Wednesday Links

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

Fresh off their first Fenway Park win of the season, the Red Sox and Rangers squared off in game 2 of the series on Tuesday night. For his second straight start, Red Sox hurler Felix Doubront was not sharp and lasted just 2.2 innings, allowing 5 runs. The Red Sox offense was held in check for most of the night, but a late inning rally shrunk the deficit. But unfortunately the gap proved insurmountable for Boston and they lost the game 10-7.

• A.J. Pierzynski’s free swinging plate approach is one that Red Sox fans have been slow to accept. Unlike most Red Sox hitters, Pierzynski is not afraid to expand his strike zone and try and turn balls into base hits. (Ex-coach Magadan says Pierzynski finds ways to win)

• Over the past couple games, Jackie Bradley has looked like the player the highly touted prospect he was built up to be. But while he’s coming off his second straight 2 hit game, his bat isn’t the reason he’s earned a starting spot. It’s his defense. (Jackie Bradley Jr must start)

• Craig Breslow didn’t pitch at all in spring training, and he’s yet to pitch during the regular season. However, that’s all about to change. After Tuesday’s game, the Red Sox sent Brandon Workman back to AAA and activate Breslow from the DL. (Craig Breslow to be activated Thursday for Boston Red Sox)

• Before moving to the bullpen last season for the Dodgers, Chris Capuano had spent his whole career as a starting pitcher. While he’s still learning the quirks of being a reliever, the left hander’s move to the pen has been flawless so far. (Capuano making smooth transition to bullpen)

• With the Texas Rangers in town this week, Mike Napoli got to catch up with some of his old teammates. Being the beard aficionado that he is, Napoli had some humorous comments to make about Elvis Andrus’s beard. (Mike Napoli says Elvis Andrus should shave off “embarrassing” beard)

• Koji Uehara is like a firework, once he’s lit, he’s going go off. So when John Farrell gets the veteran right-hander throwing in the bullpen, he’s coming in the game whether the situation calls for a closer or not. (Once Koji Uehara starts warming up, don’t expect him to sit down)

• Ryan Kalish’s return to the MLB has been an extraordinarily terrific story to watch. After being non-tendered by the Red Sox, signing a minor league deal with the Chicago Cubs, and breaking camp on Chicago’s roster, the 26 year old attributes his work ethic and drive to the story of retired Red Sox prospect Ryan Westmorland. (Ryan Westmorland has been inspiration in Ryan Kalish’s return to big leagues)

• Tweet of the day: Getting hits will do that, AJ…