How to Beat Roy Halladay - a.k.a. Manny Being Manny
Today, we experienced what is known in sarcastic sports watching circles as “The Reverse Lock.” Its a good thing baseball isn’t played on paper, becuase otherwise, we wouldn’t have won today. With our leadoff hitter and yesterday’s hero both out of the lineup (Lugo/Lowell) and the Jays’ ace Roy Halladay on the mound against the guy we all tried to run out of Boston last year, we didn’t stand a chance. There is not way to beat Roy Halladay with Tavarez on the mound.
But apparently there is, becuase Tavarez pitched well and we chased Halladay from the game in the 8th inning. Manny went deep and Papelbon saved it. Bring on New York! The Sox did a good job of being patient - something that has been very difficult for them this year, especially when pitchers are throwing strikes. Halladay through 59 strikes out of 95 pitches, good for 62%, which is higher than average. Nonetheless, he was at 90+ pitches in the 8th and the Sox effectively chased him out of the game. They even drew 3 walks off him, which is unreal considering he only gave up 4 before today, and only 34 all of last year. This led to his exit, when Downs came in for the lefty on lefty matchup against Ortiz. They won that, but Marcum ain’t exactly an ace and Manny made him pay with his first homer of the year. Without BJ Ryan, the 9th proved difficult as well and the Sox pulled it out.
Good job being patient today guys, and taking advantage of a strong outing by Tavarez. If they had gone in swinging away like in most of their losses this year, this blog wouldn’t be so positive.
Stumble it!