Tuesday Links

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

As the old saying goes, “all good things must come to and end”. For the Red Sox, their “good thing” ended on Monday night, when the Cleveland Indians snapped Boston’s seven game winning streak. Former Red Sox pitcher Justin Masterson stymied the Red Sox line-up over 7 shut out innings, allowing just 3 hits and striking out 10. Equally as impressive was Red Sox starter John Lackey, who pitched a complete game but allowed 3 runs on 8 hits. The only Red Sox offense on Monday night came on a Xander Bogaerts 2-run homer to right-center field. The streak may have ended with a 3-2 loss, but with the third place Balitmore Orioles idle, Boston only dropped half a game, putting them 6.5 back in the American League East standings.

• With Xander Bogaerts gaining confidence at shortstop, and Brock Holt emerging as a legitimate MLB regular, it’s right to question whether the Red Sox jumped the gun on re-signing Stephen Drew. But it’s important to remember why Drew was brought back, and realize that he still fits in the Red Sox 2014 roster. (Exploring why Red Sox want to mess with what has been a good thing)

• Still upset that the Red Sox didn’t resign Jacoby Ellsbury or Jarrod Saltalamacchia? Cheer up! Both players, whom signed lucrative, long-term deals during the offseason, have really been scuffling for their new teams. Meanwhile, Salty’s replacement A.J. Pierzynski has been one of Boston’s most productive bats. (May miserable for Ellsbury, Salty)

• Once upon a time, Grady Sizemore was one of the games best young players, patrolling center field for the Cleveland Indians. But after sustaining multiple injuries, Sizemore was forced away from baseball for 3 seasons. Now back in the MLB with the Red Sox, the once budding star finally returned to where his career took off. (Grady Sizemore returns to Cleveland)

• Jonny Gomes is the type of player that you want on your team, but he’s not the type of player that you want regularly facing right handed pitching. After recently being named the Red Sox every day left fielder, Gomes’ platoon splits have been more pronounced than ever before. But without a clear upgrade behind him, how long can the Red Sox go without making some sort of move? (The takeaway: How long is Jonny Gomes the everyday left fielder?)

• Brock Holt has been an exceptional addition to the Red Sox line-up, absolutely. But before you get lost in the hype, step back, take a deep breath, and set your expectations to a more realistic level. Holt is still a good player, but his current hot streak won’t last forever. (There is one Brock Holt comparison to a recent Red Sox standout that actually makes sense)

• Tweet of the day: Ahhh, memories…