How about Alex Gonzalez? A 3 for 4 performance today pulls his average to .249, and over his last 7 days, is hitting .353. In June, he’s at .273, but he hasn’t had a walk all June – perhaps the team just wanted him to get walks, but all the pressure by the fans for him to hit have led him to scrap that philosophy?
A great matchup later today will pit Curt Schilling against John Smoltz, as we go for the sweep, after being swept by Minnesota in the accursed Metrodome. We’ll need this sweep, for the hot Nationals, solid Phillies, and dominant Mets will be awaiting us.
The bullpen suddenly looks better, with Seanez, Timlin, and Papelbon securing a win on Friday, and yesterday seeing Delcarmen come in a “save” situation. Francona showed a quick hook and brought in Julian Tavarez, who had his movement and control going. If he keeps that up, he’ll be effective. Javier Lopez did well in his second outing as a Sox, and then Papelbon nailed it down again.
Jermaine Van Buren will probably head to Pawtucket again on Monday, when the Red Sox call up Kyle Snyder, recently acquired off waivers from the Royals (the ROYALS!) to start on Monday. With Snyder having an option left, he can then be demoted immediately after the game (a big reason why the Sox got him, I think) and someone else called up. Can’t be Van Buren, for if you’re demoted, you cannot return to the majors in less than 10 days unless a DL stint is involved. Thus, I think Craig Hansen could return to the major leagues.
What are we going to do once Wily Mo Pena is ready? Gabe Kapler, Doug Mirabelli, Alex Cora, and Pena all have secure spots, meaning that either Willie Harris or J.T. Snow have got to go. I really don’t want to dump Harris because he’s quite valuable in the Dave Roberts mold and can man the entire outfield and infield. When Pena returns, I imagine Harris would start covering more of the infield. This means Snow should go, but his ability to switch-hit is effective. However, the lack of playing time he has and the clear hitting upgrade to Pena, I think, render him moot – especially with Heeo Seop Choi in AAA should we ever feel the need to call upon a first baseman. Thus, perhaps Snow will be swapped for a midlevel prospect – the Cardinals, the Angels, any number of teams may be interested.
Have a Happy Father’s Day, everyone.
