Thursday Links

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

After taking the first two games of the series in Atlanta, the Red Sox returned to Fenway Park to complete their 4 game set with the Braves. John Lackey took the hill for Boston turned in 6.1 innings of shutout work, striking out 9, and allowing just 5 hits. Behind Lackey’s effort, four different Red Sox batters pushed across 4 runs off Braves starter Gavin Floyd, including an RBI double by Jackie Bradley. Although he didn’t add to the RBI count, Xander Bogaerts had himself an outstanding night at the plate, as the rookie reached base 4 times in 5 at-bats. On the night the Red Sox honored the 2004 World Series team, the team ironically won by a final of 0-4.

• Despite previously insisting that he’s healthy, the Red Sox placed starter Clay Buchholz on the 15-day disabled list with a hyper extended left knee. So far in 2014, the righty holds an ERA over 7.00 in 10 starts, and has struggled most predominantly with change-up control. (Red Sox say Clay Buchholz has injured knee)

• With the non-waiver trade deadline still over 2 months away, the Red Sox will enter trading season with money to spare and a truck load of prospects. Reportedly, the team is already surveying the trade market for outfield help, but considering their position in the standings and their play on the field, is this years product worth buying into? (Should the Red Sox seriously consider trading for an outfielder?)

• Although he hasn’t been on a major league roster since 2012, Johnny Damon still remains as active as an athlete in his prime. The former Red Sox center fielder hasn’t officially called it a career, but his charity work, endorsement deals, and family life in Florida has kept Damon occupied for the past 2 years. (Damon enjoying life, won’t call it retirement)

• When Jacoby Ellsbury hit free agency last offseason, Dustin Pedroia offered to defer some of his salary to retain the center fielder. While the Red Sox ultimately declined the second baseman’s offering, they may soon find similar player pleas if/when Jon Lester becomes a free agent. (Jon Lester’s Red Sox teammates ready to make a case for the ace)

• Winning the World Series is hard enough, but repeating the next season is a totally different beast. The 2004-2005 Red Sox learned that, and now the 2013-2014 Red Sox are learning that right before our very eyes. A shortened offseason, high expectations, and stiff competition makes repeating a difficult and sometimes insurmountable task. (Paradigm-changing 2004 team found challenges in bid to repeat, too)

• Tweet of the day: When’s Jerry coming back?