Well I think it’s fair to say that last night’s game went a little differently then one might have expected from a duel between the American League’s top two Cy Young candidates. Josh Beckett pitched six strong, efficient innings, allowing 2 runs on just eighty pitches against a solid Cleveland offense. C.C. Sabathia, on the other hand…well, I’d say that was just about as bad as you’ll ever see from an ace in a playoff series.
And tonight should be a low-scoring affair. On the hill for Boston is Curt Schilling, whose playoff efforts have already earned him one World Series MVP and a bloody sock in Cooperstown. He isn’t the pitcher he was in 2001, or even the guy who came to Boston in ’04, but he seems to be handling the transition from power to finesse about as well as anyone could have hoped.
And then there’s Carmona. We’ll be seeing the replays all night long, but the last time he came to Fenway Park he blew two games on consecutive days and looked completely shellshocked and overmatched in the process. To say he’s come a long way since his miserable attempt as a closer would be a bit of an understatement, as Fausto and his overpowering mid-90’s sinker bounced back in a big way in 2007. I suspect there’s a case to be made for Fausto as his team’s MVP, and he should pick up more then a few Cy Young votes as well. Oh, and he pitched a pretty good game against New York in the ALDS, too…
So here we go, what looks to be another classic October pitchers’ duel. I keep reading that if Cleveland ekes out a victory here in Game 2 they head back home having negated Boston’s home-field advantage. I suppose that might technically be true…but given how terrible Jake Westbrook and Paul Byrd are Boston’s edge in the 3-4 slots of the rotation, I’d have been somewhat satisfied if promised a split of the first two games before the series began.
I wonder if Ortiz or Manny will make an out tonight?
Indians
1. Grady Sizemore, CF
2. Asdrubal Cabrera, 2B
3. Travis Hafner, DH
4. Victor Martinez, C
5. Ryan Garko, 1B
6. Jhonny Peralta, SS
7. Kenny Lofton, LF
8. Franklin Gutierrez, RF
9. Casey Blake, 3B
Red Sox
1. Dustin Pedroia, 2B
2. Kevin Youkilis, 1B
3. David Ortiz, DH
4. Manny Ramirez, LF
5. Mike Lowell, 3B
6. J.D. Drew, RF
7. Jason Varitek, C
8. Coco Crisp, CF
9. Julio Lugo, SS
So, yesterday our Sox had two walk-in runs (both by Manny) and Colorado had one, which won their game for them. Three in one day. I bet the typical MLB regular-season day doesn’t have even one such run.
GO SOX!!!!
No dinner plans tonight, but the blogging might be light anyhow – getting ready for our son’s third birthday party!
Fox takes too long to get to the damn game.
Carmona had more groundball outs than Wang?! That.. surprised me.
Agreed, Dio. I’d almost forgotten how much I loathe Jeannie Zelasko…
When the mlb website says the game starts at 8.. that mean FIRST PITCH should be at 8pm.. not 20 minutes of postgame coverage begins at 8!
today’s Boston Globe says 8:21
So.. I have aquired these.. chocolate-covered (with little thin m&mish shell) sunflower seeds. Actually, pretty darn good.
*will listen to the Globe before mlb.com from now on then*
I gotta say.. I think this one goes against us. We pulled one off last night and I think we get punished for it tonight. Carmona is jsut too darn good.. unless he’s REALLY missing his stuff, this wont go well.
Anon was me…
Off-season keeps lookign crazier and crazier.
Mitchell report will reveal names, A-Rod’s contract, Santana’s possible trade, the Yankees situation, where Bonds will end up… so many stories.
Here we go…
Fully expecting a loss tonight. Games like last night’s are a gift from the baseball gods. Twice would just be extravagant…
Bloody Sock mention – take a drink?
And we begin with a double. Damn
Well, shit!
Blech. Leadoff double from Sizemore. Fat pitch from Schilling.
Joe Buck: “This is Schilling’s first postseason start since the 2004 World Series”
Wow these announcers have started getting things wrong early.
Yes! Popped up bunt. 1 down.
Yay, poor bunting skills from the rookie!
Wow. Huge break there!
Not getting the up and away tonight.
Wow, nice camera angle on that Hafner HR last night from Fox. That was one of the worst things about TBS’ coverage, the lack of quality angles for replays…
c’mon Curt…need this out…and they show a stat that begs for trouble..and….
wow…at the wall..
Whew, that looked like trouble.
Manny doing fielding practice? I like hearing that..
0 and 2..put ‘im away
Manny does a lot more fielding practice than people realize, esp. in spring training.
FRAK!
The splitter ain’t splitting. Martinez doubles in a run.
listen to that crowd…damn…off the wall..run in…lots of fly balls tonight..not a good sign
Gah, Curt. Played with fire once too often.
The Wall gaveth the hit on that one.
Ugh, double on an 0-2 pitch. Not cool.
Groundout ends the inning. 1-0 Injuns.
Come on Pedroia, we need a good lead-off from you for once.
Well, just one run. No one realistically expected a shutout anyway. Would have rathered avoiding the first-inning deficit though…
keep it at one, Curt…grounder to Lowell…
let’s get it back…bad feeling about this game
Come on Pedroia, we need a good lead-off from you for once.
Yeah, he sucks.
Ah, I see what Curt is doing here: Setting up the same pattern as last night. Let them score one in the 1st, then we’ll come back and get to their starter. Interesting strategy.
Jaems.. Taylor?
I love James Taylor, but this is not a great lineup reading.
Wow, James Taylor shows us all that he’s HORRIBLE at talking. Jesus.
James Taylor seems a bit..off
He doesnt know the lineup, I dont think. He looks lost.
No, Joe. No, he doesn’t.
Oh he does NOT, Buck
So.. Carmona = Nasty
already 0 and 2..ugh
Yeah, he sucks
He’s sucked in the postseason so far. If we haven’t gone 4-0 so far we would be calling for Pedroia’s head.
Carmona quickly gets ahead of him.
Pedroia looks a lot more jumpy this postseason. Still got some nerves, I think.
James Taylor is not witty. And he looks like a grandfather. Crap, that meakes me feel old.
Pedroia looked ugly there. This is gonan be a depressing night.
bad start..K..at a nasty pitch too
Oh, Pedroia. I did not think the whole “needs 50 ABs to adjust to a new level” thing would hold for the playoffs as well, but it seems like it does.
Man, let’s hope we get more than 10 pitches
He’s sucked in the postseason so far. If we haven’t gone 4-0 so far we would be calling for Pedroia’s head.
Are you serious? I agree he’s had a bad postseason, but didn’t people learn their lesson in April when they called for his head? We’re going to base “his head” on 17 (now 18) at-bats?
Seems extreme to me.
Gets it full. C’mon Youk…
Youk also looks off balance. I think we end up heading to Cleveland with the 1-1 tie…
Well, hey! A walk. Cool!
Ball four! Yes!
Paul – based on 2 ABs? Seems a little extreme to me. ;)
Nice job gettign the walk, Youk
YOUK! 8-pitch at bat. David “Carmona-killer” Ortiz at bat.
Boo, Dan Shaunessey reference. Seriously Buck?
McCarver just said Carmona wants Papi to lead off the next inning. That would be nice, we bat around and our #3 hitter leads off the second.
3-0 on Papi
green light on ball four i think
Shaugnessy’s column today made me very nervous. Too much talk of being a frontrunner and a favorite and all that.
Now Ortiz to 3-0. And the four-pitch walk. Come on, Manny!
Walk! Ok ManRan… please? Please?
Ortiz “intentionally” walked. Manny up.
or not
Wow, that crowd is as loud as I’ve ever heard it on TV.
Manny, please Manny please Manny please Manny please
6 straight balls from Carmona. 1-0 count to Manny.
Bah, double play called by McCarver.
no, Tim, no he doesnt
hell, no way that was a strike
it’s SIX straight balls McCarver, not 5. God these guys are horrible.
Sweaty palms…
Damn, swing and a miss…and the next pitch is…ball! should be 3 and 1 (grumble)
Man, if Carmona could locate, he’d be lethal. Hits 96-97 on the sinker every time.
F*ck.
DAMN
FUCK!
FUCK, double play. Fucking McCarver.
I have a feeling Schill will settle down this inning.
Just checking in. Looks like Carmona doesn’t have his “A” game working, maybe it’s the cold weather. Well regardless, best of luck Sox Fans. Represent the AL East well.
The double play sucked, but Carmona had to throw 21 pitches. They are going to make him work.
Now, I think we can get to Carmona..but Schill needs to get them quick here.
Hey, llok at that, Fox actually cuts off its commercials for the game!
After the abomination that was TBS, I’m resolving to avoid complaining about Fox…
it’s not nearly as cold as yesterday
OH boy.. this is gonna be ugly
let’s get the first one, Curt..2 and 1…3 and 1…foul, 3 and 2…crap..single..way to charge it, JD
GODDAMNIT, line drive to right field which Drew should have had. Instead it lands at his feet, a lead-off single.
Curt’s not as sharp tonight. But maybe he’ll settle down like he did last time. Only problem is that Cleveland’s offense > Anaheim’s offense.
McCarver, say something about a doubleplay here, please
That really didn’t look catchable to me. Now THAT was catchable — and is caught. :-D One down.
Our turn for the double play. Except that every ball off Curt has been in the air.
This ump’s strikezone is all over the place.
On Aug. 31 against the White Sox, Carmona allowed six walks and seven hits. On Aug. 26 against the Royals, he gave up 10 hits.
That’s my attempt at getting the mojo working against Fausto…
oh, really Tim, they know they have to hit the ball? they dont realize that when they are at the plate?
Couls dplit on the 2-1. Too bad he didn’t chase.
Our turn for the DP!
YEAH, DP!!
Bloody Sock. Drink
DOUBLE PLAY! Way to go Lugo.
Come on bats, let’s wake up!
YES! DP…
Wow, I typoed that last post into oblivion. Should have been “good split.”
Okay, great bud light commercial.. :D
Great play by Lugo on the backhand and quick release to Pedroia.
Okay, Lowell, make him work
Start us off Lowell! Ball 1.
Carmona can’t hit the strikezone with his fastball. He finally does on the 3-1 count, and Lowell grounds out.
It’s hard to tell, but I don’t think either Manny’s or Lowell’s groundouts were strikes.
chopper to third…shoot
Carmona is NOT throwing strikes…a good sign..hope we can take advantage..
Well, Carmona keeps going to two balls on every hitter, he won’t be in the game long.
Joe Buck drooling over Casey Blake’s beard, but gives no mention of Youk, Gagne or Lowell. The Sox clearly have the best facial hair in baseball.
Drew grounds out.
this looks like a tough task. Sox are going to need to do their work on the road, I think.
These averages they keep popping up do not instill confidence…dang, Drew almost beat it
Even with the inability to throw strikes, Carmona’s looked better than Schilling, sorry to say. The Sox have yet to record a well-hit ball. The Indians have hit nothing but well-struck balls.
Everytime I see Blake I expect to hear him shout WILSON!!! That’s awful.
Carmona is baffling. Doesn’t have his best stuff, yet he is getting them to chase (slightly) outside the zone. I don’t know how much more of this I can watch even though it is baseball. Carmona gives me nightmares.
‘Tek makes solid contact, but it’s stolen by a webgem play by Cabrera. Inning over.
DAMN..smacked that one..but just a hard out
Oh, there’s the hard hit ball, and Tek gets robbed. Suck.
C’mon Curt, let’s get the first batter out this time
What was that about hard hit balls? Eesh.
Another scary fly ball, but foul
I just don’t feel very confident tonight. I didn’t before the game, and nothing’s really happened to change my mind yet.
Man, I wish Curt looked better. Like to get 7 from him..
Schilling gets his first K. Sizemore up.
Nice K from Schilling!
Maybe I should keep talking like that, and good things will keep happening…
Same here, Paul…just not sure how well we will hit Carmona…and Curt gets a K!
Let’s hope so, Timmah, let’s hope so
Grady flies out to Manny. 2 down for Cabrera.
That one looked scarier than it was..camera angle
All right. Two quick outs. Maybe Curt’s settling down.
Blake looks a lot like Christian Bale with that beard. Also, for the record, my beard is fuller than Blake’s, so nyah!
Quick inning, relatively..a good sign?
Fly ball to Coco, 1-2-3 inning. Good job Curt!
Off the end of the bat. A quick inning. Best-looking frame from either of the starters thus far.
Come on, bottom of the lineup!
with you, Paul. Don’t see the Sox putting up many runs tonight.
Crisp, Lugo–let’s break up this no-hitter here in the 3rd. We need to jump on Carmona now.
I’m just glad the wind isn’t blowing out as much as it was last night – Schilling’s been getting a lot of fly outs.
I could use a Coco bunt hit right here to shake things up a bit…
Here’s hoping Cleveland pitchers only go 8 tonight… :D
Jackie, good call on the Coco bunt hit. I bet you’ll see it right here.
Ok, Dane Cook aside, what I hate most about the Actober commercials is the weird way Cook emphasizes certain words.
“The Boston Red Sox! The Cleveland Indians!.”
As if we should all be surprised the team from Cleveland is called the Indians…
Coco shows bunt on the 2nd pitch, proving Jackie and I right!
Well, on a positive note, I’m in my parents guest bedrom, full of Catholic paraphenalia, so my prayers should be heard quickly. ;-)
Another 2-ball count.
Exactly Paul… as if we all assumed the Cleveland Cavaliers were in the MLB playoffs.
Ahead on the count again…wow, she is good…nice..balance..
Ump didn’t give Schilling that pitch. Not a fan of the inconsistent zone.
And Crisp with the hit!
Coco singles to start the inning. GOD BLESS COCO!
3 and 2…HIT! Yes! Does he run?
I’ll take the regular single too, Atheose. :)
Julio, could use a 2 bagger here
Thank you, Casey Blake. “Throw it down the middle and let it work.” Yeah, PLEASE keep throwing it down the middle to Manny Ramirez and see how it works…
Bunt Lugo!
wow..good strike
Steal! safe!
COCO STEALS 2nd! Yes!
And McCarver has to decide that somehow the Red Sox screwed something up. Idiot.
Just as I was thinking “I bet he’ll run on 1-1″… yay. :) Woulda been out if the throw had been in the right spot though. Phew.
I don’t like the sac bunt here though. It’s too early to be playing for one run.
what the heck was that? kind of a poorly timed bunt
Dane Cook is in a heated competition with FrankTV for most annoying promo. Too bad there not both on ESPN. It’d be off the charts.
Lugo’s a .280 hitter since the break, and even better at Fenway. I’d rather him swing.
Another full count to Lugo. It seems like every Sox batter has had one so far.
Lugo fouls it off.
I want to see Coco hit again..this inning..please
Not that it’s a debate with two strikes, but that was a poor attempt before.
Lugo making Carmona work. Since the break, Lugo’s been much better than he’s gotten credit for.
Definitely, Paul. Not to mention that if he can get on we then have the top of the order coming up.
Ok, I’m going to keep being negative because that was working a lot better.
Lugo K’s, but made Carmona throw 8 pitches. I’ll call that a good at bat.
Come on Pedroia, show us all that you’re wearing your big-boy pants tonight.
That was a fantastic pitch.
ah, that sucked
pathetic, julio.
Pedroia acting a lot more like Pedroia this AB.
C’mon Dustin..2 and 0…
Is this the first 3-0 count Pedroia’s seen all post-season? Seems like the first time he’s held up three consecutive swings. Maybe he’s settling down a bit. :)
Has Carmona gone 0-2 or 1-2 to ANY batter this game??
let’s make it two…3 and 0..don’t swing until you see the white of their ball..
Wow, Carmona suddenly getting squeezed. Not that I’m complaining.
4 straight balls! Youk up with 2 on.
Eeeexcellent.
Walk. Youk up…please, No DP…McCarver, dont even say it
HEHEHEHEHE Fox cameraman showing the musical bullpen.
Wow, Kerwin is inconsistent tonight. That pitch was definitely a ball in the last AB.
Youk down pretty quickly, 0 and 2
I’m tired of broadcasters just rehashing everything I read in the Globe this morning…
This is going to be a frustrating night, I think…
let’s do something here!
Coco making Carmona sweat at 2nd base. 1-2 count to Youk now.
I’d rather re-read the Globe than listen to some of the crap they come up with on their own.
Seems like Coco’s running game is getting into Carmona’s head a bit. I like that.
I’ll give this one thing to Joe Morgan: He’ll talk to players and get his own original “newsy” material. Buck and McCarver don’t seem to.
Youk…strike 3..crap
That’s a vicious pitch.
*sigh* Youk didn’t swing at a single strike.
Youk K’s on the same pitch as Lugo. His stuff is looking SICK tonight–good thing he’s at pitch # 59 now.
Ortiz up.
What do we think, another “unintentional” walk to Papi here?
Man, runner on second with no outs..now two outs..c’mon Papi..
pathetic, Youk.
Same exact pitch to give another K and Youk with the not safe for kids exclamation.
Have we even hit anything in the air yet?
Please do not compare Papi to Mo
The comp to Vaughn is ridculously superficial. They’re both big lefties who put up big numbers, and that’s about it.
No way he walks Ortiz here. He’s gunna go right after him, especially since his stuff seems to be on now. He’s in the groove.
Well, that was a freebie.
Well, I’ll take it. Loaded up for Manny, as Ortiz continues to be ridiculously hot.
Ugh…empty the bases..or at least tie the game…
infield hit…crap..um..i guess..
YES, Papi grounds out but Carmona deflects it. Everyone safe.
Bases loaded for Manny “Mr. Grand Slam” Ramirez.
If he let that go, Peralta wouldn’t have had a chance at it.
Be happier about it if there were not two outs
Pitching Coach to Carmona: “Don’t walk up Manny, but don’t give up a hit either”
Yeah, gotta agree with Buck and McCarver (gulp) — Carmona saved a run.
Let’s go Manny!
Yeah, it’s about time Manny has a post-season salami, I think.
C’mon, let’s get a hit here, Manny! or a walk…heh
that pitch was horrible…good start to the at bat
Martinez lucky on that. Terrible position to block the ball.
2 and 0..Carmona is wild as hell
Carmona looking ruffled, throwing two pitches nowhere near the strikezone. Strange considering how unhittable his pitches inside to right-handers have been.
Ball 3 inside!
Carmona is trying to work away, but he’s looking really shaky after that 2-0 in the dirt. Dangerous pitch here. Inside for 3-0.
3-0 and this crowd is going NUTS.
Joe Morgan would be very disappointed with Carmona’s lack of consistency.
Tie game. :D
3 and 0…take the pitch take the pitch take the pitch…
TIE GAME
WALK!!! 1-1!
ANOTHER bases-loaded walk to Manny. Manny has 3 RBI’s from walks alone this series!
Tied up as Carmona BBs Manny on four pitches.
Lowell, imitate Cleveland here..two out rbi…
Patented Lowell double down the left-field line upcoming?
ouch..quickly 0 and 2
Wow, are the Indians seriously warming someone in the pen already?
wow…close pitch, I think
At this rate, Carmona’s going to end up going 5, and no farther. If that.
Fenway crowd cheering “MVP” for Lowell. That makes me smile.
1-2 count to Lowell, Carmona at 71 pitches after 2.2.
LOWELL!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now facing Lowell, Carmona looks like an entirely different pitcher, with a called strike one then a foul for 0-2. He’s trying to beat him low in, as he did Youk. Another foul. Low for ball one; tough pitch to take. The 1-2 is roped to right for a two-run single.
LOWELL TWO RUNS!
LOWELL WITH THE DOUBLE! Two runs score! Yes!
God I love watching Ortiz run.
I love Lowell!
Wheeeeeee!
HUGE hit from Lowell. Just HUGE!
McCarver: “Ortiz almost missed 3rd base”
Can this guy say ANYTHING positive?
It’s something I’ve been thinking, but now I’m solid – Sox need to re-sign Lowell – 3 years at 36 million.
Martinez couldn’t handle the throw at home; Manny would have been frozen between 2nd and 3rd if he fielded the ball coming in. Instead, it’s 1st and 3rd with 2 away.
Well, 3 run inning…now Curt needs a great 4th
Pete, you got that right!
Wow, three runs against Carmona is more than I expected. Three runs after three would have been too much to hope for.
Time for Schilling to show why he’s “the best big-game pitcher in baseball” with the two-run lead.
i wish i had a dollar for every time i said, “come on drew, you come up with a hit right here, and all is forgoten” this year.
i would be a two dollars richer tonite alone.
We should resign Lowell, but still get ARod and move him back to shortstop where he belongs.
Long inning..how effective will Curt be?
3 years at 36 million.
If the Sox could get Lowell to make that third year and the dollars awarded in it incentives-based, even better, but I agree, Pete. Three years isn’t too much to ask at this point.
Also, I think re-signing Schilling should be a priority, as well.
I actually wonder if 3 years will be enough. But they should pony up whatever it takes and overpay by a year or two if necessary. Even if his bat declines a bit, his glove will continue to be solid.
If Lowell is really seeking four years-plus, the Sox might be better served by going after A-Rod…
How did he not call that one? Damn
Im not sure about the resigning Schill thing Paul. Plenty of other options (Buchholz) and if he wants more than a year…
A-Rod? I’m not sure about that… silly I know, but I can’t bear the idea of him in a Sox uniform
C’mon Curt…got the first one..
damn..hit
Why does this team need A-Rod? I’d much rather they re-sign Manny for a shorter, cheaper contract. His bat is not getting old any time soon and he performs in October.
Wow McCarver SUCKS! He just confused Okajima with Daisuke.
Yeah, Tim, all those Asian players look alike…geez
I don’t think he wants more than a year, Dio, and I’d feel more comfortable working Buchholz into the rotation more slowly over the course of the season. Having him AND Lester starting could be trouble.
Curt getting ahead of hitters, unlike Carmona. Makes hits like Martinez’s much less scary.
As for Lowell.. I agree.. three years would be my HIGH end of acceptable contract. Its really alot fo rhis age on this team
God, these dinky little crap hits suck.
they do raise an interesting point..why become a pitching coach when you are on the fast track to GM? Not that I’m complaining!
Another hit..ugh
But agreed on Schill. He says one year – give that man his money.
Fuckign bleeder
Why does this team need A-Rod? I’d much rather they re-sign Manny for a shorter, cheaper contract.
Uhhh, Pete, are we talking about Manny RAMIREZ or Delcarmen? You do realize that Manny
A. Wants out of Boston, and is unlikely to resign with them
B. Can get a long contract
I’m with you on Schill, Dio. I don’t think we could rely on him for more than a year.
As far as ARod goes, I don’t see the Yankees getting outbid by the Sox under any circumstances. No way the Yanks let him come to Boston.
“There is silence at Fenway right now.”
McCarver is an idiot. There’s nothing going on in the game right now!
Mark Shapiro married/dated up
This umps zone is a mess.
MOTHERF*CKER
Oh god damn that sucks
SHIT
FUCK. GODDAMNIT.
Ugh. Went to go make dinner… what the hell happened?
Two ground ball bleeders, and Curt gives up that one big hit.
You’ll have to excuse Tim McCarver. He is just suffering from Jeter withdrawl symptoms.
All those flies, had to happen eventually
paul, slow down on that schilling signing urgency.
Couldnt that have happened a batter ago?
Nice play, two out. But damn this sucks
Pedroia with a great play to make out #2. My TV just went out though. Is it just me or is it Fox?
Get this last one, Curt…c’mon..
Way to hold the lead, Curt. The flashes of brilliance aside, it seems we need to realize that Schilling at this point is just incapable of avoiding the longball in key spots. It’s happened three or four times this year, the Yankee game being the ost memorable.
Pedroia makes up for the strikeout right there. Nice play.
My FOX is okay. Except that it’s showing the score to be 4-3. :P
nice pitch! Hold ’em the rest of the game, Curt, please..strike out…two batters too late
Oh, and I have to comment that now I’m even more irritated that Drew couldn’t come up with a bloop hit to keep the inning going.
Nice K by Schilling there, at least.
No joke, Rod. I need to stop saying nice things about players while the game is ongoing.
Still, Schilling would provide some depth as a 4/5 next season.
Agreed Paul..always throws that one bad pitch that gets creamed…
Atheose –
I’m not convinced on Manny RAMIREZ. The stories have been he’s wanted out every year. It’s about time the team just simply said “We want you in Red Socks for the rest of your career.” Give him $100 mil for five years rather than 250 mil to A-Rod for eight years.
‘Tek needs to get on here and start us off
Nice K by Schill, but it’s too little too late. 65 pitches after 4 IP, 4 ER.
Against Carmona, holding that lead was vital. And Curt Schilling acted like Chuck Schilling…
ANOTHER 2 and 0 count
Pete, he’s wanted out every year, but he’s never had control. It’s always been up to the Red Sox organization. Do you honestly think he’ll resign with the Sox when he finally gets to decide? I mean seriously?
Agreed completely on Schill and depth for 08, especially since neither Lester nor Buck are ready for 200 innings without putting their arms at risk.
and Carmona comes back to K ‘Tek. Not the start we needed
Coco shows bunt
well, this is what I get for thinking 3 would be enough.
Coco hits a ball solidly, but right at Cabrera. Two down.
Smacked, but right at second. shit
On Manny – yes. Show him the money and he’ll stay. He’s worked out a good niche for himself in a tough city. Besides, if he REALLY wanted to leave, he be gone by now. Instead, he’s continued to thrive.
Nailed by Crisp, but right at Cabrera. Crap.
Buck: “Carmona induces the line drive…” Yeah, that’s exactly what he wanted to do…
well, this is what I get for thinking 3 would be enough.
Me, too, BD. Me, too. *sigh* Still, not sure 4 is enough to win this game either…
no kidding Buck, jeez…we see the damn score…
Carmona does look uncomfortable out there…3 and 1 to Lugo…right down the middle for a strike…3 and 2…foul ball…another walk…make him pay, Dustin!
Lugo works the walk. Redemption is calling. Will Pedroia answer?
I disagree completely, Pete. I guarantee other teams will offer him more money to be a DH.
wow, Carmona really doesnt want Lugo to steal..
Career highs for innings:
Lester – 153 IP (2007)
Buchholz – 146 IP (2007)
Even pushing it at 25% increases for both leaves them short of 200 IP.
Re-signing Schill seems like a no-brainer.
2-0 to Pedroia. Lugo is in Carmona’s head.
Ball 2 to Pedroia. Pitching manager out to tell Carmona to stop f*cking around.
2 and 0…I think Carmona is done after 5, I think
More than 100 million to Manny for him to DH? I don’t see it.
Carmona with a Jekyll and Hyde effort so far.
I love the footage of the bullpen band! Did anyone else see that article about them?
oh, man, that looked not good from Pedroia
CRAP. K from pedroia, and didn’t look good doing it
Bad feeling about this inning…
Anon was me.
Why do folks keep mentioning McCarver? Do I have a different feed? I’ve got Sutcliff and Brennaman, I think.
That inning had all the makings of a classic Red Sox squander. Take the lead, give it right back, struggling opponent starter suddenly rights the ship and shuts down the Sox the rest of the game.
Hey guys – sorry Sox fans when I left I saw it was 3-1 Boston.
Hopefully you’ll pick it back up – what is it you’ve scored more than any other team in the 8th inning?
4th inning pitch counts:
FC 90-46
CS 65-45
Curt at 90…2 and 2 on Blake..
Pete, getting the Fox broadcast here
Great play!
Hard to remember when Lowell was the “forced add-on” to the Beckett deal.
0 and 2 to 3 and 2…and…
CAUGHT! nice catch by Lowell..just about Bullpen time, I think
Rocket hit at Lowell, who scoops it up for a webgem. Can we resign him before the bottom half of this inning please?
SHIT
Schill got robbed on the 3-2 call, but Lowell with the great grab that McCarver promptly downplays.
Now Schilling gives it up to Sizemore. Sorry, folks, but I think that’s the ballgame.
Huh – I never would have thought that would have gotten out – didn’t “sound” like a good enough hit.
I figured a hard liner to the outfield.
Sizemore homer. Fucking hell.
I’m blaming Rob for returning!
Not what I meant by bullpen time
Paul – hey you’ve got Manny and Ortiz – I would never count you guys out unless you were on the team plane going home!
Still a bunch to go, but feeling a bit deflated…
So McCarver says that Sizemore has taken over this ballgame by scoring the first and fifth runs — fewer than half of the Indians’ runs and not enough to give Cleveland the lead?
We need some Lester relief pretty soon. The ump squeezing more, ball 1 to Cabrera.
Oh god… “Sizemore is the Indians equivalent of Derek Jeter.” I should have known it would take less than 5 innings before Fox mentioned Jeter.
God Curt, just get out of the inning
Sorry Atheose lol.
Everyone wanted Curt pitching game two and not Dice. See how finicky this game is? Curt has just sucked, no other way to put it. Horrid start.
“Sizemore is the Indians equivalent of Derek Jeter.”
Wait, I thought Sizemore could actually hit for power and played good defense.
On paper Curt was the better choice, especially after last week’s outings by both him and Daisuke. Tonight Schilling has just sucked.
Though he K’s Cabrera here.
Can’t put this guy away..shit…get this guy out..STRIKE 3
oh tim, derek isn’t watching. no need to fluff.
Cabrera was looking for a pitch to hit that wasn’t straight down the middle, I guess. Whatever, I’ll take it.
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA thanks for making me laugh Paul.
I have never been so happy as now with how my TV tends to “mess” with the sound (makes the background noise much louder than the “normal” sound). Buck and McCarver are being drowned out.
It’s a thing of beauty…
I don’t doubt McCarver is right when he says Lopez would have faced Hafner if Cabrera reached — but why?? Why does Terry use Lopez against lefties when his numbers SUCK against lefties??
Another line drive hit.
the poorly named ‘Pronk’ takes strike 1…swinging strike 2…SHIT..0 and 2 and he gives up a two out single
Another 0-2 pitch hit. Damnit.
Schilling still in the game. Delcarmen and Lopez up.
I’ve seen that Curt’s pitch count is low but when does he get pulled you think?
We’ll beat up ont he bullpen, right?
Oh you have GOT to be kidding me
Nevermind
Dreamer, why is Pronk poorly named? He’s part prospect, part donkey. And he LOVES the name!
Slow roller through the infield for a single. Schilling finally pulled, in coming Delcarmen.
Dang it, Curt….why couldn’t you keep it in the yard??? :(
I’m glad to see Shilling was cheered (heard some boos) it wasn’t like he pitched a bad game, everything I saw were good hits. Not like he was serving up BP or anything.
Wow, crazy that FOX doesn’t have the international feed. Good news for me even up at 4am. Sucks I’m back next week (on many levels).
SF –
Sorry, Schill in this games was absolutely the right move. And I’d much rather see Dice paired with Westbrook. Best case, Sox win in a laugher. Worst case, it’s a slugfest.
“I talked to Theo Epstein, the, uh, Red Sox General Manager”
I’m gunna slit my wrists if I have to listen to McCarver speak any more. I’m just going to mute the TV and add my own commentary.
And JESUS CHRIST if I have to hear Fox play “Cleveland Rocks” ONE MORE TIME I’m doing to paint the walls red, if you know what I mean.
Delcarmen with a strike to Garko..1 and 2 on a great split…Lowell takes it at 3rd..end of the inning..
Odd, but I have a good feeling about this inning..
I hope
Not all bad – Carmona will be done soon. And we’re still close.
Schill can’t even make it five. Man, that is bad.
Atheose – Sorry if you were somewhere near I’d offer my place (because he keeps getting drowned out on my TV).
As for Cleveland Rocks – I think Fox only has ONE song; since heck they played it last night when they scored that grand ONE run!
Youk ahead in the count, 2 and 1…3 and 1…please please please please…HIT!
I am not questioning starting Schill. That wasn’t the point. The point was that even with it being the right move there are just no guarantees.
Youk with a lead-off single! Ortiz up.
It’s hilarious that McCarver thinks Eric Wedge wants Carmona to get the W.
Papi up…make it 11..
pulling Carmona???? not going to get the win?? wow
Um…not that I WANT him to get the win, mind you..heh
I thought for sure they’d save “Cleveland Rocks” for the possibility of a Cleveland/Rox World Series. Guess they don’t think that’s happening? ;)
Nice single by Youk there; I’m ready for more Manny Ortez action.
However disappointing Schill was, I’m pleased that we knocked Carmona out after 4 IP. Their pen is pretty good, but I’m not sure they can handle our 3-4-5 several times over.
We knock Carmona out after 4+ and aren’t ahead. I never would have thought that would be a true statement.
Sure, no guarantees. That’s baseball. Now, it’s bullpens.
Yeah, so much for the pitcher’s duel eh?
And technically Schill lasted longer..wow
HAHAHAHAHA Jackie, that would be a better situation for that song. Oh well.
Battle of bullpens now.
2 and 0 on Papi..again
Papi taking..3 and 1..
Damnit..now 3 and 2
Ortiz somehow beats the DP throw. I don’t believe it.
Oh SHIT..
no DP, at least
Wha…did the 7th seal just get opened? When do the locusts hit?
I mean when Ortiz beats out a DP ball the Apocalypse can’t be too far behind.
Ortiz grounds out, and BARELY outruns the DP. The last time I saw him run that fast it was an all-you-can-eat night at the Lonestar Steakhouse!
When do the locusts hit?
I assume when we play at the Jake on Monday…
I really think these WebMD things are almost as bad as Scooter.
YES! YES! YES! MANNY!
MANNNY!!!!!!!!!!!!
MANNY
MANNYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY
MANNNYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!
Yeah, the Sox need to get rid of this bum.
(For the record, I’ve been eating dinner. Didn’t abandon my team or anything)
What was that – oh Cleveland don’t let the momentum swing hit you on your way out of Fenway.
Wow.
Just thinking that we hadn’t had a homer yet this series..
wow..
LOWELLLLLL!!!!!!!!!
Holy shit.
LOWELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LOWELL!
who si the goof in the blue knit hat jum[ping up and down in the dugout?
BACK TO BACK!
I guess this is why you don’t leave your LOOGY in to pitch to righties?
Two guys they absolutely HAVE to re-sign. No doubt in my mind. And I have my new cause. :)
Sometimes at this point I’m midway through typing and then go “wait till the end of the inning’ because anything can happen.
Plus I figure I should bow out to let the Sox fans celebrate.
Oh. My. God. (Sorry for my absence with commenting. I have company for this ballgame!)
I LOVE MIKE LOWELL! SIGN THE MAN!
Yeah, okay Buck, great point about Papi’s speed! :) :)
Hinske (goof in the knit hat) I think
Dio, go away again. :P
And even Nancy gets a hit!
DREW NOW!
Buck did make a great point about Ortiz’s hustle.
This guy is the best lefty reliever in the AL? Drew rips a single.
Bloody hell – these guys couldn’t miss last series, but now they decide to choke/suck as much as possible.
Sheesh.
Jackie – You’re right, it’s Hinske. Didn’t recognize him in that hat and it was killing me. Thanks.
You are compeltely right dreamer!
Wow!!!! Kid was crying, stepped out to check on him, luckily had paused the DVR so caught everything “live”! Wow!!!!
Aw, they’re taking him out. Sadface.
Yeah, the Sox need to get rid of this bum.
Why are you twisting my words? I said Manny would never resign with us. I never said we shouldn’t resign him.
I was surprised to see Schilling get a standing-O. He did not deserve it.
Carmona winds up with 4 ER in 4 IP, but Perez is on the hook if the Sox can hold the lead (and hopefully expand it!)
No prob, rootbeerfloat. (Which, incidentally, I am now craving. Darn.)
Rob, maybe now they’re facing a better team. ;-)
I don’t think the Sox are going to try to resign Manny.
Oh, I guess the forceout means Carmona only gave up the three. My bad.
Manny is like the Mayor of the dugout all of a sudden.
It’s my 7 year old’s favorite treat so we always have the makings of a good root beer float…
Atheose – I hope you’re worng. I’ve convinced myself that Manny is now at peacein Boston and we could get him again.
Let’s go ‘Tek…keep it going!
Paul – :-P
At any rate this ensures I can get revenge on Indian fans who wouldn’t shut up last series.
Wow – that was a great DP.
Ugh, girl in the stands with her cellphone out and a Red Sox monkey backpack. You give us a bad name.
That was some hot defense right there. Ouch.
WOW, Varitek is sloooow.
Crap. Obviously, Ortiz runs faster than Tek.
And a DP from ‘Tek..way to kill it..shoot…disappointing..now..SHUT THEM DOWN..
Atheose –
Sorry, the snark was directed at Brad (and others). That contingent of fans has consistently banged that drum whenever it’s convenient.
tek: still hideous.
(dependable, though!)
OH WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT???
Rootbeer, I would LOVE for Manny to resign. We really need his bat, even if he’s kinda flakey sometimes. But I really think he’ll either choose to go somewhere else, or become a DH for another team.
Manny is on record (for whatever it’s worth) as saying he’s hoping the Sox pick up both their options, and that he’s now happy in Boston.
But that was this past offseason. No telling what he’s thinking now. (Though I imagine right at this second he’s pretty happy).
Definitely not going to see ‘The Comebacks’ now..sheesh..bad time for THAT version of the promo..
Ahhh, my mistake Pete. Thought you were directing it at me. Like I said, I love Manny and believe we need him. Just look at how our Mannyless September went.
oh c’mon DelCarmen…throw strikes..
Did Joe Buck feel he had to differentiate between Manny Declaren (sp?) and Manny Ramirez?
Who does he think is watching this game?
Doesn’t look even remotely funny…
Need a good clean inning from Delcarmen.
bad time for THAT version of the promo.
No kidding. My husband and I just sat there staring at each other with our mouths hanging open for a good five minutes. F*ck the heck?
Walking Peralta: Not a good start.
3 and 1…ah geez…let’s not give it back..oh, nowhere close…crap..lead off walk
Huh everyone is getting all italicized now – kinda freaky. Like everyone is expressing the fact they were upset with that Boston themed comedy ad.
I don’t know how much fan reaction means to Manny (Ramirez that is) but I gotta believe that the Boston fans are a lot more easy going about his flakiness than a lot of other cities would be.
I agree on the Manny appreciation, but I have seen nothing from current management that leads me to think they will resign him. He has looked happy the last week or so!
Sorry about the HTML snafu!
Settle down, Manny…get the DP..let’s go…ugh
SHITTTTTTTT
Why was Youk playing so far in there?
Italics all fixed.
Unfortunately, the Sox’ pitching this game, not so much.
Nerves seem to be messing with MDC.
That last anon was me, it keeps erasing my signature.
Thanks Paul. (I attempted to close it off, but several comments too late…)
I’ll take a K and a DP here. In that order, preferably.
“Can I help you?”
Yes, I’d like a strikeout and a double play, please.
“It would be a rare occurrence to bring him in in the 6th Inning”
It’s called the playoffs numnuts – you do whatever you need to do to WIN.
oh this really sucks…what happened to Manny?
brutal pitching all around. Argh.
Wow – he waited a bit too long to decide where to throw. I swore he was going to be safe at 1st.
oh that sucks..
Fucking indecisive Lugo argh
I wonder why Lugo decided not to go home on that.
Not a good outing from Delcarmen. Here comes Okajima, who hasn’t regained my trust yet.
Disappointing..hope we see first half Oki here
Delcarmen struggles, Oki coming in for 1.2 innings of work. 6-6 game.
By the way, why did McCarver say that Oki “Always comes in for the 7th inning”? He’s pitched the 8th inning for 5 out of the 6 months of the season.
Well, 6-6 not exactly what we expected out of Carmona v. Schilling is it?
Wow, bit early to see the endgame arms. I’m going to puke if I see Gagme.
Somewhere a young Buck watches this games on television.
When was the last time Oki pitched? I trust him on a week of rest. I think.
why did McCarver say that Oki “Always comes in for the 7th inning”?
Because he is an idiot.
Let’s keep that go ahead run at second and get out of the damn inning
Real question now – do you get the good Oki or the one who was tired and had issues.
Wow, a great block by Tek to keep that from going between his legs.
Rob, so far the Good Oki…STRIKE 3!
Big strikeout from Okajima.
Um, Buck, you seem to be forgetting Oki’s second half..ugh
ah, and Bad Oki is back..
I wonder if they’re pitching around Sizemore. Well, the IBB for sure with the 3-0 count now…
Wow – walking?
NO no don’t do it, McCarver thinks it is a good move!
Please please please please please please please do NOT make us regret this.
LOL at the graphic: “First player in MLB history named Asdrubal”
This is somehow not shocking to me.
Jackie – those Fox analysts – can’t put ANYTHING by them.
Lugo saves a run, but extends the inning by AGAIN being indecisive.
SHIT. Bases loaded..nice play, but really wish Lugo had gone two second right away..
Oh my god…i can’t watch
Why did he even look to 3rd? Did he not know there were two outs?
As SOON as I said that, Hafner lines out. Thank you, God
Freak. My heart is POUNDING. Great positioning by Pedroia/the Sox.
So who is going to pitch the rest of this game? Are we sending Julian in? Is he even on the playoff roster?
Oh thank sweet zombie jesus for the shift. Crushes a ball right at Pedroia in short right field, inning over.
Does Oki come out for the 7th, or do we use Timlin? And if so who do we use for the 8th? Or do we get an out or two out of Oki, and then use Timlin for 1+ innings?
Bottom of the order against their pen…would love to get 3 or 4 here, Oki get’s a quick 7th, Timlin in 8th, Paps in 9th?
Getting ahead of myself, I know.
Dustin Pedroia is the ninth major leaguer with the first name Dustin and the 10th with Dustin as his first or middle name.
I could do research for FOX!
Crazy Train is in the dugout, not the bullpen. He’s a cheerleader and only a cheerleader this series.
6 6 6
need to change that this inning
“this is like a Yankee game”
Er – no its not.
Oh wow…so looked like a strike..
Wow, looked like strike 3 to me.
another full count..how many have we had tonight?
Oh…. come ON.
Oh, *^^%I&P* camera angle had me out of my seat
I miss Joe Castiglione. Not sure who this Joe Castillione person McCarver was talking about it.
Man, I thought that was gone. So did the FOX cameraman.
That ball would have been 20 rows back in Yankee Stadium. Oh well.
“was talking about IS”
Love to see Manny again this inning
… was that Lugo swearing in Spanish? Much as I complain about Fox, sometimes their mics are kinda awesome.
Doesn’t look like we’re getting it done this inning. Lugo Ks.
K for Lugo…swung right through it…crap..
Oh no, we did not just compare Pedroia to Eckstein….
I really don’t have much faith in our pen tonight. :( we need runs..lots of ’em..now
GAHHHHHH Pedroia compared to Eckstein! I knew it had to happen sometime…
pedroia = eckstein. Thanks, idiots.
bostondreamer – don’t worry I doubt any Indian fan has faith in their bullpen either
Pedroia:Eckstein is even more supericial than Vaughn:Ortiz.
Heh, great minds, Paul.
Damnit. too quick and easy. Let’s hope the same thing happens in the top of the 7th.
Except that Pedroia this postseason is hitting more like Eckstein than at any point since April.
Or maybe he’s hitting more like Vaughn, c. 1995…
I’m nervous that the Sox really just have Timlin and Papelbon left. But that’s better than Betancourt and Borowski, so…
Might we see Lester in a pinch?
Martinez has been onnnnn firrrrrre. /NBA Jam voice
I kinda like this use of Lopez. As long as they leave him in for more than one batter (which they should, as he’s facing a righty at the moment).
Oki still in..starts Martinez off with a ball..2 and 0..
our pen has lost the strike zone..
Really think about the Indian closer – all you need to do is keep it to within 3 runs (even if the Indians take the lead) to force Wedge to bring his closer in.
Then you win (while making every Indian fan develop an ulcer).
This ump’s zone is terrible. Gets tighter as the game goes on, and not in any appreciably consistent way.
oh wait..Lopez..my bad
wait, no, still Oki..god, I’m not even drinking
No, it’s Oki.
And Oki with the K!!
whoops, me either. Why did I think this was Lopez? (I don’t even know).
c’mon Oki, get him…get him..get him..STRIKE 3! Swingin and a miss!
no, Tim, you just have to get them out…ohhhhhhh soooo close
This game is making me so tense I’m hallucinating pitching changes… Oki doing OK so far.
damn..0 and 2 to 2 and 2…developing an ulcer..Oki chants start…pops out to Youk!
Oki looks very good this inning.
Jackie, ma’am, you and me both
I really need a drink to watch this game but I have a race tomorrow so I can’t. They need to get a lead quickly or I’m going to drink anyway!
You take that back RIGHT NOW, Paul! ;-)
You know, I’m pretty happy with the score, considering how poorly Curt pitched. The Sox haven’t stranded many, and considering I was expecting a loss anyway, having a six spot on the board against Carmona and Perez makes me pretty happy.
To even have a chance of winning this game having Curt giving up 5 ER is pretty damn impressive. Now get him Oki!
Oki chants again..almost got him to swing…STRIKES HIM OUT!
K!!!!! OKAJIMA!
Okajima! We’re through the 7th.
Beautiful. And my favorite part of the lineup is coming up!
Oki!!!
Everything’s crossed, hoping this is our inning…
Who pitches the 8th? Oki again?
Just got home in time to see Oki get us out of the inning.
I take it from Paul’s statement that Curt threw a turd tonight.
I HATE these Chevy hybrid commercials. Something about having kids do and say things that they would NEVER do. Do they think this is the Sound of Music? Sheesh.
I’m more tired of the Sharp TV commercials that seem to run every 12 minutes or so.
Timlin should be up for the 8th, Papelbon for the 9th. Lester can pitch any extra-inning drama, though Papi should be batting in the bottom of the 9th if we get a runner or two before then.
Correct, Rob. Given a 3-1 lead against Carmona and gave it right back on a three-run homer. Couldn’t make it out of the fifth.
Manny and Lowell went back-to-back off Perez to give the Sox a 6-5 lead, but Delcarmen coughed it up in the sixth, and here we sit.
But the beer at the opera commercial made me laugh…
Youk pops up. Bah.
Let’s go Papi!
You are right, Atheose, Timlin up…Youk pops out..damn
Ortiz crushed a ball but right into the shift, just like Pronk did earlier.
Come on Manny.
Eric Wedge deciding the shift wasn’t a bad idea, after all. Suck.
Papi with a liner that is stopped by the shift.
I HATE THAT FUCKING SHIFT
Ortiz lines out on first pitch? Not like him.
Atheose – I say go with Papelbon for the 8th/9th, Timlin for extras. I have a feeling that’s where this game is headed if we don’t score here.
Yes, pull him..Manny…make them hurt…
I like our chances against the Tribe bullpen. We faced enough of them last night.
Wouldn’t it be great if Ramirez tagged Betancourt?
That would mean the Sox would have scored off all four of the big Indian pitchers.
Great ATT/Cingular commercial with Clemens, by the way.
I hate to admit it, but this Clemens commercial kinda cracks me up.
Well, he was going for Landsdowne on that one.
Big cut by Manny..but strike 1
Amazing numbers on 0-2 counts by Manny this postseason.
Amazing numbers PERIOD for Manny this postseason!
Manny is definately dialed in.
Wow. Nice pitch. First time all series that both Manny and Papi have been retired in the same inning, I think…
That sucks. Pen needs to keep holding ’em. Have to hope for the best from the bottom of the order..
Hell of an at bat. Manny comes up short on this one.
…. but strikes out.
Nice battle there. Manny simply missed it.
Almost pacing time in Paul SF’s living room…
well that was ugly
So do you brink in Papelbon (and shoot for a 2-0 advantage)? Not sure who is left since I doubt Oki can/should be brought out for too much more.
Well, I’d bring in Papelbon – you can pitch him two innings, since we’re off/traveling tomorrow and there’s no use saving the pen. But it looked like Timlin was warming, so perhaps Tito sees it differently. I’ll defer to him in the postseason. :)
Timlin for the eighth, I assume, then Papelbon for the ninth, maybe the 10th, if necessary.
Why didn’t the Sox realize they needed another bullpen arm in June?
LOL, Pete. Funny guy
Where was THAT???
Timlin just misses.
Yeah Coco!
Hee, Coco.
Oh damn, can’t believe that wasn’t strike 3…
COCO!
Timlin gets robbed of a K, but Coco makes a great play in center field. He had better get a gold glove.
Thank you Coco.
Say what you will about his bat, but THAT’S why he is in this lineup..
C’mon old man, let’s have a 1 2 3 inning..
oh shut the &^%^%^%&^ up, Buck
Now Timlin with the nice grab.
NICE play!
Timlin flashing the cat-like reflexes.
Ground ball back to Timlin, who flashes some leather to make a nice grab.
Wow, Dusty Baker is officially a Red now.
Oh, Dusty Baker looking to burn out more arms, eh?
Young pitchers in the Reds’ farm system cower in fear: Dusty Baker is waiting to blow out your arms.
lol, Great minds, Dreamer.
nice pitch! swing and a miss! 1 and 1 on Blake..2 and 1..I hate this ump
Quick inning for Timlin. Very nice.
Top of 8th over. Very tense.
GREAT inning, Timlin! Thank you!
nice 1-2-3 from Timlin
Lowell Drew Varitek in the 8th.
If we get a total of 2 base hits in the 8th/9th we’ll see Ortiz in the bottom of the 9th. I want a walk-off damnit!
That was about as low-stress as I could have asked for.
Now. Runs, please.
Atheose, I share the sentiment, but honestly, I’d be happier if we didn’t see the bottom of the 9th…
Pacing time. Will return at the break.
its shots like that that make me miss Boston…
C’mon Mikey….start us off right, considering who comes up next..
I love the MVP chants for Lowell. He really deserves the team MVP for this year–he’s the only player to be consistent all year.
ok, back from my hiatus from the internet… let’s go MIKEY LOWEL!!!
WAY outside..let’s have some more walks..
I agree completely dreamer–I’d rather see Lowell put us ahead right here. Hell, or Drew for that matter. Drew’s GOTTA come through for us eventually, right? Right?
Right?
I think Wedge should put Borowski in right now
THAT was a strike?
another fielder-spectator collision on a foul popup
make up call right there!!!
Right, my friend, right…and unicorns and leprechauns are just around the corner..
Wow, that 1-2 pitch to Lowell was a strike, called a ball. This ump is all over the place.
Some pitcher’s duel, huh? Although it is shaping up to be a battle of the bullpens
My feet and heands are sweating. I had almost forgotten the feeling of that.
Battling here…let’s go Lowell! Hit it to Needham! :)
Lowell is all over Betancourt… I feel a solid hit coming up…
Lowell fouls off yet another pitch, wearing Betancourt down. Still 2-2.
Let’s hope you are right, Ed..
Good at bat here…
S##$$%@@%t%%$
JT is still here because the undead have not yet returned to their graves..
damn..K
Betancourt threw 4 fastballs and then a changeup, and then 5 straight fastballs after that. And then he K’s him up with another changeup, great pitch.
I don’t know whose two little kids those are, but they look like they want to go to bed.
That may have been the pitch Lowell should have killed.
Well, guess we will see the 9th after all. Shoot.
Drew pops up on the first pitch. Gah.
Varitek up.
Drew just kills me.
oh J.D. The one time he doesn’t take the first pitch… ok capitain…
Looks like Paps for the 9th…oh god, I can’t take this..
v-tek officially looks lost, he’s due to run into one here
Who is JT?
craptastic wing by ‘Tek
Varitek behind 0-2. Who wants to bet he sees a high fastball here?
well that was crappy
Pitiful AB’s by Drew and Tek.
swing even. damn…let’s hope Paps keeps ’em down..then, Borowski in the 9th?
What a crappy inning. Even Lowell looked like he had no idea how to do more than foul off Betancourt’s heat.
It’s time for Wild Thing. Come on Paps, we need a dominant 1-2-3 inning here.
into the ninth we go, this really does feel like a yankee game
If I’m Wedge, I keep Betancourt for the ninth, even if Cleveland takes the lead.
But if I’m Wedge, Borowski isn’t even on the ALCS roster.
i concur, we hold the fort here, than Borowski… big inning coming up
Wedge showed in the fourth game against the yankees that Borowski is his guy… here we go
Mentioning Paps dominance=bad luck..ugh. SHUT UP
Seeing Papelbon’s intense-face reminds me–did you know that the human lips are made up of the same tissue as the human asshole?
3 up 3 down, please…i want to keep my hair
ewwwwww
Borowski is warming up!!
call these freaking strikes! C’mon!!!
It’s all epithelial tissue, Atheose. :P
You know it’s an intense game when Tito is rocking back and forth.
Sizemore pops out.
Sizemore down.
Sizemore down on the popup.
Popped up…1 out
Sounds like someone took anatomy in college, Jackie! ;-)
Paps blows a fastball past Asdrubal for Strike 1.
This makes me very nervous. If we don’t score in the bottom of the 9th, who the hell is going to pitch?
2 and 2…
We have Lopez left, god forbid Gagne also.
Possibly Wake?
I’m getting a PhD in biology… so yes, I did take a few bio classes in college. ;)
I cannot believe that Cabrera swung at that, much less hit it…
Paps for the 10th, then..hmm..Lester? But it won’t get that far, because we will win in the 9th. I hope
Oh god, get this guy out!!!!
We’ve got Lester for long relief, and Lopez for the 10th, too.
oh man oh man oh man..3 and 2..
whats with the fielder shots?
Popped up!
2 down
2 down.
All right. That made me nervous. Now Hafner.
Cabrera finally pops out. 2 down, the Half Prospect, Half Donkey is up.
I hadn’t thought about Lester, good call. Hopefully it won’t come to that.
This is the batter. this is it. get him out, we win. I know it..
Hafner (fastball killer) vs Paps (fastball hurler).
and they HAD to mention the home runs Paps gave up. ugh
Pronk gets a base hit up the middle. Fuck.
Martinez, who is 3 for 4, is up.
Hafner singles up the middle. VMart now is up.
oh that blows
Base hit… better than the HR McCarver was trying to jinx up, at least.
Hafner beats the shift. That’s an out with a normal alignment. Or a more extreme alignment, for that matter.
Hafner out of the game for a PR.
better than one of the alternatives, but damnit..it’s never easy..
Damn, not even an attempt to throw Barfield out.
ah shiza…runner at second..
Nonononono don’t do this…
Walking VMart to get to Garko.
This has got me nervous and pacing a path in my rug.
Garko up…this is it.
Yeah Jackie. Paps might come back in the 10th for an out or two, but Lopez should get a little bit too if we need it. After that though we’ll let Lester take the ball until it ends. We quite literally have no one else after that.
Gagne is unavailable because Eric Hinske has him duck-taped to the bench.
Goddamnit, McCarver just compared Barfield’s steal to The Steal of 2004. Wow.
Is McCarver really comparing that SB to the Roberts steal? Give me an effing break.
I like walking Martinez. He, Hafner and Sizemore are the big threats in that lineup. Wedge helped us out by removing Hafner from the game, methinks, and then by taking the bat out of Martinez’s hands.
Ahhh…no reverse mojo here!
Wow, they are seriously attempting to compare this to Dave Roberts in 2004. Unfrigginbelievable.
You’re right BD. Garko’s very dangerous. VERRRRRRY dangerous.
Damn, fould ball just far enough into the seats that we have no play on it.
come on, get out of this Paps.
Inning over!
Paps, throw strikes, please…please..please…popped up foul…1 and 1…shut up Buck…hate these two out rallies on their part…strike 2…crowd expects the K..fouled off the bat…Paps walking around, rubbing the ball…over 20 pitches, apparently…YES! force out at 2nd!
Long inning for Papelbon, at least it ended well.
Lowell with a snag to get the force at second.
PLEASE bring our Borowski.
Garko hits it hard, but Lowell snags it. My heart skips a beat.
Bottom of the 9th time, Netancourt still in.
nice
Alright gang, do we win it here, or do we go extras?
I would like a Pedroia walkoff. Just… because.
Extras, I’m afraid.
A Pedroia walk-off would make me smile. A lot.
Coco shows bunt, takes a ball
crap, 1 and 2. not looking good
Crisp strikes out.
get on base get on base get on base…shit…bad K on ball 3
Koco Krisp K’s. Lugo up.
“If it goes to the 10th Papelbon will be back on the mound for Boston”
How does he know this? Paps pitched 23 pitches last inning, a pretty good amount.
2 and 0 on Lugo…looks intense…lets out a breath…POPS IT UP CRAPPP
I have like 5 pieces of nicorrete in my mouth.
Okay Pedroia, time for that walk-off that Jackie and RBF are talking about.
let’s go frodo!!! walk off
Dustin, be a hero…
i’ll settle for a single… youuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuk
not a walkoff but I’ll take it at this point!
Pedroia picked a good time to get hot in the postseason! Youk up, Ortiz on deck.
Hit!
Pedroia singles!
Youk…Papi lurking in background.
I suddenly feel bold…
Ellsbury running. I say send him immediately.
oh kevin kevin kevin…
go…go…go…go…go…go….go
No WAY they send Ellsbury
steal the base jacoby!!!!!!!!!!!!
Off the wall wins it..please please please please
here we go!!!!!!!!!!
Ellsbury to 2nd — stolen or indifference?
nwo are they going to be comparing THAT to the 2004 steal?
Uh oh, I f*cked it up by making Ortiz bold in my comment above. Now everything is!
ELLSBURY STEALS 2ND!
No throw…odd
YES!!!
Ellsbury with the speed.
Two innings in row that the catchers make no attempt to throw them out.
ayayayayayaya
Oh man oh man oh man..Youk please a single a single a single a single..
oh no, not the bold tag.
not odd when VMart is behind the plate, horrible caught stealing percentage
WHAT? WHAT THE FUCK? Youk did not swing at that!
WHAT!!!
he checked that swing
Oh this blows..damn winning run at second all we need is a single…mother of god, let’s goooo
send Ellsbury to 3rd..now
How many screws does Betancourt have in his elbow Joe Buck?
hangin tough youk…
no more bold
oh, and McCarver tries to screw us up by saying something nice
Youk making it exciting
“he would like to be the hero…” really Joe?
Betancourt now at 38 pitches.
a bloop, a bleep, a liner a flier SOMETHING
balk?
oh Jesus.
Dreamer, why did you at first say Ellsbury shouldn’t steal 2nd, but now you’re saying he should try to steal 3rd?
The most fundamental rule in baseball is that you don’t make the 3rd out at 3rd base.
Youk pops up but it’s almost playable. Whew.
out of play..wow
That was CLOSE
Cause I have lost my ability to think rationally, A! :P
HE… WILL… NOT… STRIKE… OUT…
OH MY GOD… GIVE IN BETANCOURT… GIVE IN
oh Ed Ed Ed
Good try, Youk …. but now into the 10th.
DAMNIT!
Jesus Youk! He’s fricken invincible. I would be mentally dead if I was Betancourt.
Youk hits it hard to center field but Sizemore is there. Time for extras.
Oh mannnnn… Six inches more to left field.
FUCK ME
Thought that was it at first… damn
Hell, he hits it SOFTER I think we win..
OK, good effort by Youk but did the announcer (not sure which one) just say he couldnt’ have hit it any harder? Couldn’t he have hit it out?
we’ll get them in the tenth, Betancourt will give way to Borowski… keep the faith boys and girls
Well, Betancourt’s gotta be done, and that means Ortiz and Manny vs. Borowski. Let’s hope Papelbon holds them in the 10th.
Amazing at bat by Youk, and great pitching by Betancourt. Neither would give in.
Yes RBF, some of the brightest minds in that broadcast booth.
Fingers crossed, Paul..fingers crossed..but dang I wanna go to bed..but I can’t..
yes, if he’d hit it harder it would’ve been a home run… or a line drive off the wall??!!!?!?
Cora now at 2nd.
Paps, throw strikes…please 1 2 3…
the Cora-for-Ellsbury sub thing makes me very sad. I mean, I know Jacoby can’t play 2B in this situation, but his bat might be nice in the 12th or whenever.
looks like Wedge doesn’t want Borowski in the 10th
yeah RBF, I picked up on that too.
one away
Peralta K’s.
STRIKE 3!
Lofton makes me sick to my stomach
but if he doesn’t bring in Borowski, what kind of message does that send? I mean, you have to have irrational faith in your closer, even if he has a 5.00 ERA.
Wish Schill had done the same to him. This would be over..
Scared at first..but not as bad as I thought…two out..
So balls that die in mid center field are “well hit” now? Good to know. I guess that’s why Youk “couldn’t have hit that ball any harder.”
BC number two? Cool. If it can’t be my Gators, go Eagles!
ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
maybe “well hit” just means “easy for Coco to catch”
oh, and there’s the McCarver jinx again trying to appear
I think “well-hit” just means “sounded pretty good off the bat”.
Varitek catches that better, he mighta gotten the call.
OH MY GOD BULL!
Jesus, what the hell, Cora?????
that was a scary near-collision
Cora you friggin idiot! Stay out of the way.
Mastny pitching?
dreamer, you got your 1 2 3!
Youk makes an amazing play, DESPITE the umpire failing to get out of the way. Great inning by Papelbon.
Ortiz, Manny and Lowell. Wouldn’t want it any other way.
sweet cracker sandwich. That was maybe my 5th heart attack tonight… thanks Cora!
Ok Gang..this is what we want..isn’t it?
Well, THAT was scary. Glad no one’s hurt, and glad the ball ended up in a glove. One swing against Borowski ends it now.
love the Jeter commercial… bwahaha
Now, Ed, let’s up that we get NO outs this inning! woohoo, go Sox!
Oh, that’s right. Borowski wasn’t warming. Forgot… Still, one swing.
yes dreamer, this is what we want… ORTIZ… RAMIREZ… LOWELL… here we come… does Wedge send out Borowski????
So, as the EEI guys would say, the Giant part of the order is up. Feeling good about ending it in 10?
McNasty is pitching
OK, Papi-Manny-Lowell, let’s put this to bed so we can all go to bed too.
damn right feelin good
Ok, Jackie, what’s a phlebotomy? It’s a class or procedure being taught at a local commercial college here…
Rally cap time
Borowski???? Lots of faith Wedge shows in his “closer”
This is it..Papi…
Borowski had been warming in the 8th and 9th.
Wow, pitch #2 to Papi should have been a strike.
mango salsa time David
Ed, Wedge hasn’t brought Borowski into a tie-game all season. He saves him just for save opportunities.
DAMN IT
Damn …. almost an error.
Dammit, thought Ortiz could beat that.
2 and 0..Papi gets on, we cant pinch run…2 and 1…Papi asking for something he can drive…ball 3..hoping Masty gets no outs…OH CRAP! One out..shoot
I thought Papi may have beatin it out.
Bad hop to Peralta, Ortiz still gets thrown out. Ortiz wasn’t running hard at first.
I know Atheose, just thought he’d go with him here, oh well
man, guy has an ERA over 4….let’s treat him like a D-Ray!
I forgive Papi, but he damn well did NOT run that out
man, this sucks…end it here!
Manny fly out to shallow right.
Paul – I’m pretty sure phlebotemy is blood work… typing it, separating out serum and things like that? I’m not 100% sure though.
ok Mike Lowell… down to you…
Manny flies to right. Lowell up.
ah…damnit…
Gagne is warming in the bullpen… oh Jesus Lowell end it here
nononononono must not ever utter that name
“Eric Gagne is getting loose in the bullpen”
FUCK.
Gagme throwing….please god no.
OH NO GOD NO NOT GAGNE
damn it
According to B-R, Borowski was brought into a tie game nine times this season, six times in the ninth and three times in the 10th.
On to the 11th, with Gagne coming in. Oh shit.
GAGNE!?!??! Put lester in… anyone oh jesus
Gagne is officially out, and is getting boo’d too.
Jesus christ my nerves can’t take this. I would have guessed Lester before Gagne.
oh god oh god oh god. CODE 83!!! We have a situation.
is there really nobody else available? Lopez?
Gagne is officially out, and is getting boo’d too.
What the fuck, people at Fenway? I can’t say I’m thrilled to see the guy but don’t friggin BOO HIM BEFORE HE PITCHES THAT CAN’T POSSIBLY HELP.
This is make or break for Gagne… this is the culmination of every crap performance he’s had… this is where he can reverse it all, so with a prayer here we go
OH GOD. Well, guess we go to Cleveland tied. That’s it for me..I need sleep. Shit.
Hide the women and children.
It’s GAGNE TIME!
Why in God’s name would you boo him? Idiots
Dreamer,stop it! Gagne can do this!!!!
oh god oh god oh god (repeat as necessary)
I agree. Booing a player before he performs is asinine. This is the playoffs, people. Don’t you WANT your players to perform well?
Jackie – That was basically Varitek’s message to all fans who were booing Drew at one point during the season – if you boo him, you’re making it worse for your team. Just one of the things that I think makes him a great captain… you know, compared to some captains that don’t support their teammates who are getting booed…
Gagne gets a K.
… well that was pretty okay.
K!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Well, they’re cheering him now. Pssh.
You are all right of course, but I just need to get some air..i’ll be back…
Sizemore with a single. Shiznit.
Damn, there’s a hit.
that was less okay.
just a single…
Nixon on deck? Not liking that.
Trot is on deck! PLease don’t let Trot help the Indians win this game.
Nifty curve, that.
Wonder what reaction there will be for Trot as a potemtial winning run…
Gagne walks Sizemore over to 2nd.
CRAP!! Here we go with Gagne.
oh god oh god oh god. I need a drink.
we need a GIDP
what in god’s name?
Wonder what reaction there will be for Trot as a potemtial winning run…
In my living room: whimpering.
Lester is up, and Lopez is now coming in to reliever Gagne. THANK YOU TITO!
Lopez coming up… not the best with men on base… ahhhh
Well, pretty much no reaction. Guess no one else knew how to react either…
They sure knew how to react to Gagne leaving the mound though.
Again, lefties against Lopez this season: .293/.366/.439
Nixon singles in the go-ahead run. Fucking Gagne.
I’m done. Goodnight.
the dagger is deep
Thank you Tito for putting that piece of shit Gagne in the game.
I take back all the nice things I said about Tito’s post-season management skills. ALL OF THEM.
Batters have a 113 OPS+ against Lopez with runners on. Lefites have a better than 130 OPS+ against Lopez.
Why does Francona continue to use him in situations like this??
GAGNE… damn you
If we tie this up in the 11th … who do we have after Lopez?
Fuck me… i mean… jesus
Might as well charge another run to Gagne.
Yeah, not Francona’s finest hour. A third inning from Papelbon would have been worse than this?
Lester would be the next pitcher in.
fuckedy fuck fuck fuck.
i’ll watch this to it’s conclusion, but man, we will sweep them in Cleveland, screw Westbrook and Byrd, shit pitchers
Glad we have an off-day tomorrow.
Gagne, definitely the worst
Drew, Tek and Crisp next inning.
Ron Newman, we’ve got Lester and no one else. Except Wakefield and Daisuke.
I blame that call bringing Gagne in on the front office, they’ve been shoving Gagne down our throat since they made the deal
Of the 17 times Borowski’s been brought in with a two-run lead, he’s given up runs five times and blown two saves.
9-6 … .Sox are tired, can’t field anymore.
Horrible, just horrible
Ok, goodnight folks.
Did Lopez short are that fielding attempt?
What the fuck was Lopez doing? He started to stick his glove out to catch the ball but then pulled back at the last second.
9-6 Injuns.
Paul, we need three runs, not one, not two, three runs… as shitty as Borowski is, he ain’t that shitty
Paul, we need three runs, not one, not two, three runs… as shitty as Borowski is, he ain’t that shitty
Lopez picked exactly the worst time to show why he shouldn’t have been on the postseason roster. I don’t think even Gagne would have given up three runs if he’d been left in there.
Eh, maybe he would’ve. I bet Papelbon or Lester wouldn’t have, though. Francona compounded an error (bringing in Gagne) with an even worse one (bringing in Lopez in exactly the worst situation for him to be in).
Terrible.
looks like it’s a five game series, thanks a lot Trot, you wide eared bastard
I think Borowski might be that shitty, but we have Drew/Tek/Coco coming up. That does not inspire a lot of hope for me, sorry to say.
I’m off to bed … maybe I’ll wake up and hear that we won 13-9 in the 14th,
i concur, no excuse bringing in gagne and lopez when he did… gagne is mop up duty, lopez should NEVER be brough in with men on base.. should’ve just brought in lester
I typed that just before they scored the ninth run, Ed. Of 15 times brought in with a three-run lead, Borowski has given up runs …
Oh, never mind. Four runs now.
And the beating continues.
Another hit, Indians up 4. The wheels are officially off.
Oh come on
cripes
and I just turned off the TV … what now?
well, can we just say they score all their runs now and none for the rest of the series??
fuck these guys, I gave them this game with carmona on the mound anyways, we take at least 2 out of 3 in Cleveland, I stand by that
well, gotta hand it to them. When we implode, we REALLY implode.
We got an out!!
What if moment:
What if Lugo had thrown straight home on the grounder in the sixth instead of hesitating and going to first?
Sox win in nine, 6-5.
god bless coco? at least a little?
fare thee well gentlemen… the Indians have struck back tonight… we crush them at their home, this will not stand
Gutz hits one of the Volvo sign.
3 run shot, 7 run lead.
Jesus.
that was just heinous
Well, I guess I shouldn’t bother looking up Borowski’s numbers when given a SEVEN-run lead should I?
Anyway, you’re right, Ed. I came into this game expecting Carmona to shut us down and go to Cleveland tied. That the Indians can beat up Gagne and Lopez doesn’t mean much for the rest of the series, I don’t think. The fact that the Sox can beat up Carmona and Perez (never mind Westbrook or Byrd), however, is pretty significant.
God bless Coco, RBF.
But fuck Gagne. And Lopez.
All this means is it’s a five game series now… and I think our 3-4 will beat their 3-4 in both games, and Beckett bitch slaps Sabathia in game 5
Paul, there were two hesitant plays by Lugo that cost us, I think. Of course, if any one of our big three had done their thing last inning, it’d be 7(+)-6 in 10, so…
I agree Paul, they’re 1 and 2 really were exposed this weekend… I have faith we will play good ball in Cleveland and I bet we take at least 2 of 3
Borowski really wants to blow this, but I think 7 runs is just too much
Drew leads off with a single back up the middle.
Another question regarding bullpen management:
Why wasn’t Timlin, who had a very quick inning, brought out for two? He has in the past.
Would have maybe just delayed the inveitable for an inning, but still. You gotta stretch your relievers in a tie game with the offday upcoming.
what a horrible horrible “closer”
Did the strikezone just expand?
you’re right Paul, but the bottomline is Francona was playing in hopes that we’d win it in the 9th or 10th, when that didn’t happen we were sort of screwed
you’re right Paul, but the bottomline is Francona was playing in hopes that we’d win it in the 9th or 10th, when that didn’t happen we were sort of screwed
Goodby Toast.
I’m so sick of hearing about Sabathia, he’s shown he’s not a big game pitcher, until he proves otherwise
Crisp singles to right.
In fact, Timlin was brought in for more than an inning 16 times this year. *sigh* Just odd choices. You assume in a tie game Timlin’s there for two when he has such a quick first.
You also assume Papelbon with the offday and eight days of rest could go three (though I understand that’s trickier).
And you further assume that Francona, loving split numbers as he does, would stop using Lopez against lefties and start him in an inning against righties, where he might actually be effective!
allrighty then, five game series
Lugo grounds into the DP to end the game.
The Problem though is Papelbon had to pitch today because hes been off so long and an odd sday tomorrow, if he didnt pitch the 9th and the sox won it there he doesnt pitch, that said, I woulda brought him in the 8th and saved Timlin
can’t really blame him for wanting this over already ….
Yeah, I would have used Timlin for two… guess Tito just assumed that if we couldn’t score with our big guns in the 10th then we would lose.
talk about the opposite of a pitcher’s duel, don’t worry guys, we’ll get them in Cleveland, we play well there, we’ll read them the riot act on monday
Francona was playing in hopes that we’d win it in the 9th or 10th,
If so, then that was a stupid assumption on which to manage a game. You HAVE to prepare for the worst, and that means pitching multiple innings from your relievers.
Look at what Wedge did with Betancourt and Mastny (or however you spell that) — multiple innings for both, and the Sox never faced their worst pitcher.
Wedge outmanaged Francona tonight. I don’t know that the Sox would have won with more work from Timlin or Papelbon, but it would have been better than Gagne and Lopez.
yeah, the 10th was our inning to win… keep the faith guys, I feel very confident about this week in cleveland. we may not see another red sox game until the world series damn it!!!!
you’re right, Francona definitely fell on the sword with Gagne and Lopez tonight… both inexplicable moves… i’m sure the press will eat it up for the next 48 hours…
I feel confident too, but damn i was soo hoping for an 11-0 post season.
I agree. 2 out of 3 in Cleveland sounds good to me. Come back for a clinching Game 6 at Fenway. Here’s hoping…
Night all.
good night guys, we go into cleveland for the start of the five game series… keep the faith in these guys, regardless of the score we showed some backbone tonight
Fuckin Gagne… I’m going to murder him in my dreams tonight… good night friends
Well, always sucks to lose a very winnable game… but we’re up against Westbrook and Byrd once we get to the Jake, so forgive me for not bursting into tears just yet.
Another bright side: I can finally wash this nasty-ass shirt that I’ve been wearing every gameday since last Wednesday.
See y’all tomorrow. Or Monday for sure.
Not trolling, but that’s what the Yanks said about Westbrook and Byrd. Well, I guess even we beat Westbrook..
But that’s why they play them!
“Wedge outmanaged Francona tonight”
Nah, he really didn’t. He just stuck with a setup guy (Betancourt) for far longer than his typical outing, and it worked. And he took Hafner out really early when there was a chance for extras (this effectively took his best bat out of the lineup and then when Barfield stole it took the bat out of the hands of his cleanup hitter when Martinez was walked – that wasn’t great managing at all), this could certainly have come back to bite him (lucky for him, it didn’t, so he looks like a genius). The Sox had two near-misses to win outright (Coco and Youk), a few feet either way and we aren’t talking about one guy outmanaging another. Francona did a nice job, he gave the Sox several innings to win the game, and the bats didn’t do it. The big culprit was Schilling. Had he even pitched half-decently that game was a win and a 2-0 lead.
Francona’s had a great playoffs. Even last night, in a loss, he did a good job.
I thought he managed fine–bats didn’t do anything to save them for, what, five innings? I only thought Lopez should have appeared before Gagne, but whatever.
It was just a long game to sit through to lose. When the first run scored in the 11th, I started playing Guitar Hero…came back between songs to scores of 9-6, 13-6, shut TV off. Bites. I didn’t feel terrible at the time, but I had anxiety-filled dreams all night, and I think I can chalk that up to the game.
I’m shocked how many obnoxious Indians fans are posting on the espn web comments. Regardless of how Matsuzaka and Wake perform, i’d be shocked if we didn’t take one of the next two, and then we have beckett for game five… I fail to see how the Indians have us on the ropes, if anything, they should be concerned how bad C.C. has been in the off season and how poorly Carmona pitched last night. Oh well, gotta play the games!
Well, took the day off from baseball. Worked through Harry Potter instead. Can’t spend five hours so thoroughly invested in a draining loss and not feel it the next day, so I figured it would be healthy what with there being no game and all…
In the light of the day, Francona’s decisions don’t look so bad, and I’d forgotten about Wedge’s sloppy handling of the Hafner/Martinez situation, which I’d actually criticized him for at the time… Of course, Hafner being 0out of the game led to Trot’s facing Lopez, but I’d rather face Nixon than Hafner any day.
Anyway, I’m still very optimistic about this series. We’ve shown we can beat up the Indians’ top two pitchers and their top reliever. They can’t throw Betancourt for three innings every game, and now it’s Westbrook and Byrd, with Beckett in Game 5 and Schilling presumably with a much better outing in Game 6. The Sox will lose one of those games, but only one.