Fireside Chats #59: Where we write off the Rays, the hopes of the division, and Jonathan Papelbon’s long term future in Boston

The Red Sox got the two out of three wins in Tampa that we talked about last episode, and proceeded to meet doom in Chicago at the hands of "the Revenge of Kotsay". Net/net, the Rangers are still in the wild card hunt and aren't going anywhere. Paul and I break down the Red Sox castoffs and in season additions and give Theo and team a positive in season grade with this team built for the post-season (should they get there). All that just primes us for the big finish, where Paul nearly convinces me that trading Jonathan Papelbon in the offseason is the right thing for the franchise in a "Seymour-esque" way.

All that and more on Episode #59 of Fireside Chats on MVN!

Lowrie Activated

Injured shortstop Jed Lowrie was activated from the 15-day disabled list today, following a rehab stint in Pawtucket. Lowrie has struggled with his surgically repaired wrist this season, causing him to lose his feel for the lumber.

Lowrie was successful in his latest trip to Pawtucket, hitting three home runs in his first two games after beginning his assignment on August 23rd.

The shortstop has played in just 19 games this season for Boston, hitting .143/.206/.232 with one home run in 63 plate appearances. His AAA numbers are a mixed bag, as he showed good plate discipline (13 BBs versus 13 Ks) and good power, while batting just .176.

9/8: Buchholz meets his old friend/foe

Clay Buchholz tangles with the Baltimore Orioles, who he handcuffed two years ago for a no-hitter... and whom handcuffed him the last time the two dueled on Aug. 2 when Clay gave up seven runs over four innings.

Testing the Papelbon Trade Theory

The popular rumor growing in MLB trade circles has Red Sox closer Jon Papelbon being traded in the offseason with Billy Wagner assuming closer duties for 2010. With the claims gaining steam, it's time to look at the Sox' possible 2010 bullpen scenarios.

The 2009 Jon Papelbon

Jon Papelbon hasn't been the same JON PAPELBON he was from 2006-2008. It's somewhat surprising that the baseball community has been as down on Pap as they have been, as he still has a 1.81 ERA and is 34/37 in save opportunities this season.

However, there has been a palpable decline in his numbers and rate indicators this season. While his strikeout rate has been stable since last season, as too has his velocity for the most part, his rising walk rate has been at the root of his relative "struggles" this season...