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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 5:25:23 GMT -5
Home Opener for the Red Sox vs the Orioles
Pre game events include having the 2004 team there, a ceremony for Tim and Stacey Wakefield
and Larry Luchinno.
Pitching Match Ups
Tuesday/ 2pm/ Burnes 1-0/ 2.31 vs Bello 1-0/ 5.40
Wednesday/ 7pm/ Irving 0-1/ 7.20 vs Pivetta 1-1/0.82
Thursday/ 7pm/ Rodriguez 2-0/ 2.19 vs Crawford 0-0/ 0.89
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 5:38:19 GMT -5
Red Sox to debut Tim Wakefield 49 patches; Alex Cora will wear jersey more Updated: Apr. 07, 2024, 3:05 p.m.|Published: Apr. 07, 2024, 2:58 p.m. By Christopher Smith | csmith@masslive.com ANAHEIM, Calif. — The Red Sox will wear Tim Wakefield No. 49 patches on the sleeves of their jerseys for the first time Tuesday, Opening Day at Fenway. Wakefield died at 57 years old on Oct. 1, 2023, not long after being diagnosed with brain cancer. Manager Alex Cora, Wakefield’s Red Sox teammate from 2005-08, typically wears a pullover during games. But he said that will change this season. “From my end, I’ll be wearing my jersey more this year,” Cora said. “If I’m going to talk about uniforms, I better wear the uniform. But having that patch, it means a lot. If you need any reminder to do it right — play the game right and represent this organization the right way — then you look at it and you’re like, ‘I’ve got you, Wake.’” The Red Sox will wear the patches for the rest of the 2024 season on their home and away jerseys.  A press release March 18 noted, “The commemorative navy patch is shaped like a heart, a nod to Wakefield’s role as Honorary Chairman of the Red Sox Foundation, with his number 49 featured in red at the center.” The Red Sox plan to honor both Tim and Stacy Wakefield. Stacy died in February. She was believed to have been battling pancreatic cancer. The Wakefields were known for their countless hours of charity work. Tim pitched for Boston for 17 seasons (1995-2011), then served as a Red Sox NESN analyst. He was a crucial member of the Red Sox’ World Series championship teams in 2004 and 2007. The 2004 team (celebrating the 20th anniversary) will be introduced before the game, too. Former Red Sox president and CEO Larry Lucchino, who died April 2, also is expected to be honored. “There’s going to be a lot of things going on from Larry to Tim to Stacy,” Cora said. “It’s gonna be very emotional. Obviously the guys will be there, too: 2004. That team changed the course of this franchise. It’s going to be special.”
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 5:39:56 GMT -5
Red Sox’ Alex Cora: ‘We’ve been horrible at home since 2019 to be honest’
Published: Apr. 07, 2024, 4:05 p.m.
By
Christopher Smith | csmith@masslive.com
ANAHEIM, Calif. — The Red Sox will play their home opener Tuesday against the Orioles at 2:10 p.m. Fenway Park wasn’t kind to them last year. Boston went 39-42 (.481 winning percentage) there.
“We’ve been horrible at home since 2019 to be honest with you,” manager Alex Cora said Sunday before Boston’s game at Angel Stadium. “I think we were good in ‘21. But in ‘19 we were bad. And the last two years we’ve been bad. For us to accomplish our first goal, which is to make it to the playoffs, we’ve gotta play better (at home).”
Since 2019, the Red Sox have gone just five games over .500 (180-175) at Fenway Park after posting a 57-24 record (.704 winning percentage) there during the 2018 regular season. The 2021 season — 17 games over .500 — is the only year Boston has been back to the playoffs since winning the 2018 World Series.
At Fenway Park
2023: 39-42 (.481 winning percentage)
2022: 43-38 (.531 winning percentage)
2021: 49-32 (.605 winning percentage)
2020: 11-20 (.355 winning percentage)
2019: 38-43 (.469 winning percentage)
Cora mentioned how the Red Sox worked out in the main stadium at the JetBlue Park facility more this spring training. JetBlue Park has the same dimensions as Fenway.
“We did a lot of things different in spring training to prepare for that,” Cora said. “Most of the drills were at the stadium. We hit a lot there. ... Obviously you have to make adjustments and we did. We’ve got a good team coming in on Tuesday. And it’s a long home stand. So dominating at home is always important.”
The Red Sox’ first home stand consists of 10 games in 10 days. They begin with three games against the Orioles, then host the Angels for three games and the Guardians for four games.
Cora was asked about any specific issues that the Red Sox have identified for why they have not played well at Fenway.
“We didn’t run the bases well at Fenway. We didn’t play good defense at Fenway. We didn’t pitch well at Fenway. We didn’t hit well at Fenway,” Cora said. “That’s the bottomline. What else? We didn’t use the whites (white jerseys) a lot at Fenway and we will this year. I mean, we didn’t play well at home. And the opposition is good. That’s the bottomline.
“We haven’t made Fenway uncomfortable to the opposition in a while,” Cora added. “It’s awesome, man. I love it. Sweet Caroline in the eighth and all that stuff. But, man, when you’re down seven, Sweet Caroline doesn’t sound great to be honest with you. The fan stuff, there’s a lot of fans from the opposition. That happens because people enjoy going to Fenway. If I’m from California and my team is gonna play at Fenway, I’m going to circle that and I’m going to go to Fenway Park. I’ll go to Yankee Stadium. I’ll go to Wrigley Field. That works against us at certain times. We know in October, it’s a different story. But for us to get to October, we’ve got to play better in the regular season.”
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 5:41:45 GMT -5
Jason Varitek ready for emotional Opening Day when Tim Wakefield is honored
Updated: Apr. 07, 2024, 6:22 p.m.|Published: Apr. 07, 2024, 4:12 p.m.
By
Lauren Campbell | LCampbell@masslive.com
Before the Boston Red Sox play their home opener at Fenway Park on Tuesday, they’ll honor Tim and Stacy Wakefield.
Wakefield died in October at the age of 57. He was a staple in the Red Sox’ two championship teams in 2004 and 2007 and started a franchise record 430 games. Boston will wear No. 49 patches on the sleeves of the their jerseys beginning Tuesday. Stacy died in February.
Jason Varitek was also part of those teams with Wakefield and the two were close friends off the field. Appearing on MassLive’s “Fenway Rundown” podcast, the former catcher discussed their relationship and how much Wakefield meant to the Red Sox.
“It really got even stronger when Stacy (Wakefield) started going through some of her stuff,” Varitek said. “And with us being down the street, my wife Catherine has been just such an instrumental support piece for them. She used to make Stacy laugh when she wanted to cry. That proximity and, and being close, right down the street, for all of what they had to go through created even bigger bond.”
“... I think the what’s most important now is his children and the legacy that both he and Stacy have left,” he added. “And that it’s a community where the more we can support the family as Red Sox Nation and as a Red Sox family the best.
“I don’t think we could ever honor Tim enough,” Varitek concluded. “What he has meant as a player, a man that wore that uniform and wore that uniform proudly and what he brought to the community. ... It’ll be emotional.”
The Red Sox welcome the Baltimore Orioles to Fenway Park on Tuesday afternoon. First pitch is scheduled for 2:10 p.m. EST. It’s unclear how they will honor the Wakefields and their legacy, but with most of the 2004 team also being honored, it’s sure to be an emotional afternoon.
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 5:49:43 GMT -5
Red Sox 2004 champion surprised at how fast 20 years went
Published: Apr. 08, 2024, 5:10 a.m.
By
Matt Vautour | mvautour@masslive.com
WORCESTER — It wasn’t until a former teammate mentioned it to him, that it hit Trot Nixon that 20 years had passed since the 2004 Red Sox won the World Series ending the franchise’s 86-year championship drought.
“I didn’t know it until Derek Lowe, of all people, told me about it. I was like ‘What are you talking about 20 years?’” Nixon said last week before taking part in the Worcester Red Sox Opening Day ceremonies at Polar Park. “It just didn’t dawn on me.”
Nixon, who will celebrate his 50th birthday on Thursday will first celebrate that 20th anniversary on Tuesday when the Red Sox honor that 2004 team at their home opener at Fenway Park.
“To be able to come back here and open the season up, it’s amazing how fast time flies. I can’t believe it’s 20 years. It’s a reminder of how old I’m getting,” said Nixon, whose sons Chase and Luke are college baseball players at North Carolina State now. “It’s going to be a lot of fun to reconnect with a lot of players I haven’t seen in years, some of I may not have seen in 20 years.”
Nixon said his glove, shoes and the hat he wore and a bat he used in the 2004 World Series are on display in his house. He played 12 years in the majors and while he played a season for Cleveland in 2007 and 11 games for the Mets in 2008 to end his career, he naturally thinks of those as an epilogue to his 10-year Red Sox career and that World Series.
“It’s great. For me being able to be on a championship was all I wanted. I wanted to bring a championship to Boston with my teammates. It’s important for the fans,” he said. “These are the people who pushed us on a daily basis. ... To be able to play in an atmosphere like Fenway Park for the 10 years that I did was the greatest thrill. I’ve played with guys who played in other organizations, who don’t sell out or had the atmosphere like we had at Fenway. You can’t ever tell somebody how much you appreciate that.”
The Red Sox will also honor Tim and Stacy Wakefield, on Opening Day. Tim Wakefield, who died of cancer on Oct. 1 was a key part of the 2004 championship and he and Stacy, who died in February, were both active in the community for charitable causes.
“I still can’t believe that Timmy isn’t here. I know what he meant to me and what his teammates meant to him,” Nixon said. “I know Wakey will be with us in spirit and so will Stacy.”
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 5:52:03 GMT -5
Next Red Sox Fenway favorite? Right fielder (5 HR) ready for ‘challenge’
Updated: Apr. 08, 2024, 5:40 a.m.|Published: Apr. 08, 2024, 5:33 a.m.
By
Christopher Smith | csmith@masslive.com
ANAHEIM, Calif. — Tyler O’Neill crushed five homers in 28 at-bats to help the Red Sox go 7-3 on their West Coast road trip to open the 2024 regular season.
Now it’s time to play at Fenway Park where manager Alex Cora thinks O’Neill is going to be a big hit. Boston opens its first home stand (10 games) when it hosts the Orioles on Tuesday at 2:10 p.m.
“I honestly believe this is the type of guy that people are going to fall in love (with) at Fenway because he plays with an attitude. He plays the game hard,” Cora said. “We’ve just gotta keep him healthy.”
O’Neill is 10-for-28 (.357) with a .514 on-base percentage and .893 slugging percentage in his 37 plate appearances. He also has more walks (7) than strikeouts (6).
But it’s not only about offense for the muscular slugger with 3% body fat. He’s also a two-time Gold Glove winner who is ready for the challenge of playing right field at Fenway, which has the most spacious right field in baseball.
“It’s been an awesome first road trip,” O’Neill said before Friday’s game in Anaheim. “Just really getting to hunker down and know my teammates and staff — it’s a different kind of camaraderie on the road. A lot of family time at home. It made me realize when I was thinking about it, I was like, ‘Damn, we haven’t been to Fenway yet for Opening Day.’ It’s coming up to that time for sure. I’m looking forward to it. I’m so excited for it. The more I think about it, the more excited I get. So I want to see what that looks like, wearing that home uni inside of Fenway Park.”
O’Neill has made six starts in right field and two starts in left field so far. He’s expected to receive the majority of the time in right field at Fenway Park.
“We’ll see what right field looks like when we get out there,” O’Neill said. “I have a little bit of experience in spring training, just to kind of get an idea.”
JetBlue Park, Boston’s spring training home, has the same dimensions as Fenway.
“The wall’s a little different; it’s harder at Fenway Park. It’s going to bounce off it a little different,” O’Neill said. “I’m gonna have to check out how it rolls around, see the backdrop and stuff. Really learn the field and the grass and understand how the ball bounces as well. Just getting comfortable with my surroundings and space out there. That’s just gonna take reps. There’s just a little more room over in the corner there compared to other parks. But I’m looking forward to it. I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
O’Neill has settled into right field nicely after most of his playing time with the Cardinals from 2018-23 came in left field. Boston acquired O’Neill from St. Louis on Dec. 8. Entering this season, O’Neill had started 324 games in left field, 36 games in center field and 12 games in right field during his big league career.
“I came up as a right fielder,” O’Neill said. “I played all three in the minor leagues. I debuted as a right fielder. And then they moved me over to left.”
He was moved to left field simply because of the personnel on the Cardinals’ roster at the time.
“And obviously I had some success in left so they left me over there for a little bit,” O’Neill said. “Kind of transitioned into center field in ‘22, ‘23 a little bit. But I see the ball well in the corner. I see the ball really well in the corner. For me, it’s just like a mirror. It’s just like the other side of the field. And just the way the ball comes off, the angle and just the way you have to track it from home plate. I like it. I really like it. It’s going to let me show off my arm a little more, which I’m eager to do. And that’s just the name of the game right there. I’m looking forward to every opportunity I get.”
Cora has been impressed with the quality of O’Neill’s at-bats.
“Very disciplined,” Cora said. “He knows what he wants to do. Even the strikeouts, it’s close pitches on the edge of the zone. He doesn’t chase. If he does chase, he resets and gets back to what he wants to do. He can go the other way.”
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 5:54:28 GMT -5
Jason Varitek says Red Sox ‘04 reunion ‘like seeing a childhood best friend’
Published: Apr. 08, 2024, 6:20 a.m.
By
Chris Cotillo | ccotillo@MassLive.com
Former Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek keeps tabs on his former teammates from the 2004 championship team, including many, like himself, who remain in the game in some capacity two decades later. The ex-teammates keep tabs on each other via text and FaceTime and occasionally see each other from time to time. It’s rare, though, that almost the entire roster comes together like they will this week when the 20th anniversary of the curse-breaking title is honored before the home opener at Fenway Park.
When everyone gets together, Varitek said on MassLive’s Fenway Rundown podcast, it feels like no time has passed at all.
“It’s like a childhood best friend,” Varitek said. “You go off, get married and not see him for years. And all of the sudden, you pick up right where you left off and people laugh, tell the stories and remind people of different things. When you share something like that, there’s such an easy connection. It was such a wonderful team chemistry and team connection that I believe everybody just picks up where you left off.”
Varitek, who is now a full-time member of Alex Cora’s coaching staff as a game-planning coordinator, has been more focused on preparing Boston’s current pitchers and catchers than planning for the festivities involving the group from 2004. He won’t arrive back in Boston until late Sunday night following the end of Boston’s 10-game west-coast trip to start the season; Varitek noted that he has not been back in Massachusetts since leaving for spring training on Feb. 10.
Varitek planned to read up on the itinerary and guest list from the reunion on the six-hour flight from Anaheim to Boston. On Tuesday, when the rest of the 2004 team is watching from the stands (or more likely, suites) at Fenway Park, Varitek will be in the dugout.
“First, I’ve got to get through the itinerary because I haven’t even gotten through what’s going on and who’s where,” Varitek said. “I figured we’ve got a six-hour flight on the way home so I’ll be able to catch up and figure out what’s going on.
“Fortunately for me, I’ve got a game (Tuesday). Unfortunately for the festivities, I have a game. My job right now is to be there for my players and be there for my catchers. So I’ll probably be an ancillary part of it without seeing the itinerary. I may get poked and prodded and probably do a little bit more, but we’ve got a game to win.
Varitek noted that, under tragic circumstances, many of the members of the 2004 roster got together in the fall at a memorial to celebrate the life of late former Red Sox pitcher Tim Wakefield. The Red Sox plan to honor Wakefield during Tuesday’s ceremony and wear his No. 49 on a patch on their jerseys for the rest of the season.
“A lot of people have really come together from that group since then and communicated very well,” Varitek said. “I’ll just look forward to (the Wakefields) being honored and having a chance to see some people.
“We haven’t been home since the 10th of February, so I miss my family, but I also miss them (the 2004 team) too. They’re huge part of my life and appreciate everybody that had their roles and parts on that team.”
Varitek, who won his second World Series title as a player in 2007 and was working for the Red Sox when they won in 2013 and 2018, believes the first title of the 21st century is the organization’s most special.
“’04 was different,” he said. “It was just totally different than any other piece because it was the first and the heartache of everybody that had ever played there and the fan base that has been supporting the Red Sox for so many years. Breaking through and winning the one set a whole different precedent than anything else.
“’07 wasn’t easy, but ‘04 was that you’ve got years and years of heartache and years of a fan base that continued to have different traumatic moments that could never break through.”
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 6:10:44 GMT -5
After frustrating injury to Trevor Story, Alex Cora knows Red Sox have no choice but to move on
By Peter Abraham Globe Staff,Updated April 7, 2024, 9:14 p.m.
ANAHEIM, Calif. — Trevor Story wore his uniform pants and a blue Red Sox jacket over a T-shirt to watch the game against the Angels on Saturday night.
After a 2-1 loss, Story spoke to a small group of reporters and acknowledged what team officials would not, that he had a “significant” injury to his left shoulder and could well miss the remainder of the season.
“It’s just frustrating. It’s not fun, man,” Story said, his voice thick with emotion.
Story turned back to his locker when the interview ended and struggled to take the jacket off, wincing as he tried to ease his arm out of the sleeve.
It felt like the moment the season essentially came to an end for the Sox.
There are 152 games remaining, starting with the home opener Tuesday afternoon against the Orioles. But for a team that was already playing with a razor-thin margin for error, losing top starter Lucas Giolito and now Story in the last month seems like too much to overcome.
The Sox were counting on Story as a middle-of-the-order bat and a shortstop whose range and instincts would improve the overall infield defense.
Related: The Red Sox lineup may be an unfinished puzzle, but Tyler O’Neill appears to be a perfect fit
Manager Alex Cora was quick to add base running when asked about Story’s impact on the team. That, too, was part of his game the Sox thought would make a big difference this season.
“We had a balance in the lineup. Now we have to make adjustments,” Cora said. “There’s something about him . . . the way he looked, playing the part.”
Instead, the Sox have another position where they’ll have to patch it together with platoon players. That’s a hard way to play over a full season.
Then Sunday rolled around and the Sox put a 12-2 beating on the Angels. David Hamilton, who was called up to take Story’s place on the roster and was in the lineup at shortstop, hit his first major league homer and Tyler O’Neill hit his fifth of the season.
The Sox finished 7-3 on their West Coast road trip. Sounds good . . . maybe.
Cora’s 2021 team opened up 7-3 and went on to the American League Championship Series.
The Sox were 7-3 in 2015 and ended up in last place at 78-84. General manager Ben Cherington was fired in August.
Cora is looking forward to the home opener. There will be a reunion of the 2004 team with Terry Francona on hand and the late Tim Wakefield will be rightfully honored before the game.
“It should be fun, man,” Cora said. “For a team that nobody cares [about], people care. They care about this organization. They care about the Red Sox. There is something about the home opener that is special.”
Cora hopes the pregame festivities will provide some inspiration to the current players, many of whom probably couldn’t name more than a few of the heroes of ‘04.
“We’re young and we don’t know any better,” Cora said.
In this case, that’s probably for the best. Just go play.
“What happened to Trevor was really unfortunate,” said Triston Casas, who had two hits Sunday and was dancing with his bat to a salsa beat afterward. “It’s going to take the 26-man roster and the extra guys in Triple A for us to win.
“He’s obviously an elite-caliber player when he’s out there healthy on the field. We’re pretty bummed out because he was off to a great start. But we have to rally together even more to pick up the slack.”
Cora was enthused as the Sox packed up to go home and munched on In-N-Out burgers. His rotation has a 1.53 ERA, O’Neill is playing like the star he was for the Cardinals in 2021, and some of the young players have stepped forward.
“The game will continue; it’s not going to stop,” Cora said. “People are getting hurt all over the place and teams need to keep going. That’s the way people have to see it.”
As much as anybody around the team, Cora feels badly for Story. But you can’t cash in the rest of the season in April.
“We’ve got to move on,” Cora said, clapping his hands for emphasis. “We’ve got to go. It doesn’t matter. It matters but it doesn’t matter. We’ve got to keep playing good baseball.”
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 6:16:10 GMT -5
On eve of a return to Fenway, Terry Francona reflects on ’04 Red Sox, the state of baseball, and retirementBy Dan Shaughnessy Globe Staff,Updated April 8, 2024, 2 hours ago Former manager Terry Francona will join players from his 2004 ball club when the Red Sox honor their curse-bustin’ champs while celebrating the lives of Tim and Stacy Wakefield at the Fenway home opener Tuesday afternoon. “It’s unbelievable that it’s been 20 years,” Francona said. “The best thing about it are the memories. I’ll be so happy to see so many people, particularly [former coach] Brad Mills. But the Wake thing is what I think is really special. When Pam [Sox vice president Pam Kenn] asked me to come back for this, it took me about two seconds to say yes.” His favorite memory of the 200-win knuckleballer? “There’s a lot when you’re around somebody that much,” said Francona. “One thing that shows you what kind of a guy he was is Game 3 of the 2004 ALCS against the Yankees , when we were just getting beat up. And here he comes up the tunnel with his spikes and his glove, and he said, ‘I can go suck up some innings.’
I remember thinking, ‘Damn, if they’re not giving up, I’m not giving up.’ And it just gave everybody a little hope. People were thinking, ‘[expletive], he’s not pouting, he’s not giving up.’ So we didn’t use our bullpen that game. We rode him. And that just shows you the kind of teammate he was.”
The Red Sox’ epic recovery against the Yankees remains the only comeback from a 3-0 deficit in the history of baseball, and it catapulted the Sox to their first World Series victory (a 4-0 sweep of the Cardinals) in 86 years.
Francona is among those who still can’t quite believe it happened.
“I’ve watched highlights of the [Yankee] series a few times — not a lot — and I still get nervous that we’re going to lose,” he said. “There were so many things that could have happened. I guess it was kind of fitting that after so many times that they thought they were going to win, when they finally thought they were going to lose, we end up winning.”
Francona was in Boston for eight seasons, averaged 93 wins a year, managed every home game before a sellout crowd, won two World Series, and went to the playoffs five times with the big-market Red Sox. After taking a year off in 2012, he returned to the dugout and managed the Indians/Guardians for 11 seasons, making the playoffs six times with small-budget Cleveland.
His thoughts on MLB’s big-market/small-market disparity?
“It’s definitely different, and I think if you don’t recognize that, you’re making a mistake,” he said. “I tried to be very careful about never complaining about it in Cleveland because in eight years in Boston I don’t ever remember saying anything about it.
“I’ve had both sides of it. I don’t think it’s terribly healthy for Major League Baseball, but I also don’t have a fix, and if you don’t have a fix, I don’t think you should complain. But I do think it would be healthier if every team went to spring training and thought they had a chance if they play well. I don’t think that’s good for the game.”
He managed for 23 big league seasons. Biggest regrets?
“I thought our 2008 [Red Sox] team actually might have been our best team, and Tampa beat us. That one really hurt.”
How’s retirement?
“It’s kind of different. In 2012, when I didn’t manage, I was so beat up and didn’t think I was done in baseball, but needed a break. This time, I’m really retired and it feels good. I gave it a lot of thought. I thought it through so much and it just feels good.
“I’m doing stuff that I’ve never done. I went to LA and watched Arizona play in the [NCAA men’s basketball] regional. I went to Vegas to watch the Pac-12 tournament. I’m playing in a golf tournament after Boston.
“The timing for me to retire was good. I didn’t overstay my welcome — at least I don’t think so. It’s nice now not to be so hectic.
“My health is pretty good. I had my normal surgeries after the [2023] season. I had my shoulder replaced and that’s kind of a big deal. But I’m playing golf four out of five days and I’ve lost some weight. I’m doing OK. I’m trending in the right direction.”
What’s next?
“I don’t know. I think people view that as a little scary, but I’m OK with that. I don’t know what I’m going to miss, but I’m not afraid of it. I’m kind of looking forward to different stuff.”
Like everyone who was ever part of Red Sox Nation, Francona was stunned when Theo Epstein returned to work with the Fenway Sports Group in February. Epstein and Francona enjoyed great success together with the Red Sox, winning two World Series before things ended badly in 2011. After that catastrophic season, Francona was fired and Epstein quit.
Now Theo is back.
What about you, Tito? Any chance you’ll return to work for the Fenway Sports Group?
“I don’t think that’s in the cards,” he said with a chuckle.
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 6:21:39 GMT -5
RED SOX NOTEBOOK
The Red Sox lineup may be an unfinished puzzle, but Tyler O’Neill appears to be a perfect fit
By Alex Speier Globe Staff,Updated April 7, 2024, 8:18 p.m.
ANAHEIM, Calif. — With Trevor Story sidelined, the Red Sox are admittedly trying to figure out how to make the pieces of their puzzle fit. Manager Alex Cora gave a small shrug about the structure of his lineup, which on Sunday featured Tyler O’Neill batting third between Rafael Devers and Triston Casas.
“Is that the correct lineup? We’ll see,” said Cora. “We have to play with it.”
In Sunday’s 12-2 win over the Angels, the fit looked fairly compelling. O’Neill reached base three times, going 1 for 3 with his fifth homer of the season, a walk, and a hit by pitch. He’s hitting .357/.514/.893 with more walks (seven) than strikeouts (six).
“Very disciplined. He knows what he wants to do,” said Cora. “He doesn’t chase. If he does chase, he resets and he gets back to what he wants to do. He can go the other way.”
O’Neill credited work he’s done to ensure little wasted motion in his swing. He’s been able to quickly get the barrel of the bat into the strike zone and on the plane of pitches, allowing him to drive the ball to all fields.
A year ago, O’Neill felt that he’d opened up too early while looking to force power. This year, he’s staying closed and trusting that his strength can permit him to hit for power with a more controlled effort level.
“What I really have to work on is staying short and compact and putting on the brakes [instead of overswinging],” said O’Neill. “As power hitters, we fly open and hit the ball to the pull side. But there’s a process to doing it, and I feel like I really bought into that this year and understanding what’s going to get me to do that consistently. It’s good. I feel like when I’m swinging I’m putting the barrel where I want to while making sure that I’m on time.
“The work that I’ve been doing has been dedicated toward those things and it’s just figuring out the balance, just putting been putting me in a good spot. The game effort level isn’t too much. It’s a good effort level. The swing is controlled and I’m able to produce with the swing that I have right now.”
O’Neill’s .893 slugging percentage and 1.407 OPS both lead the big leagues, and his five homers are tied for first with Mookie Betts. Cora also spoke highly of his defense, baserunning, and intensity.
“There’s a lot of things that he does well on the diamond,” said Cora. “I honestly believe this is the type of guy that people are going to fall in love with at Fenway because he plays with an attitude, he plays the game hard, and we’ve just got to keep him healthy.”
Story to be told
While the Red Sox and Story have yet to determine the length of his absence — or whether he’ll need season-ending surgery — the shortstop’s description of his left shoulder dislocation as a “significant injury” makes clear that he won’t be back anytime soon. Story will be seen by Dr. Evan O’Donnell in Boston on Monday, at which point the Sox will have a clearer picture of how long they’ll be without the 31-year-old.
Related: After frustrating injury to Trevor Story, Alex Cora knows Red Sox have no choice but to move on
“We’ll just wait for [the examination] and then we’ll make decisions about it,” said Cora. “You have to be prepared and start talking about the roster, how we’re going to do things, how we’re going to attack the day without him.”
Even if Story avoids surgery, a traumatic shoulder subluxation often requires at least 4-6 weeks, and more often 6-8 weeks, to recover. Derek Jeter, for instance, required six weeks to return after an Opening Day collision in 2003 — and that was considered a quick recovery.
Rafaela rebounds
Ceddanne Rafaela was not in the starting lineup, offering him a chance to reset amid a rough start. He entered Sunday hitting .185/.250/.296 while chasing 47 percent of pitches out of the strike zone, the fifth-highest rate in baseball. “His timing’s off,” said Cora. “Late on the fastballs, early on the offspeed pitches. Like the great Carlos Delgado used to say, ‘You’re in a bad spot if that happens.’ We’ll work on it, but it’s just part of the growing pains.” Rafaela entered Sunday’s blowout as a pinch hitter in the sixth inning and delivered some of his best swings of the year. He went 2 for 3, drove in a pair of runs, and drilled an opposite-field triple off the fence in right … Reese McGuire hit his second homer of the year and stole a base. He became the first Sox catcher with a homer and steal in the same game since Christian Vázquez on April 6, 2021, and just the 14th Red Sox catcher to accomplish that daily double … Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow and executive vice president of baseball operations Brian O’Halloran were briefly locked out of their box behind home plate before the Angels were able to locate the key. They took their seats in time for first pitch.
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 9:52:29 GMT -5
What we should make of these Red Sox as they return home
My Player placeholder
By Rob Bradford
WEEI 93.7
3 hours ago
Sunday afternoon, the Red Sox their absolute best to push aside all those doubts that started creeping after Trevor Story's shoulder injury.
The uneasiness that had followed Story's exit in the fourth inning Friday lingered for about 1 1/2 games in Anaheim. That was until the Red Sox put a powerful punctuation on their season-opening three-series road trip with a 12-2 walloping of the Angels.
As was the case for the majority of the West Coast swing, all that the Red Sox needed to go right actually did. The starting pitching was excellent, with Tanner Houck stretching his scoreless streak to 12 innings to start his season. Tyler O'Neill continued to exhibit the kind of right-handed-hitting middle-of-the-order presence the Sox were starved for. And even one of Story's replacements at shortstop, David Hamilton, offered optimism thanks to his first career home run.
So, where does this leave the Netflix Sox leading into their home opener Tuesday? It's probably more of interesting conversation than most anticipated.
The Red Sox are actually three games up on the ultra-talented Blue Jays, and a game ahead of division-favorite Baltimore. Another 10-game check-in shows four members of the perceived juggernaut National League West are under .500. In fact, only six teams are living the life that the Red Sox currently enjoy, sitting at least four games over .500.
For another measuring stick, the Red Sox own the second-best run-differential (plus-26) in all of Major League Baseball behind only Cleveland and tied with Atlanta.
Understood, it's April 8.
But one element of this equation that can't be ignored is the importance of getting a youngish team to believe in itself early on. It was a dynamic that served teams like the Diamondbacks - who began 7-4 after a 100-loss season - well as they navigated their way to the World Series.
Make no mistake about it, this Red Sox club falls under that young and impressionable category. Fortunately for Alex Cora and Co., the impression so far has been a good one.
The Red Sox' starting pitchers have the best ERA in the majors (1.53), having pitched the sixth-most innings. Their bullpen has the fourth-lowest ERA (1.45), which a team like Tampa Bay (whose relievers' ERA is at 7.47) would be dying for these days.
As for offense, the Red Sox own the third-most home runs in the majors, with their OPS (.727, 13th) and batting average (.248, 11th) sitting somewhat middle-of-the-pack.
Perhaps the most gratifying element for the Red Sox' start is that they have far more individual best-case scenarios for player than those who have to start figuring out.
Led by the major league's OPS leader (1.406) Tyler O'Neill, you have promising starts from plenty. Reese McGuire (1.1010 OPS) and Jarren Duran are out-performing some expectations, with the likes of Triston Casas, Ceddanne Rafaela and Rafael Devers certainly doing enough to suggest they can be counted on.
Pitching-wise, the list is long. Virtually every member of the staff has allowed for continued belief in the Andrew Bailey way.
Make no mistake about it, this is going to be a work in progress. There remain huge questions at both second base and shortstop. The plan to lean on Wilyer Abreu in right field hasn't worked out. The defense has made eight errors, the same number the Sox had totaled through 10 games last season. And there is some breath-holding when it comes to Kenley Jansen's back.
This all is the kind of early-season overreacting that will elicit eye-rolls and plenty of historical reminders. But it's all we got. And, for now, it will have to do.
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 13:20:16 GMT -5
Nearly forty members of 2004 team to return for home opener ceremony April 9
Ortiz, Ramirez, Millar, Damon Among Alums Participating; Governor Healey, Mayor Wu to Present 2004 Team with Famed “Reversed the Curse” Sign; Ballpark to Feature New Concessions and Expanded Self-Checkout; April Games at Fenway Park Feature Giveaways, Theme Nights, Kids Running Bases
50 minutes ago
BOSTON, MA – The Boston Red Sox will open their 124th home season, their 113th at Fenway Park, on Tuesday, April 9, before the 2:10 p.m. game against the Baltimore Orioles with ceremonies marking the 20th anniversary of the 2004 World Series Championship and featuring close to 40 members of the championship team. The ceremonies will also honor the memory of members of the Red Sox who have passed, with special tributes to Red Sox Hall of Famer Tim Wakefield and his wife Stacy, and former Red Sox President and CEO Larry Lucchino. Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 1:30 p.m. to enjoy the ceremonies.
Prior to pregame ceremonies, members of the 2004 Championship team will be presented with the “Reversed the Curse” sign by Governor Maura Healey, Mayor Michelle Wu, and DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo at the Hotel Commonwealth before boarding duck boats en route to Fenway Park. The sign from Storrow Drive was famously altered from “Reverse the Curse” to “Reversed the Curse” when the Red Sox won the World Series Championship, ending an 86-year drought.
In addition to the family of Tim and Stacy Wakefield, confirmed members attending the 2004 Championship team reunion include:
Jimmy Anderson
Bronson Arroyo
Jamie Brown
Orlando Cabrera
César Crespo
Johnny Damon
Brian Daubach
Lenny DiNardo
Keith Foulke
Terry Francona
Bill Haselman
Adam Hyzdu
Ron Jackson
Gabe Kapler
Curt Leskanic
Derek Lowe
Mark Malaska
Dave McCarty
Ramiro Mendoza
Doug Mientkiewicz
Kevin Millar
Brad Mills
Mike Myers
Trot Nixon
David Ortiz
Manny Ramirez
Calvin Reese
Phil Seibel
Earl Snyder
Dale Sveum
Mike Timlin
Jason Varitek
Dave Wallace
Scott Williamson
Kevin Youkilis
Before the game, the two teams will be introduced along the base lines, and with Hanscom Air Force Base presenting the colors, the national anthem will be performed by the Boston Fire Department Quartet and punctuated by a fly-over by two F-35’s from the Vermont Air National Guard’s 158th Fighter Wing Unit and one KC-46 from the New Hampshire Air National Guard’s 157th Air Refueling Wing.
In honor of former Red Sox President/CEO Larry Lucchino and Red Sox Hall of Famer Tim Wakefield, “Play Ball” will be said by children from The Jimmy Fund and Franciscan Children’s Hospital.
All fans attending the game on April 9 will receive a special Wakefield commemorative pin as well as a 2024 season schedule magnet, presented by Gulf.
The Red Sox home opener, including the pregame ceremony, will be broadcast live on NESN beginning with their pregame show at 12:30 p.m. WEEI’s Opening Day broadcast begins at 1:10 p.m.
Fenway Park gates open two hours before the game for all fans on April 9 (12:10 p.m.), and 1 1/2 hours for all other regular season games. Fans are encouraged to take public transportation to Fenway Park and should check the MBTA’s website for the latest service schedules.
New Concession Offerings
Fenway Park concessionaire Aramark will debut new gameday offerings for the 2024 season:
The Right Field Concourse will feature fresh seafood from Luke’s Lobster and churros with chocolate dipping sauce from Churro Churro.
The Big Concourse behind Right Field will feature fare from Tender, Love, and Chicken, and The Burger Kitchen, two Aramark Brands.
Boston Creme Pie and massive one-pound chocolate chip cookies will be available in the Big Concourse and at concession stands behind Home Plate.
Irish Nachos made with waffle fries, corned beef, sauerkraut, sour cream, Thousand Island dressing, and queso fresco will be offered at Gate E concession stands as well as behind Home Plate and in the Truly Terrace.
The Truly Terrace will introduce a chicken and waffle bowl and a togarashi clam roll.
Behind Grandstand 16, Snapple and Nantucket Nectars official juices and teas can be enjoyed at the newly refreshed Snapple First Base Deck.
The ballpark will feature expanded self-serve and self-checkout locations for both drinks and concessions. Smart self-checkout locations known as Fenway Favorites have been added in the Right Field Concourse and in the Bleachers in Center Field. The grab-and-go Walk Thru Bru express beer markets located throughout the ballpark will conveniently offer fans aged 21 and over a wide selection of beverages and a more seamless checkout experience.
Refreshed Spaces and Signage
The ballpark’s Pavilion Level located on the fourth and fifth floors are now called the Aura Pavilion as part of a new partnership with the Boston-based cyber-security company. The Aura Club, the Aura Pavilion Box, the Aura Pavilion Reserved, and the Aura Pavilion Suites are all located on these two levels.
On the field, signage between the fungo circles and coaches’ boxes will feature stenciling of the website Buildsubmarines.com, the result of a new partnership with Blue Forge Alliance, a government-funded agency charged with boosting manufacturing across the military’s submarine and shipbuilding industry.
The Mother’s Room located in the Big Concourse Family Restroom presented by F.W. Webb has been refreshed to provide a comfortable environment for families that need a respite during games including a new nursing couch, changing table, and a TV.
New this year, dedicated stroller parking, presented by Nuna, is available in the Big Concourse and on Jersey Street.
April Promotions at Fenway Park
In addition to the giveaways during the home opener, the month of April at Fenway Park will include three gate giveaways for the first 7,500 fans that enter the ballpark, a chance for kids to run the bases after the game on April 18, and 11 theme nights, all highlighted below:
April Giveaways
April 12: Bello City Connect Bobblehead, presented by Bank of America
April 15: Patriots' Day Replica Jersey, presented by Coca-Cola
April 18: Kids Run the Bases, presented by L.L.Bean (weather permitting)
April 18: Wally and Tessie Reversible Headband, presented by Heinz
April Theme Nights
4/10: Suffolk University Night
4/11: Educator Appreciation Night
4/12: Red Sox Foundation Game & Class of 2024 Night
4/13: Harry Potter™ Day
4/17: Healthcare and Law Enforcement Appreciation Night
4/26: Boston College Night
4/27: Taco and Tequila Fest
4/28: Noah Kahan Night
4/30: Star Wars Night
Tickets for April games, as well as details for each gate giveaway and theme night are available at redsox.com. Mastercard is the preferred payment method of the Boston Red Sox.
Fenway Park Ticket Programs for Kids and Students
The Red Sox Kid Nation program, presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods, returns this season and offers young fans exclusive ticket offers, prizes, and benefits, including an incentive program with “badges” that can be earned by participating in Kid Nation events, online STEM worksheets, and watching NESN Clubhouse. The free program for kids 14 and under includes a free kid’s ticket to a Red Sox game with the purchase of an adult ticket. Children can be signed up by visiting redsox.com/kidnation.
The club will continue to offer the popular student ticket program, Student9s presented by New England Honda Dealers, for high school and college students to purchase tickets for as low as $9 with a valid student ID. Young fans can register to receive alerts for this exclusive offer by visiting redsox.com/students.
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 13:25:14 GMT -5
What we learned from Red Sox' successful 10-game road trip to start season
boston
By Michael Hurley, WBZ.com Sports
April 8, 2024 / 12:49 PM EDT / CBS Boston
BOSTON -- The Boston Red Sox are 7-3. We need not ready the duck boats for a parade down Boylston Street, but it's quite the performance from a team that had very few believers entering Opening Day.
The 7-3 start comes after consecutive 5-5 starts to the season for Boston. The 2021 Red Sox -- who made the playoffs as a 92-win Wild Card team and reached the ALCS -- started 7-3.
The 2019 Red Sox opened up with an 11-game road trip out west, returning home to Fenway with a 3-8 record. It took a full month for the team to get back to level ground at .500, and the season ultimately went nowhere.
And while the low quality of opponent certainly helped the Red Sox in building this 7-3 record, it's vitally important for a team to be able stack up wins against the most beatable opponents in the league. And that's where our list of takeaways from the opening road trip can begin.
Red Sox Take Care Of Business
Again, there's no reason to jump for joy after a sweep of the A's and a series win over the Angels. Those are two of the worst teams in baseball. Simply taking care of business is not an overly impressive accomplishment.
Yet it's something that has escaped the Red Sox last season.
Last year's Red Sox went an abysmal 21-26 against the 10 worst teams in MLB. That included sweeps at Fenway at the hands of the Cardinals (71-91) and Pirates (76-86), and a series loss at home to the Rockies (59-103). Had the Red Sox been able to "take care of business" against those teams and gone something like 30-17, then they would have stayed in the playoff hunt until the end of the season. Considering the injuries and limitations of the roster, that would have been a reasonably successful campaign.
It's a simple thing, but an important matter. And with the state of MLB being such that there are a number of bad teams out there -- the A's, Marlins, White Sox, Rockies, Nationals, Angels and Royals come to mind -- there's a whole lot of "easier" wins there for the taking. If the Red Sox can continue to dominate the worst teams in the league while playing close to .500 ball against the best teams, then they'll find themselves staying alive in that wild-card hunt late in the season. It's that simple.
Tyler O'Neill Is Barry Bonds 2.0
OK, overstatement. But what the new Red Sox outfielder did on that road trip was extremely impressive.
In just 28 at-bats, O'Neill belted five home runs, tying him with Mookie Betts for the league lead in that category. He also has five singles and seven walks thus far, giving him a .357 batting average, a .514 on-base percentage and a 1.406 OPS. O'Neill also leads the American League in runs scored with 12 (Betts leads MLB with 16).
O'Neill has only shown this type of power once in his career, as he hit 34 homers in 138 games played in 2021. He hit 14 home runs (in 96 games) in 2022 and had just nine homers last year in 72 games played.
The Opening Day home run record was a fun story in Seattle, but O'Neill has remained consistent throughout the trip. It's early, but he looks like a solid upgrade to Alex Verdugo.
Red Sox Starting Pitchers Can Have A Best-Case Scenario
Putting it frankly, there just weren't many optimists regarding this starting rotation. But through two full turns, we now know that a best-case scenario can happen, even if it turns out to just be a short burst.
With Brayan Bello, Nick Pivetta, Kutter Crawford, Garrett Whitlock and Tanner Houck each making two starts, the rotation is 5-1, with the lone loss getting thrown on Pivetta in a 1-0 defeat in Seattle. The rotation collectively has a 1.53 ERA, allowing just nine earned runs over 53 innings.
And it's that innings total that is most important. Nobody's gone very deep into a game just yet, but nobody's had to leave before the fifth inning. Whitlock lasted 4.1 innings in his start on Saturday, and Crawford was pulled with two outs in the fifth inning in the Red Sox' win in Anaheim on Friday night. Outside of that, starters have gone five or six innings in the other eight games.
Of course, we have to mention quality of opponent again. The Mariners rank 28th in team OPS, while the A's rank 23rd and the Angels are 18th. Against some heavier-hitting teams, life will get much more difficult for the rotation.
But the same point applies again: There are a number of bad teams out there, and if this rotation can pitch this well against them, the team is going to win more games than most of us expected.
Red Sox Bullpen Is ... Good?
Here's a stat for you: Seven relievers have pitched at least four innings thus far. Four of those seven relievers have ERAs of 0.00, and the highest ERA in that group is 3.00. It seems as though the Red Sox' bullpen is good.
It's not entirely surprising that a bullpen put together by a reliever in Craig Breslow is strong, but the early-season performance has been tremendous.
Even when factoring in Joely Rodriguez's four appearances, the Red Sox have the sixth-best WHIP (1.018) in MLB and fourth-best ERA (1.45).
They also have the sixth-most saves, thanks to Kenley Jansen going 3-for-3 as well as Chase Anderson snagging a pair of multi-inning saves in blowouts.
The back end with Chris Martin and Jensen was expected to be a strength of the team, but the supporting cast -- including Greg Weissert, Isaiah Campbell, Josh Winckowski and the rookie Justin Slaten -- has performed better than anyone outside of Breslow and Andrew Bailey might have expected.
Jarren Duran, Ceddanne Rafaela Provide Electricity
Jarren Duran is providing the highest entertainment level from a Red Sox outfielder since a young Jacoby Ellsbury was scoring from second base on a wild pitch. Duran absolutely feasted on A's pitching, going 9-for-12 in three games in Oakland. He's hitting .349 on the year and he's 6-for-7 on stolen base attempts, giving him the second-most steals in MLB. (The caught stealing was a pickoff attempt, too, so he's yet to be thrown out by a catcher.)
And while the 23-year-old Rafaela remains a work in progress at the dish, he's provided a number of highlight-reel plays in center field already. (He also had a blooper-reel-worthy drop.) Combined with the speed he's shown on the basepaths, he's been fun to watch, to say the least.
This level of speed and athleticism is, to put it simply, fun to watch. And it can go a long way in keeping the entertainment level of this year's team at an appealing level.
The Catchers Are Hitting
This one may not hold for long, but the duo of Connor Wong and Reese McGuire has mashed to begin the year.
With two homers, McGuire has already doubled his 2023 total. And he's been a good hitter outside of the dingers, going 8-for-24 (.333) with a double and team-high eight RBIs. Combined with Connor Wong (.333 BA in 15 at-bats), Red Sox catchers have an .873 OPS, fourth-best in MLB.
Is it sustainable? Maybe not. But it's played a role in that 7-3 start.
And Now, The Not So Good
Trevor Story's injury is a bit devastating, both for him personally and the Red Sox' team defense. David Hamilton will get first crack at replacing story, though Romy Gonzalez could get a shot as well. ... Overall, the Red Sox look better defensively than last year, but they still have committed eight errors, tied for eighth-most in baseball. Their .978 team fielding percentage ranks in the bottom third of the league, and Rafael Devers' error on Saturday allowed the Angels' only runs to score in a 2-1 Red Sox loss. ... Second baseman Enmanuel Valdez is hitting .125 with a .362 OPS to start the year with one extra-base hit (a home run), while Masataka Yoshida has a .645 OPS. Both Valdez and Yoshida have played every game. Bobby Dalbec, who's gotten starts against lefties, is 0-for-9 with six strikeouts. ... Joely Rodriguez, the lone lefty on the pitching staff, got off to a rough start, allowing four runs (three earned) in his first 1.1 innings of the season. He has, however, come back with consecutive scoreless relief outings. ... Rafael Devers has hit two home runs, and he hasn't been bad, per se. But he's driven in just three runs and is 7-for-32 to start the season. As Boston's best and most important hitter, he's yet to really get going.
Up Next
The 7-3 Red Sox will host the 5-4 Orioles for a three-game set, beginning Tuesday at 2:10 p.m. That series will kick off a 10-game homestand, with the Angels (5-4) coming in for three games and the Guardians (7-2) playing four games in Boston, beginning with the Patriots' Day matinee on Marathon Monday.
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 14:02:58 GMT -5
Red Sox welcome Orioles in long-awaited home opener
FLM
The Boston Red Sox began their season with seven victories during a 10-game road trip, and they'll try to build on that momentum when they play their home opener against the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday afternoon.
Boston has displayed power at the plate (13 home runs) and strong starting pitching during its first 10 outings. Following Sunday's 12-2 victory over the Los Angeles Angels, Boston led Major League Baseball with a 1.49 ERA.
"It was a great road trip," Boston manager Alex Cora said. "Going into this season we recognized how challenging it is to come to the West Coast right away. The organization did everything possible to put these guys in a situation where they were going to be fresh and ready to go."
Red Sox outfielder Tyler O'Neill, who was acquired in an offseason trade with St. Louis, has five home runs in nine games (28 at-bats), and Boston's starting pitchers have allowed nine earned runs in 53 innings.
"This group bought into it in spring training, and for the first road trip it was amazing," Cora said. "But now, we just got to be ready for it. Baltimore is probably the best team in the division. Everybody knows how good they are. This year is different with them right now. A lot of people picked them to go to the playoffs or win the World Series. So we know the challenge. We know who they are and what they do. We just got to be ready for Tuesday."
Baltimore enters Tuesday's contest on a two-game losing streak, and the Orioles lacked offense in each loss. Baltimore had four hits during Saturday's 5-4, 11-inning loss against Pittsburgh, and collected six hits in Sunday's 3-2 setback against the Pirates.
"Tough to win that way," Baltimore manager Brandon Hyde said. "We're not making it easy on ourselves offensively right now. We're not creating any sort of traffic right now. We're not taking walks, and I think we're getting out early in the count quite a bit.
"You don't want to discredit the other team's pitchers, but we have to do a better job of putting pressure on by getting on base."
Tuesday's probable starters are Baltimore's Corbin Burnes (1-0, 2.31 ERA) and Boston's Brayan Bello (1-0, 5.40).
Burnes was acquired in a February trade with Milwaukee to bolster the front of Baltimore's rotation. He had 11 strikeouts in six innings to earn the win in an opening-day victory over the Angels, and then surrendered nine hits and two runs in his second start, a no decision against Kansas City.
Burnes surrendered three runs (two earned) on five hits, struck out five and walked three in five innings during his only career start against the Red Sox. He did not figure in the decision.
Bello is 1-1 with a 5.23 ERA in two career starts against Baltimore. He has 11 strikeouts in 10 1/3 innings. The Red Sox signed Bello to a six-year, $55 million extension during the offseason.
Tuesday's game will be the start of a 10-game homestand for the Red Sox. It includes three games against Baltimore, three against the Angels and four against Cleveland.
--Field Level Media
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Post by CP_Jon_GoSox on Apr 8, 2024 19:12:25 GMT -5
Red Sox option Bobby Dalbec to Worcester; Romy Gonzalez to be promoted
Updated: Apr. 08, 2024, 7:58 p.m.|Published: Apr. 08, 2024, 6:23 p.m.
By
Sean McAdam | sean.mcadam@masslive.comChristopher Smith | csmith@masslive.com
Bobby Dalbec, whose struggles to hit major league pitching continued through the first week and a half of the 2024 season, was optioned to Triple A Worcester Monday, the Red Sox announced.
Dalbec, who made the team out of spring training, was hitless in nine at-bats with the parent club, striking out in six of those nine at-bats. Dating back to last season, Dalbec has struck out 34 times in his last 58 at-bats. He made the club as a righthanded bat off the bench, while providing depth at the corner infield spots.
He was in the starting lineup three times in the first nine games — once at third base, once at first and another as DH — but failed to take advantage of the opportunity.
The Red Sox did not announce a corresponding move but two sources said infielder Romy Gonzalez will be recalled to replace him.
Gonzalez, a 27-year-old righthanded hitter, has gone 9-for-28 (.321 batting average), .375 on-base percentage, three homers, two doubles, one triple, 10 RBIs, five runs, two walks and six strikeouts in seven games for the WooSox.
Boston claimed him off waivers from the White Sox on Jan. 31. He played in 86 major league games for the White Sox from 2021-23. He’s made 46 starts at second base, seven starts in right field, four starts at shortstop, three starts at third base and three starts in left field.
The loss of shortstop Trevor Story (shoulder) to the IL means the Red Sox are scrambling to cover some middle infield spots and Gonzalez’s versatility can help there.
Manager Alex Cora spoke about Gonzalez on March 30 in Seattle.
“Besides versatility and being athletic, I think the offensive approach got better (during spring training),” Cora said then. “We set some goals when he got there and he attacked it the right way. He was hitting off the Trajekt (machine) the whole spring training. Swing decisions was very important. I do believe halfway through camp he started using the big part of the field. He did yesterday. He hit two homers: one opposite field, one to center field. He hit the one (against) Minnesota (in spring training) to straight center.
“He’s a good athlete,” Cora added. “He’s a big kid that can play good defense wherever we put him. He’s going to play first base a little bit down there, too. Because that’s something we’re asking our guys. Bobby can do it. Pablo (Reyes) can do it. So it’s a good start for him.”
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