Thursday Links

Photo by Kelly O’Connor of sittingstill.smugmug.com

Although the Red Sox lost Wednesday’s game against the Baltimore Orioles 5-4, there was a lot fans could be excited about. Grady Sizemore collected a hit and ran the bases like he never left the game, forcing throws and sliding without hesitation. While Xander Bogaerts and Will Middlebrooks hit back to back home runs.

• While all signs point to Grady Sizemore patrolling center field on Opening Day, Jackie Bradley still has a leg up on his outfield competition. Manager John Farrell considers the rookie center fielder a “very, very good defender”. (Bradley has edge on Sizemore defensively)

• Given each sides desire to reach an agreement a Jon Lester contact extension seems imminent, so what’s taking them so long to come to terms? (What holding up new deal between Red Sox and Lester?)

• Whether it’s on the field or off the field, David Ross considers himself an unabashed worrier. But recently, the veteran backstops worry has quickly been resolved with good fortune. (Things turn out alright for Ross)

• Despite having only played 8 games this spring, the last of which coming 3 days ago, Shane Victorino is still pegged as the Opening Day right fielder. (Shane Victorino will be ready on Opening Day)

• Former Red Sox outfielder Rocco Baldelli might be the only one who really understands how hard Grady Sizemore’s come back has been. Similar to Sizemore, Baldelli’s once promising career was laced with debilitating injuries that forced the outfielder to endure a tough comeback. (Rocco Baldelli understands ordeal Grady Sizemore faces in comeback)

• Thanks to Jonny Gomes, the Red Sox will arrive at the White House on April 1st in style. The quirky outfielder purchased American flag blazers for the entire 2013 team, and even got one for President Obama. (Jonny Gomes orders patriotic blazers for teammates)

• Tweet of the day: ‘MERICA!!