Originally Posted by
oldtimer
I gave it up after the tenth and checked early to see the Sox had pulled it out.
During the game, I found it frustrating that major league hitters would take called 3rd strikes over the plate with men on third and one out. Both Leon aand Beni did it in successive innings. What can they be thinking. Then there was the situation where Beni was given the gift of being hit by a pitch to lead off the 10th. The options for JF were to send Beni, to hit and run, to bunt or to let Beni stay at first and have Pedroia swing away. The worst outcome in the situation would be a double play. It was a tough decision, with a good catcher and attentive pitcher a steal had a questionable probability of working. Pedroia had been one of our bright spots in the batting order. It turned out Pedroia hit into the double play and Hanley followed with a double. Before it took place, I and the BJs expected a steal attempt. What would you have done?
Those calling for Hanley's trade can see that he still has value for us and should stay in the 4 or 5 spot as Moon has said. Moreland is in my view pulling away from the ball and he hits the ball to left too often. He did that last night on a changeup down the middle, one he should be able to pull. He needs to find himself and should be temporarily out of the lineup or moved further back in the order. Marerro is not a viable offensive player for us. Lin can play infield utility positions as well and has a better plate approach. Devers might help the club now or they had better find another 3rd base candidate while the club is still in the lead.
Time is running short DD. I didn't want Frazier either although Robertson might have helped. There are still options out there. I would keep Travis if at all possible. He is still a young player and may blossom next year.