A continuation of our series of taking to bloggers for around the county to get their perspective on the biggest stories surrounding their team heading into spring training and the 2012 season.
Today we are talking to Christine E from the Boston Red Thoughts. My gratitude to Christine for taking the time to answer my questions:
1. What do you think is the team’s biggest story heading into spring training?
As Spring Training progresses, people will be watching to see if the Sox really have learned from their mistakes, and will focus on what’s important–winning ballgames. I Definitely think that actions will speak louder than words in this instance, although a more apologetic stance from some would not be unwelcome…
2. Who will be the Red Sox 4th and 5th starters this season?
With 34 pitchers of all manner and variety in camp, it’s tough to say. But I am going have to say Alfredo Aceves, and Daniel Bard least to start the season. And that is really only because of the rest of the pitchers the Sox have available to them at this point are really underwhelming. But, I am not totally sold on
Daniel Bard yet. While I like the idea, I am not sure starting is the best place for him and for the Red Sox. He was very effective as a set-up man, and with the signing of Andrew Bailey, the whole “heir apparent” to Jonathan Papelbon, and accompanying pressure has been removed. And good set-up men who can pitch the 7th and/or 8th inning are rare. But Bobby Valentine is determined to try this, so anything can happen…
3. Who will be the Red Sox closer come September?
Andrew Bailey. He has pitched in the bigs for the last 3 years, averaging 25 saves a year. As long as he can handle the pressure cooker that is Boston, I think he will be fine…And, if he tanks, there is always Daniel Bard…
4. What do you expect from David Ortiz this season?
While David Ortiz is not getting any younger (he just turned 36 in October) I don’t expect a huge drop off in his numbers. While he had a couple of rough years in 2008-2009, he started to bounce back in 2010, and did very well in 2011. And while I do not expect the David Ortiz of 2003 or 2004 back, I can see him hitting .295 with 30 homers and 100 RBI’s in 2012.
5. Is Salty ready to replace Tek?
Depends on what you mean by replace. Do I think he has what it takes to lead this team like Jason Varitek, or be as good with picthers as Jason as has been? Maybe someday, but he is young, and that kind of expertise comes with experience. Do I think he could get there? I do. I think that he is capable, willing to learn, and has a fire in his belly to succeed. Last year was a transition period for him, this year, I expect we will see an improvement, both behind and at the plate…
6. Can we have an early prediction on how the Red Sox will do this season?
I think the Sox will win 96 game, and place 2nd in the AL East, behind Tampa Bay. Depending on how Major League Baseball decides to go on the Wild Card, that may or may not be enough to get them to the post season. I do not, however, expect another epic collapse in September, like we saw in 2011…
Thank you again to Christine. You can Follow Boston Red Thoughts on Twitter by the handle @bostonredthots
