Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Aug 28, 2022 19:44:49 GMT -5
Boston Red Sox’s Alex Cora has no problem with Rays’ Kevin Cash using position player to pitch ahead 8 runs
Updated: Aug. 28, 2022, 6:58 p.m.|Published: Aug. 28, 2022, 6:03 p.m.
By
Christopher Smith | csmith@masslive.com
BOSTON — Red Sox manager Alex Cora has no issue with Rays manager Kevin Cash using a position player to pitch the ninth inning ahead eight runs.
Position players historically have been used by teams that are trailing, not teams that are ahead, in lopsided games to save the bullpen.
There is obvious risk bringing in a position player to pitch even with an eight-run lead. But a few teams have begun to do it.
Catcher/first baseman Christian Bethancourt pitched a scoreless ninth inning to finish the Rays’ 12-4 victory over the Red Sox at Fenway Park on Sunday.
“I think they’re saving their bullpen and it is what it is,” Cora said. “They manage their team the way they manage (it). I know the Dodgers are doing the same thing. I think we’ve got some capable arms up by 10 that we can use. Bobby (Dalbec) and Alex (Verdugo). Maybe we’ll try at one point. No, but I don’t have a problem with it.”
So Cora might be willing to try it?
“We’ll see. I haven’t had too many chances like that this season,” Cora said, smiling.
Updated: Aug. 28, 2022, 6:58 p.m.|Published: Aug. 28, 2022, 6:03 p.m.
By
Christopher Smith | csmith@masslive.com
BOSTON — Red Sox manager Alex Cora has no issue with Rays manager Kevin Cash using a position player to pitch the ninth inning ahead eight runs.
Position players historically have been used by teams that are trailing, not teams that are ahead, in lopsided games to save the bullpen.
There is obvious risk bringing in a position player to pitch even with an eight-run lead. But a few teams have begun to do it.
Catcher/first baseman Christian Bethancourt pitched a scoreless ninth inning to finish the Rays’ 12-4 victory over the Red Sox at Fenway Park on Sunday.
“I think they’re saving their bullpen and it is what it is,” Cora said. “They manage their team the way they manage (it). I know the Dodgers are doing the same thing. I think we’ve got some capable arms up by 10 that we can use. Bobby (Dalbec) and Alex (Verdugo). Maybe we’ll try at one point. No, but I don’t have a problem with it.”
So Cora might be willing to try it?
“We’ll see. I haven’t had too many chances like that this season,” Cora said, smiling.