Thursday Links

Photo by Kelly O’Connor of sittingstill.net

The Red Sox finally climbed back to the .500 mark after defeating the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday night. Jake Peavy toed the slab for Boston and tossed an effective 6 innings, allowing 3 runs on 4 hits. However, Reds starter Mike Leake held the Red Sox offense in check allowing just 2 runs over 7 innings of work. After Leake left, Cincinnati lost their handle on a 3-2 lead as the Red Sox rallied against the Reds bullpen. A.J. Pierzynski knotted the game at 3 on a ground ruled double, and Will Middlebrooks rifled a run scoring single into right field to give the Red Sox the lead. Koji Uehara retired the side in typical Koji fashion, and the Red Sox earned the 4-3 victory.

• When Grady Sizemore was hitting everything during spring training, everyone in Red Sox Nation couldn’t wait to see what he would contribute to the 2014 defending champs. However, after struggling in the every day role, Sizemore’s demotion to platoon player hasn’t hindered his confidence or performance, it’s actually helped it. (For Grady Sizemore, a walk-off reminder of what could have been and what could be)

• Two months into Xander Bogaerts’ first professional season, the 21 year old has held his own at the plate; reaching base at a .379 clip. However, when batting with runners in scoring position Bogaerts has encountered some difficulties. But Bogaerts’ struggles are similar to the struggles felt by most MLB rookies– improved pitching, bad luck, and an expanding zone. (Making sense of Xander Bogaerts’ struggles with men on base)

• With Edward Mujica ailing and Junichi Tazawa struggling to find consistency, Andrew Miller has stepped up as a key hurler in the Red Sox bullpen. The left hander currently boasts a sub-2 ERA and has tossed 3 straight hitless outings. (Andrew Miller emerging as reliable late-inning arm)

• Before his big hit on Wednesday night, Will Middlebrooks was in the midst of a 3-21 slump, with 8 strike outs. However, the 25 year olds’ misfortune at the plate didn’t reflect the refined approach that he implemented this season. Statistically, Middlebrooks has displayed more patience and has made better contact. (Will Middlebrooks’ improved plate discipline good sign for Boston Red Sox)

• Arguably the most significant loss the Red Sox have felt so far this season is that of Jacoby Ellsbury. Not only did the lead off spot suffer, so to did the Red Sox aggressiveness on the base paths. Now, Boston is forced to seek speed elsewhere in the line up. (Farrell hoping Sox can regain running threat)

• Tweet of the day: The Red Sox are set to face Yu Darvish on Friday…