Opening Night Doesn't Disappoint

By Wes Yee (@wesyee)

The season kicked off the way every season should, with a rivalry game between the Red Sox and the Yanks. A back and forth affair, the game lived up to all expectations, from a Pedro appearance (throwing out the first pitch) to a fantastic Neil Diamond “Sweet Caroline” performance that had the stadium rocking. A few quick shots:

@ESPN’s coverage – The addition of Orel Hershiser was a strong one, the Bulldog brings an intellectual perspective to breaking down the action. The same can’t be said, unfortunately, about his counterpart Joe Morgan, who was in midseason form announcing that Kevin Youkilis was a good fielder immediately after Hershiser mentioned his Gold Glove and stating that “the Red Sox would be wise to score some more.”

@Joe Girardi – Also in midseason form was the Yankee’s skipper. Mismanaging his bullpen by bringing in Chan Ho Park and Damaso Marte in the 7th. Rolling with Joba in the 7th would have made a lot more sense – even if he struggled and wasn’t able to go the 8th the teams have tomorrow off – no reason not to go with Rivera for two innings to lock down an opening win.

@David Ortiz - The highlights for Ortiz seemed to be not being called on his check swings. He shouldn’t be counted on for a big year by any means – I’d quickly go to Lowell (who kills lefties) as a DH platoon option.

@Josh Beckett – His low 90’s two-seamer continues to get hammered by right handed hitters. He tries to be too perfect with his curveball and overthrows it. Throw the hard four-seamer inside and break some bats.

@Daniel Bard – CANNOT be walking Nick Johnson to get to Teixiera with two outs and none on. Challenge!

@Britney Griner/Baylor – A great presence but looked like the freshman she is against UConn. There is no reason anyone should ever get a rebound or box her out.

@WesYee - Follow me on Twitter! I’ll be prolifically tweeting baseball chatter all season long!