Problems in Philadelphia

Thus far in October there were 3 Game 5's in the Divisional Round and it's not hyperbole to think that this baseball Postseason has been the best in the last 5-10 years.

Just some throw away thoughts on the Playoffs and baseball in general over the last week:

• The pitching matchup between Roy Halladay and Chris Carpenter was one of the top 3 postseason matchups I've ever watched. Chris Carpenter's playoff performance rivals only Pedro Martinez vs. Cleveland in 1999 ALDS (6 no-hit relief innings), Jack Morris in Game 7 of the World Series throwing 10 innings in 1991, Larsen's perfect game and Halladay's no-hitter a year ago.
  
• Jim Leyland had a horseshoe up his ass in the Yankees' series. That being said, he made Girardi look like a fool in the managing department (not hard) and his shuffling of the lineup and pinch-hitting for the duration of the series was genius. Not to mention knowing that Fister could handle the Yankees in Game 5.
  
• Justin Verlander was an absolute horse, world-beater in the regular season. But his postseason numbers are not good. A career 2-3 record in the postseason with a 5.71 ERA. In 34.2 innings he's allowed 37 hits. His regular season was phenomenal but when is this guy going to be "The Guy" in the playoffs?
  
• The Yankees are who we thought they were. A team that can out-slug most teams, but when facing a team with better pitching will struggle because their pitching was mediocre at best. This is an area they will need to address if they want to get deeper in the playoffs than the first round.
  
• There is something special going on in Milwaukee. I dare you to find me a better 3-4 combo in the game than Fielder and Braun. (Hint: There isn't one)
  
• Yovani Gallardo's "stuff" is absolutely filthy.
  
• I undersold Ian Kennedy and his ability to pitch. He has a good mental makeup and isn't afraid to go after a hitter.
  
• Is there a better mustache in baseball than John Axford? Somewhere Rollie Fingers lights a cigar, and slowly nods his head in approval.
  
• I think Detroit may be done. Losing BOTH Ordonez and Young take a lot of thump out of that lineup and against the Rangers pitching staff it may be too difficult to overcome. I like Texas in 6.
  
• The Brewers and Cardinals series is going to be epic. The Brewers will win but I see this series going 7 games and with at least one benches-clearing brawl.
  
• As much as his antics are childish baseball needs more players like Nyjer Morgan. Players that impose their emotion on every game. There are too many "businessmen-like" mentality players. Play with emotion, Play Hard and Play smart; if Morgan could figure out the third part of that mantra he'd be a heck of a ball player.
  

Those are the minor things that come to my mind throughout the course of the weekend. But here is the real point for this post. Philadelphia has a legitimate problem. They have the BEST starting pitching in the game, this is not debatable. But their offense is bad.

1. Ryan Howard's (32) batting average, OBP and slugging percentage have all gone down the last 3 years and he is just about to start a 5 year 125 million dollar contract extension. Players of his body type don't usually age well in their mid-30's, and we may be seeing the precipitous decline. Also note that he may not be ready by the start of spring training 2012 because of his latest Achilles injury.
   
2. Chase Utley's (32) batting average, OBP, and slugging percentage have all gone down the last 3 years, as has his games played category. He is one of the "grinders" in baseball but his style of play isn't always sustainable throughout the duration of his career.
   
3. Jimmy Rollins' (32) has been very inconsistent the last 3 years offensively, and he has been somewhat of an injury risk during that time period and now he is up for free agency.
   
4. Raul Ibanez (39) got on base this year at a .289 clip (to put that in perspective think Carl Crawford this year) and now is up for free agency.
   
5. Placido Polanco (36) is remarkably consistent throughout his entire career but was injured for a good part of the year, and has another year on his contract.
   

Hunter Pence was a much needed jolt for the Philadelphia offense. 11 home runs in 100 games for the Astros and 11 home runs in 54 games for the Phillies. Shane Victorino had his most complete offensive season in the Major Leagues, but the rest of the team was stagnant and at times unproductive.

In case you didn't get my subtle insert of the player's ages, it is because the Phillies offense is too old. The Philadelphia front office is not as progressive (sabermetric-inclined) as most clubs. Meaning they are more interested in HR, RBI and batting average than most would suggest but they need an impact bat this offseason that will take some of the burden off their aging sluggers.

It may be time to cut ties with Jimmy Rollins. He has won an MVP for the ball club, but you don't want to pay for past performance you want to pay for future performance. He is a switch hitter which is a luxury but ultimately they need a solid defensive SS that hits from the right side of the plate. Someone like Alex Gonzales would fit that mold perfectly and would be more cost effective than Rollins. If you go cost effective for a year you will have a better crop of SS next year (Aybar, Peralta, Drew).

Left Field is where they need some thump. They were trying to get Beltran at the trade deadline but odds are the Mets didn't want to deal within the division. I suspect the interest hasn't changed much. This wouldn't exactly alleviate the problem for a younger team especially after you signed an older SS than you had. So I also think they will be in on Michael Cuddyer maybe even more so than Beltran. Also, they should shop Dominic Brown and one of their pitching prospects for a younger bat if the FA's on the market are asking for too much. They need thump from the right side of the plate because Howard and Utley were useless against lefties this year, (.224 and .187 respectively).

To have the best pitching staff in the game isn't always enough, you have to have an offense at least able to score 2 runs because most nights their staff is only giving up 1. Inept shouldn't be acceptable.

Stay Tuned

Norton

The Mazz Files

For those of you a little slower on the uptake, the staff at Views from the Couch are big fans of the afternoon drive on 98.5 The Sports Hub with personalities Michael Felger and Tony Massarotti. They are hands-down the best sports talk show in the Boston region, this isn't debatable, fact not opinion. Their blend of antagonism, fact-supported opinions, and humorous banter make for a captivating and knowledge-infused ride home every day.

For a little background, Tony Massarotti is a reporter for the Boston Globe, a former beat writer for the Boston Red Sox, and a respected member of the BBWAA (Baseball Writers Association of America). In short, when he speaks you listen, and absorb.

I am one of the regular callers on the show, maybe you've heard of me? Ryan in the Car? *crickets* …anyway, I reached out to Tony and he expediently accepted our request for an interview about the Boston Sports Scene as a whole. I hope you enjoy the following transcript as much as we did!


VFC: When writing books with players you obviously have to form a bond with said players, you could tell Pedro Martinez had a genuine respect for you when he called your show. How difficult is it to be objective/pointed when you clearly had to form a relationship with these players? Do they ever say anything to you about your comments?

Mazz: It can be difficult. Every once in a while, a player will express his displeasure about something that was said or written. My general experience has been that as long as you don't take cheap shots, the working relationship endures. Sometimes, time needs to pass before wounds are healed.

With regard to books, it's tricky business. Ortiz asked me. Wakefield did same. But yes, it does create for a more complex dynamic. I try not to hide the fact that projects like that are compromising.


VFC: What were the Top 3 sports stories you've covered, in your time in Boston?

Mazz: The 2004 ALCS is definitely No. 1. Hard to beat that. The Patriots loss in Super Bowl XLII is also right up there. The last was a joint assignment - I covered the 2008 NBA Finals and the 2008 U.S. Open at the same time, driving between San Diego and LA. The Celtics won the title and Tiger won the Open in a playoff over Rocco Mediate despite a torn ACL.


VFC: How big of a deal was SpyGate? Some people hear it and don't know entirely what it was. Is it something that should impact Belichick's legacy more than it has?

Mazz: It's hard to say. To me, the bigger story was that the league sent out an edict and he ignored it - so he was punished. In terms of the actual impact it all had on games on the field, I don't think it was a huge factor. His titles are his titles and we all know (or believe) that many teams "cheat." His mistake came in believing that he did not have to answer to the league.


VFC: Do you think the Red Sox need an overhaul of the roster, or just a massive kick in the rear end?

Mazz: No overhaul is necessary, but they need to make some changes beyond the manager. There's pressure points in the clubhouse that must be addressed with regard to makeup, etc. They need more grinders and fewer overpaid prima donnas.


VFC: Name the Top 3 Boston Sports Personalities (Players, GMs, and Coaches etc.) on and off the record that you have covered.

Mazz:

1. Bill Belichick - one of the true greats in history, the Red Auerbach of this era.

2. Tom Brady - forever paired with Belichick, now in the discussion for greatest athletes in Boston sports history.

3. Theo Epstein - has taken on boy-king status since assuming GM duties in 2003.


VFC: If you are the GM of one of the 4 Boston Sports teams and you could make one move; trade, cut or free agent signing; which team, and what would it be.

Mazz: Can't speak to a trade - too many variables. We can all conjure up fantasy deals.

If I'm the Celtics, I'd either get Dwight Howard (via free agency) or trade Rajon Rondo. The former is a franchise player and the latter is not. Go for it all or start rebuilding by moving Rondo.


VFC: What route do the Red Sox take in right field next year? Do they stick with Reddick and possibly Kalish? Or do they go the way of a free agent signing?


Mazz: I expect that Ryan Kalish will be the starting right fielder. I think this will instantly help the clubhouse dynamic as Kalish is a young, hungry player with more talent than Reddick.


VFC: Who do you think could replace Theo Epstein if he flees for Chicago? Internal or External?

Mazz: I would expect Ben Cherington to be the replacement. Look at the Red Sox' hiring history under Henry, Werner and Lucchino. They almost always go young.


VFC: Do you think it's time for Belichick to rethink his draft strategy of stockpiling picks in the later rounds and picking up what can be summed up as depth players while they give up their early picks that could possibly land the defensive playmakers the Pats defense desperately needs?

Mazz: I long ago decided that one great player is more valuable than two good ones. I don't like the concept of trading down and never have. To me, their linebacking corps has deteriorated badly. That's the area I would focus on and I don't understand why Belichick hasn't used more high picks on linebackers.


VFC: The catching situation. Is it a situation? Does there have to be serious thought into handing the reigns over to a rookie (Lavarnway) or should they stick with Saltalamacchia?

Mazz: I'd go with Saltalamacchia and Lavarnway (or a veteran backup) going forward. I love Jason Varitek but it's time to part with the old era. I'd move from Wakefield and Ortiz, too. When players stay too long with one organization, they gain status and become more important than the team. That can't happen. Also, Varitek is too easy a lure for Beckett if he's around. I suppose you could also solve this problem by trading Beckett, but I'd rather go younger at the catching position.


Views from the Couch would like to thank Tony Massarotti for his efforts and insight. Make sure you follow Mazz on Twitter, and catch him every day between 2pm-6pm on 98.5 The Sports Hub, the home of the New England Patriots and Boston Bruins, for all of the hottest "sports takes".

Stay Tuned,

Norton

The Quick Slant: 4 Weeks in the Books and the Andrew Luck Sweepstakes are Getting Clearer

All right folks we’re 4 weeks into this now and if you don’t know what ‘The Quick Slant’ is all about by now, then I’m sorry but I can’t help ya. Though I’m going to throw a bit of a changeup into this weeks edition, since the Patriots game went basically the same as the other three, except Brady didn’t throw four picks. My synopsis and takeaways from the Patriots game briefly: the defense is still porous as can be, having now been shredded by Jason Campbell, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Phillip Rivers, and Chad Henne. They are ranked 32^nd (out of 32) in yards given up, 31^st against the run, 32^nd against the pass, and 20^th in points per game defense. They suck. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. But thankfully for them, Tom Brady and Wes Welker reside on the offensive side of the ball, and the Hoodie appears to have actually committed to gaining balance on offense (50% run, 50% pass on Sunday), thanks in large part to the emergence of rookie Stevan Ridley. The kid looks pretty damn good. Tenth straight game scoring over 30 points for the offense, and the defense gets lit, but Brady in the brunch still prevail. Get used to this tagline; it appears to be the theme of the 2011-12 Patriots season.

Now that that’s taken care of, I’m going to diverge from the normal ‘Quick Slant’ material this week, to talk about the few teams who have emerged as prime contenders to tank their seasons and win the Andrew Luck Sweepstakes. If you don’t know who Andrew Luck is, Google him and oodle over his stats, as well as the numerous Mel Kiper and Todd McShay articles slobbing his knob. I’m going to list the top four teams who I think are worthy candidates for a good tanking session, a la the Cleveland Cavaliers in hopes that the ping pong balls would land them LeChoke James, and why I think they should go for the 0-fer.

The Candidates:

Indianapolis Colts (0-4, and they just absolutely suck)

This one’s pretty self-explanatory. The loss of Peyton Manning, who did a great job for years of overshadowing the harsh reality that the team around him really wasn’t more than a 2-14 or 3-13 squad, has shown just how badly the Colts need to start transitioning towards the future. Manning is 35 and coming off three major neck surgeries in fifteen months. He conceivably only has two or three more years left at a high level, and that time would be spent wisely training Andrew Luck the way Brett Favre trained Aaron Rodgers. Wait a minute... Favre didn’t help Rodgers out at all, and even tried to sabotage his career. Never mind that analogy, but still he can teach Luck a lot about the intricacies of the game.

Chances the Colts go for the 0: 93%

Minnesota Vikings (0-4, though they’ve lead at halftime in each game, which proves that deep down they suck)

Everyone thought that the acquisition of Donovan McNabb would help right the ship after last years disaster. Wrong. I don’t know if Mike Shanahan necessarily had the right reasons for benching McNabb, but I do know that McNabb has quickly gone from solid starting QB, to over the hill and shitty. I know this team drafted Christian Ponder 12^th overall this year, but let’s be honest: outside of Adrian Peterson and Percy Harvin (when he’s healthy), this team blows dog chunks, and Christian Ponder probably isn’t the answer. I’m guessing that around Week Eight, after Ponder has started a few games and proved that he was worthy of his second or third round grade, AP will sustain a season ending ‘knee injury’ to ensure a win in the Luck-stakes. Hopefully the organization recognizes how badly it needs Luck and follows suit.

Chances the Vikings go for the 0: 78%

Kansas City Chiefs (1-3, but don’t be fooled, that win came against the Vikings)

Last year, the Chiefs were the winners of the AFC West, and then were unceremoniously trounced by the Ravens in the Wild Card Round. They were the classic case of a horrible team getting a creampuff schedule, having a player or two take huge strides forward, and then looking a lot better than they actually are. This season, the Chiefs were given a big boy schedule, and they have showed how they fare against the big boys: Not Well. Losing star RB Jamaal Charles in week two to a torn ACL didn’t help matters much (did your fantasy team get fucked by spending the third overall pick on him too?). I know, Matt Cassel is signed to a longterm deal and he’s Scott Pioli’s guy, but he’s nowhere near the quarterback that Andrew Luck is going to be. You’ve already lost stud S Eric Berry for the year, as well as Charles. I say tank away Chiefs, and stop pretending you’re good. A mix of Berry and Tamba Hali on defense, to go with Charles, Luck, Dwayne Bowe, and Jonathan Baldwin on offense is a nucleus for the future.

Chances the Chiefs go for the 0: 47%, because again they think they’re better than they are

Miami Dolphins (0-4 and not even close to snagging a win – Sparano is probably gone soon to boot should’ve hired Jim Harbaugh)

The Dolphins couldn’t win at home last year, going 1-7 in South Beach. And this year, they can’t win on the road or at home – perfect combination of suckiness to land a franchise cornerstone at quarterback. The Dolphins do have some weapons on offense in rookie Daniel Thomas, Brandon Marshall, and Anthony Fasano. Hell I’ll even call Reggie ‘I’m a Pussy’ Bush a weapon, though he can’t stay on the field for more than three straight downs. Defensively this team is a mess for the most part, though Cameron Wake has been a revelation at getting after the QB. If I’m the Dolphins, playing in a division with perennial powerhouse Patriots, the yappy but talented Jets, and the resurgent Bills, I’m tanking and trying my best to ensure that Andrew Luck finds himself a locker in the Sun Life Stadium home locker room. Chad Henne is not the answer, so stop kidding yourselves Dolphins. You’ve tried for going on three years now to convince yourself that he was worth the second round pick you spent on him. Exactly like you did with Jon Beck, and how’d that turn out for you? Give up, go after the 0-fer, and try and beat out the stiff competition for Luck, namely the Indianapolis Curtis Painters. While you’re at it, fire Tony Sparano and let Luck start new with a young head coach.

Chances they go for the 0:  23%. Again, this team thinks they are decent…they aren’t.

The Seahawks should probably try their hand at getting into the Luck Bowl, but they seem to think that Tavaris Jackson is the answer at QB. Pete Carroll, you ole sailor you! Trying to sell us that turd sandwich as a number one quarterback.

Let the games begin NFL bottom feeders! Andrew Luck, I wish you all the luck with whatever shitty situation you end up in (if I’m you I’m pulling for Kansas City).

Until we cross paths again,

Geoff Jablonski

Hot Seat: First Installment (Week Four)

Welcome to the first installment of “The Hot Seat”, a blog I will write weekly after each basket of National Football League games throughout the remainder of the season. Why did I pick week four, you ask? Well, for the lay National Football League fan, the beautiful bastion of the BYE begins in Week Five. What better time to start keying in on the “First Coach to be Fired” sweepstakes. So hop on the bus, it’s gonna be a bumpy ride…

#5) Leslie Frazier, Minnesota Vikings

Leslie Frazier took over a mess from Brad Childress in Minnesota. Little has been done to rectify this situation. Donovan McNabb has looked completely washed up this year. Not much has been heard from Adrian Peterson this year because of the impossible situation up in Minnesota. That team has gone from one Brett Favre interception from going to a Super Bowl two years ago, to being the laughing stock of the NFC North. I feel bad for Frazier, but at the same time, he needs to bolt McNabb to the bench and start Christian Ponder next week. Something has to get the wheels in motion. Not all is lost, however, as the Vikes have lost by seven points or less in each game this season.

Next Four Weeks: Home v Arizona, @ Chicago, Home v Green Bay, @ Carolina

#4) Steve Spagnuolo, St. Louis Rams

Spagnuolo has guided the lowly Rams to an 8-28 record in his two plus seasons in St. Louis. The team is 0-4 and going nowhere fast. Now, while 0-4 is definitely still in the race in the NFC West, it is not gonna cut it all year. Spagnuolo could very well be done at the end of the year if not sooner. Steven Jackson needs to get healthy. Sam Bradford needs to be more consistent. The team needs a defense and a receiving core. Pretty much, the team needs everything except a quarterback and a running back.

Next Four Weeks: BYE, @ Green Bay, @ Dallas, Home v New Orleans

#3) Jack Del Rio, Jacksonville Jaguars

This has been a long time coming down in Jacksonville. Del Rio was told before the season that if the Jaguars did not make the playoffs, he would be standing in line down at the local soup kitchen. Del Rio proceeded to cut David Garrard and hand the reigns over to Luke McCown, effectively tendering his resignation. Two weeks and an embarrassing loss to the Jets later, first-round pick Blaine Gabbert was handed the keys. This team is going to be awful, as they are dead last in points scored per game (9.8) and pass yards per game (137.5), and Jack Del Rio will no doubt be looking for employment elsewhere next season. The question is not how or why, but more so when. One more thought: How much longer is this Jacksonville Experiment going to wear on? They have to blackout more than half of their home games and they can barely fill most of their stadium for home games. Whenever Los Angeles builds that new stadium (lord knows it will probably never happen), look for the Jags to jump ship before you can say Jim Dandy.

Next Four Weeks: Home v Cincinnati, @ Pittsburgh, Home v Baltimore, @ Houston

#2) Todd Haley, Kansas City Chiefs

Prior to last week’s victory over the Donny Mac and the Vikes, Todd Haley had a very firm chokehold on the “First Coach to be Fired” Award for the 2011 season. Jamal Charles, their biggest offensive threat, is out for the year with a Torn ACL. Eric Berry, their best defensive player, is out for the year with a Torn ACL. Their quarterback is Matt Cassel (yes, I realize he quarterbacked the Pats to an 11-5 record with Tom Brady out for the year, but let’s get real here). This team is 30^th in points scored per game (12.2), and 30^th in pass yards per game (159.8). Matt Cassel is a “game manager” at best, and the Chiefs should look to get back into that Andrew Luck Sweepstakes.

Next Four Weeks: @ Indianapolis, @ Oakland, Home v San Diego, Home v Miami (The Futility Bowl!)

#1) Tony Sparano, Miami Dolphins

When news reports surface saying “The Dolphins have stated that they will be sticking with Tony Sparano at least through the Bye Week…” you know your job is in jeopardy. The Fish are 0-4.  People will say “Wait, what about in 2008 when the Dolphins won the AFC East?”. Well, first things first: Tom Brady was out for the year after game one with a Torn ACL. Number two: Miami, by virtue of finishing DEAD LAST at 1-15 the year before. The team was saved from 0-16 by a Cleo Lemon (yes that is a guy’s name) to Greg Camarillo overtime touchdown pass in Week 15. Sparano’s record benefitted from four games against the NFC West (3-1), two games against Buffalo (2-0), four games against the AFC West (4-0), and three games against the three other worst teams in the AFC from the year before:

Combined record of NFC West in 2008: 22-42 (Cardinals won the division at 9-7)

Combined record of AFC West in 2008: 23-41 (Chargers won the division at 8-8)

Combined 2008 record of other two awful AFC teams from 2007 (Texans, Ravens): 19-13 (Ravens 11-5; Texans 8-8). **Note: The Raiders were the third team, but everyone in the AFC East played them.

Buffalo Bills in 2008: 7-9

So there you go. The Dolphins squeaked through the AFC that year with a pretty easy schedule, as compared to that of the Patriots, who also finished 11-5 against the AFC West (3-1) and NFC West (4-0). But the Patriots finished the regular season at 16-0 the year before, winning the AFC East, therefore having to play the Colts and Steelers, who had a combined record of 24-8. As with the Raiders, the Chargers won the AFC West the year before, but everyone played them as well

Good luck Tony Sparano, you have the hottest of hot seats.

Next Four Weeks: BYE, @ New York Jets, Home v Denver, @ New York Giants

---

Well there you have my top five coaches on the hot seat after Week Four of the National Football League season. I will be back with this next Tuesday, after another round of games, to give you my updated list. Who knows … a coach may even get canned! We’ll see you next week.

-JLang

GM For a Day

Now that the dust has settled and I've had time to really assess the situation, a lot of the things that I said in my last post, were the byproduct of anger, and the emotional ups and downs (mostly downs) of a disappointing end to the Red Sox Season. So I've decided to do some careful thinking about what the Red Sox need to do in order to restore order and create a better clubhouse environment that is conducive to winning.

Before putting my GM Hat on, hey, don't judge me; create your own wet dream, we need to talk about the former captain of the ship, Terry Francona. He is hands-down the best manager of my lifetime and could give a serious run at Dick Williams for the best skipper in Red Sox history. Calling him inept at his job would be like saying a perfectly functional refrigerator is at fault for giving you bad food. That being said his laid-back managing style was not akin to this team's winning ways anymore. The players didn't police themselves like in 2004 and didn't have that drive like they had in '07. Therefore when they needed a huge boot in the chute he didn't give them one. He was accountable and noted that he couldn't reach them like in years past and that he didn't feel like he could going forward. Bottom line, he lost the clubhouse, and that is a fireable offense. The decision was made and now you need to find someone to fill his shoes, strike that, canoes, because you're replacing a legend.

Bobby Valentine is not the answer he is steadfast against any of the new metrics in baseball. While I agree that things like the "NESN Temperature Gauge" is as useful as a shit flavored lollipop you can't just dismiss numbers and go with your gut. It doesn't work that way. Use the numbers, and form an educated opinion around them. That's called the Grady Little way of thinking. Joe Torre walked away from managing for a reason and I don't think he'll come out but I bet managing the Red Sox would probably appeal to his vindictive side. I would look into the following candidates: Trey Hillman, Bruce Bochy, and DeMarlo Hale.

All three of these guys are more of a disciplinarian than Francona, and that is something that the current state of the Red Sox needs, badly. Bochy knows how to run a staff, is playoff tested and is by all accounts accountable and respected. They would need to get San Francisco's permission but it is definitely an avenue I would look at. Trey Hillman has some managerial experience with a lackluster Kansas City Royals team but he runs a tight ship. I didn't hear much about any tirades going on in Kansas City, then again it is Kansas City. DeMarlo already has the respect of most of the people in that clubhouse and that could be invaluable in the quest for the new manager. It also would likely save a lot of jobs in the Red Sox organization from getting a revamp. But that may also be an issue that needs fine-tuning as well. I'm looking at you, Tim Bogar.

*Puts on said GM Sombrero*

According to all reports the clubhouse was in disarray. As GM this is what I am addressing first. It is time to break up what is left from 2004 which I think is where a lot of the "entitlement" is coming from.

Tim Wakefield, gotta go. When you come out and say you want to come back because the "fans deserve to see me get a chance at getting those 7 wins for the Red Sox record." Nope that's counterproductive to the team concept. That's self-promotion, and when you aren't giving quality starts at all it is not even that much of a decision. Time to hang it up Timmy. Sorry to crush your spirit.

It's time for Varitek to go. If the reports are true, and I'll show you this as evidence that it's probably true, and there was drinking on the off days in the clubhouse while games were going on, he is no longer a leader. He is already a liability in the lineup and throwing runners out, calling a game is not that much of an attribute to save you on my roster. For all of you that say he has to be here with Beckett, we'll address that shortly.

Kevin Youkilis is one of the hardest working players in baseball. But according to a very prominent voice in Boston, Jackie MacMullan, Kevin Youkilis became a detriment. If this is the case he needs to go as well. He called Jacoby Ellsbury out in 2010 for not being a team player, and for him to spout off at the mouth when he is injured is not the kind of poison you need in a club house. He is a very good player but with looking towards the future, if you want to keep Jacoby Ellsbury happy, and after the year he had you want to do that, you may want to look into trading Kevin Youkilis and finding a new personality to man the hot corner.

Josh Beckett. The de facto "leader of the staff" is a serious concern going forward. He just signed a contract extension, but he is not untradeable, especially after the by and large solid season that he had. He is the pitcher that the other pitchers look up to, for whatever reason, and I don't want my other pitchers looking at a guy that isn't staying conditioned and is not leading in the right direction. 5 years ago, he was that pitcher, the one that Red Sox officials told Jon Lester, "Be Josh Beckett, watch him and do what he does." Fast-Forward, he visibly gained 20 pounds during the season and was leading the drinking in the clubhouse? It's time to shop the Texas Tough Guy. Here is the proposition:

Call up the Mets and get the medicals on Johan Santana to see if is he going to be ready to pitch in 2012.

I will offer Kevin Youkilis, Josh Beckett, and Felix Doubront for Johan Santana and David Wright.

Here is the money breakout:

Youkilis- 12 million in 2012 (13 million team option with a 1 million buyout)

Beckett- 15.75 million for the next 3 years.

Doubront- League min

Minimum amount for the Mets: 47.25 milion (Beckett) + 13 million (Youkilis) + Doubront ≈ 61 million

Johan Santana- 24 milllion in 2012, 25.5 million in 2013 (25 million option or 5.5 million buyout)

David Wright- 15 million in 2012, (16 million option or 1 million buyout)

Minimum amount for the Red Sox: 55 million (Santana) + 16 millon (Wright) ≈ 71 million

The money shouldn't be an obstacle to overcome. The issue is with putting all your eggs into Santana's basket. If healthy he will change the culture of the rotation. He has never had any deterrents on his record as far as lack of effort. He is the type of player that Jon Lester could benefit working with, being a lefty and having the title of being the best in the game.

The Mets are not without risk in this situation either. Kevin Youkilis is coming off back to back injury riddled seasons and would be taking a huge risk that he stays healthy at 3^rd base.

This move can only be made if you acquire at least 2 more arms for your rotation with the question marks around Santana and John Lackey. Jason Marquis and Chris Capuano ar are 2 of the candidates that I would strongly look at that will not cost you more than you are willing to spend. Ultimately I would make Marquis the number 5 starter.

Speaking of John Lackey, I don't think his season and excuses are acceptable. That being said, I don't think there is any way he has anything near that bad a season again. He did have a LOT of bad luck, and it may be better if you were to get rid of Josh Beckett, give him an offseason to clear his head, and then come back and be a number 4 starter. I think his 2010 campaign is going to be a much better barometer to his Red Sox career than his 2011. Also you don't want to eat that kind of money if you don't have to. I'd accept his 2010 season out of my 4^th starter, so you pray that he comes to camp in much better shape, a clearer mind/conscience and is cognitively ready to pitch, not just physically.

There is 30 million dollars coming off the books this year, between Ortiz, Drew, Wakefield and Varitek.

I'm offering Jonathan Papelbon 3 years and 42 million. He had a phenomenal season, and is battle tested in the Boston market. He would be getting a raise from his 12 million dollar 2011 salary and the security of a 3 year deal. Hope that he accepts it. If not, then I say you stock your bullpen with power arms a la the Texas Rangers. I would give Jonathan Broxton, Heath Bell, Ryan Madson, and Chris Capuano a phone call. If Papelbon stays you sign 2, if he goes you sign 3.

If Papelbon re-signs, your bullpen could look like this.


Papelbon, Bard, Aceves, Morales, Broxton, Capuano


If Papelbon leaves, you're looking at:


Bell, Bard, Morales, Broxton, Aceves, Capuano

I am convinced that Carl Crawford is going to be a very good player for the Boston Red Sox, but he has to get off to a better start. If he gets off to a better start he won't press, he won't be afraid to dive for a ball or steal a base. His track record would suggest that he is going to be a plus player. He's definitely better than he played and should show that in year two and going forward. Will he be worth 20+ million dollars? No shot. But you can't honestly say he shouldn't be able to steal at least 30 bases and hit .275 next year. He will impact the Red Sox in 2012, write that down.

It is time for the David Ortiz Era to end. Thank him for everything that he did, and collect his two draft picks for being a Type-A Free Agent. His attitude at times this season was questionable at best and deplorable at worst. Remember him barging into a Terry Francona press conference over an RBI? Then he clearly called out Terry Francona when he was lobbying for Alfredo Aceves to start. Whether it was right or not you do not call out your manager, you're an employee, fall in line. Then on the day that Francona was shown the door, Ortiz said the only beef he ever had with Francona was when he pulled him and sat him in 2010. Newsflash David, you were the WORST hitter in the league at the time when he did that, and had he not have done it, it would have been irresponsible. 2004 was unforgettable but you don't get a free pass for your performance going forward. We have seen what the end looks like for Ortiz, and you need to get out while you can, unless he takes a hometown discount, a big one, it's time to walk.

This is where you look at someone like Magglio Ordonez, Ryan Ludwick or Xavier Nady on a 1-year deal. Someone who could play the outfield in a pinch and also can hit left handed pitching. In an ideal world Magglio Ordonez would be the new DH.

With regards to Right Field, you need a right handed hitting bat. This is not optional. I'm assuming that Nick Swisher will re-sign with the Yankees so I will be looking at Michael Cuddyer. I would also pursue Cody Ross to take over for Darnell MacDonald. Both with strong arms in right field and could easily plug into the 6^th/7^th spot in the lineup. You do NOT break the bank for Cuddyer. A 3 year deal is the longest I would go.

Marco Scutaro has a team option for 6 million. I exercise that option. He is your Opening Day shortstop and provides your shortstop in waiting (Jose Iglesias) at least half a season of seasoning in AAA. Marco Scutaro gives quality at bats, and while his defense is not what it once was, he is better than overpaying for Jimmy Rollins or Jose Reyes.

It will however be time to find a new utility man. Jed Lowrie's inability to stay healthy is ultimately his ticket out of town. Jerry Hairston Jr., Jamey Carrol and Nick Punto are the options and I would probably go with Jamey Carrol. For a team that at times struggled against lefties, he hit .307 in 2011 and is capable of playing 3B, SS and 2B.

Also there is a decision to be made with regards to the catching situation. Do you start Jarrod Saltalamacchia or Ryan Lavarnway. Does Lavarnway have the experience that Saltalamacchia has? Absolutely not. But his catching ability is a lot more conventional and reliable than Saltalamacchia's, and unless you have the Brian McCann's of the world (who is a dynamite catcher anyway) its defense first, then offense. Lavarnway hit 31 home runs in the minors in 2011 and is definitely going to be part of the Major League roster in 2012. If you platoon them and make Lavarnway the catcher vs. right-handed starters and Saltalamacchia the catcher vs. left-handed starters you could be looking at a very potent offensive tandem. I am a big proponent of talent and experience but if you don't have the youthful exuberance on your team, it isn't complete. Lavarnway is the starting catcher.

Here is the lineup I'm running out on Opening Day:


Jacoby Ellsbury

Carl Crawford

Dustin Pedroia

Adrian Gonzalez

David Wright

Magglio Ordonez

Michael Cuddyer

Ryan Lavarnway

Marco Scutaro


I don't like taking Adrian Gonzalez out of the 3-hole because he is the best hitter on the team. But if Carl Crawford's mental block about not hitting 2^nd in the lineup is the only thing keeping him from being dynamic, I'll try anything. Dustin Pedroia is capable of hitting anywhere in the lineup, and has enough swagger to hit 3, it also balances the lefty/righty situation as best as you can.

The Bench:

Jarrod Saltalamacchia ( C )


Cody Ross (Outfielder( Good defense, some power))


Jamey Carrol (2B, 3B( hits lefties well, a little speed))


Mike Aviles ( 2B, 3B, SS (versatile defender, speed)


Brad Hawpe (1B, RF) (some power off the bench)

This is the perfect blend of lefties, righties and switch hitters. While covering every single position and not really playing any of your substitutes out of position. The key to a good bench is balance. Balance between speed, defense and power. The team needs a revamp and this completes your substitutes.

The Starting Rotation Looks like this (if healthy):


Johan Santana

Jon Lester

Clay Buchholz

John Lackey

Jason Marquis

(Chris Capuano)


This rotation isn't much different than 2011 but even with a mediocre Lackey the Sox would have gotten into the playoffs. The odds of him being that abysmal again are slim. So, if he reverts back to the 2010 version of himself and isn't under the influence of Josh Beckett and you insert Johan Santana's work ethic to hopefully rub off on your starters you should be looking at a better all-around staff.

*Removes GM Hat*

If this doesn't fix the Boston Red Sox, than nothing will. You get rid of 2 of the biggest detriments to the team's chemistry and work ethic in Youkilis and Beckett. You add A+ level talent like Santana (if healthy). You add dirt dog mentality players like Cuddyer, Carrol and Ross. You have that rookie intangible in Lavarnway. You have at the very least enhanced your third base defense with Wright over Youkilis and created a more balanced team. What else could you ask for than positive, winning attitudes? Answer: Nothing.

Stay Tuned

Norton