Wednesday Links: Webster solid in Sox loss

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

At this point of the 2014 season, wins and losses don’t really even matter anymore for the Red Sox. Instead, each game Boston fans try and extract little nuggets of good to keep themselves optimistic about the team going forward. Tuesday night was no different for Red Sox nation. While the Boston fell to the Angels by a final of 4-3, there were a few silver linings that coated a tough 9th inning loss. Firstly, for the third straight start Allen Webster threw the ball extremely well, limiting Los Angeles to just 3 runs over 6 innings of work. The 24-year old also was able to throw strikes and hold the Angels to just two walks during his time on the mound. In his last 3 outings, Webster has held opponents to a .239 average and a .332 on-base percentage over 18.2 innings. Another positive take away for the Red Sox was David Ortiz’ bat remaining hot at the plate. Big Papi launched a first inning home run off Angels starter Jarred Weaver, and later collected a single and two walks. Amazingly, the 39-year old designated hitter hasn’t shown any signs of aging this season, as he leads the team in both home runs (29) and RBI’s (92). Dating back to August 7th, Ortiz is averaging an RBI a game, and holds a .324/.422/.649 slash.

• Red Sox manager John Farrell knew that managing a World Series winning team would be difficult, but not this difficult. Boston’s second year manager admits that the 2014 season has held its fair share of unwanted surprises, including one of the leagues worst offenses. However, Farrell feels optimistic about the future of his Red Sox squad. (Managing disappointment: John Farrell reflects on lessons learned from 2014)

• At the start of the 2014 season, it didn’t seem like Mookie Betts would be vying for an everyday roll with the Red Sox, but with the recent demotion of Jackie Bradley the 23 year old seems poised to cement himself in Boston’s order. Betts, an infielder by trade, will still need to to prove himself in Fenway Parks spacious centerfield, but he’s already made large strides in his development from the infield to the outfield. (Bradley’s demotion opens door for Mookie Betts)

• While the Red Sox lost on Tuesday night, Allen Webster enjoyed another encouraging outing. The 23 year old rookie held the Angels potent offense to 3 runs on 7 hits, in 6 innings of work. Tuesday’s start marks Webster’s third consecutive quality start in 5 total starts this season. (On the bright side, Webster looks promising)

• Free agent outfielder Rusney Castillo seems to be drawing closer to a final decision. After fielding final offers to start the week, the 27-year old Cuban defector appears to be winding down the finalists for his services. The Red Sox, Tigers, and Giants are reportedly the remaining 3 teams in on Castillo. (Rusney Castillo sweepstakes down to Red Sox, Tigers, Giants)

• While Yoenis Cespedes’ approach at the plate doesn’t exactly fit the Red Sox “grind it out” method, Boston is embracing the 29-year old’s free-swinging mentality. The Red Sox feel that the Cuban slugger is most productive when he’s not held back, and is free to maintain his aggressive approach. (Yoenis Cespedes can swing away: Red Sox won’t ask aggressive slugger to change)

• Tweet of the day: A word to the wise: