Monday Links

There is only one David Ortiz. Photo by Kelly O’Connor, sittingstill.net.

Stop me if you’ve heard this before — David Ortiz saved the Red Sox. Down a run with runners on first and second in the eighth inning, the long tenured Boston slugger drilled a 3 run shot to give the Red Sox a two-run cushion during Sunday nights game against the Tigers. While Ortiz’s heroics were the climax of the game, Red Sox starter John Lackey gutted through 8 innings of work, allowing 7 hits and 3 runs (2 earned) while striking out 5. Newly reinstated first baseman Mike Napoli collected 3 hits including a home run, while Dustin Pedroia also collected an RBI against Tigers starter Anibal Sanchez. After losing their last 5 games, the Red Sox handed the ball over to the ever reliable Koji Uehara in the 9th, and were able to pick up their first win of the season against the Tigers.

• The Red Sox offense received a boost on Sunday when Mike Napoli returned from the disabled list. The 30 year old slugger had been hampered by an injury to his right index finger that he sustained back in April. Napoli’s return paid instant dividends as he went 3-4 with a home run. (After getting needed rest, Red Sox’ Mike Napoli ready to go)

• After beginning on Thursday, the 2014 MLB amateur draft wrapped up over the weekend. Unlike in years past, the Red Sox stayed away from drafting college seniors early on, and neglected to select high-risk signability players. In the end, the Red Sox wound up with a crop of highly regarded High school and college level players. (2014 Draft recap: How Boston’s picks ranked)

• After making double-A seem like beer league softball, the Red Sox felt obligated to give prospect Mookie Betts a bigger challenge and promote him to triple-A. Early on, Betts has transitioned well to higher-level play, but he still needs time to get acclimated in center field before Boston comes calling. (Betts show the brass he’s up to the challenge)

• Injured starter Clay Buchholz tossed an encouraging simulated game in Detroit on Sunday afternoon. Red Sox manager John Farrell noted that it was important to see Buchholz use all four of his pitches accurately and effectively. While their is still no time table for Buchholz to return to the rotation, the next step for him is to rehab in the minor leagues. (Buchholz’s simulated game goes well)

• So far in his young career, Xander Bogaerts has lived up to the hype that surrounded him as he rose through the Red Sox system. The 22 year old has made a case for himself in the Rookie of the Year running, and has posted numbers that go toe-to-toe with some of the games best players. (Where does Xander Bogaerts stand historically among shortstop rookie seasons?)

• Tweet of the weekend: In Shulman and Kruk’s dreams.