Thursday Links

Has Lester finally turned it around?

Another game, another shoddy start and subsequent loss for the Red Sox; this time it was Clay Buchholz spoiling Boston’s chances to end a 5 game losing skid. The slender right-hander was hit hard by the Toronto Blue Jays on Wednesday night, allowing 5 runs on 9 hits and 2 walks over 4.2 innings. Like last night, Edwin Encarnacion haunted the Red Sox, as the infielder drilled two home runs as part of a 6 run Toronto attack. After losing by 5 runs for most of the game, the Red Sox offense managed to put some runs on the board thanks to a 3-4 night from Xander Bogaerts, an RBI double by Mike Carp, and Shane Victorino’s first home run of the season. Boston even managed to bring the tying run to the plate in the bottom of the ninth, but Blue Jays closer Casey Janssen shut the door and secured a 6-4 Toronto win.

• The Red Sox placed starting pitcher Felix Doubront on the 15-day disabled list on Wednesday with a shoulder strain. The southpaw left the game in the 5th inning on Tuesday night, and later said that he lost feeling in his arm while on the mound. Considering those comments, a DL stint seemed pretty much imminent. (Red Sox put Felix Doubront on DL)

• In the wake of resigning Stephen Drew, the Red Sox front office and coaching staff insists that Xander Bogaerts is the teams long term solution at shortstop. However, when observing Boston’s organizational depth, and considering Bogaerts fielding abilities, third base might actually be the best spot for the 22 year old. (Xander Bogaerts’ switch to third base best for present and future)

• It’s going to take more than having no control and no confidence to take Clay Buchholz out of the rotation, if John Farrell has anything to say about it. Despite the right-handers struggles this season the Red Sox aren’t planning on removing Buchholz from his starting spot, and instead intended to reign in his command. (John Farrell: “There’s no plan to remove Clay Buchholz from the rotation)

• The signing of Stephen Drew effects more than just Xander Bogaerts and Will Middlebrooks, AAA prospect Garin Cechhini has also felt the impact of shortstop’s return. For the time being, all three young infielders will need to coexist with each other, whether that be in the majors leagues or minors. (The Ripple Effects of the Stephen Drew deal)

• After Shane Victorino ditched switch-hitting during the second half of the season last year, he hit so well it seemed like he’d never hit left handed again. But now with the Red Sox line-up continuing to struggle against right handed pitching, Victorino may reprise his old offensive role. (Shane Victorino moved down in Red Sox’s lineup, may return to switch-hitting)

• Tweet of the day: A.J. Pierzynski as the classic “Oh my God, I got a hit!” reaction down just fine.