Now that Jacoby Ellsbury is back in the lineup and healthy, he appears ready to burn up the base paths. Two seasons ago Ellsbury set the team stolen base record by swiping 70 bags. On the surface, the number seems like it would be difficult to repeat.
But how about 60? In 2009, Ellsbury stole 50 before his monstrous 2010 campaign. So let’s split the difference — 60 stolen bases in 2011. Can he do that?
In this week’s FireBrand of the American League reader’s poll (vote to the right of your screen), we ask that question:
Will Jacoby Ellsbury steal more than 60 bases in 2011?
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In last week’s poll, we asked if Tim Wakefied should be on the 25-man roster in 2011 and it was a very positive response in favor of #49. 65% of the voters said YES, clearly recognizing the value that the knuckleballer provides to the team.
Here are the results:
* Yes. He provides flexibility and can be good in stretches. (65%)
* No. His time has passed. (35%)
I would definitely agree given the flexibility, familiarity and favorable contract that is associated with Wake. I think longtime FireBrand reader ‘Gerry’ summed it up nicely n the comments section:
“Contrary to GQ, Red Sox fans are neither mfy fans nor robots and we honor our heroes, especially the longest tenured player on the team. Tito has too many options to NOT start with Wake. It’s inconceivable that he or we would want otherwise. If, after time, Wake can’t pitch anymore, let him go to the DL and retire in season with full honors and wearing Sox whites.” – Gerry
I think this may be the last hurrah for a handful of Sox, so let’s hope it ends well. Let us know what you think on Ellsbury!
