April 8th Red Sox

        Wow, just wow. That is one of those games that makes you question why you watch the Red Sox. I think that that game was my worst nightmare, and without a doubt Bobby Valentine’s. I said earlier that there is no way that Daniel Bard keeps his job as a starting pitcher and I am feeling pretty good about that statement unfortunately. Jonathan Papelbon must laughing his ass off in Philadelphia. In case you missed the madness that unfolded on Easter Sunday, the Red Sox lost a pitchers duel to the Tigers 13-12 in eleven innings. Oh and by the way the Sox blew not just one save but two during the four hour and forty-five minute marathon. The two potential closers combined to pitch two-thirds of an inning allowing six earned runs and two blown saves. Just three days after they combined to let the Tigers walk-off with a victory on opening day. It may take a no-hitter for Daniel Bard in his first start for him not to be handed the closer role. 

        I said the Sox needed two things to happen today if they were going to win. Clay Buchholz needed to pitch well and the Sox needed to jump out to an early lead. Well that perfect scenario was thrown out the window when the Sox fell to a quick four run deficit after the first. However, the Red Sox battler back with their bats and Vicente Padilla provided four strong innings without allowing a run. Had either Melancon or Aceves been able to their job the Sox could have left Detroit with their first win of the season. Instead they head to Toronto, heart broken, and still in hope for a win. Aside from Jon Lester and Padilla the Sox pitching has been absolutely treacherous. So much for the Sox top three in the rotation being able to carry the staff. Instead the Sox turn to youngsters Felix Dubrount and Daniel Bard. This season is already looking far too similar to lasts. 

        I know Bobby V probably wants to stick to his word and turn Bard into a starter, but they don’t have anyone that close a game. I know it has only been three games, but they need someone whose actual job is to close out games. That means bring Bard back to the bullpen or go out and get a closer quickly. They are about to face a Toronto team that was successful in coming back against the Indians two out of three times to start off their season. In amongst all of the madness the Red Sox have created I have not been able to mention that similar dismal start by the hated Yankees. Mariano Rivera blew a save in the season opener and the Yankees lost the two games against the Rays that followed. If you had told me that the Sox and Yanks would be tied after the opening series I would’ve been happy, but unfortunately they are tied at 0-3. That needs to change tomorrow night in Toronto.