Wally's World

If I Could... (Children at Play)

      

With the embers slowly gathering their crimson shade, heat starting a turbulent and explosive dance and people of all ages, all shapes and sizes moving about at such a frightening pace I am incoherently glued to my Lazy-Boy (cause I'm a Lazy-man) watching the last couple of innings of this Holiday affair between the Mariners and the Red Sox. Tied at 2 each and Justin Masterson the one chosen to stall the M's bats after the exit earlier by a highly effective Brad Penny who left after going 6 strong allowing 6 hits, 2 runs, 1 BB and 6 K's. Another grand performance by Brad, will this one lack both offensive assistance or closing help? Masterson was spot on and looked like the pitcher of late last year again. Then came Okajima who also looked tough and in control; by the way, the Red Sox bats were the antithesis of everything Penny, Masterson and Okajima were as they stayed virtually silent since the Captain rocketed his 12th with one on in the Boston 2nd. Still dead-locked at 2 going into the top of the 9th, Boston summons Saito to maintain the quiet but he walked the bags stuffed, and then watched as Chris Woodward legged out a ground ball single to Mark Kotsay at 1st. I must here intercede and voice a query in rhetorical form; Should Saito been relieved upon the 2nd consecutive walk? or the 3rd even? seems to me a severe misjudgement this day. The bottom of the inning brought an end quickly and as it were methodic. The loss was the 2nd in succession to the Seattle Mariners.

My appetite went by way of that Red Sox game and I sat back kind of sulky until I heard some children out back chirping about a particular player being safe or out. Resolute and refreshed I appeared out side and volunteered my services as full time pitcher and Umpire supreme, in which I was hip-hip-hoorayed into their acceptance one and all. Now THIS is a game I thought, smiles all around and pride the only wages offered. It took all of one reversed slurve on that ole 'Wiffle Ball" (and the balls flight immediately after) for me to forget about that Red Sox loss, I would have loved to see them win it, but at day's end, well... Today I want to concentrate on Those Back Yard Red Sox and the Groovy time had by all.

If I could I would, with-out a moments loss, introduce to the free world the complete and total joy children bring while amid play; If one has not ever gained from them such happiness when given but time and effort then you have sadly missed one of the seven or eight "Wonders of the World"     Happy 4th of July Nation..Thanks again kids!

PS) by the way joey you WERE safe at third on that play, but I blew the call...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fire in the Sky..Red Sox-v- Mariners

 Versus 

A Holiday Weekend:

The best two aspects of Summer are about to be celebrated during this long holiday week-end. First, and I emphasis this as FIRST, Americans all across the country should utilise summer as being the time of family gatherings and cooking out; or grabbing a cool Summer "Dinner to go" from your favorite joint and find a quiet place to picnic. Lets face it we all run at such a break-neck speed for 90% of our lives, trying beyond all hope to get a footing above water and keep from drowning in the financial over-flow of our life rivers that we must regroup, reassure and rededicate ourselves to our loved ones and they to us. Celebrate this long weekend to the utmost of your time's avail but celebrate safely and intelligently.

The second of my celebrants? This next 15 weeks of baseball promises to be something extra-special and the races all around MLB are just a tad tepid yet. Now, with summer officially under-way and those scorching waves of hot, humid-air surrounding most of us as if a wagon train to the trespass attack of an Indian raid, we must choose a rather reticent way to our gatherings. Baseball it is.. Time to vow support to your home or even favorite team and have a blast with their remaining journey through a splendid odyssey of various franchise cities. We all yearn to play the victor, few are so rewarded so pledge to enjoy the game for the game and the chips shall fall...

Boston v Seattle

Another Red Sox late inning rally sent this game into the frames beyond regulation. Nick Green doubled with 2 on in the home 8th sending both runners home and locking the game up at 5. Unfortunately nothing much happened after this until the 11th when the M's pushed across a couple to take a 7-5 lead. Boston ignited some hope as Wakefield's private battery-mate hit his first HR of the year. The Sox failed to get another however and lost 7-6.

History was made tonight when Tim (Knuckles) Wakefield took the mound for his 383rd start, most all time for the Boston Red Sox surpassing The one I use to proudly call "The Rocket"  Roger Clemens. [I am too ashamed to even refer to him at'all, these days]

Red Sox vs. Orange Birds

 

Rubber Game :

There is a reason the Boston Red Sox are thought to be the cream of the proverbial American League crop by many who follow the intricacies of MLB. Look at their exhaustive collapse of the night prior last then another peek at this afternoon's affair. Many teams, upon their record setting loss on Tuesday would have felt the tremors quaking for several days hence, the Bosox? No-way, Not a tear shed but merely a lesson found, taught and then forgot! Game-time Tuesday was a brand new opportunity to win and do you know what? Win they did.

The victory wasn't an easy one but somehow never, either,in doubt. Josh Beckett allowed a pair of solo home-runs and by inning 4 the O's had established a 5-1 lead. However after a Ty Wigginton solo shot Beckett settled in forbidding another hit, as did  Daniel Bard, Ramirez and Papelbon and the visiting Sox pitchers retired the next 24 consecutive batters

Offensively; The Red Sox waited until they were in position to make a statement before turning on the juice. With 1 out in the 9th Kevin Youkilis, still in pursuit of righting himself after a lengthy semi-slump, drilled a 2 run home-run to right to pull the Red Sox with-in two; Several batters later and 2 on, 2 outs Rocco Baldelli tied the game on a two run single. Fast-forward to the 11th and watch as Julio (and me down by the school-yard) Lugo single in the winning run; 6-5 comeback victory.

 

Ramone Ramirez nailed down the win, Papelbon the save ( his 20th) and the Red Sox save leader surpassing Bob Stanley at 133! To Note: The Baltimore Orioles ended up with a scant 6 hits to the Red Sox 10. Boston pitchers - 10 K's:  O's - 9

  -Vs- 

Home again: The Red Sox head north again on I-95 back to Fenway just in time for the Seattle Mariners to dock. Boston will send out Tim Wakefield as he goes for # 11: Seattle dispatches 8-3 Felix (the cat) Hernandez. Currently Seattle possesses a 39-38 record, the Red Sox 18 games post equilibrium (48-30) and seek to become further still past points balanced while casting the M's a game or two below that point.

Red Sox Succumb 11-10

 Game 3 Today 1:35

Pre-(7th)

John Smoltz in his second bid to win his first as a Boston Red Sox looked fairly impressive over 4 innings. Offensively, Boston's hot bats remained so as Kevin Youkilis rocketed his 13th home-run, Dustin Pedroia brought in a couple with a double and Jacoby Ellsbury pitched in too. But the rains began falling, falling, falling down and the momentum shared amid the Sox dug-out followed it's dreary lead until, once play resumed, any sign of momentum was drowned in the out-field puddles. Still, the Boston Red Sox going into the seventh held a 9 run lead with a bull-pen ready to preserve the victory.

Post-(7th)

Nope!  I suppose I could end this post here with a stark reference to a final score, or then again, begin the chronological break-down that ensued as if to an open wound, still fleshy and steeped in it's self oozing mixture of bloody plasma, a salt poured recklessly amid; but to my choosing as this space remains so, I must maintain a creative edge and, and weep....

Man, this one is a tool for the teaching, a job well done by the Baltimore Orioles and a performance not soon forgotten by a team that was rolling along with-out a hitch over a successful month of June. Now we see just how tough the resolve among this team is!

I feel it my responsibility, though not to dwell upon the recent past, to report on another painful aspect of Tuesday night's fiasco, The 9 run deficit over-come by the last place team on a first place team was the largest in MLB history.

Josh Beckett will make new and exciting memories on Wednesday for the Boston Red Sox as they finish up this series against these these Never Give up orange birds in their Camden nest. The series stands a game apiece.

A Camden Yard Connection for Red Sox

   Versus     

Tonight it was J.D. Drew's night to shine a bit brighter than all others, something he has done every so often in the past. Remember the post season Yankee game a couple of years back? A long fly-ball into the bleachers in right for a come from behind victory?  At Camden Yard tonight J.D. made one heck of an attempt for the Cycle lacking only a double and went 3 for 5 on the game with 2 RBIs. Jason Varitek had a 2-4, 1 RBI night as did 1st baseman Mark Kotsay. Boston's sleepy sticks woke up before game-time and worked Baltimore pitching for 11 hits.

 Lester 7-6 era-4.35

Jonathon Lester (now 7-6) went 7 innings striking out 8 and walking NONE! He yielded a scant 5 hits, O runs and once again showed us why he is one of the best and worth waiting for while overcoming his sub-par outings. Excellent job Jon, Excellent all around game Sox! Papelbon pitched an abbreviated 9th and picked up his 19th save.

 

Tomorrow night's game has John Smoltz taking the mound for the Red Sox in his second try to gain his first win, Good Luck John, good fortunes Sox and sleep tight Nation... Your the greatest!!

It's So-Long Atlanta, Hello Baltimore..

  Inter-league Finale:

The Atlanta Braves repaid the Red Sox today by doing to them what Boston had done to Atlanta a mere 24 hours earlier. Winning by a lone run 2-1 on a masterful pitching performance by Braves newcomer Tommy Hanson who struck out only 5 sox hitters but allowed only 5 Red Sox hits. Boston starter, Brad Penny, had to settle for the loss but pitched well enough to win had the offense got going. As it was the lone Sox run came on the second of Jason Varitek's hit knocking in Kevin Youkilis in the top half of the ninth and cutting Atlanta's lead to 2-1 before bowing out. Penny's stats were good as he allowed but 6 hits and 4 K's and walking none. His only mistake(s) resulted in 2 solo shots accounting for both Brave runs. 

Nothing at all wrong with this 3 game series as the Red Sox took 2 of 3 from Atlanta and now head north on 95 to Camden Yards for a 3 gamer against the Orioles. Thus far in the month of June the Red Sox are 17 wins and 7 losses with two games remaining in the month. This is quite impressive by anyone's standard but when you think back to the injuries, slumps and bad bounces the 17 wins in 24 games deserves a standing "Ovation"

 34-41 (Last Place; 12.0 GB)

Forget all about the Orioles record,tear it up into a thousand tiny pieces and toss from the cheap seats at Camden Yards because it means nothing, nothing at all!  When these two long-time RIVALS meet, well lets just say it could go either way.

Boston still leads the Atlantic Division but only 3.5 games ahead of the Yankees which is a bit difficult to fathom being the recent losses by that group of, of...... Anyway one game at a time eh? we'll deal with N.Y. when the time comes, Again. Jon Lester (6-6) tries to get above the line of equilibrium. Lets get those bats afiring Sox!

Good Night Nation.

Remember those who may be in need of some quiet meditative energy, either in the physical, emotional or the spiritual: For those who pray, pray for those in need, we all have someone in need, do we not?

A Turner Field Affair (v. Boston)

  Atlanta Hosts Boston (Turner Field)

The Boston Red Sox visited Atlanta for a 3 game series against the Braves beginning tonight. Ace of the pitching staff Josh Beckett took the mound and turned in another splendid performance in a 4-1 victory. Beckett went 7 strong innings giving up but 6 hits and walking none, he also allowed 0 runs and K'd 6 for his 9th win against 3 losses. Atlanta's lone run came in the bottom of the 9th off Papelbon on a home run by David Ross, his 6th on the year. Atlanta out-hit Boston 8-7;

Boston's offense was scattered amid the top of the order with RBIs by Pedroia, J.D. Drew and the 8th homer of the year by Papi! Ortiz is really looking comfortable at the plate, finally.(knock on wood)

  9-3; 4.47 (era)

On the mound at 4:00 tomorrow for Boston Tim Wakefield (9-3) for the Braves Javier Vazquez (5-6) Lets see if our Knuckle-head can become the first 10 game Red Sox winner on the season. Last time out Tim ran a bit short on his attempt. The Boston Red Sox are an American League leading 44-28 as they continue to play some very good all-around ball. The most noteworthy aspect of manager Terry Francona's ability is the amazing way he maintains equilibrium on the team, keeping the players, regardless of their present state of "on-field" performance, grounded and clear headed.. Perhaps he has sought the council of the absolute BEST COACH in all of sports period, Bill Belichick! After-all with the wealth of knowledge so near one would certainly be remiss if not in perpetual contact eh?

Until The Morrow, Nation, good eve...

Its My Job Man! (Manny Watching)

Over the past month or so I have watched and written about this wonderful game of baseball with the zeal of a rookie; I have been able to actually maintain interest over a 9 inning stretch without thinking of the underhanded, conniving, cheating, users of the game and how they have robbed us of these past 10-15 years. The image of the Bond's, Clemens', A-Fraud, Ramirez' with a hypodermic needle dangling from their hip or rear or God knows where else is something that sufficiently enrages most of us to the point of no-return. But time, it's insignificant passing, brings us to a new and trusting perspective and suddenly, yet carefully, we sneak an inning or two until we are soon found on-line and ready to purchase tickets once again. Still, I cannot help but cringe every time I hear those names, transgressors every one of them and I hope they are forced to pay the ultimate wage.

I get nauseous when I see Manny Ramirez lazily sauntering about the base-paths his twisted locks resisting the slightest of movement despite being caught amid a desert whirlwind. Those fans, starved evidently for perhaps another snake aslither cheering as if something to rally around. I see them squirming for position in search of an autograph; I wonder, though, to what description Ramirez uses as autographic, you know, A-Rod signs "A-Fraud" as in I am a fraud! Manny must scratch-out perhaps M-alingerer as in I am a malingerer indeed! Yet they continue to rally around this, this, that's what he is.... (Tribute to the Three Stooges)

Nevertheless, I cannot help but to wonder who next will stumble and fall, fall, fall from grace? Who next will seek to expose this tedious trust and shatter it as if a maple bat within the extended grip of those drug induced egomaniacal misfits. Another of the recent "Juicers" when named only a week or so past, Sammy Sosa  lacked any real explosion due to his gladiator physic, and of Mark McGwire's innocence? take a rather educated guess... Since their staunch denial sitting before a Senate Inquiry (and the electronic eye of America) guilt has been nigh assured so whatever, from that, shakes out no surprises.

So why do it?, Why keep watch on a situation that inhibits the very groundings of my sanity? Well, as I told my brother this morning, It's My Job, Man..

  Red Sox Report:

John Smoltz 42 made his Red Sox debut tonight against the Washington Nationals and was not at'all welcomed warmly by the home team as they quickly gained a 4 run advantage. The 4-0 start was more than sufficient as the Red Sox never really found their potential and scored but 3 runs game-long. The Final 9-3 prevented the Sox from a sweep and sends them Georgia bound for a week-end series against the Braves in which they'll try once again. Josh Beckett represents the Red Sox tomorrow night so tune in if possible..

Enjoy your Friday Nation!

 

Could it Be Big Papi's Coming...

Dare we dream of David Ortiz unleashed ? Big Papi of 2 year removed emerged once again but in present tense? Dare we imagine our beloved DH the most feared DH in the American League and sufficiently empowered to cast upon opposition through-out his huge shadowy image and sizzling sneer and his thick trunked tree of ash ready to strike? Be cautious Red Sox Nation, cautious but nearer still that long-awaited moment, once again!

  The Nationals from Washington D.C. once again welcomed the Boston Red Sox to their spacious home tonight and watched excitedly as the home-boys scored first with a single run in the 2nd of Jon Lester which was the only run of the game until David "BIG PAPI" Ortiz drove a pitch into the deepest part of the stadium with two aboard resulting in a 3-1 Boston lead. This Home run was particularly noteworthy in that David reached the 1 K, (1000) RBI mark for his splendid career. Captain Jason Varitek homered with 1 on in the sixth his 11th of the season as each team added a total of 3 runs after their initial score(s). Final 6-4 - Boston

Jonathon Lester evens his W/L record at 6; 3 earned runs, 2 BB, 6 Ks. Papelbon his 17th save! One very interesting fact that I eluded to in my last article and proven this eve; In the game previous (Red Sox 11-3) Jason Bay was 4-5 and Jacoby Ellsbury 4-4/ 2 triples. In contrast to  this nights action as Jacoby and Jason went hit-less, a collective 0-8. Despite the lack of their direct assist the Red Sox found others to contribute; David Ortiz 2-3 and Dustin Pedroia 2-4. This team is quite remarkable.

Until Tomorrow in D.C. Goodnight Nation!

Nationals Welcome Red Sox

 Penny       Lannan

Brad Penny 6-2 4.94/47 Ks goes up against John Lannan 4-5 3.38/42 Ks  tonight as Washington's  Nationals Park swings open it's gates for what should be a fairly competitive affair. The Nationals despite possessing the Leagues worst over-all won/loss record at 20-47 still have sufficient power to turn around a ball game at any point. Adam Dunn has rocketed 18 home-runs and 49 RBIs, Ryan Zimmerman has 12 homers and 43 RBIs so Washington has some long ball potential. These Pre-Strasburg Nationals have struggled thus far in 2009 and may well challenge the hapless 1962 N.Y. Mets with 120 losses and 2003 Detroit Tigers with 119 failed attempts but one can never afford the luxury of such self absorbency in thinking their opponent is nothing more than a pebble on the base-paths of a seasons run.

20-47           42-27

Still The Nat's took 2 0f 3 from the Yankees last week so the threat remains besides never should professionals be caught with their proverbial guard down, "remember the any given night" speech? With this said the Red Sox wouldn't be caught with such a sophomoric mindset and thus shall indeed be ready to play-ball at 7:05 (eastern)

GAME REPORT:

Jacoby Ellsbury hitting out of the number 7 spot has a triple and stolen base (30) and is 3-3 through 6 in Washington: Jason Bay has cracked his 19th and is 2-3, Dustin Pedroia, leading off the order has 2 hits also in 3 AB.  Brad Penny has yielded now 6 hits and after a double by Willie Harris, Josh Bard scored knotting the score at 3 apiece. It appears Brad Penny will not get the chance at the win as he has been replaced after 5 2/3 tough innings. Manny Delcarmen has relieved and put an end immediately to the 6th. John Lannan continues to pitch for the Nat's and has just struck-out J.D. Drew for the 3rd time in 4 AB (BB).  Just as I report on Lannan, ex Sox hurler Jullian Tavarez comes in to face Youkilis who reaches first on an error by 3rd baseman Ryan Zimmerman. Jason Bay, now 3-4 as he advances Youk to 3rd on a single, taking 2nd on the throw. Way to get it J-Bay! Pitching Change, Jullian did not so well perform. Sox up 4-3 runners on 1st and 2nd. I, after being away for an hour or so , must report on something very special; CF Jacoby Ellsbury is now 4-4 with 2 triples, 2 singles with 3 RBIs. Jason Bay 4-5, HR, 3 singles, 3 RBIs, 3 runs scored! Man...! 

With all said and done, Manny Delcarmen took the win and Taveras the loss as the Red Sox prospered once again. What made the win was not their ability TO win, but their intrinsic knack for, from bits and pieces of the game salvaged, they suddenly weave a masterpiece of work. Tonight Ellsbury accompanied Jason Bay, tomorrow perhaps Pedroia will assist Nicky Green or J.D.Drew and Jason Varitek combine... The Boston Red Sox , this season differs from that team of last in several ways most notable in the All-Star left-fielder of present, and a spiritually, chemically bred team sharing blood-lines and honor,

  @ Nationals Park

Jon Lester vs Craig Stammen face off at 7:05 this eve.

A Red Sox Summer

 

Oh, Boston your my home...

Many of you live in medium to large cities and the mere thought of walking the simmering asphalt streets on a hot Summers day is enough to wrest a steady stream of sweat from your brow. Many simply equate the season's most agonizing session as one frustratingly necessary in Mother Natures redundant recipe. Then there are those of us who overlook those fiery road-ways and sweat-stained baseball hats and begin counting down the preseason pitches until that opening day celebration. Summer-Time and the Boston Red Sox, Autumn and the Patriots, Winter and the Red Wings (oops) or the Bruins and Behold the Spring-time's MLB training camps! There is a definite breeze, cool and calming from off the perpetually chilly Atlantic sufficient to carry the steaminess away. Real or Imagined makes no difference if indeed one is cooler in mind, one is cooler period.

 The thought of Fenway Park in the throes of Mid or late Summer are pieces of dreams with-in the supreme tapestry of life' ultimate moments that will hang upon the celestial gray matter of memories forever adored. Heat permeates from every crack and hidden crevice amid summers seemingly endless call  but we possess adequate forces to equalize such torment in the comfort of our Red Sox Nation, there is no better place to be! 

The Washington Nationals welcome us upon the eve morrow where we, the Nation of Red Sox, come to conquer.. Beware!

Inter-league Play 2009

Red Sox Celebrate A Special Day

Fathers Day 2009:

The Boston Red Sox came to Fenway hoping to send a very special Fathers Day message to ones old and new all over Red Sox Nation. Perhaps even Fathers of tomorrow will remember this gift as one very special.

Tim "Knuckles" Wakefield did his best but unfortunately it was not as strong an outing as previous ones nor with what he left to be protected by the bull-pen specialists was on this day beyond their specializations. Ramirez and Okajima failed as did Jonathan Papelbon although Papelbon did just enough to get the win and when Nick Green eked a walk-off homer around Pesky's infamous right field pole it was game-set-match! Also on this very exciting afternoon David "Big Papi" Ortiz unloaded his 6th of the season went 2-4 on the day with 2 RBIs.

On this Fathers Day 2009 The Boston Red Sox showed a side of them that is most important, more so than a home run hitter, a 20 game winner or any other single aspect of their team. The Red Sox exhibited a total team win, they showed the strength of commitment where one man, any of the roster is as important as the most prolific! Damn I love this team...

                                                                                                                                                              

Saturday Nights all Right for Baseball...

  Inter-league Play 2009:

Welcome home Derek Lowe:

This cat was always a competitor, a tough as nails kind of guy who pushed himself to every achievement accomplished and is still today a "Nation" favorite! During the off-season Lowe was a free-agent and came close to coming home here to pitch again for the Red Sox but Atlanta wrote a bit larger check I guess. In any event he is a Brave now but always a Red Sox deep with-in.

Tonight's match-up turned out as planned; Josh Beckett went the distance for the Sox not only shutting down the Atlanta Braves but shutting em OUT and riding timely 2 baggers from Youkilis, J.D Drew, 2 from Varitek to a 3-0 victory. Josh's numbers 9 innings pitched-0 BB- 7 K's- 0 RUNS equals his 9th win of the season!

Tomorrows game features Knuckles Wakefield going for his 10th win against, you know? I don't even care to mention who the Braves send out to oppose he will be nothing more than a victim and a pitcher of BATTING PRACTISE. The Red Sox bats are quaking and ready to explode so those sufficiently fortunate to have tickets get ready for the fire-works. It will happen!!!

I, being, of sorts, a reporter of all things Red Sox as well as various sports feel it but a responsible act of electronic fact finding to relay that the one referred to as A-rod or Cheater, Juicer, A-Fraud or any of a hundred well delivered and earned names to represent and report herein his current benching AND his deserved .212 batting average. Raise your glass Boston and all across the Nation"and Toast to Theo and Co for NOT urging that pathetic individual to play for this sacred organization. We have an all-star 3rd baseman of superior character, leadership and God-given talent. Raise also to him, Mike Lowell! This cat is a Boston Red Sox prototypical indeed. I enjoyed Jonathan Papelbon's clarification in regards to his "willingness to play for the Yankees" statement, when free to test the waters about. Will he or will he not take the course of Traitor Johnny Damon? all the talk in the world will not pave for certain his road ahead. With that in mind I once heard Curt Schilling openly refuse to consider playing for that Organization as did Derek Lowe and those men where TRUE to their word. Damon said openly in an interview the very same thing, and where has that guy been playing for the last 4 years? This is the most glaring reflection of a man's spirit. Even more a reason to hold Curt and Derek in utmost esteem; Thank you both.  

Tomorrows Game-time 1:30 pm.

Red Sox Bats are Silent (Again)

  wipe that smile... 3 game series

Matsuzaka finds little to smile about of late as his latest performance pronounced him slumping still. Last years leader in batting average against (.211) finds himself nearing the dreadful .380 mark. Atlanta teed off on Dice-K for 11 hits and 6 earned runs in a meager 4 innings pitched while receiving virtually zero assistance offensively; well, Jason Bay continues to hit as he and he alone accounted for Boston's 2 hits and 2 runs. Jason parked one in the 6th off Atlanta's starter, Kawakami who incidentally was perfect against all other Sox hitters.

Boston's bats are sleepily drawn these days and struggling no doubt, Dustin Pedroia went so far as to say "we stunk" and went on to offer a "thank God for Jason Bay otherwise we would have been no-hit" However, lets remember who we are speaking about, Red Sox hitters will come around as will Dice-K. Matsuzaka has been victorious 33 times over the past two seasons and won a World Championship for Japan; we'll be fine, have faith Nation and if you must stir the embers of concern do so for those families across the nation that are near to losing their jobs or homes. Those who have been struck with a catastrophic injury or worse yet, death.

By nature I am more a cynic when it comes to matters inevitably life worthy yet I have also found a way to harbor hope while afloat still. Perhaps, as we trust the times between those stormy days and wild nights we can simply enjoy the offsprings of a dedicated and skilled home team. After-all the Boston Red Sox have shattered that 86 year "hex" and drought to the point of annual expectations of World Series Championships.. Enjoy it all the losses included!

 

 

Rainy Days and Thursdays...(at Fenway Park)

With the rains falling on Fenway to the point of deluge and the ever rambunctious ground crew having executed their anti-puddling procedures quickly and with the utmost effectiveness we now wait for the possibility of a simple break in the weather. In the meantime let us toss about some game-time facts, fragmented as they are..Kevin Youkilis launched one in the first, the Red Sox first hit and first run..as a matter of fact through 5 innings their only hit and run of the game. Defensively Jon Lester has fared well yielding only 2 runs however in doing so he has relinquished a pair of dingers and 6 additional hits. Will this be it? Is the game, like the Open in New York earlier today, doomed to a wash-out? We'll see soon enough..

Tomorrow The Red Sox welcome the Braves from Atlanta into their cozy confines for a tri-game weekend series. Friday night features a couple Japanese League pitchers of years past as Atlanta's Kenshin Kawakami goes against Daisuke Matsuzaka for Boston, very interesting eh? I wonder how many out there, where-ever these words of mine are set loose and lumber about realize the genealogy of the Atlanta Braves?

In 1871 The Boston Red Stockings an N.L. franchise became The Boston Braves (1912-1935)and again (1941-1952) 1953 moved to Wisconsin became Milwaukee Braves until 1965; Moved to Atlanta in 1966 and play there still. Among the various names utilized by the franchise: Boston Red Caps, Boston Bees, Boston Bean-eaters etc.. Original name* Cincinnati Red Stockings 1869 (folded and moved to Boston.) This franchise was a National League franchise as it remains today.

The Boston Red Sox have been American League-rs all the way! I suppose I would be remiss if I forgo this opportunity to congratulate Pudge Rodriguez on surpassing our own Pudge Fisk for most games caught in MLB history. Pudge-Rod does indeed have a gun for an arm eh? Carlton? You're forever the King however!

 

Oh,by the Way...It's official Marlins 2 Red Sox 1: (6 inning final)

On Record Setting Night (Sox go Fishing)

  "Standing Room Only"

 

Boston's Fenway Park:

On a night where the Boston Red Sox hold their 500th consecutive sell out the home team was trying once again to land a Marlin, and did they ever.. Brad Penny the 6'4'' ex-fish kept his team-mates past off balance as his team-mates present, led by a rejuvenated MVP Dustin Pedroia, secured the victory 6-1.

Our ever insurgent Dustin Pedroia went 3 for 5 with 3 RBIs and Jacoby Ellsbury added his 3rd homer of the year on a 1-3 night at the plate. Big Papi continued his long road back as he doubled(15) and walked twice finishing officially at 1-2 with 3 runs scored. The latest from the Dept.of Stolen Bases; Jacoby Ellsbury swiped his 28th of the year and Dustin Pedroia his 11 and 12th. Rocco Baldelli added a couple of hits and contributed to the runs total with one himself.

Once again Francona was content with allowing Brad Penny the minimum utilizing his bullpen from the 6th inning on. Masterson, Okajima, Ramon Ramirez and Jonathon Papelbon each worked an inning holding the visiting fishies to a collective (in relief) 3 hits, 2 BB, 0 runs and 5 Ks. A two edged theory thus accomplished, saving the strength, season-long wear & tear, Keeping the arms in wait, timed and tuned!

Notes Odd and Odder still (spell-checker will let me know if that is a word)

In The top of the 8th inning the diminutive door in which the Green Monster accepts and delivers matters both mad and magnificent opened yielding one of if not THEE most beloved individual of all times ethereal, mythological and celebratory as ROBERT GORDON ORR stepped out and upon grounds now even more-so hallowed. Smiling as he always seems to do, he met his fellow Canadian, Jason Bay, shook hands, stepped away still radiating infamy waved and departed. What a moment, of course that is Bobby Orr, is it not?

Brad Penny's win was the 100 th of his career-Congratulations!

"E-8" amid game 233 an error by Jacoby Ellsbu-ry'  As strange as it sounds it ti's true... O how I dread it's print. Certainly a catch that should have been made but one in which Jacoby simply misread.

 WOW; E-8

Tonight on the heels of U.S open coverage the Boston Red Sox put their "500 game sell-out streak" on the line (yea right) as they attempt to land another whopper. Jon Lester and Rick Nolasco represent!!! game-time 7:10 est.

 5-5; 4.76 ERA

Until later Nation...

 

"Knuckles" Wakefield -A Fisher of Marlins

 Tim "Knuckles" Wakefield reeled in his 9th victory of the year against the Marlins from Florida in a gem of a game. The offense led by the one and only Big Papi provided sufficiently for Knuckles who was in command from his first pitch to his last; Wakefield struck out 4, walked 1; Yielded six hits over 6 innings and came away with an 8-2 win. Imagine this cat of 42 years being the stalwart of the staff..Great job Knuckles.

David Ortiz our Papi grande blasted his 5th of the season and hurried along 2 more runs with a single to finish the game at 2-3 and 3 RBIs. Dustin Pedroia is battling back from a rather sever ( for him) slump going 2-5 and the "Anti-Manny" Jason Bay once again contributing as he drove in his 62 and 63 runs of the season.  A Solid all around effort Red Sox !!!

Tomorrow the Sox send the subject of recent trade inquires (allegedly) Brad Penny to the home mound to battle the fighting fish who unleash Andy Miller in an effort to prevent the Red Sox from going 15 games north of the line of equilibrium. Presently they stand at a seasons best as well as an American League leading 39 - 25: 

Jon Kruk officially picked the Boston Red Sox as the Best Team in the league and this dude, as an ex-ball-player, knows of what he speaks.

  Knuckles" Wakefield 9-3

 

Off-Day Blues (and Babbling)

So much to talk about and only one day off, is it possible? Is it even plausible? should I even try..I don't know man. This rhetoric brings to mind a story if you'd bear with me for a paragraph or so.. I was attending a place of higher learning in yet another attempt of completing a degree'd program though delayed as usual and during Speech class. (Public Speaking) it was dictated us to produce a 5 min. oration on any subject to our liking. Fair enough right? Well I was keen on being cute so I took place behind the podium, confident and feeling quite steeped in wit and promptly began a 5 or so minute monologue on why I refused to give a foolish 5 minute speech on something so mundane as a speech! Not everyone within earshot of my uttering was as impressed as me especially the Instructor..she yielded me an "F" I inquired of her as to WHY when I was so refreshingly intelligent, so witty, keen etc... " You received a failing grade, Mr. Ward, for Refusing an assignment! but, I did..I.. What was the Title of your Speech? Um, "I Refuse to Take Part in this Assignment" Just as I said Mr. Ward, an F".. True story.

Lets Talk Red Sox Baseball; Dustin Pedroia got a couple of days R&R, as did Big Papi, and several others. It's a long season for sure and a day to rest during the Summer is certain to pay off later on, lets say in late October and beyond!!!  Not only is the schedule tougher during this time of year but the weather is a whole lot hotter which wrests from most a great deal of energy. I remember Carl Yastrzemski once telling us during a clinic way back when, that he and several others would go to a much lighter bat as the Summer wore on because they would tire so. Is this still a viable practise, I wonder?  I once saw Al Kaline at the plate during an afternoon game somewhere back in the mid-sixties and when he stood waiting for the pitch he looked like a statue but with super-human strength; his fore-arms and uppers were so muscular I was amazed for many years to come.. Man!  In about 1968 we moved to Sanford Florida (then) home of the Washington Senators spring training facility. I think they either moved the next year or disbanded but they didn't stick around. I was really bummed out, I thought I had moved to a Baseball mecca but was left instead with very little..believe me..little indeed in it's wake.

The All-Star Ballot: Every year brings me a new, more powerful disdain in the way MLB selects it's most prized possessions for display and play. Any individual who follows the game readily concurs that a popularity pageant featuring the result of ballot box stuffing is the order de jour year in year out. An alternative? Of course I or any other simpleton around could offer a plan in which those whom have EARNED the honor shall therein be celebrated however MLB, its writers, Managers or otherwise those following and without prejudice possess the power of selection. Perhaps convicted transgressors, those whom just might have suffered sufficient suspension time and, or time away from the game due to injury etc. might not be eligible the season of their absence if their absence has taken away that players playing time thus not allowing said player to participate enough to gain eligibility. Or something...

Brett Farve anyone? What a broken record eh? Has this cat a life or perhaps his EGO is so consuming that it haunts him like a screaming demon. An embarrassment to himself, his craft and his legacy which by the way is sadly being eaten-up by the ebb-tide of a misspent RETIREMENT!! 

The "Knuckle-heads" The moniker assigned to Laker fans by the L.A. Police Chief after the rioting whose incite was the NBA Championship. The Laker corp. has pledged a cool million towards the clean-up.

Red Sox Tuesday: Fenway: (against) Florida's Marlins

Boston Denied it's Second Sweep

If one was to scroll down to the article directly below the one you are in the process of reading now you would see that I PREDICTED today's game to be a pitchers duel and guess what????  One might also see just how well I suffice in the impious practice of prognostication. Well, I can save you the trouble of scrolling anywhere and admit I am not capable of predicting the color of the sky while peering into it. Josh Beckett seemed more comfortable at the plate than standing 60 ft-6 inches away and wandering around it's corners pitch by pitch as he slammed a home-run, (his second at Citizens Park) but was rocked for 7 runs (6 earned) and 11 hits. Yea, Josh took the loss and in the process brought us back down to earth.

The game itself was one of excitement and comebacks until the die-hard Phillies took control and put the game out of reach by the exact score the Red Sox won the night previous. Would it not be a Blast for these two teams to meet in the finals for the World Series Title?

I'm, once again, in the process of reading "Walden" by Henry David Thoreau as I do with regularity because it seems every time I frequent it's woodsy pages and wanderings I find, somehow, an adventure I missed previous.  At one point I stopped reading and allowed my mind the opportunity, side-by-side, to saunter along with him imagining the moment and subject matter. As you know he is a Massachusetts native and although I believe his intellect quite superior to most he too would be an ardent member of the original "Nation". What an honor to sit between he and say, Emmerson, while the home-team rallied yet again for a win. What a grand time for all. Of course everything from Boston to Philadelphia was infantile and baseball not to mention the Red Sox ,was not at'all yet paid in dreams. Just a thought...

  Inter-league Play 2009

The Bosox travel home now for a series against the Florida Marlins beginning tomorrow night. Tim (Knuckles) Wakefield goes for his club leading 9th win on the season. Here's to the "Dancing Ball"

Did I Hear Someone say Character?

The following story is an actual event taken from the national sports forum for the strict purpose of making sense out of something completely nonsensical.

Friday night during an inter-league contest between two eastern teams the game ended rather abruptly on a rudimentary mistake by a otherwise solid second baseman. As odd as the error was it was simply that, an error, and one to be forgotten quickly and dismissed to other world theorem or merely aberrations atoil. No questions asked, file it and forget it, Period! But no, in an apparent frail attempt to gain some form of petty inspiration I actually heard the word CHARACATER inserted post pop-up, for the way this Ninny hung in there" Keep in mind that immediately following the weakly popped-up pop-up occurred Mr Character slammed his bat sufficiently breaking it, cursed, and snarled as he jogged toward first base. What Character indeed! Man whom ever uttered that sentiment needs to find another line of work in place of doling out grammatics plate-side. The only portion I regret is my failure to find the one responsible as it was late and I had been nursing my gaping wounds left seething upon the Detroit Red Wings shameful Stanley Cup Finals loss.. I was flipping channels while staring somewhere amid the digitalizing of signals anew.  As a matter of fact it was I whom exhibited extraordinary Character post defeat of my beloved Red Wings.. I could have wept like a baby lamb-chop ya know?

Red Sox v Phillies: Game # 2: Relax, my friends.. it'll come later...

Dustin Pedroia on his unbelievable 0 for 7 night at the plate showed nothing but the 3-C's expected of him.. Cool-Calm-Collect. Perhaps a solid 3-3 or so will be the answer eh?  While on the subject of young talent, Boston has in it's farm system such a solid collection of talent that for seasons yet to be they should possess sufficient depth to, dare I say, make that painful 86 year World Series Championship drought so distant a memory as perhaps it nothing more than a myth, along the lines of Greek and Roman Ideology in which Gods, Goddess, Hero and Hermes alike have been since questioned as to their actual existence and we ALL are aware of the physical stature they have kept, are we not? Nevertheless this is a topic for another article, I mean who, of all whom experienced it, could forget the agony we shared in that century old losing streak..Just inquire of any Cubs fan today. (In which I am wed to one) it is agony in the first degree and exponentially distressing upon each season failed thereto.

As promised..a report from Citizens Bank Park in Philly;  Jason Bay banged his 17th of the season anchoring a 5 run first. Unfortunately after a 90 minute time-out for rain the home-townees have rallied back and it stands now as a 5-4 contest in the bottom half of the 4th. Boston never let up and went on to a 11-6 win with some very impressive contributions off the heated sticks of Julio (down by the school-yard) Lugo and Jacoby Jets Ellsbury. Jets, by the way, deposited his 2nd of the season out of reach for a home-run in the 9th inning. Lugo is doing his utmost to become the Sox full time SS as he went 4-5 on the night. Dustin Pedroia's offense continues to fail him despite a nonchalance impressively displayed as he managed just a single hit in 6 attempts making him a paltry and uncharacteristic 1 for 16 of late. A team win, however, has a strange way of relieving tension on a personal level. The Sox and Phillies close out their 3 game affair today as Josh Beckett gets the nod and an opportunity to extend the wins from 7 to 8  on his resume. The Phillies will answer with J.A. Happ as he attempts to keep his won/loss record untarnished as he stands now at 4-0 with an ERA of 2.98; Sounds like a pitchers duel today.

   The season ended out of sync which caught many of us by surprise but after the angry swells turn, and the waters clear I want to commend you for yet another fabulous year of Hockey. Rest-Up Red Wings see you in a few short months.

A Week to Remember

Yes, a bit tardy with this article I am indeed however with a darn good reason I feel as I was lain out neath the luscious warmth and relaxed in the ambient glow of 3 splendid victories over our arch-rival N.Y. Yankees. Ah three in succession, three consecutive- 3 unanswered wins!!! What a week..what, OK..lets move on.. I was browsing my favorite of retail shops, Borders Books, and came upon several that snatched my visuals, peaked interest and soon found themselves tucked neatly away in my crook'd arm. As I usually do I wandered over to see what if any new arrivals came to the shelves of the Sporting World. To my surprise, No. Now that is not to say there aren't several recent arrivals, but ones I shall never marry mine eyes upon such as those squeezed from the grainy fingers of Canseco, Bonds or any other so fool hardy and absorbed! "Vindicated"? Despite the unavoidable reminders shelved and gathering webs and weaving it was a day made for books much like a week made for Red Sox and Yankees...

The Red Sox continue inter-league play tonight and over the week-end against the defending World Champions Philadelphia Phillies. Jon Lester will take the mound at Citizens Bank Park against Joe Blanton. I consider the Phillies to be the National League's Boston Red Sox because they both seem to mirror one another in many different and offsetting aspects of their play. Both offer up a never say die attitude and teamwork that is more an innate bloodline than anything merely coached or expected from a group of ball-players wearing the same colors on their uniform.

I am nevertheless amazed and continue to be so every time I think about the way in which the Yankees lost and allowed themselves to lose. Pride is a factor that one needs when all other motivation has remained pallid and nonexistent. It also is the very soul of every great champion and the one driving force never questioned or lacking. I saw very little of it reflected in the hazy dark eyes of the Yanks during the series. When the Red Sox rallied at any point of the 3 game series I was pretty well assured their foes would fold rather quickly, and son of a gun if they didn't!

Big Papi seems to be on-course to recapture some of his offensive magic, a feat many thought was an impossible task only a few weeks ago.

The Red Sox and Yankees are 55 days apart from their next date somewhere in August, the Nation will be able to enjoy this 8 game streak at least until then.

Have a great week-end Nation, be safe, be happy, gather together this evening for game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final and cheer the Detroit Red Wings on to VICTORY!!!!

Live tonight from "THE JOE ...8:00est. Bring it back home again Detroit...

What a Sweet Ride...

Does it have to end?

In 1912 the Boston Red Sox rode rough-shod over their, then, new-born rivals the New York Highlanders fourteen consecutive times:

We are not likely to revisit that streak again but we'll certainly take what we can. The Red Sox winning streak over their bitter, but strangely quiet, rivals has reached 7 with the opportunity tonight to extend it still more. What surprises me most is the means in which the New York Yankee accept defeat these days, this is not simply another loss, none of the past 7 qualify as "just another loss" the repetitive nature of losing to a rival so utterly disdained from one game to the next can only be understood if qualified mathematically, perhaps in the powers of ten or 1 (loss) = 1 x 10; [1 to the 10th power] From a game 1 to game 7 consecutive losing streak would therefore equal 1 x 10 x 7 or an intrinsic value of, well, somewhere north of 282 million times that in which an ordinary losing streak would equal: If that proud and over-paid collection of New York Ninnies (minus Jeter, whom I consider a class act indeed) are capable of sitting back and accepting this mathematical maiming without an apparent means to anger and revenge then they are even less a credit to manhood than to professional ballplayers.

Ti's indeed early yet, however if, lets say Team A has whipped (soundly-re-soundly-completely-embarrassingly) Team B  282 times....We'll see what next (if anything) changes.

To the host and his self-centered simpleton of the other ESPN network whom have the penchant to cast reckless dispersions to everyone not in their elite class or status supreme I must reply to the nature of your coarse and rather caustic remarks concerning that rogue remark charging Ibanez with the use of performance enhancers. He is alone in his attack on Raul and apparently seeking some form of self notice or discovery. He does not share support from me and of me I can only attest, therefore I do-not deserve to be cast in the same rancid fabric as he merely because I have a passion to write.  Also, I am not a tenant to my mother's basement. Nor am I a fan of you or your show.

The Red Sox - Yankee Finale tonight; 7:10 est. Penny v Sabathia

 

The Light From Days Gone By

 A Value of one:

Each morning, anew, emerges from the surviving remnants of the day before; the collective residue in a cauldron of which every morrow must find it's infancy to evolve through-out alas retaining the mere embryonic upon a final descent. Yet with all finalized, with everything possible, surrendered and spent amid the present task- sufficient are the remains to build again. How is this complex condition representative to things far less scrutinized as, say. baseball?

Imagine for a moment the effect of a Boston Red Sox - New York Yankees late summer's 3 game series would have if not for the cumulative effects of the games fore? Would a fever-pitch be attainable had not the embers of scatterings past been gathered, fanned and apportioned? Would the cries of battle from those battle ready not breached the rather placid sky-line between these of counterpart IF not set afire beforehand?

Such is the Value of One in it's elementary form for all aspects of evolution have infinite potential. A wave upon an transoceanic journey, a tiny piece of frozen water-vapor as it begins a transition into hail, or perhaps a bitter rivalry a day later..

Game II

On the heels of a productive Game 1 in which Josh Beckett shone as brightly a possible in a 7-0 victory; Boston sends (7-3) Knuckles Wakefield against (0-3) Chien Wang for the Yankees. Keep in mind we must take every game at face value and forget about the 6 game winning streak intact. Each game begins a chapter new, each game begins at 0-0 much like the light to each and every day. While lingering though one must remember the blessings of those bits and pieces of yesterday's now gone, wrested from our eyes, we are left the memories, the very soul of that light to forever enrich the vision we keep.

(In quiet dedication to Mike)

Stars Begin Their Ascent ?

In a sport where the fan-base far exceeds that of most others (collectively) the annual drama of restocking the talent pools is set to begin yet with-out the hoopla and hoorays inherent to its sporting counterparts. MLB's entry draft gets under-way this evening at 5:00 est, from it's New York studios in an attempt to establish this long-time silent saunter amid young men unknown into an earth-shaking event dedicated toward future stars and stardom. This is something that should have followed the ballyhoo of it's sports brethren decades ago if for no other reason than the marketability therein but was allowed to meander quietly and relatively obscure. It is no surprise those stars of tomorrow, yesterday, rose unheralded and unknown from cities, towns or countries suddenly excited yet with minimal support.

Major League Baseball is still it appears in it's infancy pertaining to this Draft thing because we have been deluged with information about a certain pitcher from San Diego State Aztecs who is expected to be selected number ONE by the team holding the first draft position, Washington Nationals however after that ? This is where their inexperience has shown, the average baseball fan has not an idea who drafts next, whom is the next expected player to reach for skies higher and brighter or what position their own home team drafts from. Inquire the same of an average NFL-er, National Basketball Association, even NHL entry draft and they'd have all that and more information just drooling from their tongue. We all know of Stephen Strasburg to the point of knowing he is a PH instead of a V (Stephen), he may even make the jump to the Majors with-out a minor league cup of tea.

 Strasburg peers from the dug-out just waiting...

There are ballplayers all across America and the world waiting, hoping and praying for their name to be called from that sacred stage in New York most will never hear, most will continue to play in adult leagues as they attempt in vain to hold onto their dreams or fantasies refusing to give up until suddenly they are raising a beer alongside a collection of big bellied and broken men alike.

In any case the MLB draft is underway this evening so tune in, if you'd like to get up to date on draft day names and numbers just "Bing or Google " Major League Baseball the rest will unfold before you just like the stack of cash before Mr. Strasburg in a scant few hours hence.

If you'd rather, or if you seek an electrifying alternative you can stick your little finger into any available electrical out-let or tune into NBC this night at 8:00 est. for game 6 of the chase for Lord Stanley's Silver Chalice. The Detroit Red Wings go for the clincher and Pittsburgh hopes to delay it another game... Ti's a game for the ages indeed; Go Red Wings!!

Oh and by the way our Boston Red Sox host the Damn Yankees those who have the power can enjoy the ride. Upon watching a Trader Johnny Damon interview- it's a good thing he can play ball cause he is really lacking....elsewhere. The Red Sox are going for their 6th in a row over the Yanks..Is it possible ? We'll soon see.

At The Bell-Round Three... N.Y. vs Boston

 

 

June Baseball.. There are times, places and people we shall remember to what though is their infamy? Every-time, to this day, when someone speaks of a Boston Red Sox - New York Yankee game minds everywhere conjure memories of past wars and future battles, of heart breaking defeat and life altering victories. The psychology of this competition transcends all elemental reasoning; it has made mockery of common sense and ridiculed intelligence to where methodical thinking and moronic have become bed-fellows strange, indeed.

The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox have staged battles unlike any other teams in professional sports. History is the only barometer to which I need rely: 1952-Boston's rugged Jimmy Piersall and a diminutive Yankee second baseman named Billy Martin go at it in the tunnel before the game.. August 1 1973 Thurman Munson (N.Y. catcher) crashes into Boston's All-Star catcher  Carlton (Pudge) Fisk and a brawl erupts... May 20th 1976- Lou Pinella goes feet first and flying at catcher Pudge Fisk and gets an imprint of Carlton's fist and the ball for his trouble (another brawl) and suddenly Graig Nettles, Yanks 3rd baseman, and Bill Spaceman Lee stir it up again and the beat goes on...The violence didn't end there nor, quite possibly, ever will because of the longevity, proximity and especially the History shared between these two wonderful places. Hate is also a shared commodity but the type, hopefully, that remains between the foul poles of their respective stadiums. While managing the Yankees, Joe Torre, upon his cancer diagnosis received a standing ovation from the Fenway Park crowd as well as the Red Sox players. Torre turned and tipped his cap in appreciation.

When such deep seeded disdain has been tempered by time and the myriad of emotional turmoil as with these two bitter rivals a certain respect is born. Muhammad Ali - Joe Frazier, Boston Bruins - Montreal Canadians and of course the aforementioned. However what lurks beneath the surface is fodder for, perhaps, another time right now there is a series to be won and at any and all cost. So lets get nasty Sox and remind them; This is our house!

Game 1 Tuesday @ 7:10 Red Sox Josh Beckett vs Yankee A.J. Burnett.... Lets Rock!

 Josh is 6 - 2 with an ERA of 4.09

 Lets ignite those embers...

 Bring it on !!!

Lester Nears Perfection

 Little by little and with the constant urging from one of MLB best at his position, catcher and captain Jason Varitek, Jonathon Lester came splendidly near a "Perfect Game". The season began as a perpetual struggle for Lester and he was down on himself early but Varitek pulled him aside to remind his pitcher and friend to take it slow and take strides small and steady and soon HIS game will return. Tek" went public several weeks back to remind the media and The Nation" that Jonathon Lester needs just one solid start and everything else would follow...Guess what?It has and last night was merely a peek inside what was yet to be.

Not to recount as I'm quite certain this Story has been labored and belabored again however I must take the several moments ascribed infinite and time worthy to bleed from me upon the pages afore. Into the 7th inning Jonathon journeyed while knowing the weight he was carrying. The first out was made next-up Micheal Young and suddenly a solid line drive into left center for a double.. OK Jon breathe and go on..Ironically it was Young who earned both Texas' hits. And their only run a 9th inning sacrifice fly to center. Jonathon Lester pitched a rare complete game allowing but 2 hits and a run. Striking out 11 and walking 2.

David "Big Papi" Ortiz found a tad of redemption at the plate going 2-3 with a line drive home-run and a single. Coach Francona pushed Papa out of the dug-out and into the hearts of the 38-k standing, screaming and over-all relieved fans at Fenway Park. The Nation as a whole are just waiting to explode collectively when, yes when David finds his stroke once more.

  A picture is worth a million words indeed as we see David Ortiz and Jonathon Lester embrace upon the completion of a near perfect outing for Lester and a productive performance by Big Papi". The shared essence of team unity is unparalleled here the Red Sox organization..

 

Fenway's Open Arms

     

 Brad Penny gave up 4 runs in the 4th and 1 in the 5th; David Ortiz singled in the lone Boston run as Kevin Millwood pitched  an effective 7 inning stint and all ended strangely inept for the home team. Jacoby Ellsbury, Jason Bay and Jason Varitek all doubled but not when needed most as they stranded 13 runners to the Rangers 3.

A local writer has reported that Red Sox executives and management agents for "The Anti-Manny" Jason Bay have been trying to get some parameters of a new contract somewhat in-place as the year moves on. J-Bay has been a fan and team favorite since first pulling on a Sox jersey late last season. A couple of his team-mates have begun a nick-name campaign for Bay calling him "Every-Day Bay"  It's obvious this Cat gives his all every day no-matter what... Yea, The Anti-Manny" indeed. What a class act and genuine human being is he..The Sox are aware of his importance to the team as well as the organization and community! Is this the personality, though, that The Nation" wants to see as their representative to an infamous Left Field that has been graced with the likes of Ted Williams>Carl Yastremski>Jim Rice and such superbly resonating relics of remembrance? With-out a second thought YES INDEED! Jason Bay is the atypical 21st century sports icon in the way he deflects even the slightest of personal praise, team-ward. He takes his place daily upon the field of play giving his heart and soul to every moment of every game without excuse or the self-centeredness that ear-marks modern stardom. What-else could an organization yearn for? How about a 5 Year Deal with a 3 year option? (Minimum)

Looking around MLB I see some things very impressive, very entertaining and more than one thing extremely irksome.

Impressive: Those organizations that seem to shimmer with professionalism, whose players everyone would love to possess because of the class they exude. Minnesota Twins come to mind, Texas Rangers, Philadelphia Phillies, and leading the way our Boston Red Sox. The players indeed are the blood-lines but the Organization, President, G.M. and so on down the line, the heart and the Coach(es) the ones whose reflection are mirrored by each and every player fielded.

Entertainment: The Rivalries - Usually time and repetition are the key ingredients but every so often the essence of enemies are paralleled by happenstance. The Red Sox and Tampa Bay Rays come to mind. Entertainment is inherent to the game itself and will forever be the truest of marketable seeds but every so often a flame explodes from within the burning to incite something extraordinary perhaps a clutch hit, walk-off home-run or a calculated" hit by a pitch".  The Game is tremendous and all ours. (America's Past-time) don't lose it America!

Extremely Irksome: Steroids and Cheaters - Alex Rodriguez is once again a hero to many.. A self-proclaimed (After being caught in a lie) Juicer an abuser, an out and out CHEATER has regained stardom especially in New York (no-comment) This reflects the nature of man.. A Winning at any cost mentality? I'd rather lose.. Roger Clemons, Sosa, BONDS ! enough said.. Blood pressure is more important than those transgressors...

A few bits of Saturday bacon to chew on.. One thing further? Has anyone seen that TV show "Beat Charlie More"? What a kook that cat is.. and a riot for sure.. The ultimate antidote after a Friday night Red Sox loss. Check him out; 6:30 am Saturday morning ESPN-2 .. Entertainment at a different level.

We Need A Win Detroit Red Wings..Big Time!!!

A Nicer Ride Home for Sure

Boston-6 Detroit-3

Final Score:

The Boston Red Sox brought their brooms with them and believe it or not they USED them upon securing their 3rd in a row victory this afternoon against the Tigers of Detroit. Tim Knuckles Wakefield picked up win Number 7 on the season against 3 losses. Collectively the Red Sox pushed across 21 runs and yielded a stingy 9. What has become a rather common theme this year is counting on Jason Bay's clutch bat and timely hitting to assure a rally or a victory and once again that reality took place as he doubled in the 6th bringing home a couple of the 6 scored in the inning.

Good Job Sox salvaging the road trip....

Tonight the Sox welcome in the Rangers for 3 games over the week-end pitting, tonight, 5-1 Brad Penny against 4-4 Kevin Millwood for a 7:05 start. The Nation MUST not look past the Texas Rangers toward next week's feature match-up against those red hot and much deplored N.Y. Yankees. The Sox thus far have held the rival without a win in head to head competition, Will this unusual streak continue???? we'll know soon enough...

Have a great week-end Nation, be civil to everyone you meet, life is far too short and too complicated to do otherwise.

Beckett Comes No- No Nigh..

 Josh Beckett worked into the 7th inning chasing a no-hitter, cool, calm and collected until Curtis Granderson whom Beckett had owned his previous 8 AB (striking out 7 times)-no-contest! Well, of course its going to work this way right? Granderson jumped on the pitch and drove it sharply past Dustin Pedroia for a single and an end to Josh's bid. Still Beckett was tough as nails and the Boston offense did their thing as well so the all around product, upon its completion,was splendid. Allow me to clarify - The Josh Beckett innings were splendid when he took his departure with two outs in the 7th. Then in the 8th well, an unwinding occurred defensively. 

J.D. Drew lined a 2 run shot in the first for a quick lead and the sox never looked back rallying for runs in the fifth (2) and the eighth (6)  before a few errors allowed the Tigers to reap where they had not sown. In the bottom of the 8th Youkilis was spiked squarely on the Achilles and he angrily left the field. I've got to add that Youk's spike-job looked a great deal as if it were intentional because he (Youkilis) occupied nothing more than a 1 x 1 inch area on the field-side of first leaving the other 99% of the bag for the runner. I would be surprised if this issue is left to die... In other on-field news, Papi drove a ball to dead center @ the 420 ft mark for an out and then drove a bases jammed 2 bagger to bring em all home. He hit solid, Papi did, just as Lionel Ritchie said " ALL Night Long"  yea.

Errors??? Shortstop is a problem 2 more tonight and 1 for Mike Lowell (unusual indeed):  The final score of 10-5 reflects a win for the owner of 10 and a loss subsequently to those assigned the "5".  I really despise further dequantification however how else would one be aware of the problem the Red Sox are ladened with at such an important fielding position? Indeed, our Crimson Stocking Studs are in dire need of a Short-Stop equipped diametrically. Nick Green is capable but not full time and his glove is weak, Julio (down by the school-yard) Lugo has never reached the potential or promise since acquired. Jed Lowrie is on his way back but???? Theo and the boys will figure it out and whatever move they deem desirable is the one the Nation" will support.

The Red Sox close out their 3 game date today at 1:05; Knuckles Wakefield goes for his 7th victory against 3 losses and Dontrell Willis attempts to even his record at 2. I would like to wish once again strength and fortitude, patience and power to David (Big-Papi) Ortiz as he seeks to further right his ship.

To Jerry Remy I would like to send continued and sincere prayers for your healing. We miss ya Rem-Dog !!!!!

A Winning Night All Around

 Boston 30-22 / Detroit 28-22

Daisuke Matsuzaka Pitched well enough for his first win of the season and now stands at 1-3. This of course is great news for the organization because with-out his 15 or so victories the Red Sox have little hope of moving into the post season. The bullpen did another tremendous job in passing the ball to Delcarmen, Okajima and Ramirez then watched as they sent each of the 9 batters faced back to the dug-out. Papelbon came in for the ninth and strangely yielded 3 hits and 3 K's. 

Jason Bay cracked number 16 on the year:  Dustin Pedroia and Jason Varitek each doubled leading the 9 hit Boston attack. \

Congratulations to Terry Francona for his 500th win as a Red Sox Manager, only Joe Cronin at 1,071 and Mad Mike Higgins at 560 have exceeded him. I'm quite confident that he'll maintain the number 2 position when all is said and done but to catch old Joe Cronin is just too much to ask..

Yankee Manager McCarthy/Sox Cronin

Tonight's contest another 7:10 affair features Josh Beckett (5-2; 4.60) at Detroit's Armando Galarraga  (3-5; 5.50) Beckett has pitched pretty well this year and has matured with the experience he's gained. The Detroit Tigers are hoping for the same from Galarraga as he has shown signs of coming of age over the past couple starts..

In Quiet Protest...

Would someone of stable and unencumbered mind please explain to me - How a 3 or 4 referee system could not notice a Glaring "Too Many Men On The Ice" infraction? I am not speaking of a mere 1, 2, 3 second mix up but one that went on for 22.2 seconds!!!! The Penguins were set up in the Red Wing zone and those stripped duffesses were BLIND to it, either selective or other-wise. Then, Oh man, then they whistled a Wing player for Interference when all the players did were to come together, no hold, no reaching, clutching or grabbing, they came together>>>> I thought this back-room officiating was a thing of the past?? Guess again! To be quite honest and ,as always, forthright There is precious little that would surprise me coming from commissioner Gary Bettman. The NHL had better institute a change now or suffer with absolutely NO PRODUCT to market.