Gnashing of teeth is acceptable. Kicking the dog is not. Punching the speed bag might help. Punching the wall will not. We recognize that baseball is a game of inches, and a Bucknerian groundball led to a Bomber run, and a terrific catch by Cabrera denied Manny's bid for a homer. Still, relievers have to come in and throw strikes and Seanez' walking in the winning run defines futility.
David couldn't quite overcome Goliath in Gotham tonight, despite a quality start by any means.
The bigger picture however, shows differences between the teams, with the New Yorkers averaging over six runs a game (the Sox at 5.5) and the ancient rivals with an ERA of 4.28 to the Sox 4.75.
The Pythagorean Equation of baseball assesses run differential and New York has outscored opponents by 77 and the Sox outscored opposition by 27. Only the magnificence (can you call it otherwise) of Papelbon (and New York injuries) have allowed the Sox to remain on the heels of the division leaders.
We can only hope that Pauley's performance tonight wasn't a fluke, especially with the recent struggles of erstwhile number 1B, Josh Beckett. Toss in the age of Schilling and Wakefield and Sox fans go on suicide watch.
Craig Hansen joined the parent club today, and every indication suggests that Jon Lester starts against Texas on Saturday. Lester has pitched out of trouble induced by walks recently, but the Sox willingness to give some young players a chance is refreshing.
Plodding relative to Crisp or not, Kevin Youkilis needs to go back into the leadoff spot until Coco gets it going. Man-Law.
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