Orioles (Kremer) vs Red Sox (Pivetta): 9/11/24, 7:10pm

[mvp 78]

27 minutes ago, FredLynn said:

No, he's a plus DEFENDER. Just like JBJ. 

From 2016-2020, JBJ was a very valuable player. If you don't believe that, I don't know what to tell you. 

99 OPS +, with GG defense.

He was paid 30M to earn almost 16bWAR in those years. Any GM would take that in CF. 

 

[Maxbialystock]

13 hours ago, FredLynn said:

I’m not calling you a bonehead. You’re a diehard Red Sox fan like all of us-including me. We’ve been watching this team for decades. But if you’re going to comment on my analysis of the team I feel free to comment on your analysis. You’re wrong about the team still being in the WC race. Maybe we aren’t yet mathematically eliminated but we aren’t in the race-REALISTICALLY. Wishing it were so doesn’t make it so. The team is dead in the water. Again. 
And it’s getting old.

I hear you on "realistically."  And my point remains:  MLB is uniquely capable of being downright unrealistic.  That's why I cited perhaps the most famous turnaround in Sox history in the 2004 ALCS.  Then I cited their inexplicable collapse in September 2011, which led to Francona's contract not being renewed.  And finally I cited the less dramatic 2021 postseason when the Sox made it to the ALCS.  I like citing that because the 2016 and 2017 teams, both under DD, won the AL East both years and were promptly wiped out in the ALDS both years.  

No question getting the 3d wild card in the AL is dicey with 16 games to go and the Twins 4 games up on the Sox plus the Tigers 1 game up on the Sox and the Mariners tied with the Sox.  I also concede the Sox bullpen has been scary lately and the hitting less good than a month ago.   

However, the rotation is looking better, and the Sox just took 2/3 from the Orioles, who are neck and neck with the Yankees and Guardians for the best W-L record in the AL.   Now the Sox play 4 at Yankee Stadium.  If they take 3, I think they are definitely in the hunt--unless, of course, the Twins take all 3 in Cincinnati.  But then the Twins have to play 4 at Cleveland and 3 at the Fens.  

Do I need to remind you and others that before this season even started, Sale belonged to the Braves and Giolito, his replacement, was DOA in spring training?   And, what, 8 freaking games into the season Story went on the IL.  Oh, and hot bat Casas missed, what, 3 freaking months?  For most of this season the Sox lineup has been primarily a bunch of no-names.  Same goes for the rotation.  Plus the middle infield defensive issues (and 3b).   Given all that, the Sox should be at least 10 games below .500.