Wednesday Links

Blocked at first, Will Middlebrooks is now the starter.
Photo courtesy of Kelly O’Connor, sittingstill.net

Clay Buchholz ended his spring on a high note on Tuesday against the Tampa Bay Rays. The right hander tossed 6 innings and surrendered 2 runs on 3 hits, while striking out 5. Buchholz was backed up by the Red Sox offense that pushed across 4 runs, including a solo home run by Will Middlebrooks, and a 2 run shot by Grady Sizemore. Boston downed the Rays by a final of 4-2.

• Jackie Bradley entered spring training as the hands down favorite to be the Opening Day center fielder. But as he continues to remain inconsistent at the plate and Grady Sizemore continues to impress, the 23 year old knows that adjustments need to be made. (Jackie Bradley Jr on approach: “Not where I want to be right now”)

• While it will be a few years until David Ortiz appears on the Hall of Fame ballot, determining his candidacy is already a heavily discussed topic. It’s true that his connection to PED’s could hurt his chances, but the voting classes now and the voting class when Ortiz is eligible won’t be the same. (David Ortiz to the Hall of Fame? It may be easier than you think)

• Assuming he plays out his new contract, David Ortiz will be 41 when his deal expires. Historically players reaching their 40’s decline due to age, wear and tear, or injury, so what can we realistically expect from Ortiz over the next few seasons? (David Ortiz extension: Projecting the Red Sox DH’s new contract)

• With the outfield log jammed, the Red Sox may decide to make a trade in order to carry both Jackie Bradley and Grady Sizemore. If they do, Boston will be putting a lot of faith in Bryce Brentz as their emergency outfielder. (Is Bryce Brentz a viable option?)

• Last season, when Shane Victorino strolled to the plate and Bob Marley’s “Three little birds” blared over the PA system, fans knew just when to belt out “‘cuz every little thing’s gonna be alright!”. Now, the fan favorite introduction is being shortened, a Victorino doesn’t like it. (Shane Victorino new MLB rule: 15 seconds of intro music allowed)

• The Red Sox will spend their first off day of the 2014 season visiting the President. As the 2004 and 2007 Red Sox did, the 2013 World Series winners will be honored at the White House. (Obama invites Red Sox to White House on April)

• Tweet of the day: There’s your damn extra base hit.