Are you feeling a little down after last night’s frustrating 7-5 loss to the hapless Orioles? Yeah, me too. I really thought they had the game in hand. Regardless of the outcome, it was absolutely the correct move for the Terry Francona to bring in Jonathan Papelbon in that situation. After cruising through the seventh, Daniel Bard got into a little trouble with one out in the eighth. Considering Bard’s recent struggles, Francona had no choice but to go this best pitcher in the most crucial of situations. While I’m sure some people are probably criticizing him from bringing in Papelbon prior to the ninth, I don’t really understand why. Holding him for a ninth inning save situation that may not exist does little good for the team. If my team is going to blow a lead in a crucial situation, I want our best reliever on the mound every single day of the week. I don’t care if it’s the sixth, seventh, eighth, or ninth inning.
Alright, let’s not dwell on last night’s game any more than we already have. Let’s move on to today’s links!
- Mark Normandin of Baseball Nation (and Over the Monster) wrote a pretty great piece on John Lackey that posted after I’d posted my Friday links. Rather than pass it up, I’m going to post it here anyway. It’s definitely worth a read.
- Despite his recent struggles, I have a huge non-sexual mancrush for Braves set-up man Jonny Venters. Then again, I love any pitcher that has a 27% K rate and a 72% GB rate. Peter Hjort of Capitol Avenue Club explains that contrary to popular belief, Venters’ work load is not historically unique.
- Brien at It’s About the Money Stupid explains the greatness of Mariano Rivera. While that probably goes without needing to be said, it’s much deserved. When we’re old and gray, we’re going to be talking about Rivera’s dominance when the game was on the line.
- Over at the ESPN Sweet Spot, David Schoenfield wonders if Carl Crawford can make amends for his frustrating season. It’s certainly possible. Look no further than J.D. Drew circa 2007 as someone who found redemption with a big hit in the playoffs.
- Al Doyle at Baseball Analysts examines what it would take to hit .400 in the 21st Century.
- Bill Baer at Crashburn Alley exposes the myth of Hunter Pence‘s protection.
Alright folks. Those are all the links that are fit to print…er…post online. I’ll be back with a fresh batch in the next few days.