VinF

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 12:04:33 -0500

I agree that the Red Sox were lucky to be in the game, given the three-run popup single by Ellsbury got them most of their runs. I also agree that when you have your chances you need to capitalize on them. The biggest question that I have is why Francona did not send Sean Casey up to pinch hit for Cora with 2 out and 1 on in 12th. Casey hit over .300 this year (though I'm not sure how), so he CAN hit. It is not clear that Casey would have done anything more than Cora did, but why have him on your bench in the post-season if you are not going to use him in a situation like this? If Boston had tied the game Casey could have played first in the 13th, Youkilis moved from first to third, and Jed Lowrie moved from third back to short. Sigh!

MJG

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 11:35:19 -0500

I'm skeptical of the ability of the LAA to win a meaningful series. But, Boston had no business even being in that game, and it was really not a good time to not show up for a game. They'd have probably lost in nine if not for Ellsbury's unprecedented fluke of a three-RBI single. I expect Lester to pitch well enough to win. And, Papelbon will be on the mound in the ninth if the Sox are ahead. The Pats should beat SF.

Bostonist: Sports Redux: Well, It's A Series

VinF

MJG