RED SOX - 4/3/02
April 03, 2002
LATEST TEAM INFO:
The red flags are officially raised as far as Pedro Martinez’ arm is concerned. His first start came opening day at Fenway Park on April 1 and it wasn’t pretty. He lasted just 3 innings, giving up nine hits, eight runs (seven earned), and two walks while striking out four in Toronto’s 12-11 seesaw win. Pedro’s fastball topped out at 94 mph and was consistently in the 89-91 range. His location was off as well. There were countless times where catcher Jason Varitek set up for the pitch, only to lunge to the other side of the plate to grab it. The Blue Jays didn’t hit him that hard, but they all count. There were a few balls ripped though. Jays’ rookie Eric Hinske hit a laser that went foul just before the “Pesky Pole” down the right field line. Darrin Fletcher and Jose Cruz also both hit some shots that went for extra bases. After the game, Pedro attributed the poor outing to his new windup and new mentality towards pitching. He also went on to relate he was pain free, which is encouraging.
Several Sox newcomers made a contribution in the opening day loss. The new lineup looks quite intimidating. New first baseman Tony Clark made an immediate impression, belting a three run homer to get the Sox back into the game early. Rey Sanchez smacked a single to give the Sox their first lead of the game. Jason Varitek had a huge game in his first since a broken elbow. “Tek” went 3 for 3 with a homer, 2 runs, 2 ribbies, and 2 walks. Darren Oliver had an adverse effect on the game, giving up three runs in 1.2 innings. On another note, Shea Hillenbrand actually drew a walk! He has been working on improving his pitch selection.
LOCAL PERSPECTIVE:
The floodgates opened on talk radio the day after the Sox loss. Many are already writing off the season! They feel without Pedro, this team can’t compete. While it may make things tougher, the offense will be able to win games by itself. The fact is, Pedro is pain free, so it is just a matter of him adjusting to his new delivery. He also is not as confident with his injury always in the back of his mind. His rotator cuff is slightly torn, so it never really healed. One wrong move, and it may give out completely. This has to be weighing on his mind. If Pedro can’t make it through the season, don’t be surprised if the Sox decide to call up a rookie, such as Juan Pena. The new ownership is committed to keeping the payroll down and promoting the farm system, so a trade for a big name pitcher would be out of the question.
RUMOR MILL:
It seems Brian Daubach’s days in a Red Sox uniform are numbered. Signing a multi-million dollar contract in the waning days of the Dan Duquette era (a move new ownership would never have made), he is dead wood and could bring pitching insurance to the Hub. The more prevalent rumors have “Dauber” heading to Atlanta, as they have an obvious need for a first baseman. The Sox are currently entertaining offers, but the will not go looking for a deal.
The Sox had a surprise hitting at the second spot in their order on opening day. Yes, that was Jose Oferman and he did hit a homer. And the Sox couldn’t be happier. Early on, the Sox will play Offerman and try and showcase him for a trade. The better he plays, the more the Sox get back in trade. So let’s all pull for Jose and see what he can bring the Sox. Hopefully, he won’t be coming to your team anytime soon.
INJURIES:
John Burkett is currently on the 15-day DL (eligible to be activated by April 6). He has a sore shoulder. This may be something to keep an eye on, as he isn’t getting any younger. The 38 year old pitcher is due to make his scheduled start, however.
Michael Coleman went on the 15 day DL with a strained hamstring. He is a fifth outfielder on this club, so he won’t be much help to your fantasy team when he is activated.
ON THE FARM:
Juan Pena – SP: Sent down as a late Spring Training cut, he will get first call if the Sox need a pitcher. He looked great during the spring and only was sent down because he has options and throws right-handed. He has command of four good pitches and starting every fifth day in AAA Pawtucket will be more beneficial to him than stagnating in the Sox bullpen.
QUICK VIEW:
Watch:
Pedro Martinez – The poor outing may be due to his new approach to pitching or he may really be done. Give him a few starts to sort himself out. Don’t jump to conclusions and drop him off your fantasy squad. A player with his history doesn’t just roll over and die.
Brian Daubach – If you are in a deep league and you have him, don’t drop him just yet. If he does manage to find his way to Atlanta (or as another team’s starting 1B), he should be a serviceable fantasy player. He’s got a good glove and that may be the deciding factor for teams to grab him.
Add:
Trot Nixon – Have you seen the lineup in front of this guy? If he drives in less than 85 runs, it will be a disappointment. Expect him to put up big time numbers.
Derek Lowe – The former closer will occupy a rotation spot this season. He looked great in the spring and has worked on his stamina during the off season. He could win 12-15 games with the offense the Sox have behind him.
