Photo by Kelly O’Connor of sittingstill.smugmug.com
The 2014 season has been hard on the Red Sox to start with, but the 10-game losing streak was a low that not even the Bobby Valentine lead 2012 Red Sox reached. While the team is still below .500 and still in last place in the AL East, they were finally able to secure a win on Monday afternoon in Atlanta. Although, early on it seemed like the Red Sox were well on their way to their 11 straight loss, after Clay Buchholz allowed 6 runs on 4 hits and 8 walks over 3 innings. However, the Red Sox offense sprung to life an rallied to score 5 runs in the 5th inning powered by a 3 run blast by David Ortiz. With the score tied in the 7th, Ortiz put Boston in the lead with a sac fly, while A.J. Pierzynski later collected a broken bat RBI single. Koji Uehara (remember that guy?) didn’t lose a beat in the 9th as he secured the Red Sox first win since May, 14th.
- The Red Sox poor play this season has really put into perspective how the 2013 Red Sox were a complete team. Whether it was offense, pitching, or defense, the Red Sox always found a way to overcome adversity, something the 2014 product has yet to figure out. (New team, new problems: Why leaning on 2013 isn’t helping these Red Sox)
- While the Red Sox did snap their 10 game losing streak on Monday, Clay Buchholz didn’t help at all. The lanky right hander has struggled all season, but insisted that he is physically healthy. Buchholz instead blamed poor results on mechanics that he needed to adjust after sustaining two injuries last season. (Clay Buchholz still struggling)
- On Monday, Ben Cherington and Mike Hazen joined the Red Sox in Atlanta to address where the struggling defending champs stand. Cherington admitted the failure of the team so far, but praised the players for their hard work and preparation. At the same time, the General Manager hinted at the possibility of outside upgrades down the road. (Ben Cherington remaining patient, for the time being)
- The Red Sox need outfield help, and the LA Dodgers have a log-jammed outfield, so in theory a deal between the two clubs makes sense. However, LA’s most available outfielder, Andre Ethier, isn’t the player Boston should be targeting. Given the 32 year olds contract and declining numbers, Boston should set their sights elsewhere. (Andre Ethier trade pretty much the worst idea ever)
- Despite skyrocketing to the top of Red Sox prospect lists and reaching base in 66 straight games, Mookie Betts reamins a Portland Sea Dog. But Betts’ play hasn’t gone unnoticed. In fact, the 22 year old recently gained praise from GM Ben Cherington, who want Betts to become more comfortable in the outfield before promoting him. (Mookie Betts, not currently in consideration for promotion to Boston Red Sox)
- Tweet of the Day: Cafardo’s got all the best sources
As reported earlier, three outs away.
— Nick Cafardo (@nickcafardo) May 26, 2014