Bleacher Report - Articles by Alex Potter

Boston In August, Transition To Playoff Baseball

Alex Potter — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 23:23:47 -0400

When August rolls around tempers flare, rivalries renew and injuries carry greater significance. But most importantly, the countdown to the World Series begins.

Most people say August is too early to determine how the final standings will play out.

I beg to differ.

The last two seasons, not only did I predict the division winners in the A.L., but also I predicted the MVP.

I can assure you this year will be no different.

The Red Sox have looked a little shaky in 2009, but the acquisition of Victor Martinez changes the approach Boston takes to the hardest part of their schedule.

With the Martinez trade, Terry Francona has finally found the right cog to Boston’s run-producing machine.

But solving Boston’s recent hitting struggles only fixes part of the problem.

The major problem facing the Red Sox — one no one saw coming at the beginning of the season — is starting pitching.

Tim Wakefield’s stint on the disabled list and Daisuke Matsuzaka’s crazy trip to Ft. Myers, Fla. has crippled Boston’s rotation.

Management thought the solution to this problem was Clay Buchholz. But like in 2008, Buchholz has not provided the relief the Red Sox are so desperately seeking in 2009.

Theo Epstein then made another mistake by trading away Justin Masterson, an effective spot starter, leaving the Sox with many gaps and no plugs.

Talking October baseball with this pitching staff could be a thing of humor. But stranger things have happened.

When Tim Wakefield returns from the DL, he should add some stability to the rotation—but not enough to punch Boston’s ticket to the World Series.

Daisuke Matsuzaka cannot be considered an option in the 4- or 5-man rotation in the playoff system, and neither can John Smoltz nor Clay Buchholz.

With September call ups less than a month away, Sox fans await the likely debut of Michael Bowden. Hopefully, Bowden can join fellow phenom Daniel Bard and add depth to the middling Boston bullpen.

Now finally for the much anticipated standings prediction:

Boston 97-65*

New York 95-67**

Tampa Bay 92-70

Baltimore 82-80

Toronto 81-81

* Denotes Leading the AL in Wins

** Denotes a wild card Berth after a tough battle with Texas

Feel free to share your feelings of how the AL East will pan out, and whether Boston will make it to the World Series or not.

New Order, New Ambitions: Red Sox Look to Detroit for Bailout

Alex Potter — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 09:09:24 -0400

The Boston Red Sox have let those dreaded Yankees slip into first place for now, but the Boston faithfuls have possibly found their stride.

The lineup mix-up comes after the horrible and shameful approach of David Ortiz through 51 games this season and after dropping four out of the last six games, Terry Francona did not have many other options.

After many sleepless nights in the Francona house, the epiphany arose from the stars. The lineup has been just as big of a problem in 2009 as the starting rotaion has been.

Dustin Pedroia plays lead off man just as often as he does not win MVP awards, so this at the beginning of Sunday's game was a head scratcher especially when your fastest team member is now batting in the eight hole.

Jason Varitek is now playing one position behind David Ortiz, and the only thing I can say about that is now Varitek's RBI total will drop. After a truly stellar start to 2009 the Captain has 10 times as many home runs as our "powerful" and "clutch" Big Papi.

The problem is simple, Nick Green. Why is this kid still playing? In Sunday's game he was picked off, caught stealing, and left six Sox on base. I am not implying that Julio Lugo is any better because he cannot even follow through with a seeing eye ground ball.

The solution to this mess is temporarily taken care of, but unless Theo and his thugs from the corporate end do not make a trade happen before July 31 for a reliable and productive shortstop, the Boston Red Sox do not have the structure to win a championship.

Writers Note: A message to my friends and readers out there, I am now back after weeks if not writing any articles and I apologize, but I am recovering from surgery and I assure you my opinionated articles are going to be back on top of Red Sox nation before we know it.

I also want to thank all of the people out there that sent me emails while I was recovering and inspirational words from great writers out there from higher up networks. So once again Red Sox Nation I thank you and look foward to writing for you on a consistant basis yet again.

Van Every Makes "Van Everyone" Happy: Red Sox Beat Tribe 6-5

Alex Potter — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 09:32:02 -0400

After another disappointing blown start from Jon Lester, the Red Sox had to put their rally caps back on for Wednesday night's game against the Cleveland Indians.

Lester gave up five runs once again; that makes three times he's given up five or more in his five 2009 starts so far. The lefty hurler continues to strike out batters, though, as he has rung up 33 in those five starts.

Good thing for Boston the bullpen was nothing short of perfection: Lopez, Delcarmen, Okajima, and Papelbon came in and only allowed one hit over four innings while striking out five and walking five. Papelbon continues to stay perfect in 2009 and is now six-for-six in save chances while posting a 1.74 ERA.

Plus, the bats continued to stay hot last night as well, as the offense posted another six-run performance. Mike Lowell continues his monster April; he knocked in a double and RBI. Jason Varitek did the same.

But the star of the night was Jonathan Van Every. This young man must feel great wearing a Red Sox uniform for the second time in his young career; he went two-for-four, including the game-winning home run in the tenth inning. And to boot, his defensive skills were just as impressive, as he made a diving catch in foul territory to make the Sox regret ever dropping him.

"Clutch" is the best descriptor of Van Every's game, as I recall him walking off with a game-winning single last September versus the Yankees to end the season with a win.

The Red Sox look to stay hot tonight versus the Tampa Bay Rays, who have slowly slipped their way down to last place in the AL East after such a stellar start to 2009. Josh Beckett will take the mound versus Matt Garza in another pitching duel at Tropicana Field tonight.

Errors Plague Red Sox: Streak Ends at 11

Alex Potter — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 10:39:15 -0400

What a past streak of eleven games it has been for the home town faithfuls, but all good things must come to an end right? Despite the Cleveland Indians winning the battle, they will not win the war.

The Boston Red Sox will look to put the three error performance they had on Tuesday night behind them, as they will send Jon Lester, the reliant lefty, to the mound to oppose Fausto Carmona.

This is looking to become not only a battle of young pitching, but this will determine whether or not the Red Sox streak was just a fluke. Defensive measures will have to be taken up a notch, especially at the shortstop position.

Regardless, the team has been amazing. Experts say that momentum wins ballgames, so does that mean Cleveland will take this series from the Sox, thus ending a really great stretch? I do not think so.

Let's break down stats from the last 11 wins for the Red Sox:

Since the streak started, the team has batted .314, they have scored 83 runs, averaging 7.5 runs per game, and they have 55 extra-base hits.

Since the streak started, the pitching has also been extraordinary, only allowing five home runs, with a team ERA of 3.00, and have only allowed an opponent batting average of .225.

Good times are not behind us Boston fans, the road games are killing us this season but hopefully we can rebound and regain consciousness from this bump in the road which will be the "Road To 100 Wins". Unlike the naysayers out there, I am still saying this is possible, and I will stick with this all season until it happens.

Boston Red Sox vs. New York Yankees' Preview: Game One Starters

Alex Potter — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 09:12:17 -0400

The Boston Red Sox have been on a recent power trip. The team has exploded for 55 runs in the last seven games, including the dominant double-header versus Minnesota on Wednesday.

The next obstacle in way of Boston's run to the top spot in the A.L. East is the ever so annoying New York Yankees. Both teams are tied for the number two spot trailing the Toronto Blue Jays by 1.5 games.

All starters have been announced as of Wednesday and go as followed:

Game One - Friday 7:10 @ Fenway Park

Jon Lester (1-2) vs. Joba Chaberlain (0-0)

Game Two - Saturday 4:10 @ Fenway Park

Josh Beckett (2-1) vs. A.J. Burnett (2-0)

Game Three - Sunday 8:05 @ Fenway Park

Justin Masterson (1-0) vs. Andy Pettitte (2-0)

Now to preview game one starters.

Jon Lester

The ever so prominent lefty has had a great young career here in Boston; however, this season has started on the wrong foot. He has only lasted an average of six innings per start, which is not bad, but at the same time, his ERA is incredibly high at 5.50, while giving up 11 runs in 18 innings this season.

His last start versus the Orioles was one that settled him down, however, as the classic strikeout artist carved up nine Orioles over seven innings last Sunday afternoon.

Friday night is going to be one of the classic battles of whose starter will last longer. The Red Sox have today off and will rest their bullpen which is really not even needed, but will help the cause.

Joba Chamberlain

Joba is that young gun that the New York Yankees have in their rotation who, when consistent, could be thrown in with some of the best names in baseball. His fastball is one of the best in the game, and has been trying to master other pitches to make his outings effective.

His first start of the season was against the Kansas City Royals. Chamberlain was effective in his 2009 debut, but only lasted six innings, giving way to the dreaded New York Bullpen, a group that came in and ruined the start.

His second—and only other—start in 2009 was at Yankee Stadium versus the Cleavland Indians. He was absolutely horrific, allowing five runs on six hits while walking five in 4 2/3 innings.

Result

Red Sox will dominate this game, pitching wise, even though its not going to be easy. Joba Chamberlain will make an early exit as Jon Lester will last seven innings in a hard-fought victory for a much worthy youngster. The bats will stay hot for the Red Sox, and the long ball will play a major factor in Friday night's game.

Red Sox Win 6-2

Red Sox: Revamped and Revived Back on the Road to 100 Wins

Alex Potter — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 11:11:16 -0400

After a truly rough start to the season—dropping the first two series—the Boston Red Sox have rebounded to win five straight heading into Wednesday afternoon in a day-night double header at Fenway Park when they look to show the Minnesota Twins that they are only coming to Fenway Park this season once for a reason.

After the 2-6 start that is now behind us, the Boston Red Sox are slowly reviving the horrible bat production that paralyzed the offense we praised so highly. The Red Sox have scored 38 runs in the last five games, almost one-third of those were scored with two outs.

Dustin Pedroia had a great series versus the Orioles and had put the jump back into his M.V.P. defense.

Jason Varitek has been solid to say the least as he has belted three home runs to start the season. I am not looking to say I told you so but that's exactly what I predicted a few weeks ago.

J.D. Drew has been not starting as many games as he did to start last season but now with Rocco Baldelli having a strained hamstring, J.D. will be able to show his true power as he has also belted three home runs thus far into the season.

The irony of the number three continues as Jason Bay has also belted three long balls in 13 games this season.

The revival has begun. it has not completely taken control but we are back on track.

I know that the shortstop position was going to be a problem entering this season, but the return of Julio Lugo is near and I never thought that the return of Julio Lugo was something I wanted. His rehab stint in AAA Pawtucket has begun and will probably last about 5-10 games as the Pawtucket Red Sox will be hosting a home stand.

The Pitching Staff has been OK.

I am not going to praise this starting rotation like I did to start the season for the simple fact that they are polar opposites within themselves. The starters have either been on their game or so far off and they give up seven, eight, or even nine runs in a start. The next start they are taking a no-hitter into the eighth inning; example Tim Wakefield, or they are back on their game and just as dominant as they were last season; example, Jon Lester.

The one thing that has caught my eye and the eyes of Red Sox Nation is the dominance out of the bullpen.

Shaky at first yes, but now that they are settled, Ramon Ramirez, Takashi Saito, Jonathan Papelbon, Manny Delcarmen, even Justin Masterson (who made a great start in relief on Monday), are all on their games to start 2009. Perfect is not a word I throw out there to often but this resembles a solid bullpen that mimics 2007 and 2004, both championship years.

In conclusion, 100 wins is not out of the question. Many people do not want to believe in that because it is rare, especially in the tough schedule that Boston has to overcome this season.

The revival has begun, Red Sox Nation. All you have to do is "Cowboy Up" and believe!

Lester Drops Out Worse Than Wall Street: Sox Lose 7-2

Alex Potter — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 08:01:58 -0400

Despite the Red Sox bats not sparking last night, the poor performance of Jon Lester was not expected. After this 7-2 loss at the hand of the Rays, the Red Sox look to battle back this afternoon in a rare 1:35 p.m. weekday game.

Lester's performance was mediocre at best. He allowed five runs in five innings. The night started off well, however as he struck out five of the first seven batters he faced and looked on his game until the fourth inning. His ERA is now 9.00—given this wont be something that sticks, parts of Red Sox Nation hope, at least, that the possibility now exists Terry Francona is starting him too high in the rotation and his spot may be on the chopping block. With talent such as today's starter, Daisuke Matsuzaka on the mound it makes me wonder why Lester is not the number three man in the rotation.

The blame is not to be all put on Jon Lester though, the bats were filled with lead last night as the Red Sox barely scraped together two runs.

Jacoby Ellsbury went 1-for-5 in the lead-off slot for a season batting average of .111. Meanwhile Jason Varitek, Mike Lowell and Jed Lowrie all went hitless throughout the night, and the homecoming for Rhode Island native Rocco Baldelli fell short as he went 1-for-4 with two strikeouts. In the fourth he made an amazing catch to rob Dioneer Navarro of a base hit.

Other debuts, including the much talked about appearnce of Takashi Saito, who gave up a home run to Evan Longoria in the eighth inning, and Ramon Ramirez, who also made his Fenway night a good one as he pitched a solid inning of relief including a strikeout.

Today's matchup is a solid one as Daisuke Matsuzaka will oppose Matt Garza. Both pitchers looked hot last season, but the question is how will they fare this season?

The Reason Why The Red Sox Will Win 100 Games In 2009

Alex Potter — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 10:07:32 -0400

The New York Yankees may be trying to buy themselves a world series in 2009 with the off season spending spree they went on, but they will not win the AL East in 2009!

The Boston Red Sox had a mild offseason with the acquisitions of solid starting pitching including Brad Penny and John Smoltz, but that wasn't all.

The Red Sox looked to pad their weaker and more injury prone right field with the signing of Rocco Baldelli. Despite all of these offseason pickups neither of these new comers will be the reason why the Red Sox will win 100 games in 2009.

This season there will be a few players who need to make their presence known in order to secure a starting role throughout the season. I am not implying that their jobs are on the line, but they didn’t have an easy place for any of them on the roster when there is so much talent.

These Players include:

Jason Varitek

Despite turning 37 on April 11th, I feel that Jason Varitek still has one last season of solid numbers left in him. Throughout spring training 2009, he has a team leading 15 RBI and is making sure the front office knows that signing him was not a mistake.

The captain will always have a place in my heart and a place in the heart of every Red Sox fan, especially after catching four no-hitters and the historic A-Rod scuffle. He will always be The Captain of our Era.

Tim Wakefield

This 42-year-old knuckler has certainly been a piece of the Boston puzzle over the years, but this may be the year that he gets the boot from the rotation to go back to the bullpen.

His 10-11 record with a 4.13 ERA in 2008 may not be the kind of stats to keep a spot in the rotation, especially when you have Clay Buchholz who has had a phenomenal spring training, posting a 0.46 ERA up until a late poor starting performance on March 31st versus Tampa Bay.

With those two veterans trying to keep themselves motivated in 2009, the real reason why the the Red Sox will win 100 games in 2009 are as followed.

The Starting 3 Pitchers

These guys are as solid as they come.

The centerpiece to this perfection is Josh Beckett.

Josh Beckett will lead the league in wins in 2009—I am going to predict he goes 22-6 with a 3.33 ERA. I was recently listening to WEEI Boston Sports talk radio when a caller came on and said that C.C. Sabathia is a better pitcher than Josh Beckett will ever be.

Let's break down the facts: Josh Beckett has never had a poor post season performance with the Red Sox and, if I can recall correctly, C.C. Sabathia wasn’t exactly aces.

Despite his 12-10 record in 2008 Josh Beckett posted 36 wins combined in the two season before. Since 2006, Josh Beckett is 48-28 and C.C. Sabathia is, believe it or not, 48-28 since 2006 as well. The regular season is too close to call, Beckett's better in the postseason.

You be the judge.

Secondly, Jon Lester will be the solid young gun that the Red Sox have needed in the number two spot for years now. This young man is coming off the best season he has ever had in his short career, and his mind-blowing performance doesn’t look to change in 2009. A 3.21 ERA followed up by a 16-6 record make him a force to be reckoned with.

Finally, Daisuke Matsuzaka is that solidly consistent man in the rotation who will put up big numbers in the win column season after season. He has only been with the Red Sox since 2007, but since then he has put up a 15 win debut season and followed that with a 18-3 season last year which landed him third on the AL Cy Young voting list.

The one downfall to Daisuke is the amount of walks he gives up per season, an average of 87. On the bright side, has also more than doubled that amount in strike outs per season, with an average of 177.

The theory of the gyro ball when he first came to the MLB was quite the mind-blower but now that he has settled down and he is getting read a lot easier by other teams, it makes you wonder why he only gave up 128 hits last season, 63 less than his 2007 total.

The Solid Batting Order

The lead-off man is one of the most important roles in baseball—not only does he have to set the pace at the beginning of the game, but the team relies on his speed to get that sacrifice bunt late.

Jacoby Ellsbury may not be the greatest lead-off hitter in basebal: in fact, his .280 batting average last season was under par for lead-off hitters around the American League.

Nonetheless, a solid effort was made in 2008 as he was in competition for the starting role with Coco Crisp, and he still played 145 games racking up 50 stolen bases in the process.

Second in the lineup is the man who shocked Red Sox nation in 2008 and for that matter, the rest of the MLB. He is a small second baseman but he has power and potential every time he steps into the batting box, the one and only Dustin Pedroia.

The only hardware this guy doesn’t have is a Cy Young Award and I truly believe he is capable of that if he really tried. With such a young and illustrious caree,r he looks to put up another season of solid numbers such as the .493 slugging percentage or the .326 batting average. The statistics go on and on,but the conclusion is simple—he will be the 2009 A.L. MVP.

Batting in the number three position is nothing out of the ordinary for this slugger. Although he has been roughed up over the past few seasons, his desire and will to win a championship has never changed. Big Papi (AKA, David Ortiz) is going to have the comeback season he has searched for over the last two seasons. He only played 109 games in 2008 and only had a .264 batting average.

This season is different and I am predicting a 30+ home run season like he had in 2007. If he keeps off the extra weight and the extensive training he did in the offseason pays off, he will have a 110 RBI season in 2009. This is a prediction that many people will disagree with, but the will to keep his team going without Manny Ramirez being a distraction is going to work this year, and don’t be surprised to see him on a few MVP ballots come November.

The cleanup hitter in 2009 may be the man known around Fenway Park as “Youk”, but I like to refer to him as Mr. Consistent. Kevin Youkilis finished 2008 third in the AL MVP voting, but that did not mean anything to him.

What did matter to him was that he had a solid season that contributed to his team’s success into the playoffs. The reason for his title of Mr. Consistent is quite simple: since 2006 he has had an on base percentage of .380 or better, a slugging percentage of .429 or better (including a career high .569), and he rarely misses a start (he has started 145 games per season since 2006).

Not only is his bat a major contribution, so is his solid glove at either first or third base. Just the top four guys in this lineup are enough to jumpstart a rally, but the big names just keep going on.

Guys like Jason Bay: a major slugger. J.D. Drew is a big factor when he stays healthy and was also the MVP of the 2008 MLB All Star game. Mike Lowell: Any time you have a solid hitter like him batting in the No.7 position, you know the lineup is really well structured.

Then you have Jason Varitek who, like I mentioned earlier, is going to have a solid season and prove that he was worth all the trouble to bring him back.

Finally Jed Lowrie, who may not sound like a big name yet, but this young man proved to the Red Sox organization that he was the better choice than the over-paid Julio Lugo.

This may make the Red Sox World Series Champions in 2009, but it will make them AL East Champions with at least 100 wins. Feel free to comment and tell me how you think the Division is going to play out this season.

Red Sox Pre-Season Report: Three Keys to Winning a World Series

Alex Potter — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 10:03:13 -0400

Another dreadful winter has passed and the start of the 2009 Major League Baseball season is close.

The 2008-09 season holds a lot of ups-and-downs for the Boston Red Sox. Many experts would say that this was the most productive offseason for signing free agents since they brought David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez to Boston.

Where depth in the lineup is highlighted by outstanding young talent, Boston went after some bigger names and failed, but did succeed in signing multiple superstars—and even a future Hall of Famer.

New key additions to the 2009 Red Sox Include:

John Smoltz, Starting Pitcher

The 42-year-old veteran still brings heat to even the league’s best hitters. Despite his age, the question to Red Sox Nation will be, How consistent will he be and stay throughout the season?

Brad Penny, Starting Pitcher

Penny is yet another starting pitcher to join a rotation that will hopefully not be plagued with injury in 2009. Penny has spent most of his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Rocco Baldelli, Center Field

This young man has the talent to become one of the league’s most feared hitters and fielders. The Rhode Island native was diagnosed with a muscle-dulling illness, but now with the right medication, Baldelli looks to add depth to the outfield at Fenway.

The most prestigious title that was given out in 2008 was to the team’s hardest working player, that being MVP, Dustin Pedroia. After a year of great stats in 2008, Pedroia looks to mimic last season and bring Boston back to the World Series.

Another great surprise in 2008 was the leadership and determination of Kevin Youkilis as he was an MVP candidate. Youkilis still has the same beard and the same attitude leading into a season where he could possibly be batting in the No. 4 position as he hopes to keep delivering his power hook over the Green Monster in left field.

The one thing I hate about the start of this season is the World baseball Classic. This is taking great, hardworking players and injuring them before the start of the 2009 season.

The MLB season is filled with injury-plagued teams as it is. Why add to it before we even start?

I know there are critics out there who would say the complete opposite, and say that this is a great way to condition veteran players, but at the same time I have to say, “At what cost are we willing to jeopardize the World Series over the WBC?”

The Three keys to success this season are:

Stay Healthy

Don't let injuries bring team morale down. I cannot stress this enough. Winning a championship is a team effort, not a single-handed affair.

Big Papi Needs

David Ortiz may be past his prime, but he still has a jump in his step. In order for the middle of the lineup to be successful this season, we need a 35-home-run season out of him. Given his offseason tonight and loss of weight, he looks to be productive in 2009.

Order In The Lineup!

A great lead-off hitter is a key to success in 2009. This could easily be someone like Jacoby Ellsbury like he was in ’08, but look out for quiet, little Jed Lowrie who is fighting for his life at short stop.

A solid middle lineup would consist of Youkilis, Ortiz, and Jason Bay. This will be the recipe that wins it all in 2009.

My predictions for the 2009 season are quite predictable if you have followed my articles before. Red Sox will take the division, followed by a tight race for the Wild-Card from the Yankees and Rays.

Feel free to comment and give your feedback anytime.

Patriots Destory Raiders: 49-26 , Sending Them Into Black Hole

Alex Potter — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 11:26:31 -0500

The New England Patriots have really gotten to the Raiders in the last few years, I take you back to the 2001 AFC Divisional Game "The Forward Pass That Won A Championship", but yesterday tops that with a 49-26 whomping.

The defense played quite sloppy, despite the conditions they should have never given up 26 points to the Raiders. The first Raider score of the game was just another reason the Patriots Secondary is over-ranked....They should be last or at least next to last, I mean really we all know it!

Luckily the offense led by a mourning Matt Cassel came to play. Cassel threw for a career high 4 touchdowns, including 2 to Randy Moss who I think really enjoyed his homecoming as far as spite goes.

The Running game really clicked and where a three yard Lamont Jordan run from having 2, 100 yard rushers in the same game, which hasn't happened in over 20 years.

The special teams led by Ellis Hobbs' 97 yard kick-off return for a touchdown was mediocre and was only a result of poor field conditions.

Injuries continue to plague the Patriots as Matt Light went down with a shoulder injury in which we are awaiting the results of the MRI.

On a more personal note, I want to express my sorrow for the Cassel family. When I met Matt 2 seasons back, he was a very personable and kind hearted guy, which does not happen in the NFL to often. The death of his father, Greg was no surprise to the family, but a death is always taken deeply. The courage to come back and play for the Team shows the base of a true team player and in this case team leader. I think as a sports community whether you strive from a Patriots background or even a Raiders one, your heart goes out to him today, the day of the wake and the funeral being tomorrow.Bill Belichick went through this a few seasons back and he knew what this was like for Matt. That being said Cassel addressed his thanks ans appreciation from fans, coaches, and administration of Patriots Nation.

Finally not to end on such a personal note, The Arizona Cardinals will be in town on Sunday. The forecast looks to be rain, which lately we cannot avoid (4 straight weeks), and the Cardinals really have nothing to fight for. This looks to be an easy win but we cannot overlook the team that shocked the NFC West, like there is something really hard about winning that division.

The New York jets should never have won against the Bills last Sunday nor should have the Dolphins, but we are still looking at ties in both the division and wild-card. This week looks to be exciting and really playoff gathering, as the weeks grow slimmer so do the Patriots playoff chances (as much as I hate to say it). The only shot we have is if the Cowboys beat the Ravens and if there is a god he will help a brother out.

Patriots Fly Over Seahawks In 4th Quarter Comeback

Alex Potter — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 02:11:51 -0500

I am in no way commending the Patriots for their first half performance yesterday in Seattle. Allowing 14 points in the first half to one of the worst teams in the NFL is inexcusable, but the defense found a way to redeem themselves yet again.

Brandon Meriweather's forced fumble and Richard Seimore recovery allowed them to be 8-5 through Week 14. So, that said, the defense was okay, given yet another injury to Teddy Bruschi.

Matt Cassel's performance was mediocre and was nothing to toot his horn to and over-thrown bombs to Randy Moss might have cost us a halftime lead.

Wes Welker continues to impress with another 100+ yard performance. I am a little surprised that he isn't on the IR as well for a broken back from carrying this team up until this point. Let's get real New England fans: If it wasn't for Wes Welker we are looking at a 7-6 or 6-7 record right now.

The running game was what we needed with Lamont Jordan gaining four yards on a crucial third down play. Other than that it was nothing special at all, and at this point I think it shows.

Let's break down the real problem here: New England still isn't in the playoffs despite a New York loss! The Miami Dolphins are technically ahead of us, How is this happening?

The tie-breaker system in the NFL needs revision. The Patriots have outplayed the Miami Dolphins thus far in the season and yet they have the tie-breaker despite splitting the season series? The New York Jets lose two straight and they still own the AFC East lead, is this possible?

Finally, we enter next week looking at an Oakland team that has already beat an AFC East team this season, the New York Jets in overtime earlier this year. They have the positive third down run stopping defense, whether their stats prove it or not. We are overlooking this and you will hear that from Bill Belichick sometime throughout the week.

Patriots fans must remember we have played this same scenario staying two weeks out on the west coast and winning game number one and dropping the second like it was nothing to San Diego. Remember the margin of error is very slim now especially now that the winner of the NYJ-MIA game in week 17 just might decide the fate of the season for us.

Breaking News: Pedroia Signs Six Year Extension

Alex Potter — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 06:34:24 -0500

Little Dustin Pedroia has done it again. Not only has he won the American League MVP Award, The Silver Slugger, and a Gold Glove in 2008, but now he and Red Sox nation can now relax because he will remain a member of the Boston Red Sox until 2014.

Pedroia put up monster stats for a second baseman, thus clinching him the A.L. MVP, only the third second baseman in MLB history to do so.

The terms to the contract is six year, 40.5 million dollars.The exception to the contract is the progression rule that will be in play, as he will be paid as follows:$1.5 million in 2009, followed by $3.5 million in 2010, $5.5 million in 2011, $8 million in 2012, $10 million in 2013 and $10 million in 2014 to finish out his contract.

This was reported by mlb.com earlier this afternoon, and the team is expected to speak about this at a press conference at about 3:00 pm EST, today.

The ACC Championship: Round Two

Alex Potter — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 05:46:29 -0500

The ACC championship is now only just under four days away to what has become de ja vu. It seems like it was only one year ago that Boston College lost to Virginia Tech in Tampa, Florida. Oh wait, that's because it was, but this season is different, and Boston College will take red-shirt freshman quarterback Dominique Davis and his eagles to the Orange Bowl.

Virginia Tech should never have made it into the ACC championship game, much like the Boston College Eagles were not even predicted to finish in the top-three in the ACC standings, let alone a repeat trip to Tampa. Virginia Tech was clearly outplayed and out-ranked by Georgia Tech, but due to the tie breaker game rule, Virgina Tech moves one to its second consecutive ACC championship game.

This Saturday will prove to be a lot of things for both teams. A Virginia Tech win will prove that Tyrod Taylor has a place in the VT depth chart next season. A Boston College win puts the possibility of Dominique Davis becoming an in-and-out QB sharing the role with the impressive Chris Crane (who is out with a broken collar bone).

This game is a real toss-up and despite Boston College defeating VT earlier in the season, this a much different looking team on both ends. The following keys to success are what Boston College is going to need in order to stamp its ticket to the Orange Bowl.

Boston College

Dominique Davis can not run the ball on third down. The red-shirt freshman was relatively impressive as far as his game managing and time consuming drives were concerned but failed scrambled pocket scurries up the middle were unsuccessful.
Passing Game over Running Game. The passing offense of Boston College is ranked 100th in the nation out passing VT by about 40 yards per game. Virginia Tech clearly has Boston College beat on the ground, where both teams are ranked evenly, VT outruns ACC opponents at a ratio of 1.5 to 1 in 2008.
Score Early, but Finish Strong. Where Boston College does not hold a clear advantage in any NCAA rankings over VT besides penalties committed, is averaging five points more per game. This was the problem last week for BC, it needs to finish the game. If it wasn't for a late interception returned for a touchdown, I might be talking about Florida State playing in this game.

This 2008 ACC championship is going to be close and low scoring. My prediction is BC by a late touchdown on a drive by Dominique Davis, after a big fourth down stop by Mark Herzlich and the BC defense.

Steelers-Patriots: New England Embarrassed, but It's Not the End of the World

Alex Potter — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 03:00:46 -0500

The Sunday loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers was just plain embarrassing. The turnover ratio of 5-1 was the worst in almost seven years. The offense never clicked on all cylinders, and the defense could not make a tackle to save their lives.

Matt Cassel is now only the second quarterback to come off of back-to-back 400+ yard performances to follow it up will a loss. Could this be the footsteps of Brian Volek?

Preceding this game, Cassel threw for 815 yards and six touchdowns, leaving yestarday's game, his quarterback rating was a abysmal 39.4, which included two interceptions, two fumbles lost, and did not score once.

Right when I want to commend the offensive line for doing such a great job (last week versus Miami), they always find a way to surprise me.

Is it just me, or did James Harrison have the offensive line in his control? The O-line allowed five sacks and they are just as responsible for the two forced fumbles as Cassel is. I wish Matt would read this article because he needs to seriously learn what I am about to teach him:

Pocket Presence=Ball Protection=No Fumble=Patriots Success!

Another thing that really grinds my gears about yestarday's loss was the poor performance on special teams. Given Ellis Hobbs is sick, Matt Slater should never have been out there in the conditions given.

Another given was the shocking hit delivered to Wes Welker that I felt through my television. What about Kevin Faulk to return, the coach certainly put him back in a hurry once Slater fumbled that ball.

On top of that, Stephen Gostkowski, who has been automatic, finally decides to be the college football kicker he used to be and miss short field goals but hit the long ones.

Finally, I want to express the concern of a failed Randy Moss in yestarday's performance. This is not the Randy Moss that caught 23 touchdowns from Tom Brady last season, nor is he the Randy Moss that caught three touchdowns just two weeks ago.

This should be the only real worry that we take into the final four games. Wins versus Seattle, Oakland, and Buffalo are a given, but the contest against Arizona is a toss-up. The only thing that looks on the favor of New England versus Arizona is that by time they reach us, they will no doubt have their division wrapped up.

So will that mean they have nothing to fight for and possibly start more rookies and bench players to rest older starters?

The playoffs are not out of reach, in fact the possibility of a three way tie or even a Miami berth is not out of the question at this time. Fans, this is the point of the season where our team needs us most, and not for us to bail out on young Matt Cassel.

Bailouts are for corporate asses who need them, we, on the other hand should be believing in chance.

Flashback: January 2001, the Patriots' record is 11-5, we win the Super Bowl on the arm of an upstart backup quarterback named Tom Brady, whose name will eventually be enshrined in the Hall of Fame.

Matt Cassel may not have had the best start yesterday but not one of us complained when he threw for 400 yards versus Miami. We take the stand here and now, this is what makes us a solid football team, and that is what will help us fight for a chance of playoff berth, thus, we are Patriots Nation!

Albert Pujols: Your 2008 N.L. MVP

Alex Potter — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 06:09:55 -0500

Breaking News: 2 PM EST

As www.mlb.com has just reported, Albert Pujols has won the National League MVP Award. Albert knocked in 37 home runs and batted .357. This was truly an amazing season, which didn't result in a playoff berth but did prove that Pujols is a force to be reckoned with.

This is Pujols' second MVP award in the last two years, dating back to 2006 when they had an amazing season.

Finishing second in the voting was—in my eyes the front-runner, Ryan Howard.

Note: This was't meant to be an article as much as I am just trying to pass along breaking news.

Week 11 AFC Playoff Predictions: Who Wants It More?

Alex Potter — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 04:36:13 -0500

With the NFL season almost three quarters over by week's end, it make you start to wonder whether or not your team has what it takes. Perseverance and heart are what makes up a real team, unless you are a money hoarding, super team like the Dallas Cowboys, and look where that got them!

AFC

The Tennessee Titans This team is off to a franchise best 9-0 through Week 10. The momentum train will continue through week 11 but will come to an end in Week 12 and they will see a crashing halt to the end of their season. When I talk about football with people, they always want facts and stats. So you want them here they are: 22nd in the NFL in total yards, 12th in the NFL in defending the pass, and only 10th in points scored. Those are not the stats that make up a Super Bowl team, but merely an impressive season to date. They will be good enough to grab the top spot in the AFC, but they will end their season a mere average for a top seeded team: 13-3
The Pittsburgh Steelers The Pittsburgh Steelers have been in the pits lately, but I predict a seasonable change for them. As the weather become colder, the team will get hotter! A scoffing 6-3 through Week 10 is nothing to brag about, but a healthy Ben Roethlisberger will return and so will an offense that scores. They may own one of the league's worst offenses, but their defense is No. 1! The team is producing when it matters most however, the conference record is second best in the AFC, and third best in the NFL at 5-1. The final record will be mediocre at best with a 12-4 finish thus ending the season with a four game winning streak and seeing a first-round bye.
The New England Patriots What a season! The injury to Brady, the injury to Maroney, the injury to Thomas, and I could go on but I do not have the time nor patients to sit here all night! Another team with a 6-3 record, Who'd a thunk it? We could also sit here all night and reminisce of the good old times, but we do not have to, because they are back and they are resting on the shoulders of Matt Cassel. This young, second-string quarterback has gone from an ugly start to a hot finish! The running game has found their stride in BenJarvus Green-Ellis and the defense has recovered, even with nobodies and rookies starting. Statistically they are average at best but when you add in the circumstances and events leading up to this point and you are looking at one of the better performing teams in the NFL. The season outcome will end with a 11-5 finish and thus capping one hell of a record for the conditions they are playing in!
The Denver Broncos Wow, I never thought I'd be saying this after the last few games they have played, but better times are coming? After a 34-30 win versus Cleavland last Thursday night, it made me believe that there is still a team of believers behind all of those pads. With upcoming opponents including the Raiders, Falcon, and Jets it leads to speculation that they will end the season with a decent record.Statistically they have one of the better offenses not just in the AFC but the entire NFL. I am not saying that they are a Super-Bowl-caliber team like they were in the Elway era, but they are good enough to finish at 10-6. A wild-card elimination is practical and very ethical for all fantasy football players!
The Indianapolis Colts The start to the 2008 season was abysmal and lacked everything. After that, they still aren't an impressive team holding steady at 5-4 through Week 10. Sometime during the move to Lucas Oil Field, they must have sent their offense packing, because they are only ranked 23rd in both points scored and total yards. I am not being bias toward offensive ranks because trust me, their defense is no better. Defending the rush must be more confusing on new turf because they are allowing 134 yards rushing per game. Nine of the 13 members on the injury list as of Week 10 are members of the defense. Peyton Manning may be the greatest performer on TV but his brother is performing better on the field, where it matters most! The Colts will finish up at 10-6 and clinch the No. 1 wild-card spot, and Peyton will at least have a comedy career ahead of him after this hysterical season is finally over.
The Baltimore Ravens The decision to put Joe Flacco in the drivers seat in 2008 was surely not one I would have made, but they have proved us wrong again! For a team that is part of a great division, maybe not this year after the collapse of the Browns and Bengals, but it is hard to be over looked and they are used to that by now. The third-ranked rushing game in the league has certainly helped Flacco find a groove, not that he has been consistent, but never the less he still isn't going anywhere.With one of the top defenses in the league including the number one rush defense and the number two defense in total yards given up, it makes you ponder whether or not a defense wins games? Being yet another team with a 6-3 record to this point makes it hard to categorize them as being a playoff team or not. Sadly if 10-6 was good enough to grab a playoff spot for the Colts, It makes a 9-7 finish for the Ravens understandable.

Just Missed The Cut

The Buffalo Bills: Currently 5-4 Finish : 8-8

The New York Jets: Currently 6-3 Finish : 8-8

The Miami Dolphins: Currently 5-4 Finish : 7-9

New England Patriots Round Up Buffalo Bills 20-10

Alex Potter — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 02:45:14 -0500

In a game that really defined Matt Cassel as a starting quarterback, it was an undrafted rookie that really stood out. His name is Ben-Jarvis Green Ellis.

The rookie standout rushed for 105 yards and a touchdown in a 20-10 win, that should have been 20-3, but sloppy defense in the fourth quarter didn't let that happen.

The rookie commented after the game saying, "You never know. We're a game plan team, a personnel team. We just went out there and whatever worked we just stuck with it. I was happy to contribute and help us win today."

Another key to this game was the consistency of Wes Welker. Wes Welker has now caught at least six passes in each of his first nine games, setting an NFL record. This not only reflects the known talent of Welker, but the gradual and now defining talent of Matt Cassel.

Wes Welker commented on the success of Cassel by saying, "Yeah, he's done a great job. We wanted to come out and play well from the get-go and on that first drive we were able to do that. We just have to keep that going, keep that energy going, and make sure that every time we step out there we're trying to finish drives."

The Patriots have a short week ahead of them as they head into a battle for the AFC East lead on Thursday night against the New York Jets. The three keys to this game are simple.

Cash in on turnovers. New England had two interceptions that only resulted in three points.
Stay consistent with the rushing game. Young standout, Green-Ellis may not be just a fluke. This kid may be the real thing and that's what it's shaping up to look like.
Stay Healthy! The Patriots have lost yet another key player in Adalius Thomas. This injury report is turning from a pamphlet to a book.

If the Patriots can stick to these three attributes they will not only win on Thursday night, but it'll be a blow out. This team is actually starting to show a thing called unity and I think it's working!

Why Dustin Pedroia Should Win On November 18th!

Alex Potter — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 01:58:39 -0500

The date is set, all you have to do is get your champagne ready!

With all the talk of Dustin Pedroia not winning the MVP race, it's hard to believe that anyone besides a Red Sox player would win it this season. Dustin Pedroia led a tired, aged, and injured team with the help of Kevin Youkilis in 2008.

Now when wrote my original article, Your 2008 A.L.MVP Dustin Pedroia, back in September, all of the naysayers wanted to give stats. Well I have been in the archives lately and I realized something, I just might be right!

.323 avg./.374 ops./.566 slugging This is the line of the 1991 AL MVP (Cal Ripken Jr.)
.326 avg./.376 ops./.493 slugging This is the line of the possible 2008 AL MVP

.286 avg./.396 ops./.535 slugging This is the line of the 1958 AL MVP (Jackie Jensen)
.326 avg./.376 ops./.493 slugging This is the line of the possible 2008 AL MVP

So you say that isn't enough, well let me tell you something, when Jackie Jensen won the AL MVP Award in 1958, he played with some of the greatest players of the 20th century. Mickey Mantle, Ted Williams, and Yogi Berra are just a few that he played with.

Now you look at what has become maybe the greatest class of players in our era Alex Rodriguez, Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, Vladimir Guerrero, and Ichiro just to name a few. So you throw in Dustin Pedroia into that race and think that maybe it isn't so crazy that he has a shot to actually win.

Now just for the record let's compare what Kevin Youkilis has done, compared to past winners of the A.L. MVP.

.312 avg./.390 ops./.569 slugging    This is the line of Kevin Youkilis in 2008
.321 avg./.375 ops./.559 slugging    This is the line of the 2006 AL MVP (Justin Morneau)

.312 avg./.390 ops./.569 slugging    This is the line of Kevin Youkilis in 2008
.298 avg./.396 ops./.600 slugging    This is the line of the 2003 AL MVP (Alex Rodriguez)

Do you see the pattern here?

Sure, maybe I am being a little opinionated about the situation, but Boston was snubbed in 2006 and 2004 because the DH gets no love (sorry "Big Papi").

Things look great for the 2009 squad though, because both of these players return to the line-up in 2009. With key acquisitions of a lefty in the rotation and another power bat to void the hole left behind by Manny.

The only thing left now, is to wait until November 18th!
Voice Your Choice, Leave behind comments on what your thoughts are.

Can the Big Three Do It Again? Boston Celtics 2008-09 Season Overview

Alex Potter — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 02:58:47 -0400

The Boston Celtics are fresh off of NBA championship title number 17—but the ultimate question burning around Boston as of late is, can they do it again?

The "Big Three"—consisting of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen—all return to the TD Bank North Garden for a title defense in the 2008-09 season. Most of the supporting cast has also returned behind them.

These players may have been outshined by the Big Three last season—but believe that the new banner may not be hanging over the court this season if it wasn’t for a rookie point guard, a no-name center, and a bench full of misfits and old talent. This supporting cast is made up of Rajon Rondo, Kendrick Perkins, Sam Cassel, and Eddie House, just to name a few.

Most of the bandwagon fans of the '07-08 season may be trailing into Boston again because no one of shear importance left the '08-09 squad.

The Celtics have opened the preseason down in Newport, RI, on the campus of Salve Regina University. This short but meaningful trip to the players allowed them to open up and relax in what would have normally had been a quick paced and midseason-like environment up in Boston.

Danny Ainge definitely made wise use of their late draft picks, picking up what looks to be two of the best rookies in class in J.R. Giddens and Bill Walker. Both young players out of the midwest regions bring even more young talent and speed, and both are helping to round off a near-perfect roster.

The 2008-2009 regular season schedule does not make the championship title defense any easier, as the C’s open the season with ten home games in Boston during the month of November, but follow that up with only playing four home games in February around the All-Star break.

The C’s may have dominated the West Coast teams last season, but this season marks a new territory and a new outlook for nearly all West Coast teams—especially the Los Angeles Lakers, who lost to the Celtics in the NBA Finals.

The Celtics' season looks to have its twists and turns—just like any other team in 2008—but with such a prestigious team like this one, it is truly hard not to believe in championship banner number 18.

The Season Ends But DreamsDo Not

Alex Potter — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 06:35:30 -0400

Following a devastating loss to the Tampa Bay Rays, the Boston Red Sox look to put this season behind them and move on. The 2008 regular season may have been eventful and certainly wasn’t boring.

Another chapter of Manny being Manny is behind us and it’s now up to Los Angeles to deal with him. The newcomers haven’t brought new life to the team as much as they have brought a seasoned veteran feel. Jason Bay will return in 2009 but Mark Kotsay is questionable.

The most notable expected departure is the one of the captain, Jason Varitek. There is still a possibility of his return in 2009, but with the equation of his age and the number of years he wants in his contract, the outlook seems dim. I personally feel that his days in a Boston uniform are over unless he can accept that he is not Brett Favre and cannot play at his age when new talent outshines him.

The Boston Red Sox entered the 2008 season in March when they faced the Oakland Athletics in Japan; this was an extremely long trip and early start to the season. Much of the teams’ lack of success was blamed on this trip. The normal Major League team plays only six months, where as the Red Sox played a little under seven.

The season wasn’t filled with just bad memories because for many 2008 was seen as a historic campaign. The team produced two MVP candidates in Dustin Pedroia, (the front runner) and Kevin Youkilis, (the likely runner-up).The fans also broke an all-time attendance record for an MLB team with 456 consecutive sellouts.

Another positive spin on this season was the destruction of the evil empire in New York and an end to Yankee Stadium. The Bronx bombers looked absolutely dreadful this season with little sign of change in 2009.

Other 2008 surprises were the poor performance of the Detroit Tigers (who were believed to be a World Series contender) and the surprise success of the Tampa Bay Rays. Not only did the Rays win the American League East, but Rookie of Year candidate Evan Longoria and his supporting cast displayed total dominance from start to finish.

In conclusion, I may not be Dan Shaughnessy of The Boston Globe, but I am a true fan and I know what Boston sports are all about. People may not agree with my opinions on baseball or football but that’s why they are opinions.

I can honestly say that Boston’s chances of making it this far next year are slim considering that the AL East has become a super-division. A trip to the World Series in 2009 would be nice, but we cannot expect it every season because everyone gets their turn to shine.

Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, "No great man ever complains of want of opportunities." The Boston fans of this era have expected too much and that takes away the never-say-die feeling that structured this great organization. Red Sox Nation waited 86 years before they won again and no, it is complete chaos and anarchy around here.

When it come time to face the facts we need to see that perfect seasons are unreal and things can change in the blink of an eye.

Jason Varitek: The End of an Era?

Alex Potter — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 02:04:52 -0400

With the devastating loss to the Tampa Bay Rays last night in a crucial must win game seven, it just may have been Jason Varitek's last game in a Boston Red Sox uniform. The Boston great has been one of the greatest, if not the greatest, catcher to put on a Boston uniform.

This is not final yet, but when asked last night after the game if this was his final game...reality set in when he broke down, teared up, and ended the interview while placing a towel over his head.

This dominant catcher has caught and called three no hitters in his life time. That is more than any other catcher in history and he has also hit 12 post season home runs as a catcher which is also more than any other catcher in history. Most importantly he has enlightened Red Sox Nation as the Captain for the last three years.

If the captain had his way he would return in 2009 in a three starts per rotation schedule while batting ninth. The only problem to his needs is that he wanted, and I say wanted because his agent is Scott Boris, a two year contract with a player and team option for a third. The Red Sox do not have a credible replacement lined up and with an older free agent class of catchers coming out in the free agents. That leads me to believe there is a hint of chance to a possible return.

The 2009 free agent catchers include: Brad Ausmus, Greg Zaun, Paul Bako, Rod Barajas, Josh Bard, Michael Barrett, Henry Blanco, Johnny Estrada, Toby Hall, Jason LaRue, Paul Lo Duca, Miguel Olivo, Ivan Rodriguez, David Ross, Javier Valentin, and of course Jason Varitek

Whatever happens in the course of the next couple of months, whether he retires or looks for another team or maybe even returns, I feel that it is needed to respect the man that stood for a character of strength when we as fans have needed it most.

-Alex Potter

Boston Massacre: Rays Win 13-4, Put Sox on Brink of Elimination

Alex Potter — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 02:37:43 -0400

Is this familiar enough yet?

Each time we have won the World Series, the Boston Red Sox have been on the brink of elimination. This is getting out of hand, though.

Yesterday morning I wrote an article explaining how, if the Red Sox lost last night, the series would end in Boston and the Rays would take the Boston road trip three games to nothing. Sadly, as a Red Sox fan, this is coming true. Trust me: Every jerk out there who thinks he knows more than I do about baseball has argued this point and has told me that it means nothing.

The sad loss puts the Red Sox in a position where you actually want to feel bad for them. This is where it ends, Red Sox Nation! I didn't want to have to report this this morning, but I am. The truth is hard to swallow.

The Rays are 12-6 in interleague play against the National League this season and are far more ready for it than we are. They want it more—let's face it.

As much as I want an ultimate comeback, I don't see one coming this season. We don't have run support, and the pitching from our starters and the bullpen is subpar.

The Red Sox will send Daisuke Matsuzaka to the mound for a Game Five matchup in which the Rays look not to be hitless through six innings of work again. Our bats weren't even productive in Game One. How do we expect the guys to produce when we cannot even mimic a pitching performance from Daisuke?

Let's get real here, Red Sox Nation, because I want to talk to you as normal human beings and not raging fans after I predicted a Sox loss last night!

Here it goes: It has been a rough year, with the loss of Manny Ramirez, the struggles of Josh Beckett, and the poor postseason performances of our contact batters that got us here. We cannot win forever, and we as Red Sox fans should know this better than everyone (except Cubs fans). It took us 86 years to finally win again.

I think we can wait until next season and let the upstart Rays go get swept in the World Series just like the same-story Rockies did just one year ago. Let's pick up the rally towels that Manny is using in L.A. to wax his cars and be better than that. Don't cry over this! We are Red Sox Nation! We are Boston!

Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, "No great man ever complains of want of opportunities."

So why sour more an already sour year? Maybe we can win the division next season when all of this drama is behind us.

Thank you, Red Sox Nation.

- Alex Potter

Red Sox: Win Tonight or We Stay in Boston for Good!

Alex Potter — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 05:19:13 -0400

The actions made by the Boston Red Sox over the last two postseason starts versus the Tampa Bay Rays have been awful. Whether it was allowing a starting pitcher to stay in too long or just not hitting the ball, it all takes me back to a wonderful season ended by the man seen above.

Well, nothing is perfect in baseball. No Boston pitcher has ever had a zero ERA in a season, a Boston batter never bats 1,000, and no Boston bullpen ever seems to have its day!

The decision to keep Josh Beckett in game two while allowing eight—I repeat, eight runs—was the point at which I, a Boston Red Sox fan, ask "Can we trust Red Sox management when it comes to postseason starters?" I recall a certain ALCS game back in 2003 when Grady Little decided to leave Pedro Martinez in the game, thus costing us one more year of shame and pity.

Terry Francona will go down in history of being the greatest manager in Red Sox history, believe it or not, but the weight of the two World Series ring on his fingers must be affecting the distribution of thought going through his mind.

All hard feeling as of late aside, the bullpen has not been any better either. Pitching Coach John Ferrel definitely scored some points with me the other night when he argued balls and strikes while Mike Timlin was pitching.

Aside from that, what the hell has happened to the 1-2 punch of Okajima and Papelbon?

Papelbon has still got it, but what has happened to Okajima, Timlin, and Masterson? All of them have either given up the game-tying or game-winning runs in this 2008 postseason.

Red Sox bats exploded in Tapma Bay the other night in game two, when they rose to the occasion and jumped out to reclaim or take the lead three separate times. Not to mention the four home runs that were hit (sounds a lot like what happened last night in Fenway, just vice versa).

Let's get real here, Red Sox Nation, because it is time for some tough love! If the Red Sox do not win game four tonight in Boston, they will be making lemonade and eating the left-overs of humble pie the Patriots had served to them on Sunday night. All while the Tampa Bay Rays win the World Series.

If the Red Sox win tonight then it is a completely different story, the Red Sox will crush the Phillies and sweep. It's simple really—losing tonight means bye-bye all hope and dreams of a repeat, but win and they are in.

Five Reasons Why the Boston Red Sox Will Win the World Series

Alex Potter — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 03:36:02 -0400

The Boston Red Sox head into what seems to be their toughest ALCS test in the last couple of years. The Tampa Bay Rays bring a lot to a big table, but it just isn't enough when you compare what the Red Sox have.

Here are the top five reasons as to why the Red Sox will dominate the ALCS, win in five games, and go to the World Series and repeat the sweep!

5. The Depth Chart for the Red Sox is far more extensive than any other team remaining in the playoffs. The only thing that weakens them is their bullpen, which has mirrored their performance in the regular season and has totally blown it.

4. They bring more postseason experience to the table than, once again, any other team that is remaining this postseason. They have made it to the ALCS for the fourth time in the last six years. That is pretty impressive.

3. Momentum. I already know what half of you people are going to say out there...Some Joe Six Pack will leave a comment saying, "Aren't you underselling the Rays momentum from being a underdog story?"

Here is what I am saying to you: Yes, yes I am, because they clinched the ALCS spot on the road. If they would have done it at home, it changes things, and I might have liked to have seen them stretch this series out to seven games. Then, once the ALCS is over, the Sox have home-field advantage for the World Series (which they've had every time they have won a World Series).

2. Every Red Sox fan in America wants to see the Red Sox destroy Manny Ramirez for everything he has ever done or said to lower the team. I was a fan of Manny until he actually went through with the trade. The Red Sox will face Los Angeles in the World Series, and I will make more money than what I already have selling my "Beat L.A." shirts, and the Red Sox will make the victory taste even sweeter when they are rubbing it in Manny's face!

1. The pitching staff. The young gun that is Jon Lester has propelled the Red Sox Nation to actually believe in the team again. The other postseason gun has been Daisuke Matsuzaka, who has been on his game this season and postseason.

The only thing I am worried about is the security of Josh Beckett and the effectiveness of Tim Wakefield. Red Sox fans, take note of this: The starters will go 3-0; the only non-win will be a no-decision when Josh Beckett starts in the ALCS.

They will go 4-0 in the World Series with the whole team pitching like aces, especially versus the N.L.—I mean really, the N.L. doesn't stand a chance.

Look Out Tampa: Red Sox Take Momentum To ALCS

Alex Potter — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 03:01:55 -0400

The greatest game in the 2008 playoffs may now be behind us, but Red Sox Nation continues to celebrate this morning in Boston and all over the world.

The dream that every little boy has had, finally came true for the rookie Jed Lowrie who started the year off in Triple-A and should have won the game Sunday night but came through with the biggest hit of his career to date.

With this bottom of the ninth and two out hit, the Red Sox take a serious momentum swing into Tampa Bay for the A.L.C.S. starting Friday Night.

It has been rumored that Josh Beckett might start Game One, but at least to me it seems like they should start Daisuke Matsuzaka then Jon Lester then Josh Beckett.But the difference is I haven't won two world series in the last four years so I will leave the decision making to Terry Francona.

Once again, with last night behind us and half of Boston recovering from a serous hangover we haven't had since October '07 the question that now stands is: What do the Rays have to worry about, because they have never been in this situation and they do not know the pressure like the Red Sox do, and whether or not that is a good or bad thing.

I was listening on The Dennis and Callahan Morning Show on WEEI Boston (A shameless plug for my favorite sports talk radio station), and a caller brought up a valid point. The Rays took all of the experience of playing Boston and New York in high pressure situations and used that to start a claim versus Chicago.

We all saw how that worked out for them. With the familiarity of the two team, Tampa Bay will assume they have the upper hand ,but as we all know as bad as Boston fans are during the regular season, they are twice as spiteful towards the opposition during the playoffs especially the A.L.C.S..

Either way of what happens in this next series, whether it be Boston or Tampa Bay that wins both teams have a had a season for the record books.

The only thing that I hate about the A.L.C.S. this year, is that it is on TBS the worst baseball network, I would rather watch it on PBS than TBS, at least the Fox Sports guys know what they are talking about, if I had to go back and pick out all of the errors it made,it makes the Anaheim defense look good.

Prediction: Red Sox In five, and Jon Lester continues his 22+ inning scoreless playoff streak and I wouldn't be surprised to see Paul Bird or Tim Wakefield make an impact in the bullpen especially with them struggling as of late.

Patriots Strike 49ers Gold In 30-21 Win!

Alex Potter — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 03:00:41 -0400

Well let's get the story straight, right off of the mark.

The Patriots offense was the best we have seen it all season long. The running game found its stride and finally set fourth a precedent for the rest of the season.

Breaking down stats, Matt Cassel has a rookie day at the office throwing two interceptions (that really could have been as many as four) but threw for 259 yards and a touchdown, while Kevin Faulk "Hasn't scored this many touchdowns since the fourth grade", said Belichick.

A career day for the Patriots veteran rushing for two touchdowns and gaining 80 all-purpose yards.

The Patriots backfield which, even I have admitted to being par at best, really impressed me yesterday intercepting former Patriots QB J.T. O'Sullivan three times. Luckily for O'Sullivan he threw for three touchdowns to offset those INT's.

The Patriots have a much greater and powerful opponent next week in San Diego. The stats may not add up to this team just yet but remember this is the same team that opposed us in the 2007 AFC Conference Game and were one hell of a team.

Red Sox-Angles: Sox Lose in 12, Boston Fans Stayed Up for This?

Alex Potter — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 02:21:02 -0400

The picture is a little exaggerated, but you get the gist that the Angels won.

It was around 1:30 AM EDT this morning when the Boston Red Sox lost to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. This game looked to be one for the ages, where the Red Sox looked to put away the Angels for a record 12th time in the postseason, but that look changed quickly when Mike Napoli scored in the 12th inning off of Javier Lopez (surprise surprise!).

Red Sox Nation should have known that this one was going to end badly for the Sox when Jed Lowrie, the rookie sensation, struck out with the bases loaded in the 10th inning, essentially giving the Angels hope and momentum that they would later use to win the game.

The only positive out of a game of negatives for the Red Sox was that Jacoby Ellsbury made postseason history by knocking a three-run single; he was the first Boston rookie to do so.

Let's break down the facts and separate the obviousness of last night. The Angels out-hit the Red Sox 16-7 in a game where, if it wasn't for a bloop flyball to center hit by Ellsbury, the game would have been over at a reasonable time in the ninth inning.

Another thing that is plaguing my mind as of late is the poor performance of one Dustin Pedroia, who has just plain sucked in this ALDS. This performance is nowhere near his 2008 regular season or his 2007 postseason.

I never thought I would say this, but the unsung hero of the playoffs thus far is the mildly-favored J.D. Drew (savior of Game Two in Anaheim) and Jacoby Ellsbury (batting .400 and batted in 5 RBI).

It is simple: The Red Sox have two shots at winning this clear, well, really one, because they do not—I repeat, DO NOT—want to go back to Anaheim with this series tied at two games a piece.

The Red Sox's Jon Lester heads to the mound tonight versus John Lackey, who pitched a no-hitter into the ninth inning at Fenway Park earlier this season. Red Sox fans need to hope for the one of the greatest game of their lives tonight, because momentum, which is riding high in the Angels' clubhouse today, is on their side.

Prediction: The Angels will score first but the Red Sox will score quickly and often to counter them. Jon Lester will throw six innings of five-hit baseball, allowing one run, maybe two at the most.

John Lackey will remember his trip to Fenway just much as he remembers his no hitter into the ninth because tonight is the night that he blows the Angels out of the playoffs.

Josh Beckett Will Not Start until Game Three

Alex Potter — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 07:34:49 -0400

An earlier report stated that Josh Beckett, the 2007 Red Sox playoff iron horse, would not start until game three of the ALDS versus the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

What Does this Mean Exactly?

Well, let's get serious here for a moment: Red Sox Nation. Josh Beckett is not the same Josh Beckett we saw one year ago. He has been injury-plagued and half as dominant.

Are the Sox in Trouble?

Once again, let's get serious. As soon as we knew the Red Sox were playing the Angels, we knew they were in trouble. The Red Sox are 0-6 versus the Angels in 2008, including a home and away sweep.

What Can They Do to Win?

Simple. The Red Sox have two young and very prestigious starters in Daisuke Matsuzaka and Jon Lester. The two pitchers combined for 34 wins in 2007, making them one of the most effective duos in baseball.

Breaking News: Rams Fire Head Coach Scott Linehan

Alex Potter — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 03:42:20 -0400

As reported earlier this morning the St. Louis Rams have announced the firing of Scott Linehan.

Personally I feel like this is a little too soon. An 0-4 start is nothing compared to the 0-15 start in Miami last season. An interim head coach was also announced to be Jim Haslett.

Let's put it this way; the Rams are not going to win more than four games this season, end of story. They just do not have a good team besides Tory Holt.

Luckily week five is their bye week so the players can maintain and stabilize their composure.

What do you think about this?

Patriots Fans, We Aren't Out Of This Yet!

Alex Potter — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 03:25:38 -0400

As of Sunday, almost one quarter of what looks to be the New England Patriots toughest regular season tests, is now behind us.

After the week one injury of Quarterback Tom Brady, that not only crippled him but the entire organization, Patriot fans must look to the future.

The AFC East surprise team, the Buffalo Bills, make the Patriots sit and look up to an unfamiliar place in the standings—third. Other division surprises in 2008 include the New York Jets acquisition of Brett Favre from the Green Bay Packers, and the departure of Jason Taylor from the Miami Dolphins.

The New England Patriots have been served their slice of humble pie in 2008, leading us fans to believe there is no chance. New England fans have seen their share of disappointment, as we all watched the last minute Super Bowl loss to the New York Giants.

When can we say, “We have had enough!” and just get back to the winning ways in Foxboro. The probability of the Pats winning the Super Bowl again in 2008 is just about impossible. That one chance, the belief from just even one fan, is what puts character in an underdog team led by a backup Quarterback.

Most people may have forgotten that Tom Brady went from zero to hero in 2001 when he came in after the Drew Bledsoe injury that put Brady on the map.

Let’s also not forget Tom Brady did not go 16-0 in his rookie season, he went 11-5 and just barely squeezed his way into a playoff birth.

Sure the Patriots won the Super Bowl in 2001, but that underdog story is the same one that is giving a Super Bowl dream to Matt Cassel and his 2008 squad.

The passing game and the powerhouse defensive game way have led us to championships in the past, but even if they do not this year, we can still believe.

Entering Sunday, no team is out of the playoffs just yet, there are 31 other hopes and dreams that are possible. How does our dream season play out any different?

As a New England Patriots fan and a Boston Red Sox fan, I know that belief is all we need to win.