A few thoughts
Some passing thoughts as I consider watching another WBC game.
Wow, the Dominican team is down right scary especially with David Ortiz in the middle of the lineup. Who's your MVP now?
Name G AB Runs Hits HR RBI TB BB K AVG. OBP SLG.
Ortiz 6 16 4 3 3 5 12 8 2 .188 .458 .750
A-Rod 5 19 3 7 0 3 8 0 7 .368 .368 .421
So the difference really is the average. Ortiz has only three hits, but all of them are home runs. Plus it appears opponents fear Big Papi if you consider the eight walks.
A-Rod's seven strikeouts is a bit surprising, even for spring.
We'll see what 2006 brings.
The Red Sox have reportedly agreed to extend Terry Francona's contract through the 2008 season.
I've had a lot to say in regards to Francona's managerial style. He has been pretty player friendly/loyal and has made some questionable in-game decisions.
But I'm not against the extension. He has done numerous other things within in the clubhouse that fans simply do not see. He has been extremely helpful in keeping the egos at bay. And, heck, his teams have won.
But one thing is puzzling... Why would the Red Sox put their efforts into extending a contract to Francona when I haven't heard word one about negotiations with David Ortiz, arguably the team's best hitter?
It would seem to me that Ortiz will have far more offers than Francona at the end of the year. The team can't win without Ortiz, yet a manager only accounts for only 10-15 wins a season. Ortiz is a fantastic clubhouse guy, comes to the park ready to work and wants to stay in Boston. Hmm.
I beg the team to get Ortiz' deal done and done quickly. I like watching the big guy in a Sox uniform.
While we are at it Josh Beckett should be getting a deal now too. Don't wait until the end of the year when the market will force your hand at bigger bucks. Take the risk. He'll be worth it.
I'm troubled by the current pitching situation. Arroyo has been shelled as have other pitchers. I know its early and its only spring, but are the hurlers getting everything they need?
The loss of Dave Wallace is huge. His replacement, bullpen coach Al Nipper, may not be the right guy to assist those in the rotation.
Dustin Mohr is filling the power gap left by Ortiz nicely. Mohr is making a case to be the fourth outfielder. Known for his stellar defense, Mohr has matched Ortiz' home runs while hitting .471 this spring. Could be a good replacement for Trot Nixon on the right side of the plate.
Who says Coco Crisp can't replace Johnny Damon, well, besides Coco? The Red Sox centerfielder is 10 for 22 with two doubles and one triple this spring. A very good start. I can't wait to see him in Fenway.
One more thing...I can't stand the use of the word Americans when describing Team USA in the WBC. There are several other American teams participating: Canada, Mexico, Panama, Venezuela, etc. Perhaps a new name should be given to shorten Team USA, though Team USA may even be shorter than Americans.
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