to make them a contender, or even close to one.

Maine Becomes A Part of Massachusetts

2012-01-27T14:43:00.000-08:00

Today, the Red Sox added one to their depth moves-- signing starting pitcher John Maine to a minor league contract. Just a few years ago, Maine was an above average pitcher with the Mets before injuries unraveled his career. Maine's best season came in 2007, when he went 15-10/3.91/180 for the Mets, making 32 starts. He also posted above average peripheral stats that year with a 4.18 FIP and xFIP as well as an excellent 8.48 K/9 and 3.53 BB/9. However, injuries really rattled him and he did not pitch in the majors in 2011. He put up a miserable 1-3/7.43/35 line with the Rockies' AAA affiliate to go with a 5.98 FIP. However, this is partially because he averaged a ridiculously bad 7.24 BB/9, even more than his 6.85 K/9 (which is still respectable). According to Maine's agent, the Red Sox have talked to Maine about potentially becoming a reliever. Maine is definitely a bit of a reclamation project, but it never hurts to have depth.

Four Red Sox Prospects Rank In MLB.com's Top 100

2012-01-26T03:45:00.000-08:00

Last night, MLB.com announced the top 100 prospects in all of baseball and four Red Sox prospects ranked in this list. The highest ranked Red Sox at #56 was Will Middlebrooks (right) who plays third base for AAA Pawtucket. Middlebrooks had an excellent season in 2011, going .285/23/94 between AA and AAA along with, allegedly, playing excellent third base. Next was Bryce Brentz at #64, who raised his prospect status tremendously playing right field for A Greenville and A+ Salem in 2011, going .306/30/94. Next was #76, Xander Bogaerts. Bogaerts raised a lot of eyebrows in 2011, including mine, after going .260/16/45 as the shortstop for the Greenville Drive. However, those numbers don't look all that impressive-- the catch is that he's only 18. Finally was #93 Ryan Lavarnway who we all know had an excellent year and is considered the future behind the plate for the Red Sox. Between AA Portland and AAA Pawtucket, Lavarnway showed amazing potential, batting .290/32/93 and getting a cup of coffee at the end of the year. A few of these players are the future of the franchise and I'm very excited to see them.

Red Sox Avoid Arbitration With Andrew Bailey

2012-01-25T15:37:00.000-08:00

Today, the Red Sox locked up another arbitration eligible player in Andrew Bailey and now only have two remaining. Bailey's deal is worth $3.9 million over one year. Bailey is slated to be the Red Sox' closer in 2012 after going 0-4/3.24/41 in 2011 with the A's. He was acquired in the Red Sox' biggest move of the offseason-- a 5-player trade with the A's in which Josh Reddick was shipped to Oakland. Bailey experienced his worst season in the majors, and was plagued by injuries. However, he still managed a very respectable 3.24 ERA, 2.86 FIP, and 3.52 xFIP to go with 8.86 K/9 and 2.59 BB/9. Needless to say, those are some pretty impressive peripheral stats. If Bailey can stay away from the forearm and neck injuries he suffered in 2011, a $3.9 million deal should come off as a bargain for the 27-year old. I'm glad the Sox locked up Bailey, now only two to go!

Red Sox Add Right Field Option With Cody Ross

2012-01-23T18:03:00.000-08:00

Today, the Red Sox agreed to terms with Cody Ross on a contract. Ross will be in the right field mix for the Red Sox in 2012, after going .240/14/52 as the Giants left fielder in 2011. Allegedly, the deal is worth $3 million over a year. Ross has been a consistent outfielder in his career, and his career 162-game average in .261/21/79-- numbers that would be very solid as the Red Sox' right fielder in 2012. I'm a bit surprised that the Red Sox made this move as he wouldn't be all that solid a platoon partner to Ryan Sweeney. He only batted .234 against lefties in 2011 and slugged only .362 off lefties as opposed to .405 total. Even so, however, I'd much more comfortable with a Sweeney/Ross platoon than I am with a Sweeney/McDonald platoon. In his career, right field has been the strongest position for Ross-- however, he isn't stellar anywhere-- his career UZR/150 in right is -0.5. I suppose it can't hurt to have depth but I don't see Ross becoming a star in Boston.

Conor Says... Sign Wilson Betemit

2012-01-22T18:01:00.000-08:00

After trading away Marco Scutaro yesterday, the Red Sox will be strongly in the market for two things. Those are a starting pitcher and an additional bat off the bench. While I hope they sign Roy Oswalt for the former, the latter takes a bit more work to figure out. A guy that I think could be a really helpful player off the bench would be Wilson Betemit. Mike Aviles will likely take over the starting shortstop role and with Nick Punto off the bench, they have a strong middle infield backup. However, the past few years, Kevin Youkilis has been a growing concern for Red Sox fans as he hasn't played 140 games since 2008. The Red Sox will likely be giving Youk some time off to help him recover and having a guy off the bench who can bat .285/8/46, as he did in 2011. He would likely be available on a short, cheap contract and the Red Sox could do worse to fill out their bench.

Red Sox Avoid Arbitration With Daniel Bard

2012-01-21T17:22:00.000-08:00

Just recently after trading Marco Scutaro to Colorado, Ben Cherington jumped right back into action, agreeing to a contract with Daniel Bard. The deal will be worth $1.6125 million over a year. Bard had his worst year as a major league pitcher, going a very good 2-9/3.33/74. However, Bard, who has been the Red Sox' set-up man the past two seasons is expected to move into the rotation in spring. During spring training, Ben Cherington has said the Sox expect to stretch Bard out to join a potentially very good rotation. They have a very strong front three of Jon Lester, Josh Beckett, and Clay Buchholz and they have "intensified their interest" in Roy Oswalt after trading Scutaro. Bard was a starter in college and for a year in the minors (2007) when he went 3-5/6.42/38 for the Greenville Drive. The Sox then transferred him to a reliever and the rest is history. Hopefully, Bard works out as a starter and the Red Sox develop a strong pitching rotation.

Red Sox Ship Scutaro To Colorado

2012-01-21T16:36:00.000-08:00

Today, the Red Sox completed a move that broke the heart of many Red Sox fans, including me. They shipped scrappy fan favorite Marco Scutaro to the Colorado Rockies in return for Clayton Mortensen. This move is likely just a payroll dump as they are trading Scutaro, who will make $6 million in 2012 for Mortensen, who is not even arbitration eligible yet-- this could secure some payroll space for a guy like Roy Oswalt. Mortensen finally broke through as a major leaguer in 2011, going 2-4/3.86/30 for the Rockies. However, he got lucky as his FIP stood at 5.34 and his xFIP was 4.67; plus, his K/9 of 4.63 and BB/9 of 3.70 are less than impressive. Mortensen is no more than depth just like Aaron Cook, Carlos Silva, and Vicente Padilla. At shortstop, the Red Sox will likely platoon Mike Aviles and Nick Punto. If this move translates into Roy Oswalt, I will be happy-- if not, I will be very mad at Ben Cherington.

Red Sox, Rockies Talking Marco Scutaro

2012-01-20T15:14:00.000-08:00

Earlier today, the Red Sox and Rockies were reported to be talking about trade possibilities for Marco Scutaro. Scutaro had a great season in his second year with the Sox in 2011, going .299/7/54. However, the 36 year old shortstop has only gone .270/10/59 in his 162-game average. Trading Scutaro would leave no real shortstop heading into the season with the best free agent shortstops available being Miguel Tejada, Ryan Theriot, and Edgar Renteria. I have no idea who the Rockies would have traded the Red Sox but a few realistic options for Scutaro would probably be a major league pitcher or two. However, the Rockies don't have very solid pitching and they'd be unwilling to trade Jhoulys Chacin (11-14/3.62/150 in 2011) for as little as Scutaro. Maybe Jorge De La Rosa? Point is, I don't know, and I don't see these talks going anywhere.

Crawford Had Wrist Surgery, May Miss Start of Season

2012-01-17T15:42:00.000-08:00

Earlier today, Carl Crawford underwent a surgical operation on his left wrist. Crawford may miss opening day, but will be the starting left fielder for "the bulk of the season." Crawford had a tough first season in Boston after signing in December 2010 for a 7 year/$142 million contract. He struggled, batting just .255/11/56 after extremely high expectations before the season began. Apparently, it's a relatively routine operation that has low risk and Crawford should be batting in spring training, according to Ben Cherington. Allegedly, Crawford began to feel pain in his wrist around New Year's Day when he began to amp up his hitting workouts. Red Sox fans everywhere hope that Crawford can play in 2012 and will live up to the lofty expectations that Red Sox Nation gave him before the season started. I really hope that injuries do not affect the Red Sox in 2012 as they have in 2010 and 2011.

Red Sox Agree To Contracts With Ellsbury, Aviles

2012-01-17T14:37:00.000-08:00

Today, on the day of the arbitration deadline, the Red Sox have signed a couple more players: Jacoby Ellsbury (right) and Mike Aviles. Now they only need to agree to contracts with four more players. Ellsbury's deal was worth $8.05 million over one year after his near MVP season. Ellsbury won the Sox.Rox Player of the Year Award after going a remarkable .321/32/105 after a lost 2010 season in which he only played in 18 games. Hopefully, Ellsbury can continue that production as the Red Sox' center fielder and leadoff hitter for the next several years. Next is utility infielder Mike Aviles, whom the Red Sox acquired midseason from the Royals. In 91 games this year, Aviles batted .255/7/39; however, he was very good with the Red Sox, going .317/2/8 in 38 games down the stretch. His deal is worth $1.2 million over one year. With Jed Lowrie gone, Aviles will probably be the primary bat off the bench so expect to see more of him. I hope the Sox can come to an agreement with the remaining four players tonight.

Red Sox Lock Up Franklin Morales

2012-01-17T03:26:00.000-08:00

Last night, the Red Sox agreed to terms on a contract with lefty reliever Franklin Morales. Morales' contract is worth $850,000 over 1 year. Morales came over to the Red Sox from the Rockies in May of last year in a move that many expected would be minor. However, Morales became the sole lefty out of the Red Sox' pen. He had a pretty good year too, as it appeared he needed a change of scenery out of the hitters' paradise of Coors Field. He went 1-2/3.69/42 in 50 games and 46.1 innings split between the two teams and with the Sox, he went 1-1/3.62/31 in 36 games and 32.1 innings. Even though it seemed I was often frustrated with Morales throughout the season for walking a bunch of guys or something, but his stats were pretty good. He put up a 4.26 FIP and 4.39 xFIP to go with an 8.16 K/9 and 3.69 BB/9 (I expected that walk rate to be a bit higher, but it turns out he was alright!). I expect that Morales will be the primary, if not sole, lefty out of the Red Sox bullpen in 2011 and good luck to him.

Red Sox Sign Vicente Padilla

2012-01-16T10:31:00.000-08:00

Today, the Red Sox came to terms on a contract with Vicente Padilla. A few days ago, the Red Sox were linked to Padilla, who will be one of the group of Aaron Cook, Carlos Silva, and now, Padilla-- who will be competing for the #5 spot in the rotation. Padilla had a lost year in 2011 due to injuries, going 0-0/4.15/9 in 8.2 innings out of the bullpen in 2011. For the majority of his career, however, he has been a largely average starter for the Phillies, Rangers, and Dodgers. In 2010, his last year as a starter, he lived up to his expectations, going 6-5/4.07/84 in 16 starts, plus a 4.21 FIP and 3.74 xFIP. So far, it appears at Padilla will be healthy heading into 2012, and has been playing in the Nicaraguan Winter League, where he has been clocked at 95-96 miles per hour. The Red Sox have been linked to Roy Oswalt as well in the past few days. If the Red Sox were to sign Oswalt, it would be unlikely for guys like Padilla to make an impact. However, if they do not sign Oswalt, then Padilla will have a shot at the #5 spot in spring training.

Red Sox Keep Some Salt In Their Lineup

2012-01-15T17:23:00.000-08:00

Today, the Red Sox avoided arbitration with another potential case by locking up Jarrod Saltalamacchia. The contract is reportedly worth $2.5 million over 1 year. Saltalamacchia was having a pretty good year as the Red Sox' starting catcher in 2011; however, he faded down the stretch, batting .221 in August and .162 in September. On the season, he finished .235/16/56 and setting career highs in just about every category. Like we expected entering the season, Salty displayed a fair amount of pop, slugging .450 with an isolated power of .215; the league leader was Mike Napoli with .312, but behind him was J.P. Arencibia, who had .219-- not far ahead of Salty. The former top prospect also threw out 31% of baserunners from behind the plate, a very good mark for an unproven but talented catcher like Salty. This was pretty much expected, and expect several more signings like this as the deadline approaches.

Conor Says... Trade For Brett Myers

2012-01-15T06:34:00.000-08:00

Of the many things that you can say about Brett Myers, two of them are exactly what the Red Sox need: he works a lot of innings and he is consistent. Myers is the lesser of three fairly solid pitchers that the Astros have (Wandy Rodriguez, Bud Norris, Myers). He is coming off of a season in which is he went 7-14/4.46/160. While those stats show that he was pretty average last year, his peripherals show that he was pretty good, he put up a 4.26 FIP and 3.75 xFIP. He also put up very good strikeout vs. walk numbers, striking out 6.67 per nine and walking 2.38 per nine. Those stats show that Myers would be a great addition for the #5 spot in the Red Sox rotation. Since the Yankees acquired Michael Pineda and Hiroki Kuroda two days ago, it's looking like the Red Sox need a strong rotation to compete in the AL East. Adding Brett Myers as the #5 starter would be a step in the right direction.

Red Sox Avoid Arbitration With Ryan Sweeney

2012-01-13T19:12:00.000-08:00

Today, the Red Sox agreed to terms with Ryan Sweeney on a contract which would help the sides to avoid arbitration. The deal is worth $1.75 million over 1 year, and the Red Sox potentially have to face arbitration with 8 more players this offseason. Sweeney batted .265/1/25 in 2011 and in his career has averaged .283/5/58 per 162 games. If the season started today, the Red Sox would likely have Sweeney platooning with Darnell McDonald as the starting right fielders. Sweeney, being a lefty, would face righties in this platoon, and in 2011, he batted .286 off of righties. McDonald batted .260 off of lefties. The two would form an unspectacular but effective duo for the right field spot. Sweeney is a pretty good outfielder, having to man the spacious Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum in Oakland for several years. He would probably adjust well to Fenway as he has compiled a 16.0 UZR/150 in his career in right. Solid move by the Sox to lock up a potential right fielder for a low cost.

Red Sox Offer Varitek A Minor League Deal

2012-01-13T15:02:00.000-08:00

Today, it was reported that the Red Sox have offered a minor league deal with an invite to spring training to Jason Varitek. Varitek is the team captain and has played for the Red Sox his entire career (1997-2011). His 162-game average for his who career has been .256/20/79, however, he has definitely tailed off from those prestigious numbers in recent years. In 2011, Varitek batted just .221/11/36 as the backup catcher fro the 2nd straight year. Varitek's last solid season came in 2007, when he batted at .255/17/68. While Varitek's game-calling skills behind the plate haven't deteriorated at all, his skills behind the plate have diminished. In 2011, he threw out just .14% of batters, as opposed to 31% by Jarrod Saltalamacchia and a league-leading 41% by Kelly Shoppach. Varitek would likely be slated at #4 on the depth chart for catchers, behind Salty, Shoppach, and Ryan Lavarnway. If I were Varitek, I'd accept the fact that his distinguished career is over and retire.

Red Sox Interested In Vicente Padilla

2012-01-12T15:17:00.000-08:00

Just days after signing low-profile free agent pitchers such as Carlos Silva, Aaron Cook, and Justin Germano-- the Red Sox are on that path again, as they are interested in free agent Vicente Padilla. In 2011, Padilla suffered a forearm and neck injury and missed quite a bit of time. However, when he was healthy, he pitched mostly out of relief for the first time since 2001 with the Phillies. In 9 games of relief with the Dodgers, he went 0-0/4.15/9, picking up 3 saves. You'd have to go back to 2009 to find Padilla's last predominantly healthy season. In a season split between the Rangers and Dodgers, he went 12-6/4.46/97 in 26 games (25 starts). His career pitching line is 4.31/4.43/4.39 as he has been a solid, average major league starter. If the 34 year old Padilla can stay healthy in 2012, he would be a solid addition as a possible #5 starter.

Red Sox Trade For Brad Emaus

2012-01-11T15:47:00.000-08:00

Today, the Red Sox acquired minor leaguer Brad Emaus from the Rockies for a player to be named later or cash considerations. Emaus is a middle infielder who has had success in the minors which, at 26, could still translate into big league success. After starting the season as the Mets' starting second baseman, Emaus struggled-- he batted just .162/0/1 in 14 games. However, he was traded to the Rockies midseason and had quite a bit more success with their AAA affiliate. In 45 games, he batted .309/9/28, getting on base at a .389 clip and slugging .564-- great for a second baseman. His isolated power has grown each year as he ages, topping out at .252 this past year-- remarkable for a second baseman. In comparison, Robinson Cano's isolated power in 2011 was .231; Emaus was that good in the minors. Chances are that, unless Dustin Pedroia goes down with injury, Emaus will not see much playing time in the majors. However, he provides some depth and a potential trade chip in the future.

Red Sox Sign Justin Germano

2012-01-10T03:33:00.000-08:00

Well, the Red Sox just keep on making minor signings-- I guess Ben Cherington is looking for a diamond in the rough. Last night, the Red Sox came to terms with reliever Justin Germano. Germano pitched 9 games with the Indians last year, going 0-1/5.68/5, as well as a 4.92 FIP and 6.08 xFIP. His strikeout and walk rates will need some work, as both clocked in at exactly 3.55. He actually finished last season with the Samsung Lions of Korea last year, however. He fared much better with the Indians in 2010, however, when he put together an 0-3/3.31/29 stat line with a 4.83 FIP and 4.08 xFIP. That year, his strikeout and walk rates were normal, at 7.39 and 2.04, respectively. This is likely a very minor signing, and Germano is unlikely to make an impact at the major league level. However, in spring training he could be one of the Bowden/Doubront/Jenks/Tazawa competing for a bullpen spot. This is not a very big move in all likelihood though.

Red Sox Cook Up Another Potential Starter

2012-01-09T03:29:00.000-08:00

Last night, the Red Sox agreed to a contract with free agent starting pitcher Aaron Cook. This is likely just a depth move, but Cook could potentially compete with Carlos Silva and Andrew Miller for one of the remaining spots in the rotation in spring training. Cook was not healthy in 2011, which is becoming a trend-- the last time he played a full season was 2008. This past year, he had a tough season, going 3-10/6.03/48. But remember, his home park for his entire career is Coors Field-- where the thin air lets the ball fly for home runs more frequently than any other park in the majors. His peripherals show a different tale as his FIP was 4.54 and his xFIP was 4.37. His K/9 of 4.45 is ironically higher than his career average of 3.83 while his BB/9 was also higher than his career average at 3.43 to 2.80. However, the biggest reason the Sox signed Cook is that he is an epic ground-baller. In 2011, 55.1% of at bats ended in a groundout, just lower than his career average of 57.4%. The deal is a minor league contract, but if he gets called up to majors it is worth $1.5 million. The deal is very similar to Carlos Silva, and I like how they are taken proven major league pitchers and putting them as depth.

Red Sox Still Interested In Ryan Madson

2012-01-08T12:51:00.000-08:00

Apparently, and I don't know why, the Red Sox are still interested in free agent closer Ryan Madson. After the Red Sox acquired Andrew Bailey, I figured they'd probably be done shopping for expensive relievers. However, reports have surfaced that the Red Sox (along with many other teams) could be interested in Madson if his price drops. That price would have to drop quite a bit for me to be content-- earlier this offseason, he and the Phillies had seemingly agreed on a 4 yr/$44 million contract before the Phillies signed Papelbon. Madson had a good year in 2011, going 4-2/2.37/62 in 62 games and 60.2 innings. His FIP was 2.25 and his xFIP was 2.95, as he was very good in his first year as the full time closer. He also saved 32 games to go with his 9.20 K/9 and 2.37 BB/9. Madson is very, very good-- and that is why he is such a commodity. I'd prefer if the Red Sox spent the $10 million or so it would take to sign Madson on starters.

Conor Says... Sign Livan Hernandez

2012-01-08T05:59:00.000-08:00

First, I apologize for not posting the Conor Says last week, I had no internet connection and I forgot. Next, the Conor Says! Calculations have shown that the Red Sox are approximately $2 million off of the luxury tax threshold. While they will probably have to cross the threshold to field a competitive team, they are looking for cheap options. One of those cheap options to fill out the #5 spot in the rotation is Livan Hernandez. Hernandez was his usual solid self in 2011, going 8-13/4.47/99 in 175 innings for the Nationals. He also put up an FIP of 3.96 and an xFIP of 4.28 to go with a 5.08 K/9 and 2.36 BB/9. Those numbers are all very close to his career averages. While Hernandez did not reach 200 innings in 2011, he was hampered with a few injuries and only made 29 starts. The previous year, in 2010, he pitched 211.2 innings-- also for the Nats. Hernandez will be 37 when the season starts and this raises a few question marks and one solid plus. The question marks are: he's getting older, his strikeout totals are going down, could he survive in the AL East? The plus is that he will come on a cheap, one year contract. If the Red Sox could pick up Hernandez on something like a $3 million contract for one year to fill out the rotation-- I'd be happy.

Red Sox Interested In Paul Maholm

2012-01-06T18:22:00.000-08:00

Reports have surfaced that the Red Sox are interested in free agent lefty Paul Maholm. Maholm had a great year in 2011 for the Pirates, going 6-14/3.66/97 in an excellent year. He also put up a 3.78 FIP and 4.03 xFIP with 5.38 K/9 and 2.77 BB/9. Maholm is effectively the opposite of a power pitcher: he doesn't strike out too many people, doesn't walk too many people, his fastball only sits around 87 mph on average. However, he gets people out on a great ground ball ratio of 49.9%, and only allowed 0.61 HR/9 in 2011. Maholm has also been mentioned by several other teams, including the Mariners, Cubs, Orioles, Padres and Pirates. After a good year like the one he had in 2011, Maholm would likely be in the range of something like a 2 year deal averaging $8-10 million a year. Something like a 2 yr/$17 million contract could probably secure Maholm as the Red Sox' #4 starter for a couple of years.

Red Sox Sign Carlos Silva, Pedro Ciriaco

2012-01-03T14:16:00.000-08:00

Today the Red Sox made two minor league moves: signing Carlos Silva (right) and Pedro Ciriaco (left) to minor league deals. If the 2012 season started today, Silva would probably be slated to be the Red Sox' #5 starter. I fully expect them to make another, bigger, move; however, since they have not yet, he'd be #5. Silva has had some trouble the past couple of years, and did not pitch in 2011 after being released by the Cubs and Yankees at different points. However, he did pitch in 2010, and he was decent for the Cubs, going 10-6/4.22/80 in 113 innings. Silva is not a strikeout pitcher or a walk pitcher, averaging 4.03 K/9 and 1.73 BB/9, the latter being the best of all active pitchers with at least 750 innings. In 2010, he also put together both a 3.75 FIP and xFIP. Pedro Ciriaco has spent the past couple years as a shortstop in the Pirates organization. In 2011, he batted .303/0/6 in 23 games; however, he did not fare so well in AAA, batting just .231/2/24 in 71 games. He is an above average fielder at shortstop, compiling a 9.7 UZR/150 in the major leagues. I think these are solid signings for the Red Sox, but I don't expect either to make a huge impact.

Red Sox Re-Sign Rich Hill

2011-12-30T19:43:00.000-08:00

Today, the Red Sox added another cog to what is looking like a very formidable bullpen by re-signing lefty Rich Hill. Hill was on pace for an excellent season in Boston last year-- allowing no runs and striking out 12 in 8 innings early this year. However, as he walked off the field clutching his elbow one summer night, the Red Sox lost one of the key members of the bullpen as Hill went down with Tommy John Surgery about the same time as Dice-K. Despite the recovery time for Tommy John Surgery usually being about a year, Hill is raring to go and could be ready for spring training. The deal is a minor league contract with an invite to spring training. Hill will be 31 in 2012 and was having a promising but unsuccessful career as a starter before the Red Sox converted him to a reliever in 2010. He excelled there, striking out over a batter per inning in AAA Pawtucket before the Sox called him up late. This could potentially be a big steal for the Sox, as Hill was on pace for an excellent year in 2011.

The Right Field Situation Post-Bailey Trade

2011-12-30T11:40:00.000-08:00

Earlier this offseason, the Red Sox were rumored to be in the mix for some right fielders with Reddick being unproven in the majors. Carlos Beltran's name was thrown around, but he signed with the Cardinals. Michael Cuddyer's name was as well, but he signed with the Rockies. Since the Red Sox traded Josh Reddick over the Oakland in return for Andrew Bailey and Ryan Sweeney, they are in serious need of a right fielder. However, since they waited so long, there is only a small market of cheap, mediocre right fielders. Let's look at some options to how the Red Sox could fill the Red Sox right field vacancy in 2012. On the team right now, they have Darnell McDonald and Ryan Sweeney (right) who could potentially fill that spot. This could work perfectly for the Red Sox as Sweeney is a lefty and McDonald is a righty. Each were bad against their pitchers of their respective hands, batting .159 and .189 off of lefties and righties, respectively. However, off of the opposite pitchers, they batted .286 and .260- something which could make an above average platooning partnership. Going out for acquisitions, some available options are Magglio Ordonez (.255/5/32), Ryan Spilborghs (.210/3/22), Andruw Jones (.247/13/33), Ryan Ludwick (.237/13/75), Cody Ross (.240/14/52), Scott Hairston (.235/7/24), and Yoennis Cespedes (.333/33/99 in 90 games in Cuba). Of these, Ordonez and Cespedes would be the most expensive. The least expensive would be Spilborghs and Hairston. In the middle of these would be Andruw Jones, Ryan Ludwick, and Cody Ross. All three are righties, which is what the Red Sox need in their lineup. Against lefties: Ross batted .234, Jones batted .286, and Ludwick batted .264. By these stats, Jones would be the best option for the Red Sox. By fielding statistics, Ludwick has managed a 3.7 UZR/150, Jones has managed a 9.3, and Ross has managed a -0.4. By all my stats together, I would say that Jones would be a great move to fill that position for the Red Sox. However, they could easily manage with platooning McDonald and Sweeney.

Red Sox Pick Up Andrew Bailey, Ryan Sweeney In Trade With A's

2011-12-28T14:20:00.000-08:00

Today, Ben Cherington has won my favor with a magnificent trade with the Oakland A's. The Red Sox will acquire Andrew Bailey and Ryan Sweeney for Josh Reddick (.280/7/28 in MLB), Miles Head (.254/7/29 in A+), and Raul Alcantara (0-3/6.23/14 in A-). Bailey had his worst year in the majors last year, going a pretty good 0-4/3.24/41 and saving 24/26 chances. This gets the Red Sox a proven closer in Bailey who won the AL Rookie of the Year Award in 2009. He also has three more seasons under team control and is eligible for arbitration for the first time-- giving the Sox three more affordable years with a proven closer. Bailey was troubled by a forearm injury in 2011 but still managed 41 games. Sweeney played 108 games for the A's last year, going .265/1/25 and plays all three outfield positions. Sweeney injured his hand in September of last year but didn't miss a whole lot of time. Well, the bullpen is now set and the Red Sox can fully focus on starting pitching; great move by Cherington!!!

Conor Says... Trade For Jake Peavy

2011-12-25T06:33:00.000-08:00

First off: merry Christmas, second off: it's still Sunday so I still have to do the Conor Says. This week's edition will be about the possibility of trading for Jake Peavy. So, the other day I was reading an article about how the Sox should go after White Sox starter Gavin Floyd. Mentioned in the article was the fact that the White Sox may trade Floyd because with Jake Peavy's bloated contract and lack of success, they needed a salary drop. I quickly looked at Peavy's stats to find that in 2011 he had an unimpressive line of 7-7/4.92/95. However, I looked a bit beyond his ERA of 4.92 and saw his gleaming peripheral stats of a 3.21 FIP and 3.52 xFIP. These were not too far off of the 2.84 and 3.34 he posted in his Cy Young season of 2007, in which he went 19-6/2.54/240. Not only that, but his K/9 of 7.66 and his BB/9 of 1.93 are both very impressive. A deal earlier this offseason where the Braves ate some of Derek Lowe's contract and shipped him to Cleveland for just a low-level prospect. Peavy is slated to make $17 million in 2012. If the White Sox could eat about $10, then I think Peavy would be a great shot to fill one of the holes in our rotation.

Merry Christmas To Red Sox Nation

2011-12-24T07:08:00.000-08:00

I got Red Sox vs. Indians tickets and a Fenway Tour!!!
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It would appear that Santa is not a Red Sox fan and you could consider that September '11 was our coal, which we could sell to the electric companies for a small profit. Sorry, sorry, bad joke. In any case, there's always next year for Red Sox Nation to rejoice over a hopeful championship. Santa hasn't given the Sox a whole lot under the tree this offseason, the biggest present would be Mark Melancon. Hopefully, he could be a decent gift to us at the price of Jed Lowrie and Kyle Weiland. Meanwhile, Kelly Shoppach and Nick Punto were pretty much sweaters. By this I mean, you're glad you got something, but not necessarily that. In any case, Merry Christmas to anybody reading this post and a happy new year. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good... day?

Offseason Coaching News

2011-12-22T05:22:00.000-08:00

Update: Red Sox also hire Jerry Noyster as their third base coach and Alex Ochoa as their first base coach.
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The Red Sox are, reportedly, close to hiring Bob McClure as their next pitching coach. For the past six years, McClure has been the Royals pitching coach and, this offseason, the Red Sox hired him in a scouting role. The Red Sox are expected to promote him to the role of pitching coach. Curt Young, the Red Sox pitching coach in 2011, returned to Oakland to rejoin the A's, who he had coached for several years prior to joining the Sox. Young didn't seem to be able to adjust to a big market team like Boston and the Red Sox were 22nd in the league with a 4.20 ERA.
On a different note, the Red Sox have moved Tim Bogar from the 3rd base coach role to the bench coach role. Now, Bogar has been praised for his excellent baseball mind; however, that obviously didn't translate into third base coaching skills. Bogar often found a way to fail the visual test of third base coaching skills by randomly waving Sox players around the bases when they were clearly out and holding them up when they would've been clearly safe. Hopefully Bogar will be better as a bench coach than he was as a third base coach. Go Sox!

Red Sox Jonesing For Andruw

2011-12-21T09:38:00.000-08:00

Some reports have indicated that the Red Sox could be interested in free agent outfielder Andruw Jones. Last year, Jones was the 4th outfielder for the Yankees and did a pretty good job of it, going .247/13/33 in 77 games and 190 at bats. He also reached base at a very good .356 clip, fitting him with the Red Sox' patient approach. However, Jones is 34 years old and this has been his first solid year since 2006 with the Braves. From 1998-2006 with the Braves, Jones was one of the best players in baseball and over his career, his 162 game average is a very good .256/32/97. Jones also has a decent glove for a corner outfielder and could relieve Josh Reddick (or a newcomer) and Carl Crawford fairly well. He is considerably better than the 4th outfielder the Sox currently have, in Darnell McDonald, who went .236/6/24 in 79 games and 159 at bats last year. If the Sox could land Jones on something like a 1 year/$4 million contract, I'd be impressed.

Red Sox In Talks With Francisco Cordero

2011-12-20T15:14:00.000-08:00

Allegedly, the Red Sox are looking to keep improving their bullpen and are interested in free agent closer Francisco Cordero. Apparently, the Red Sox had been interested in him earlier in the offseason and talks have picked back up. Cordero had an excellent season as the Reds' closer in 2011, going 5-3/2.45/42 in 68 games and 69 2/3 innings-- also saving 37/43 opportunities. However, his season may have had a bit of luck involved with a 4.02 FIP and 4.14 xFIP. His strikeout rates also dropped by almost 2 per nine innings. However, his walk rates also dropped over 1.5 per nine innings-- balancing things nicely. Even if his ERA and other great stats return to his career averages, he would still be a great option for the Red Sox closer. He averages a 3.17 ERA, 3.51 FIP, and 3.72 xFIP over his career. I would definitely support this move for the Sox to go out and get a proven closer like Cordero.

Conor Says... Sign Jon Garland

2011-12-18T12:03:00.000-08:00

The Red Sox' pitching troubles have been well documented this offseason. While they have gotten to improving their bullpen lately, they still need to improve upon their rotation. I think that a fairly cheap and effective way to do that would be to sign Jon Garland. Garland was injured for much of 2011, only starting 9 games for the Dodgers. In those 9 games, he was typical Jon Garland-- going 1-5/4.33/28. Other than 2011, however, Garland has been very consistent as a workhorse. From 2004-2010, he pitched 200+ innings in every year except 2008 (he still had 196 2/3). The Red Sox really need some innings eaters after nobody seemingly was able to go more than 5 innings in September '11. Garland is solid but unspectacular, with a career 4.32 ERA and 4.68 FIP. He doesn't strike out very many people (his career high was 136 in 2010) at just 4.86 K/9 over his career. However, he walks even fewer with just 3.02 BB/9 over his career. I think Garland would be a solid option for the #4 spot in the Red Sox rotation-- plus he'd be cheap.

Red Sox Potentially Interested in Joakim Soria

2011-12-17T18:21:00.000-08:00

A report has surfaced that the Red Sox have called on the Royals about the possibility of trading for Royals closer Joakim Soria. Soria had his worst season in 2011, going 5-5/4.03/60 in 60 games and 60 1/3 innings, also saving 28/35 chances. However, his career stats are much better-- as his 162-game average is 3-3/2.40/78 in 68 games and 72 innings. However, apparently the Royals asked for too much in return and the Red Sox rejected the potential deal. I'd feel the same way, as after trading for Melancon, the Red Sox don't need to spend a whole lot of talent on developing the back end of their bullpen. On the contrary, however, having Soria, Melancon, and potentially Bard would make a very formidable bullpen. I think the Sox should wait the Royals out to see if they can get a better deal. If they cannot, they should just nix it. I'd be happy if the Sox got Soria, but not for a huge price.

Why The Red Sox Should NOT Acquire Hanley Ramirez

2011-12-17T04:47:00.000-08:00

Since the Marlins signed Jose Reyes this winter; they have decided that Hanley Ramirez will need to move to third base. Now, Ramirez has not been terribly happy with this move and, apparently, has requested a trade. Multiple trade rumors have surfaced and one of those is that the Red Sox have checked in on him. While Ramirez is a great player, and I am not questioning that, I have multiple reasons why he should not come back to Boston. The first and foremost of those reasons is that we do not need Hanley Ramirez. Why trade for a shortstop when your returning shortstop hit .299/7/54 last season? Plus, Ramirez is coming off his worst season in which he hit .243/10/45. That is another one of my reasons, he is coming off of his worst season. I consider him too good of a player to fall off like that (his 162 game average is .306/25/83), and I think it was mostly luck-- but still. Also, he would be extremely expensive. If the Red Sox would be using the type of prospects to acquire Ramirez, trade for Gio Gonzalez. Why trade several great prospects for a player you don't need who is coming off his worst year? Read this and mark my words, Ben Cherington-- don't acquire Hanley Ramirez.

Red Sox To Sign Nick Punto

2011-12-14T13:20:00.000-08:00

Just hours after shipping Jed Lowrie and Kyle Weiland to Houston for Mark Melancon, the Red Sox have effectively upgraded both of them. Melancon is clearly better than Weiland, and just now, the Red Sox signed Nick Punto-- who will effectively replace Lowrie. They signed Punto to a 2 year/$3 million contract plus incentives. With his bat, Punto's .278/1/20 2011 season is no better than Lowrie's .252/6/36. However, with the glove, Punto is clearly superior, as the 34 year old is a great defender at second base, shortstop, and third base; all the positions Lowrie played. Punto played for the Cardinals in 2011 after playing for the Twins from 2004-2010 and the Phillies from 2001-2003. His best season offensively came with the Twins in 2006, where he batted .290/1/45. As you can probably tell, Punto doesn't have a whole lot of power; however, he has maintained an OBP of higher than .300 every year but one since 2003. I'm liking the Melancon trade a whole lot more since the Sox made this move.

Red Sox Acquire Melancon From Astros For Lowrie, Weiland

2011-12-14T09:34:00.000-08:00

Today, the Red Sox made a move to significantly bolster their bullpen-- acquiring Mark Melancon from the Astros. In doing so, they had to give up Jed Lowrie and Kyle Weiland. Melancon has proven himself very effective the past couple of years, going 8-4/2.78/66 in 71 games and 74 1/3 innings. Melancon was traded from the Yankees to Houston in the Berkman deal at Trading Deadline 2010. He'll get his chance to annoy the Yankees, as they gave up on him pretty quickly. I'm kind of surprised the Red Sox traded both Lowrie and Weiland for Melancon. Lowrie was expected to be traded this offseason, but I would've thought they could get a starter for him. Weiland was expected to serve a role in the bullpen this upcoming year, but Melancon will be taking that role from him so he may as well go. I'm excited that Cherington finally made his first real move, but I'm surprised they gave up so much for him.

Red Sox Go Shopping

2011-12-13T08:23:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Ben Cherington, who has now made his second acquisition who could potential start the season on the major league roster. The Red Sox have come to terms with catcher Kelly Shoppach on a 1 year/$1.35 million contract. Shoppach was formerly the crown jewel of the Red Sox farm system. He will be coming back to Boston after stints in Cleveland and Tampa Bay. Up until a few years ago, he was considered an all-bat-no-glove catcher, going .245/43/141 in four years as the backup catcher for the Indians. However, with the Rays he has evolved more in the opposite direction. Last year, behind the plate, he threw out a stellar 41% of baserunners while going a measly .176/11/22 with the stick. His best season came in 2008, where he batted .261/21/55. Shoppach is an all-or-nothing type hitter, displaying a fair number of homers for a backup catcher but a very low batting average. I don't really expect Shoppach to be on the MLB team out of Spring Training. I think it should and will be Ryan Lavarnway as the backup to Salty, but you never know.

Red Sox Non-Tender Rich Hill, Re-Sign Albers

2011-12-13T03:15:00.000-08:00

Last night was the non-tender deadline, which means: If a player has more than 2 1/2 years of MLB experience, then they are eligible to be non-tendered (basically, cut) in which case they would become a free agent. The Red Sox had a list of players eligible last night containing nine players. The only one of those is Rich Hill, who has likely seen his Red Sox tenure over after not allowing a run and striking out 12 in 8 innings before hurting his elbow and having to go through Tommy John Surgery. The Red Sox could still could sign him as a free agent, though, so don't count him out. Another one of the players on the list was not "tendered" per say, but the Red Sox re-signed Matt Albers. The contract is for one year and is worth $1.07 million. For four months of the season, Albers was one of our better relievers; however, he was overworked and broke down. His final stats were not terribly good at 4-4/4.73/68 in 56 games and 64 2/3 innings. We look forward to seeing Matt Albers' early season form and to see Rich Hill possibly in a Red Sox uniform.

Bard To Stretch Out As Starter In Spring Training

2011-12-12T03:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Ben Cherington confirmed that the Red Sox were going to test Daniel Bard out as a starter come 2012. Daniel Bard was a starter at UNC and the Red Sox used him as a starter in their minor league system. In 2007 as a starter in A league, he went 3-5/6.42/38 in 17 starts and 61 2/3 innings. In 2007, in A+ league, Bard was worse, going 0-2/10.13/9 in 5 starts and 13 1/3 innings. When the 2008 season started, the Red Sox turned Bard into a reliever, where he has been very successful. In three seasons as a reliever in the major leagues, Bard has been stellar at 5-13/2.88/213 in 197 innings. I'm not sure if I like this move, as he was bad at starting even in the very low-level minors. What will that translate to in the majors? I would prefer if the Red Sox stuck Bard as their closer and tried to acquire two starters through trades and free agency. After all, there are more starters on the market than there are closers.

Conor Says... Trade For Bobby Parnell

2011-12-11T04:50:00.000-08:00

In my opinion, Daniel Bard should be the Red Sox' closer in 2012. However, if Bard is to become to closer, then who should become the set-up man? I think the Red Sox should fulfill this need by trading for the Mets' reliever Bobby Parnell. Parnell is coming off a pretty good year in 2011 in which he went 4-6/3.64/64 for the Mets. He became the closer late in the season for the Mets, but was not very successful-- only saving 6/12 chances. However, his stats of 4-6/3.64/64 would adequately replace Bard's 2-9/3.33/74. That would leave the Red Sox' bullpen looking like this: Bard (closer), Parnell (set-up), Albers (mid relief), Morales (mid relief), Jenks (mid relief), Another acquisition, and Aceves (long relief). I think that to improve the Red Sox bullpen, they should get Parnell and possibly a few more arms to help out the back end.

Red Sox Improve Depth By Signing Mathis

2011-12-10T16:51:00.000-08:00

Ben Cherington was very honest when, in his press conference, he said that he wasn't going to sign many big free agents and display more of a drafting/development type approach. When your two biggest acquisitions of the offseason on December 10 are Jesse Carlson and Doug Mathis, that is very true. As you probably have picked up, the Red Sox signed Doug Mathis. Mathis is a right-handed pitcher who did not play in the majors in 2011. He played with the Rangers from 2008-2010, going 1-1/6.04/10 in 13 games and 22 1/3 innings for the Rangers in 2010. His best season came in 2009, when he went 0-1/3.16/25 in 24 games and 42 2/3 innings. Mathis played in the minor league systems of the Giants and the A's last season before going to Korea to finish the year. He provides a cheap option for more depth in the Red Sox bullpen and rotation. I'm neutral on this move, as we probably won't be seeing him in the majors.

Red Sox Interested In D-Backs' Lefty Joe Saunders

2011-12-10T05:23:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon, the Diamondbacks made it clear that lefty Joe Saunders was on the trading block. Many teams are reportedly interested, and those teams include the Red Sox. Saunders enjoyed the second best season of his career in 2011, going 12-13/3.69/108 for the division leading D-Backs. While Saunders is not the greatest pitcher available, he has many qualities that I like. One of those is that he is a workhorse-- he has pitched 200 innings twice in the last 3 years. Another is that he is a winner, he posted 33 wins over 2008-2009, with 17 in '08 and 16 in '09. While wins and losses are not the most meaningful statistics, it does say a little bit about the pitcher, and I do like it when guys have lots of wins. Saunders would fit in nicely behind Clay Buchholz and in front of.... Miller, Aceves, Bard, Weiland? It would probably take one high tier prospect or two mid-tier guys. A package like Bryce Brentz OR something like Kolbrin Vitek and Oscar Tejeda. I'd be quite happy if the Sox could land Saunders.

Red Sox To Sign Jesse Carlson

2011-12-08T15:11:00.000-08:00

The Red Sox have made their first meaningful signing of the offseason (not counting re-signing Scutaro and Ortiz), signing lefty reliever Jesse Carlson. Carlson did not pitch in 2011, after undergoing an injury to his left rotator cuff. In 2010 with the Blue Jays, he went 0-0/4.61/8 in 20 games and 13 2/3 innings. His best season came as a rookie in 2008 when he showed his potential, going 7-2/2.25/55 in 69 games and 60 innings. Carlson signed a split contract-- meaning he will make more money if he makes the team out of spring training than otherwise. He would be competing with Franklin Morales as a lefty in the bullpen as in 2010, he held lefties to a microscopic .158 batting average. I think that Carlson is a good sign for the Red Sox. I can't imagine that he costed very much to sign, and he has been a fairly average relief pitcher. He also has AL East experience, as he pitched for three years with the Blue Jays. I'm glad they made one move, now let's see some more!

David Ortiz To Accept Arbitration, Yes!

2011-12-06T18:46:00.000-08:00

Well, there's two big moves down-- we hired a manager and re-signed Papi, and it's about time. David Ortiz has reportedly decided to accept the Red Sox offer of arbitration. The Red Sox had an offer on the table of 2 years and $18 million. However, this would present a decrease in pay from $12.5 million in 2011 to just $9 million in 2012. Papi obviously wouldn't have been happy with a pay decrease after his fantastic .309/29/96 season in 2011. He wasn't too shabby in 2010 either, winning Sox.Rox Player of the Year and going .270/32/102. Ortiz is the best DH in baseball, and this presents a major move in the offseason plans for the Red Sox. With Papi back in the fold for 2012, the Red Sox will not have to worry about signing a heavy-hitting outfielder like Carlos Beltran or Josh Willingham and can instead go for cheaper players. It also means they can focus full out on signing at least one solid pitcher. I am very happy that the Sox have locked up Papi, he would have definitely been missed in Boston.

Red Sox Re-Sign Andrew Miller

2011-12-06T13:37:00.000-08:00

For some depth, the Red Sox re-signed lefty Andrew Miller. Unfortunately, it may not just be for some depth as they signed him to a major league contract. Miller had an awful season for the Sox in 2011, going 6-3/5.44/50 in 17 games (12 starts) and 65 innings for the Red Sox. In the minors at AAA Pawtucket, he fared much better, going 3-3/2.47/61 in 13 games (12 starts) and 65 2/3 innings. Miller started off the season very well for the Red Sox, jumping out to a 4-1 start. However, he trailed off due to control problems and was very bad for much of the season. The Red Sox tried him out in the bullpen later in the year, and he pitched without too much success-- same control problems and everything, including a 6 runs in 1 1/3 innings performance in Texas. I don't really know why the Red Sox signed him to a major league deal, as I don't even want him on our roster as a #5 starter.

Red Sox, A's To Discuss Andrew Bailey

2011-12-06T03:29:00.000-08:00

Since Jonathan Papelbon has left, the Red Sox do have a vacancy at the closer position. They have yet to be really aggressive (that we know of) at acquiring a closer. However, some reports have surfaced that the Red Sox will meet with the A's regarding trade possibilities for closer Andrew Bailey. Bailey had his third straight solid year as the A's closer, going 0-4/3.24/41 as well as racking up 24 saves in 26 chances. While his ERA of 3.24 was higher than his stellar marks of 1.47 and 1.84 in 2010 and 2009, respectively, don't be alarmed. His FIP (a more advanced and accurate statistic regarding pitchers) was pretty much on line with the rest of his seasons as he put up FIP's of 2.56, 2.96, and 2.86 in 2009, 2010, and 2011, respectively. Bailey would be a proven closer that could fill in for Papelbon while Daniel Bard stayed right where he was, or converted to a starter. I would be happy if the Red Sox traded for Bailey, but we can't give up too much because we do have a potential closer in the wings.

Red Sox Interested in Hiroki Kuroda

2011-12-04T06:34:00.000-08:00

Like just about every other decent starting pitcher remotely available, the Red Sox have shown interest in Hiroki Kuroda. And why not? Kuroda had a fantastic year with the Dodgers in 2011, going 13-16/3.07/161 in his best season in MLB. The other day, the Dodgers signed Chris Capuano to effectively replace Kuroda in the Dodgers' rotation. This means that his suitors are down to the Red Sox, Yankees, Nationals, Angels, and Diamondbacks. Earlier this year (at the trade deadline), Kuroda said he did not want to move to the east. However, since the Dodgers don't necessarily want him back, he has changed his views. He is 37 years old, so he is in no position to demand a long, luxurious contract. He could probably ask for about 2 years/$20 million. I would be all for Kuroda signing with the Sox; I think it would be a move that would definitely make us one of the best teams in baseball.

Conor Says... Trade For Jeremy Guthrie

2011-12-04T04:56:00.000-08:00

The Red Sox obviously need pitching, and in a weak free agent market, they may have to go to trades to satisfy their needs. I think that one trade the Red Sox should explore is for Orioles righty Jeremy Guthrie. With just one year until Guthrie becomes a free agent, the Orioles may be shopping him to get something in return. Guthrie has not been fantastic in his years with the Orioles, but he has been consistent. In 2011, Guthrie had a fairly middle-of-the-road year, going 9-17/4.33/130 (ignore the W-L, he's played for the Orioles!). He doesn't strike out too many people, at only 5.63 per nine innings, but he doesn't walk many either, with 2.86 per nine. Another thing is that he has been this consistent in the AL East, meaning it's not out of the question that he could adjust to the pressure cooker of Boston. I think we could give up a package of prospects like Sean Coyle and Stolmy Pimentel plus cash. I think this would give the Red Sox the #4 starter they need to win.

Red Sox Interested in Joel Zumaya

2011-12-02T03:37:00.000-08:00

Apparently, the Red Sox have expressed interest in free agent reliever Joel Zumaya. Zumaya missed the entire 2011 season after undergoing surgery on his right elbow in May. He also missed much of his 2010 season after hurting his elbow in June. However, before his injuries, he was a very effective reliever for the Tigers. In 2010, he had a pretty good year, going 2-1/2.58/34 in 31 games and 38 2/3 innings. In his best year, his rookie year of 2006, Zumaya was stellar, going 6-3/1.94/97 in 62 games and 83 innings. One of the reasons Zumaya is so effective is because he is a fireballer. And when I say "fireballer," I mean faster than Bard (who reaches the high 90's easily). Zumaya has thrown the most pitches over 100 mph in MLB history and holds the unofficial record with a 104 mph fastball. Zumaya would accompany Bard as fireballers in the bullpen and give the Sox a very solid setup corps. I would be for this move, as he'd likely come cheap, but would be great if healthy.

Will This Go Down As Valentine's Day In Red Sox Nation?

2011-12-01T15:57:00.000-08:00

Today, the Red Sox formally introduced Bobby Valentine as their next manager. Valentine reportedly signed off on a 2 year deal earlier today and will definitely be the next manager. There have been mixed reviews about Valentine's hiring. I have seen many reports saying how great a move this is and how it is a ticking time bomb waiting to explode in the face of Red Sox nation. To be honest, I'm just glad that the whole managerial interview process is over. However, I am excited about Valentine. He brings a personality that I like to the table as he is colorful but firm-- something this clubhouse is in dire need of. I look forward to seeing how Valentine performs as the Red Sox manager in 2012 and (hopefully) beyond.

Be Red Sox Nation's Valentine?

2011-11-29T17:34:00.000-08:00

After a long, excruciating process, the Red Sox have finally hired their next manager-- former Mets and Rangers manager Bobby Valentine. He has been a decent manager in his time, compiling a .510 winning percentage. He definitely has far more experience than any other candidate the Red Sox had, managing about 15 years. Another thing Valentine has is charisma, and a definite personality. He has worked as an analyst on ESPN the past few years, which is pretty much the only thing I've seen him on being a fairly young baseball fan. However, I heard a story that cracks me up about Valentine. I hear that in one Mets game, he was ejected, but he came back into the dugout with a fake mustache on. A loose personality like that would definitely help this stuffy clubhouse full of "beer and chicken." I don't know enough about Valentine to make a definite decision, but I'm glad this whole ordeal is over.

Red Sox Re-Sign Minor Leaguer Tony Pena Jr.

2011-11-29T14:44:00.000-08:00

I am a bit frustrated by the Red Sox moves this offseason, or lack thereof, so I've begun to just report every little detail I get. So, here's the next little detail-- the Red Sox have re-signed Tony Pena Jr. Pena pitched for the AAA Pawtucket Red Sox the whole year in 2011 in his 2nd full year of pitching after being a shortstop for his previous career. He was actually quite effective, going 9-6/3.56/65 in 33 games, 14 of which were starts. Pena is a guy who I'm surprised the Red Sox didn't call up during the September '11 collapse. I think he's a guy who probably could have started a few games here and there instead of Tim Wakefield, John Lackey, and Kyle Weiland. The Red Sox signed him to a minor league deal with an invite to Spring Training which includes an additional $650,000 if he makes the major league team out of Spring Training. I'm all for Pena sticking around and possibly making an impact in 2012.

Red Sox Show Interest In Broxton

2011-11-29T03:34:00.000-08:00

Update: Nevermind, he signed with the Royals.

Reports have surfaced that the Red Sox may be looking into possibilities for free agent closer Jonathan Broxton. Broxton will likely come for a cheap price, as he was injured and ineffective for much of 2011. He finished 1-2/5.68/10, saving 7/8 chances in 12 games and 10 innings. The fireballer had surgery on his throwing elbow in 2011, but if healthy would likely be a good pitcher. He has shown that he can be effective consistently after going 5-6/4.04/73 and saving 22/29 chances in 64 games. In 2009, he was even better, going 7-2/2.61/114 and saving 36/42 chances in 73 games. I would certainly not mind signing Broxton for bullpen depth, but he looks a lot like Bobby Jenks to me and I would not trust him in the closer role. Like Jenks, he is a closer who has been injured and declined over the past few years. He would probably be available to a 1 year/$2.5 million contract. As I said, I would like Broxton to compete for a bullpen job, but nothing more.

Red Sox Check Into Wandy Rodriguez

2011-11-27T12:48:00.000-08:00

The Red Sox search for good pitching through trades continues as reports have indicated that they have contacted the Astros about lefty Wandy Rodriguez. Rodriguez completed his fourth straight season with an ERA under 4.00, going 11-11/3.49/166 in 191 innings and 30 starts. Rodriguez is the only remotely good player in the Astros system, so it would probably take quite a bit of prying to get him. He would probably be just under what Gio Gonzalez would demand from the A's. The Astros would probably part with him for a package around Will Middlebrooks and/or Bryce Brentz, quite similar to Gio Gonzalez. Rodriguez would be a guy who would probably fit in as the #3 or 4 starter in the Red Sox rotation and would make one of the most formidable rotations in baseball when healthy. Just like Gio Gonzalez, I would be thrilled if the Red Sox could acquire Rodriguez; but only for a certain price.

Conor Says... Sign Francisco Cordero

2011-11-27T05:56:00.000-08:00

With Jonathan Papelbon having left for the Phillies, the Red Sox are without a proven closer in his position. That is why I think the Red Sox should go after Francisco Cordero, a free agent closer who pitched for the Reds in 2011. Cordero is coming off a fantastic season in 2011, in which he went 5-3/2.45/42 as well as saving 37/43 opportunities. Cordero certainly has had some experience pitching in tough ballparks for a pitcher, as he has pitched in Great American Ballpark, Miller Park, and Rangers Ballpark-- three major hitting parks. Also, he would likely come cheap as he will be 37 at the beginning of 2011 and there is a fairly good market for closers out there with Heath Bell, Jonathan Broxton, and Matt Capps. I think he would be signable for 2 years/$16 million-- and for a guy who may even be better than Papelbon. I don't really expect the Red Sox to do this, I expect them to stick with Bard, but if they were to make a move-- it should be for Francisco Cordero.

Red Sox Interested In Luis Ayala

2011-11-26T16:09:00.000-08:00

Reports have surfaced that the Red Sox may be interested in free agent reliever Luis Ayala. Ayala had a magnificent season out of the 'pen for the Yankees in 2011, going 2-2/2.09/39 in 52 games and 56 innings. The Rays have also looked into Ayala, and I'm sure that after that season, the Yankees would be very happy to have him back. In that case, he would not be an easy sign and probably would want a guaranteed spot on a major league team's roster-- not something to just throw away to a reliever who hasn't been spectacular for much of his career. He has a career 3.47 ERA over 5 teams, and his career line would be much better if not for rough years in 2008 and 2009 before missing a whole season in 2010. The last time the Red Sox plucked a reliever from the Evil Empire it worked pretty well (Alfredo Aceves), so I'd be all for trying it again!

Red Sox Emerge As A Contender For Gio Gonzalez

2011-11-25T05:00:00.000-08:00

It is fairly widely known that the Oakland A's have amazing pitching and terrible hitting. It is also fairly widely known that would be shopping one of their pitchers (probably Gio Gonzalez or Trevor Cahill) to get some offense in return. Yesterday, I heard a report that the Red Sox were "very high" on Gio Gonzalez, a lefty who has emerged as one of the better pitchers in baseball over the last couple of years. In 2011, he had his second straight great year, going 16-12/3.12/197. On a better team, like the Red Sox, Gonzalez could easily become a 20-game winner and a perennial Cy Young candidate. Of course, the Red Sox are not the only team in on Gonzalez, as multiple reports have surfaced of him possibly going to the Marlins or *gasp* the Yankees. Now, the problem is how to get Gio. After the Adrian Gonzalez trade, many of our high-caliber prospects are gone. However, seeing as Gonzalez is one of the best starters in the game right now, I would be very open to making a package around Will Middlebrooks or Bryce Brentz. If the Red Sox could land Gonzalez, I would be incredibly happy.

Red Sox Offer Ortiz, Wheeler Arbitration

2011-11-24T04:37:00.000-08:00

The title says enough that I don't have to write a topic sentence here. I'll do one anyways though; the Red Sox have offered arbitration to David Ortiz (right) and Dan Wheeler. Ortiz had a monster year in 2011, hitting .309/29/96, reverting back to his masher form from 2003-2007. Ortiz would be a Type A free agent, so we would get a draft pick if he signed elsewhere. However, he has stated that he would like to stay in Boston. He also has said he would like a multi-year deal, something he may not get with arbitration. However, he would get a raise from the $12.5 million he earned last year-- something that may tempt him. Wheeler had a fairly mediocre year last season in the bullpen, not quite living up to expectations. He went 2-2/4.38/39 in his first (and possibly only) year in Boston. Through arbitration, the Red Sox would have to offer him at least $2.4 million. This may be tempting to him, because after a mediocre year, I doubt he'd get more than that on the open market; I also doubt he'd get a multi-year deal. I think Wheeler is a good chance to resign, and Papi is a something like 60% in my opinion.

Red Sox Make Three Minor Moves

2011-11-22T12:56:00.001-08:00

For pitching depth, the Red Sox have made moves to acquire three minor league free agents. These include former Pirates lefty Justin Thomas (right), Padres righty Will Inman, and Orioles righty Chorye Spoon. Of the three, Thomas is the only one with major league experience, as he pitched 12 games for the Pirates in 2010 and 8 games for the Mariners in 2008. He has compiled a career 0-2/6.35/7 line in 17 innings in the majors. With the Indianapolis Indians (the Pirates' AAA affiliate) in 2011, Thomas had a pretty good year, going 8-2/3.89/59 in 63 games. Inman had a tough year in 2011 to say the least, going 5-11/6.15/120 in 42 games (17 starts) with the Tucson Padres (the Padres' AAA affiliate). Chorye Spoone was average in a season split between the Bowie Baysox (AA) and Norfolk Tides (AAA). Between the two, he went 7-6/4.50/80 in 31 games (19 starts). Of the three pitchers, I see Thomas as the only one who potentially would make an impact as a reliever at the major league level. On a different note, minor leaguers Drew Sutton and Tommy Hottovy have signed elsewhere: Sutton with the Braves and Hottovy with the Royals.

Ellsbury Gets This One Stolen From Him

2011-11-22T12:45:00.001-08:00

Usually, it's Jacoby Ellsbury doing the stealing; this time, he's getting stolen from. I expect most casual Red Sox fans know that our stud Jacoby Ellsbury finished 2nd in MVP voting to Justin Verlander. Now, I am going to say that Verlander was fantastic. He absolutely deserved the Cy Young, but I don't think that somebody playing every five games should win the MVP award. Pitchers do have their own award after all. Verlander was probably more valuable to the Tigers than Ellsbury was to the Sox, as I don't think they would have won the division without him. However, I am of the personal opinion that the MVP award should generally go to a batter. Yes, I'm guilty. If a Red Sox pitcher wins the MVP, I won't be saying this. However, it's not all about the Red Sox as I was predicting Jose Bautista of the Blue Jays to win the MVP and would have been surprised if Ellsbury did. Ellsbury had a great season, going .321/32/105 with 39 stolen bases: becoming the first 30-30 man in Red Sox history. He had a career year, and I hope he continues his stellar career as a member of the Red Sox. Congratulations to Justin Verlander as well.

Conor Says... Sign Aaron Harang

2011-11-20T03:47:00.001-08:00

In my opinion, I think that a move for Aaron Harang is a no-brainer for the Red Sox. He'd likely be cheap, and he gave the Padres a great season last year, going 14-7/3.64/124. He is exactly what we need in an innings-eater, as he put together 3 straight 200+ innings seasons from 2005-2007, and put up 160+ in 2008, 2009, and 2011. He is not a strikeouts pitcher, with only 6.5 strikeouts per nine and doesn't have the best control with 3.1 walks per nine. However, he has an ability to just get people out, unlike some people who don't get many strikeouts either.... *cough cough... Lackey and Wakefield... *cough cough. While he did put up this season in Petco Park, a well known pitcher's park, he also had some very good seasons with the Reds in Great American Ballpark, a well known hitter's park. I think we could get Harang for fairly cheap, probably something like 2 yr/$20 million and could probably get a very solid pitcher out of him. I think he would definitely be superior to whatever anybody on the current roster beyond Lester, Beckett, and Buchholz could give.

Red Sox Meet With Agent Of Oswalt, Wilson

2011-11-18T03:23:00.001-08:00

According to multiple sources, the Red Sox have met with Bob Garber, the agent of free agent pitchers Roy Oswalt (right) and C.J. Wilson. Of the two, I would definitely prefer Oswalt-- not because he is a better pitcher, but because he would be less likely to be a bust. Wilson is the best pitcher on a fairly weak free agent market after going 16-7/2.94/206 in 2011 and will probably get a very large deal of something around 5 years and $85-90 million. Oswalt, on the other hand, had an injury-hampered year in 2011, but it was the first time in 7 years he had not made 30 starts, he made 23 for the Phillies. In those 23 starts, he was certainly not bad, going 9-10/3.69/93. He is definitely not the Roy Oswalt in his prime, where from 2001-2008, he rattled off 8 consecutive years with an ERA under 4.00 to begin his career. However, he would be much more affordable that Wilson, and his consistency would be a huge asset. It may be difficult for Oswalt (and Wilson, less so) to adjust to the AL East, having played in the NL his whole career, however, I bet he could handle it. I would be very pleased to have Oswalt, but I'd be a bit surprised if they heavily chased C.J. Wilson.

Red Sox To Scout Cuban Phenom Yoenis Cespedes

2011-11-16T03:23:00.001-08:00

It has been announced that new GM Ben Cherington will be shipping down to the Dominican Republic to watch Cuban defector Yoenis Cespedes. Cespedes is expected to be a hot commodity for many this winter. However, he really makes sense for the Red Sox. He is a right-handed right fielder who hits for power and has good speed. Last season in Cuba, he had a remarkable season, hitting .333 with 33 home runs in only 99 games. Since he has not played in MLB or Japan, I don't have too many stats on him right now-- however, pretty much every site I've seen says he is a 5-tool player and I assume I'll believe them. However, as I said earlier, he is a hot commodity for many teams across the board, and as usual when there's a good player involved, the Yankees are one of them. The highest contract ever for a Cuban defector was Aroldis Chapman in the 2009 offseason, and that was for 6 years/$30.25 million. Cespedes is expected to get that, and possibly more. I think if the Sox don't overpay for him, this would be a great move for Ben Cherington.

Conor Says... Sign Mike Gonzalez

2011-11-13T09:54:00.000-08:00

In 2011, due to many posts and comments on certain blogs-- I saw that many Red Sox fans were unhappy with Franklin Morales. Acquired in May from the Rockies, Morales pitched for a 1-1/3.62/36 season in 36 games with the Sox. That is not bad at all, however, his walk rates and FIP of 4.26 tell a different tale and scare me a bit. In that case, I think it may not be a bad idea to have another lefty in the bullpen, and one free agent who comes to mind in Mike Gonzalez. Gonzalez had a somewhat tough year in 2011, split between the Rangers and Orioles. He was 2-2/4.39/51; however, he was hurt for some time. Through 2010 and 2011, Gonzalez certainly did not live up to the hype of his 2 year/$12 million deal struck with the Orioles. This likely means the lefty would be available for a 1 year/$3-4 million deal due to his recent injury history. Also, he could fill in the closer role from time to time as he has some experience as a closer (He saved 24/24 chances with the Pirates in 2006).

Red Sox Finish Phase One of Managerial Interviews

2011-11-12T19:05:00.000-08:00

After the Red Sox interviewed Tigers third base coach Gene Lamont today, they have their final five candidates. These include Phillies bench coach Pete Mackanin, Brewers hitting coach Dale Sveum, Indians bench coach Sandy Alomar Jr., Dodgers third base coach Torey Lovullo, and Lamont. Many reporters have indicated that Sveum (right) is the front-runner for the position, with Alomar not too far behind. However, reports have stated that Ben Cherington is "high on Sveum, and the rest of the interviewing process may just be a formality." Sveum was the Red Sox third base coach from 2004-2005, and was very bad, apparently-- I wouldn't know. My top candidates would be Mackanin and Alomar. I like Mackanin because he has stated that he is very into statistics, which could really help our club. Alomar would command respect from the players because he was a good player in his day, and he would also help the latino players. I look forward to the Red Sox naming their manager for 2012 and (hopefully) beyond.

Papelbon Leaves For Phillies

2011-11-11T19:33:00.000-08:00

Well, it's official-- star closer Jonathan Papelbon has left the Red Sox, signing a 4 year/$50 million contract with the Phillies today. Papelbon had a very good year with the Red Sox in 2011, going 4-1/2.33/87, along with saving 31 of 34 chances. Papelbon is the only closing pitcher in history to save 30 games in the first 6 full seasons of his career. He also is the Red Sox franchise saves leader, with 219, as he has been the primary closer for the Red Sox since 2006. HOWEVER, he is not worth $50 million and here's why. Yes, he is an above average closer-- top 5, I'd say. Still, he has directly ended the Red Sox season for 3 consecutive years, less so in 2010 though. In 2009, he was unable to protect a 5-2 lead in Game 3 of the ALDS which ended the Red Sox season. In 2010, he was just bad. This year, he was unable to protect a 3-2 lead with 2 outs and nobody on in the 9th inning of a crucial Game 162. I wish you well, Paps, you had a great career with the Sox.

Red Sox Have Contacted Grady Sizemore

2011-11-11T03:23:00.000-08:00

As I pointed out the other day, the Red Sox are in need of a right fielder for 2012. I also pointed out that they have been extensively linked to Carlos Beltran. However, it has been reported that, while they are interested in Beltran, they have actually called Grazy Sizemore. Earlier in the offseason, the Indians declined Sizemore's $9 million option for the 2012 season, meaning he would likely be available for less than that. I think he is widely seen as a low-risk high-reward option, as he has been consistently injured since 2009. From 2005-2008, he put together 4 straight All-Star seasons in which he consistently batted over .265 with more than 20 home runs and 75 RBIs, as well as 20 steals. However, since then he has been much worse, going only .224/10/32 in 71 games this year. If the Red Sox were able to pick up on Sizemore and he could bat .250/20/65 with 20 steals, I would be very happy with this move.

Red Sox Reported To Be Interested In Carlos Beltran

2011-11-08T16:11:00.000-08:00

This afternoon, multiple reports surfaced that the Red Sox are pretty heavily into outfielder Carlos Beltran. After injury-filled years in 2009-2010, Beltran resurfaced as an everyday player and a star in 2011. In a year split between the Mets and Giants, Beltran went .300/22/84. Of the free agents who are outfielders, Beltran is clearly the best option available. He is reported to be interested in a 2 year deal, and the Red Sox appear to be the biggest suitor. If the Red Sox were able to sign Beltran, they would become an absolutely dynamic offense. Beltran would fill the only question mark in our lineup with a plus bat that, to top it off, is a switch-hitter. He is slightly better against righties, but he still batted .286 off of lefties in 2012; as this would add another big bat to an already great lineup. If the Red Sox were able to sign Beltran for a 2 yr/$20 million deal, it would be a great move.

Conor Says... Sign Michael Cuddyer

2011-11-06T03:52:00.000-08:00

Heading into 2012, the Red Sox only position in need of improvement will be right field. Josh Reddick started off very hot, but once pitchers made adjustments on him, he faded down the stretch, batting .235 over the final two months. That is why I think the Sox should sign a more consistent right fielder in Michael Cuddyer-- a guy who batted .284/20/70 in 2011 for the Twins. However, his best year was in 2009, when he went .276/32/94 to help lead the Twins to a division title. Another asset would be his versatility, as he can play the corner outfield positions, as well as every infield position except shortstop. For me, he would be the starting right fielder, as well as giving Kevin Youkilis and Adrian Gonzalez a few breaks at first and third base. The Phillies have been linked to Cuddyer-- but I think we could pry him away for a certain price. I think that 3 years for $25 million would be reasonable, but nothing too much more than that. Thanks for reading and comment what you think!

Three Is The Magic Number For Sox, As Silver Sluggers Are Announced

2011-11-02T16:45:00.000-07:00

Right after three Red Sox took home Gold Gloves last night, three Sox took home Silver Sluggers today. In fact, two of the three players that won Gold Gloves last night, won Silver Sluggers today. The three Silver Sluggers for the Sox are first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury (right), and designated hitter David Ortiz. They all had great offensive seasons, with Gonzalez going .338/27/117, Ellsbury going .321/32/105, and Ortiz going .309/29/96. The most special of these was definitely Jacoby Ellsbury, who won Sox.Rox Player of the Year with a great year. After an injury-riddled 2010, nobody expected this kind of production out of Ellsbury-- including me. His power output was tremendous compared to his previous 2 full years, as he more than doubled his total. Gonzalez was great up until late in the year when his power disappeared, but he still had a fantastic season. Ortiz was good as well, as the 2010 Sox.Rox Player of the Year was even better in 2011, as he really rebounded from a seemingly never-ending slump. I'm really proud of our Sox, and we have a very solid chance in 2012!

Three Sox Take Home Gold Gloves

2011-11-02T03:09:00.000-07:00

Last night, the Gold Glove Award winners were announced; at the time, 4 Red Sox were finalists for an AL Gold Glove. These players were first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, second baseman Dustin Pedroia (right), third baseman Kevin Youkilis, and center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury. As things turned out, everyone but Kevin Youkilis took home a Gold Glove at their respective position. This was Gonzalez's 3rd Gold Glove ('08, '09, '11), Pedroia's 2nd ('08, '11), and Ellsbury's 1st ('11). Ever since the Nomar Garciaparra trade on July 31, 2004; the Red Sox have really made a move to improve their defense. Many years that I've been watching NESN they've showed the defense and I've heard that the Red Sox rank 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th in errors that year. In fact, this was the first time that 3 Red Sox teammates won the award since 1979 when Rick Burleson, Dwight Evans, and Fred Lynn did it. It was even the 1st time since 1990 that multiple Red Sox won it when Mike Boddicker and Ellis Burks did it. I'm proud of all these guys and happy they are on my team!

Red Sox Decline Options For Wheeler and Atchison

2011-10-31T20:09:00.000-07:00

Well, I figure I don't need a topic sentence for this post, as you probably got the gist of it from the title. However, two Red Sox relievers may not be coming back for 2012. The Red Sox declined Dan Wheeler's $3 million options and Scott Atchison's option for league minimum. I would say there is about a 50/50 chance that the Sox keep Wheeler, but they probably won't bring back Atchison. Wheeler had a decent year in 2011, but he did not live up to expectations, going 2-2/4.38/39. Scott Atchison bounced between Boston and Pawtucket for pretty much the whole year, but while he was in Boston, he was pretty effective, going 1-0/3.26/17. I would not mind seeing either of these guys back in the bullpen, especially Wheeler, as he's proven to be more consistent over the years. I don't see them bringing back Atchison for any less than his option so he's probably gone; however, if they could get Wheeler at around $2 million- I'd consider it a good move.

Red Sox PIck Up Marco Scutaro's Club Option

2011-10-30T17:10:00.000-07:00

I'm going to lead off by saying that I consider myself a big Marco Scutaro fan. However, I don't think that leads to any bias in my conclusion that this was a great move. Over the past two seasons, Scutaro has been a very valuable part of our offense, as well as our defense. Plus, with a barren free agent market this year- it's hard to believe that we could get anybody better than him on the market. Scutaro had the best season of his 9 year career by going .299/7/54 in 2011 after a pretty good season in 2010 which saw him go .275/11/56. Not to mention that in those years, he has had a .968 fielding percentage playing a very difficult position. He also brings many intangibles to the table as he appears to be a big jokester and add some life into a pretty dull clubhouse in 2011. I'm really glad that the Red Sox wasted no time in making this move and congratulations to Ben Cherington on his first move with the Red Sox!

Conor Says... Trade For Jonathan Sanchez

2011-10-30T14:07:00.000-07:00

With a fairly weak free agent market for pitchers this season, the Red Sox may have to make a trade to improve their depth. Ben Cherington seems like a very different GM than Theo Epstein, so I don't expect us to be signing C.J. Wilson to a huge contract this offseason. However, we do need to get at least a solid pitcher, and trading may be the best way to do that. A name that may be moveable as well as affordable could be Giants starter Jonathan Sanchez. Sanchez had a down year in 2011, with a 4-7/4.26/102 line. However, he was destroyed by injuries and only made 19 starts coming off a stellar 2010 campaign in which he went 13-9/3.09/205. The Giants have a surplus of pitching, but they are not so well off when it comes to hitting. Because of the Red Sox opposite charges, they could pull off a fairly even deal. The Red Sox may not even have to part with a player of the caliber of Kevin Youkilis and may be able to put together a package of Josh Reddick and Jed Lowrie/Mike Aviles for Sanchez. Comment what you think!

Congratulations St. Louis Cardinals

2011-10-29T04:56:00.000-07:00

These guys were 10.5 games out of the wild card in late August. 10.5 games in late August is what I'd consider an easy win for the team in front (which was, more or less, the Red Sox). However, the Cardinals fought back, and on the last night of the season, beat the Astros on a complete game shutout by Chris Carpenter. They ran to 5 games in the NLDS with the Phillies, 6 games in the NLCS with the Brewers, and 7 games in the World Series with the Rangers (the first 7-game series since 2002). David Freese was fantastic the whole postseason- hoisting two MVPS and a .307/5/21 line throughout the whole time. For clarification, that's 21 RBIs in 18 games, a line that would even out to 188 RBIs over a full season. Chris Carpenter was also fantastic the whole time- and both of those players secured the series. So, good job Cardinals in prolonging my obsession with watching baseball just a little longer.

Game 7- 11th Heaven

2011-10-29T04:49:00.000-07:00

This was a great game- but for me the excitement is nothing compared to the fact that there is no baseball from here until next March. After the Rangers led off the game with a single and a walk, back-to-back doubles by Josh Hamilton and Michael Young would score them and make it 2-0 early on. However, with two outs and two on in the bottom of the 1st, David Freese whacked a double, which scored two and tied the game at 2-2. For me, that's a big surprise, as David Freese has really done nothing all postseason (wink). In the 3rd, Allen Craig homered just over the wall in right to make it 3-2. In the 5th, the Cardinals were able to load the bases with two outs. A walk to Yadier Molina and a hit by pitch for Rafael Furcal made it 5-2. In the 7th, the Cardinals added an insurance run as Lance Berkman scored on an RBI single for Yadier Molina.

Chris Carpenter pitched a great game for the Cardinals, allowing 2 runs in 6 innings- settling down supremely. He was followed by an assortment of relievers- including Jason Motte, who recorded the last out- former Red Sox David Murphy flying out on the warning track in left field. David Freese (left) hoisted the series MVP after going 1-2 with an 2-run double in Game 7. Yadier Molina had a great game, going 2-3 with 2 RBIs. Rafael Furcal was also sharp, going 2-3 with an RBI. For the Rangers, Matt Harrison was not particularly good, allowing 3 runs in 4 innings- earning the loss. The Rangers' only offensive highlights were Josh Hamilton and Michael Young- each of whom went 1-4 with an RBI double. There's nothing else to post and welcome to the offseason- the darkest time of the year.

Cardinals Freese Rangers, Force Game 7

2011-10-28T03:20:00.000-07:00

This was an amazing game- it fits right in there with Game 6 of the 1975 World Series (maybe not that great, but still!). With runners at 1st and 3rd in the 1st inning, Josh Hamilton singled to right to make it 1-0. However, the Cards came back at Lance Berkman hit a 2-run homer to center field in the bottom half. In the 2nd, Craig Gentry scored on a ground-rule double by Ian Kinsler. In the 4th, the Rangers took a 3-2 lead as Mike Napoli drove in Nelson Cruz with a single. However, the Cardinals tied it in the 4th with an RBI groundout by Yadier Molina. In the 5th, an RBI double by Michael Young made it 4-3. However, the Cardinals tied it in the 6th when they loaded the bases with 1 out. Yadier Molina walked an made it 4-4 in the process. However, the Rangers led off the 7th with back-to-back home runs by Nelson Cruz and Adrian Beltre to make it 6-4, and later in the inning, Ian Kinsler drove in another run. In the 8th, Allen Craig launched a solo home run to make it 7-5. In the bottom of the 9th, with two outs, the Cardinals had runners at 1st and 2nd. David Freese launched a triple into right to tie it at 7-7. However, the Rangers popped right back ahead in the 10th, as Josh Hamilton launched a 2-run homer to make it 9-7. However, with 1 out, Ryan Theriot made it a 1-run game with an RBI groundout and Lance Berkman singled to tie it up at 9-9. David Freese led off the 11th with a home run to center to win the game and send it to a Game 7!

Neither pitcher was particularly good, and that includes the bullpen. Colby Lewis was ok, allowing 2 earned runs in 5 1/3 innings. For the Cardinals, Fernando Salas was good, tossing 2 scoreless innings of relief- but those were about the only highlights pitching-wise. For the Cardinals, one of the biggest heroes was Lance Berkman, who had a great game, going 3-5 with 4 runs scored and 3 RBIs including a 2-run homer. David Freese (left), of course, was the real hero though as he had both a game-tying triple and the walkoff homer in a 2-5, 3 RBI game. For the Rangers, Ian Kinsler had a good game, going 2-5 with 2 RBIs and a run scored. Josh Hamilton also had a good game, going 3-6 with 2 runs and 3 RBIs- including a 2-run homer. For the much-awaited Game 7 pitching matchup , there will be Matt Harrison for the Rangers and Chris Carpenter for the Cardinals.

Lackey Lacking A Healthy Arm

2011-10-25T15:44:00.000-07:00

About 45 minutes into his press conference, Ben Cherington made his first announcement as Red Sox GM. John Lackey is going to be having Tommy John surgery and is likely to miss the 2012 season. Lackey is the 3rd Red Sox pitcher to fall under the knife this season, following Daisuke Matsuzaka and Rich Hill, whose surgeries fell within a week of each other in late May. This will further kill Lackey's trade-ability after a terrible 12-12/6.41/108 season in 2011; he was the worst pitcher in the major leagues. This is good because we will be without him for a year. However, it will also be bad because it will mean to Sox will probably have to shop for 2 starting pitchers on the market. Hopefully Cherington's judgement is good at finding these pitchers- as he's being put to his first test.

Welcome Aboard, Ben Cherington!

2011-10-25T14:56:00.000-07:00

Well, not exactly aboard, you know- since he's been in the organization for 12 years... but you know what I mean! Today, the Red Sox formally announced Ben Cherington as their new general manager and the Cubs introduced Theo Epstein as theirs. Regarding the Red Sox historic September collapse, Cherington stated that there were be changes. He also said that while Epstein was more of a front office kind of guy, he was more of a drafting/player development GM. This strategy could work out well for the Sox, a team whose farm system has been wiped clean multiple times in the past few years. I hope you bring us some championships, Ben, and congrats on the promotion!

Rangers Move To One Win Short Of Championship

2011-10-25T03:24:00.000-07:00

Last night was another very close, tight, World Series game as this has been a good one. The Rangers eventually pulled ahead after it being close for much of the game. With runners at 1st and 2nd with 1 out, Yadier Molina singled to left to score one of the runs and give the Cards a 1-0 lead. Then, Skip Schumaker hit a grounder to first and Lance Berkman bolted home to score and make it 2-0. The Rangers got on the board with 1 out in the 3rd, as Mitch Moreland rocketed a ball into the upper deck of the right field stands. With 2 outs in the 6th, the Rangers tied it up as Adrian Beltre launched a homer to left to make it 2-2. With 2 outs and the bases loaded in the 8th, Mike Napoli hit a double into right-center to score two and make it a 4-2 game, the eventual final score.
Both starting pitchers were pretty good with Chris Carpenter allowing 2 runs in 7 innings, allowing 6 hits and striking out 4. C.J. Wilson was almost just as good, allowing 2 runs (1 earned) in 5 1/3 innings. The bullpen was flawless for the Rangers, but the Cardinals had one major flaw in Octavio Dotel, who allowed 2 runs in 1/3 of an inning. For the Cardinals, the biggest offensive highlight was Yadier Molina, who went 3-4 with an RBI; close behind him with Skip Schumaker, who went 1-3 with an RBI. For the Rangers, two offensive highlights were Adrian Beltre and Mitch Moreland, each of whom went 1-4 with a solo home run. However, the big one was Mike Napoli (left) who went 1-4 with a huge 2-run double. There is an off-day tonight, but the Rangers will go for it all on Wednesday, with Colby Lewis going against Jaime Garcia.

Rangers Send Cardinals Back To Holland

2011-10-24T03:09:00.000-07:00

Last night was a good, tight World Series game, which like most of this World Series has been dominated by pitching. After Elvis Andrus singled with one out in the 1st, Josh Hamilton drove him in with a hard double to left to make it 1-0. It stayed like that until the 6th, however, when the Rangers put runners at 1st and 2nd with 1 out for Mike Napoli. Napoli lifted the 1st pitch, a high fastball, high into the seats down the third base line for a long home run.
If Lance Berkman had not been a member of the St. Louis Cardinals- Derek Holland would have thrown the 2nd no-hitter in postseason history, and the first in the last 55 years. Berkman went 2-3, providing the only two hits the Cardinals had in the game against Derek Holland. Holland was masterful, throwing 8 1/3 shutout innings, allowing only 2 hits, and striking out 7 before handing it over to Neftali Feliz. Elvis Andrus was the catalyst for the Rangers last night, going 2-4 and scoring a run, however, it was Josh Hamilton (1-4, 1 RBI) and Mike Napoli (1-2, 3 RBI) who got the job done. Napoli (left) had the key hit in the game, a 3-run homer to left which really put the game away. Tonight's pitching matchup is a rematch of Game 1, with C.J. Wilson for the Rangers, and Chris Carpenter for the Cardinals.

Conor Says... Make A Run At Mark Buehrle

2011-10-23T08:21:00.000-07:00

If the Red Sox were able to sign Mark Buehrle, at the very least it would be one more soft-tossing lefty the Red Sox wouldn't have to face. However, Buehrle is a bit more than just a soft-tossing lefty. In 12 seasons with the Chicago White Sox, Buehrle has a career ERA of 3.83, and is coming off a very strong 13-9/3.59/109. Buehrle will be a free agent this offseason and may be looking to leave the perennially disappointing White Sox. You pretty much know what you're going to get from Buehrle- he's a workhorse, who has led the league in innings pitched twice ('04, '05) and games started twice ('04, '08). He doesn't strike out very many people, his career high came in 2004 with 165 strikeouts, and his career average is 5.1 strikeouts per nine innings. However, he walks even fewer people, with 2.0 per nine as his career average. He works quickly, and even though he doesn't throw hard, he shows a great ability to simply get people out. He is coming off his best season since 2005, and I would be very open to signing him for maybe 3-4 years at about $12 million annually. He could become a part of a very formidable rotation with Lester, Beckett, Buchholz, and Lackey.

Mr. October Jr. Takes The Field

2011-10-23T05:17:00.000-07:00

Well, for the first time this series, we had a very high scoring game, which was actually close until around the 7th inning. In the top of the 1st, Allen Craig launched a fastball for a homer to left field. In the 4th, the Cardinals put runners at 1st and 2nd with 1 out. David Freese knocked a hard double down the 1st base line to score one and make it 2-0. After an intentional walk to Yadier Molina, the bases were loaded with one out. Mike Napoli made an error on a soft ground ball to score two more and the next batter, Ryan Theriot, singled to right to make it 5-0. Michael Young led off the bottom of the 4th with a homer, however, and after an Adrian Beltre single, Nelson Cruz followed him up to make it 5-3. In the 5th, the Cardinals loaded the bases with nobody out. David Freese grounded out to third to score another and make it 6-3. Yadier Molina then knocked a double into left, scoring two and making it 8-3. After two singles to start the bottom of the 5th, Michael Young doubled to left to make it 8-5. Later in the inning, Adrian Beltre hit an RBI single and Mike Napoli drove in a run with a sac fly to make it 8-6. After a single, a walk, and a strikeout to lead off the 6th, Albert Pujols drove them all home with a homer to left to make it 11-6. Later in the inning, Yadier Molina knocked a sacrifice fly. In the 7th, Pujols crushed a 2-run homer to make it 14-6. In the bottom of the 7th, a sacrifice fly for Mike Napoli would make it 14-7. In the 8th, Yadier Molina crushed an RBI double, scoring Daniel Descalso and making it 15-7. In the 9th, Albert Pujols became Mr. October Jr. with his 3rd homer of the night to make it 16-7.
The pitchers weren't very good on either side, with both pitchers going 3+ innings and allowing 3 earned runs. However, excluding Fernando Salas the Cardinals' bullpen was pretty good- and that was the difference. They were capped off by a 1 2/3 inning, no run performance by Octavio Dotel (upper right). However, it was Lance Lynn who got the win with a run allowed in 2 1/3 innings. Offensively, the Cardinals' obvious highlight was Albert Pujols, who went 5-6 with 4 runs (3 coming on the homers), and 6 RBIs- plus of course, the fact that he hit 3 homers in a game. David Freese also had a good game, going 2-4 with 2 RBIs and a double. Yadier Molina was very sharp offensively as well, going 2-3 with 4 RBIs. For the Rangers, the biggest highlight was Michael Young, who went 2-5 with 2 runs and an RBI- including a solo home run. Adrian Beltre also had quite a day, going 4-5 with 2 runs and an RBI. The pitching matchup for a very important Game 4 today is Derek Holland for the Rangers and Edwin Jackson for the Cardinals.

So Long, Theo!

2011-10-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

Basically, the announcement that Theo Epstein has officially resigned as GM of the Red Sox and gone to the Cubs is old news. It is an excuse for more news that we already knew. However, as I sit at home and listen to John Denver and type this- I have a melancholy feeling. The "Boy Wonder" is gone- off to Chicago to try and kill another curse. He ended ours in his second year as GM in 2004, after coming oh, so close in 2003. To pinch us, and make sure we weren't dreaming, he won it again in 2007. He brought advanced baseball statistics to Boston- finding potential in players like Bill Mueller, Kevin Millar, and David Ortiz. While he made a few mistakes over the past few years, the air in Boston was still "In Theo we trust." All big money GM's make a few mistakes in his day: John Lackey and Carl Crawford were both good players before they came to Boston, same with J.D. Drew and Edgar Renteria. It's hard to predict how different of a GM Ben Cherington will be, but it's too bad that Theo will be gone. I wish him well, and will be rooting for the Cubs- assuming they aren't playing the Red Sox.

Exodus Continues As Curt Young Returns To A's

2011-10-21T19:09:00.000-07:00

This is going to be one interesting offseason any way you look at it. The Red Sox will have to replace their manager, 1st base coach, trainer, and- most recently- pitching coach. Their pitching coach of only one year, Curt Young, is heading back to the team for whom he coached with from 2004-2010 in the Oakland A's. Many Red Sox fans grew sick and tired of Young due to the Red Sox collapse being mostly because of their pitching, and especially their starters. I don't quite know how much the pitching coach has to do with the pitchers' success, but Red Sox fans like a scapegoat. If you look at him with contempt because of disappointing performances like Dice-K, Lackey, and (later season) Bard, then you would also have to look at him with praise because of bounce-back years like Josh Beckett and Jonathan Papelbon. I think this move was expected and will not cause a huge stir in the Nation.

Rangers Win In The Clutch To Even Series

2011-10-21T03:14:00.000-07:00

For the second straight game in this World Series, this game was very low-scoring, and very close. With one out in the 7th inning, David Freese singled, and after a Yadier Molina flyout, Nick Punto did the same. For the second straight night, it was Allen Craig coming in to pinch-hit for the pitcher in a tied, clutch situation. Once again, he delivered, knocking a soft line drive into right field- eerily similar to his hit the night before. However, on a two singles and an error in the 9th, the Rangers were able to put runners on 2nd and 3rd with no outs. Josh Hamilton came up and hit a sacrifice fly to dead right field to score a run and tie the game at 1-1. Michael Young came up next, and chipped a fly ball to right-center to score the winning run and give the Rangers a 2-1 lead. Neftali Feliz closed it out and the Rangers won to tie the series at 1 game apiece.

Both starting pitchers were very, very good, but especially Jaime Garcia (right). Garcia went 7 innings, allowing no runs, 3 hits, and striking out 7 in a great effort. Colby Lewis was almost as good, allowing just 1 run on 4 hits in 6 2/3 innings. The Rangers bullpen was once again perfect, and the Cardinals' would have been if not for Jason Motte's collapse in the 9th inning. There were virtually no offensive highlights for either team, as there were 11 hits spread around the board, a respectable number of hits for one team in a game. However, Allen Craig once again came through in the clutch for the Cardinals with another pinch-hit, opposite field single to give the Cardinals a lead at the time. For the Rangers, after some key hits by Ian Kinsler and Elvis Andrus, it was Josh Hamilton and Michael Young (left). After an off day today, the World Series will continue with Matt Harrison going for the Rangers, and somebody to be named going for the Cardinals.

A Red Sox Player Wins the 2nd Straight Roberto Clemente

2011-10-20T18:07:00.000-07:00

Last year it was Tim Wakefield taking home honors for the Roberto Clemente Award- an award given to players who were great on and off the field. This year, it was David Ortiz. Not only did Ortiz excel on the field with his best season (.309/29/96) since 2007, but he also was (obviously) a huge factor in the David Ortiz Children's Fund. This fund helps children in his native Dominican Republic get proper medical care. He also holds a partnership with the Massachusetts General Hospital. "I am so incredibly honored to be the recipient of this year's award," said Ortiz in an interview, "It's humbling to be associated with all the tremendous names that have won this award in the past, and I look forward to continuing to do my part to maintain Roberto Clemente's legacy." Great job, Papi, and keep up the good work! Also, come back to the Red Sox.

Rangers Can't Help But Fish For Carp

2011-10-20T03:16:00.000-07:00

Last night was a very important night in the baseball world, as it was Game 1 of the World Series. It was a very close game, and a rare commodity this postseason as it was a pitching game. In the 4th inning, the scoring started as Albert Pujols was hit by a C.J. Wilson fastball to lead off the inning. The next batter, Matt Holliday lined a shot down the 1st base line that fell for a double that would put runners at 2nd and 3rd with no outs. Lance Berkman proceeded to hit a hard ground ball down the 1st base line for a 2-run single that would give the Cardinals a 2-0 lead. However, it was short lived as Adrian Beltre singled to lead off the 5th inning. After an Elvis Andrus strikeout, Mike Napoli took a fastball outside and pounded it over the wall for a game-tying 2-run homer. In the 6th, David Freese doubled with 1 out to put a runner in scoring position for the Cardinals. After Yadier Molina struck out, Nick Punto walked to put runners at 1st and 2nd. Tony La Russa then proceeded to hit for Chris Carpenter, a good decision as Allen Craig would single in the go-ahead run in an eventual 3-2 Cardinals win.
The pitching for both sides was quite good, but especially for the Cardinals, where Chris Carpenter went 6 strong innings allowing only 2 runs. His bullpen would be similarly good, dividing 3 scoreless innings among 5 pitchers. C.J. Wilson was not quite as spectacular, but he was pretty good, allowing 3 runs in 5 2/3 innings. The Rangers bullpen would throw 2 1/3 scoreless innings in relief. For the Cardinals, the biggest offensive highlight was Lance Berkman as he went 2-4 with 2 RBIs, both coming on that key 2-run single. However, David Freese had a decent game, going 1-2 with a double and scoring the winning run. Of course, Allen Craig had the key pinch-hit to win the game. For the Rangers, the biggest highlight was Mike Napoli (left) who had a big 2-run homer in a 1-2 game. Adrian Beltre and Ian Kinsler each went 2-4 to help the Rangers' lost cause in Game 1. The pitching matchup for Game 2 is Jaime Garcia for the Cardinals and Colby Lewis for the Rangers.

This Beer Scandal Is Getting Ridiculous

2011-10-19T03:25:00.000-07:00

I expect most Red Sox fans, even casual fans who just watch ESPN, have heard the rumors of beer in the Red Sox clubhouse. The original story is that, during games they didn't pitch: Jon Lester, John Lackey, and Josh Beckett went down to the clubhouse and started drinking beer, eating fried chicken, and playing video games. A couple of days ago, Lester came out and confirmed this rumor; however, he said that the media had blown it way out of proportion. But that's not the weird part. The weird part is: yesterday, all of the three stooges came out and denied the rumor, including Lester, who had previously confirmed it. This was topped off by the fact that Terry Francona said, "In my 32 years in baseball, I've never seen beer in the dugout." My theory is that maybe they had a beer once in a while, and I have no problem with that. If those guys want to have a beer occasionally, why should I care? The same applies to the fried chicken. However, if they were playing video games, then I have a problem. That means they were separated from the rest of the team, and involved in their own thing, which was "more important." I really hope that none of this happens, and it exposes just how ridiculous the Boston media is.

Cardinals-Rangers, Another Good World Series

2011-10-17T03:24:00.000-07:00

In the Red Sox collapse, it's all about Boston. Nobody cares about the Rays, it's all that Francona couldn't do his job and some pitchers were eating fried chicken. However, in the NL, I've heard nothing about the Braves' collapse, only about the Cardinals' success- and for good reason. They advanced past the 102-60 Phillies in 5 games of the NLDS. Then, they made it through the 96-66 Brewers in 6 games of the NLCS after last night's game. They won 12-6 in a slugfest where the Cardinals hit 3 home runs, hit by NLCS MVP David Freese (right), Rafael Furcal, and Albert Pujols. It was a good game, and I'd be willing to bet that my friend at school (a Brewers fan) will be wearing black. Nevermind that, the Packers won, he'll be wearing his Packers polo. Anyways, I know I said that I favored the Rangers yesterday, and I still do; but, don't count the Cardinals out, these guys have had a hell of a run and why should it stop now?

Conor Says... Take Austin Kirk and Marquez Smith As Epstein's Compensation

2011-10-16T06:48:00.000-07:00

The only thing holding Theo Epstein to the Red Sox is the fact that the Red Sox need compensation for the one year left on his contract. It has already been established that the most likely compensation will be some of the Cubs' prospects. So, yesterday, I took a look at the Cubs' Top 20 prospects and I found some names that I like. No, not Brett Jackson. Jackson is going to be a star, yes, but so is Ryan Kalish and probably a few more of the 1,000,000,000 outfield prospects the Red Sox have. I have decided on the names of left-handed pitcher Austin Kirk (right) and second baseman/third baseman Marquez Smith.
Kirk is 21 years old, and was selected by the Cubs in the 3rd round of the 2009 draft. So far, he has genuinely impressed at the minor league level. At A level Peoria in 2011, Kirk had himself his worst season in professional baseball, and he was pretty good. He was 5-12/4.29/122 in 151 innings pitched. Plus, there's always the good aspect that he's a lefty starting pitcher. Although he won't be ready for the majors until, probably, late 2013, he would be a good pickup that would certainly help this team.
My other idea was Marquez Smith (left), a 26 year old AAA third baseman/second baseman in the Cubs' system. Smith took a step back from his stellar 2010 season with a mediocre .278/7/36 season in 2011, coming after a .314/17/53 season in 2010. However, his career batting average in the minors is a decent .282, as he's been a good performer with the Cubs and I'm surprised he hasn't gotten called up to the majors. If he was healthy in 2012, something he was not in 2011, he would probably join the Aviles/Lowrie mess on the bench. However, if he outperformed them, he could become a starting third baseman as a bridge before Will Middlebrooks is ready. I think the Red Sox should seriously consider both of these players as compensation.

Back-To-Back AL Titles for Rangers

2011-10-16T04:24:00.000-07:00

Well, I don't think anybody expected this. I, for one, thought it was a fluke when the Rangers went all the way to the World Series, but lost in 5 games in 2010. At the beginning of 2011, the Rangers were not the team to beat- the Red Sox were, after a "fantastic offseason." However, the Rangers defended their title brilliantly, coasting to a 96-66 record and AL West championship. They were the only team in the playoffs that did not have a 5-game LDS- they didn't need one, they won in 4. Finally, last night, they won Game 6 of the ALCS to advance to the 2nd World Series in team history, and their second in a row as well. They beat the Tigers 15-5 last night in Rangers Ballpark in Arlington to advance all the way. Whether it's the Brewers or the Cardinals who win the NLCS, it's my prediction that the Rangers are going to win the World Series.

Jacoby Ellsbury Takes Home Comeback Player Award

2011-10-14T03:21:00.001-07:00

At the beginning of the season, many people doubted Jacoby Ellsbury after an injury-riddled 2010. People thought he was soft, he wasn't ready to play baseball- I consider myself proud that I was not one of them. Jacoby Ellsbury, as many expected, has won the AL Comeback Player of the Year Award. Not only was Ellsbury the player he was in 2007-2009, but he changed from a speedy leadoff hitter into a full-fledged star. He had a fantastic season, taking home the Sox.Rox Player of the Year Award and going .321/32/105, as it remains to be seen whether he will win the AL MVP as well. He is also the first 30-30 (30 homers, 30 steals) player in Red Sox history- not too shabby. I'm sorry I couldn't get a picture of Jacoby up but blogspot isn't letting me.

Cherington Named As New Red Sox GM

2011-10-13T14:49:00.000-07:00

Well, so much for the worries about the new general manager and back to the worries about the next manager. The Red Sox promoted Theo Epstein's assistant GM, Ben Cherington, to the legit GM today and announced he would be Theo's replacement. Cherington does not have any experience as the full-time GM of a major league team, but he has plenty of experience in the organization, as he has worked with Boston since 1999. After Theo Epstein's brief departure in 2005, Cherington served as part-time GM with Jed Hoyer. Together, they pulled off the Hanley Ramirez- Josh Beckett and Mike Lowell deal which ultimately helped the Sox win the World Series in 2007. I hope Cherington works out for the team!

Cardinals Fight Back, Rangers Keep Cruzing

2011-10-13T03:29:00.000-07:00

Well, the Rangers are just one win away from the World Series after last night's 7-3 win. However, they faltered the night before, falling to the Tigers 5-2. In that game, the Tigers were led by home runs by Victor Martinez, Jhonny Peralta, and Miguel Cabrera; as well as a great outing by Doug Fister, 2 runs in 7 1/3 innings. However, the Rangers went back to their winning ways in Game 4. In a 4-run 11th inning, led by a single by Mike Napoli and a 3-run homer by Nelson Cruz in a 7-3 win. In the Cardinals-Brewers series, the Cards have fought back from a 1-0 deficit to be ahead 2-1 now. The Cardinals took advantage with a 4-run 1st and that would be all they got in a 4-3 win. Jason Motte (right) highlighted the win for the Cardinals with a 4-out save to shut down the Brewers.

Epstein Headed to Chicago For Five Years

2011-10-12T17:55:00.000-07:00

And they're off, or Red Sox GM Theo Epstein is. Multiple sources have confirmed that Epstein has signed a 5-year deal worth about $15-20 million with the Chicago Cubs to leave the Red Sox. Epstein was a good GM for the Sox, as he loaded the 2003-2004 playoff teams with low-risk high-reward moves like Bill Mueller, David Ortiz, and Kevin Millar; as well as big names like Curt Schilling. However, that low-risk high-reward idea did not work again in 2009, as he failed at moves like John Smoltz and Brad Penny. To your right is a picture of Epstein making the move that potentially shipped him away as Carl Crawford had a dreadful year worth $21 million (Could've gotten the same production out of Ryan Kalish- yes, I do know he was on the DL all year). We'll miss you, Theo, as despite your blunders- you gave us 2 World Championships and ended the curse.

Epstein Very Close To Joining Cubs

2011-10-11T17:42:00.000-07:00

Even if you are a casual Red Sox fan, you have likely heard the swirling rumors of Theo Epstein's potential departure to Chicago. Today, it has become more realistic and it appears that Epstein is on the verge of joining the Cubs. A press release will likely come within the next 48 hours, and probably less. While one could argue that many big-market GM's make a lot of mistakes, it appears to me that Epstein has made too many- especially recently. Think Carl Crawford, John Lackey, J.D. Drew, Julio Lugo, Mike Cameron, Brad Penny, and John Smoltz (Rule out the last 2, as they were low-risk high-reward moves before 2009). It makes me wonder if his assistant and likely replacement Ben Cherington could do a better job. During Epstein's brief departure after 2005, Cherington pulled off the move that sent Hanley Ramirez and Anibal Sanchez to the Marlins in return for Josh Beckett and Mike Lowell- a move that positively affected both teams. I find it ridiculous that I find optimism in everything (even this), but I do see a silver lining to this. Just call me a positive Red Sox fan- oxymoron, right?

Rangers Pull To Quick Lead, Brewers And Cardinals Tie

2011-10-11T03:21:00.000-07:00

In Game 1 of the ALCS, the Rangers were able to win 3-2. They rode two early runs along with a Nelson Cruz (right) homer in the 4th to a quick victory despite 2 rainouts. C.J. Wilson also pitched very well, allowing 2 runs in 4 2/3, however, it was Mike Gonzalez who escaped a bases loaded jam after the rain delay to stifle the Tigers. In Game 2, the Rangers jumped out to another early lead in the 1st inning. However, the Tigers bounced back, and in the 3rd, Ryan Raburn crushed a ball to left for a 3-run homer to give the Tigers a 3-2 advantage. However, Nelson Cruz tied it up with a homer in the 7th, then gave them a 7-3 win with the first walk-off grand slam in playoff history to left field. In Game 1 of the NLCS, as they often do, they rode Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun, who combined for 2 home runs and 6 RBIs, as well as a key home run by Yuniesky Betancourt to shut the door in a 6-run 5th inning. However, in Game 2, the Cardinals turned the tables, riding a good outing by Edwin Jackson (2 runs in 4 1/3 innings). However, the big man was Albert Pujols, who hit 3 home runs and drove in 5 en route to a 12-3 win to even the score.