Just a few thoughts as I mull over last night’s loss to the Yankees.
- John Lackey‘s beaning of Francisco Cervelli in the seventh inning of last night’s game was bushleague. I understand he may’ve felt disrespected by Cervelli’s clap, but a clap isn’t a great reason for hitting him in the back with a pitch. It’s not like he danced around the bases, while pointing and taunting Lackey. Also, we’re talking about Francisco freaking Cervelli who was probably just expressing his excitement over doing something productive. Considering the rarity of such an occurence, I would have hoped Lackey would give him a free pass. Apparently not so much.
- Speaking of Lackey’s penchant for hitting batters… He’s now hit 17 batters this season in 136-1/3 innings this season, which is tops among all MLB pitchers. For you non-math majors out there, that’s 1.12 HBP/9. Add that number to his 2.97 BB/9 rate, and you can start to understand why Lackey’s struggled a bit this season. He’s allowing more than four base runners per nine innings get on base via a free pass. For the sake of comparison, Tim Hudson, Fausto Carmona, and Dillon Gee are all tied for second with 12 HBPs.
- According to recent reports, Clay Buchholz played catch yesterday for the first time in over two months. He seemed to respond well to the activity, and will continue his every other day regime; stretching out distance as he goes along. Buchholz has been on the 60-day DL since 6/19 (retroactive to 6/17). Even if he returned by mid-September, it’s doubtful he could be stretched out enough to be counted on to start any playoff games. That said, he could be used be out of the bullpen. This could certainly benefit the Red Sox; especially in light of their recent problems setting up the bridge to Daniel Bard and Jonathan Papelbon.
- Kevin Youkilis and J.D. Drew have started their rehab assignments with both playing for AAA Pawtucket. In an 8-6 win over the Rochester Red Wings (Twins), Youkilis went 1-for-4 with a walk, and Drew went 3-for-3 (all singles). Both could be activated from the disabled list as early as Friday. Luckily, with the rosters expanding to 40 players tomorrow, no corresponding roster moves will need to be made.
- Alex Speier of WEEI reports that outfield prospect Ryan Kalish will undergo season ending surgery on a bulging disk in his neck on Thursday. He should be ready for action when Spring Training starts in mid-February.
Lastly, we’ll be doing a live game chat tonight at 7:00 p.m. with our friends from It’s About the Money Stupid. We hope you’ll join us as they’re usually pretty fun. Just ask our regulars, they’ll tell ya!