Monday Links

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

After losing the first two games against the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday and Saturday, the Red Sox were able to avoid the sweep by taking care of their division rivals on Sunday. Allen Webster started for Boston, and was constantly dancing into and out of trouble through 5 innings of work. While the right-hander allowed just 2 runs on 3 hits, Webster collected 5 walks and struggled with his control through out his start. In the 3rd inning, David Ortiz blasted a 3-run shot to right, off of Tampa Bay’s starter Chris Archer. With a one-run lead from the 3rd inning on, a effectively wild Allen Webster, was accompanied by 3 2/3 shutdown innings from Boston’s pen. Amidst multiple trade rumors, Andrew Miller tossed a clean frame, while collecting a walk and a strikeout. Likewise, Koji Uehara also collected a shutout inning to preserve the lead, and earn his 21st save of the season.

• With playoff contention out of the question for the 2014 Red Sox, the team began it’s fire sale on Saturday. The Red Sox sent starting pitcher Jake Peavy to the San Fransisco Giants, in exchange for two pitching prospects. With the open roster spot, Boston also promoted right-hander Allen Webster. (Red Sox trade Jake Peavy for two prospects, promote Webster)

• As the trade deadline approaches, the Red Sox are in position to attack the trade market any way they choose. Boston’s pool of players from which to deal, includes veteran bench pieces, attractive bullpen arms, and — not to mention — the best starting pitcher currently available. While the return on rental players is often a roll of the dice, history suggests that contending teams will give up a haul for a rental starter with a postseason resume like Jon Lester. (Making it count: Three paths for Red Sox to make and impact at trade deadline)

• Just as winning will make a clubhouse happy, losing will have the adverse impact on the team, usually resulting in discontent in the clubhouse. For the 2014 Red Sox, Mike Carp and Felix Doubront have found that, along with losing games, losing playing time has put their futures with Boston in question. (Discontentment spreading in Red Sox clubhouse)

• Out of all the Red Sox trade chips, Andrew Miller is perhaps Boston’s most valuable. According to reports, the shutdown left-hander is highly sought after by a handful of clubs looking to shore up their bullpen. Miller, who was solid in the bullpen last season, is having another productive year for the Red Sox, posting the 7th best FIP and the 2nd best K/9 among AL relievers. (Miller in high demand)

• While the legitimacy of the rumor is still in question, the idea of Boston trading for Matt Kemp isn’t one to get excited about. For the last three seasons, the former National League MVP has looked like a shell of his former self. Injuries have hampered Kemp both in the outfield, and in the batters box. Aside from under performance, the 30 year old also carries a lucrative contract that the Red Sox current front office has tried so hard to stay away from. (Red Sox trade rumors: Matt Kemp a target for Boston? (Just say no))

• Tweet of the weekend: Wut?