Here's some Post A-S numbers that tell part of the story. 3 regulars are hitting (BA/OPS) : Leon .119/.412 ; Moreland .186/.575 ; Holt .197/.597. After a quick start in Boston, Steve Pearce is hitting .211 in his last 38 AB's and Swihart is at .222 for his last 27 AB's. Kinsler is at .200/.526 fo rhis last 25 AB's.
I was going to say something about Kinsler should not be running. Thrown out by 5 feet. I fail to see the excitement for that acquisition even if his fielding is better than Nunez.
So next time Johnson is slated to start, can we just start Velazquez for one or two innings while Brian throws in the pen to get fully ready. Quite a different inning .
That has been one of the clear differences over the past games at home, including Rays games, but the Indian hitters have crushed the mistake pitches in these three games so far
It's more the way of losing the 3 games . No hitting in a team wide slump , no power bats, weak pitching both from starters and relievers, all while playing at home against a possible playoff opponent.
The true test of Brian Johnson's abilities will be to see how he handles RedSox killer Melky Cabrera. If BJ can hold him 0-2 in 5 innings, he'll be my LH'ed hero. Think of tonight as being down 0-2 in the ALDS going against a 15 game winner with your #5. See if the hitters can summon a clue about their chosen profession.
Result : Red Sox 8--Wahoos 5.
That's when you know you have a class act behind the plate. Just has to show one the best hitters in the game not to question his misjudgements on blaas and strikes. Total jackass in blue.
Barnes gives it up , in an otherwise well pitched game. But then I guess Matt needs to work on his split finger. Meanwhile I enjoy giving Barnes the finger whether he does well or not.