Paps to Papi

Salvage that series and they’re on their way to the weekend with the Bronx Bombers (and, to be honest, they’re lately bombing the competition). As fans, we’re certainly not afraid of NY. They can’t capture the division this weekend, even if they were to sweep it.

Sounding off:

• Watching Papi hit a game-winning home run became quite a norm last year and we were completely taking it for granted. His production in the clutch this year hasn’t been anywhere near his capabilities due to shoulder and knee problems. I think we all recognize that if he makes it to the off-season, he’ll go through the scope and heal just fine for Spring Training.
• Manny will be back this weekend for the series against the Yankees. It’ll mean a lot, since his bat has sorely been missed. This, by the way, is not because of his production (down this year), but because of what his presence means to the opposing pitching staff.
• Francona should get an extension. Now. Not when the season is over. How can the Front Office let this guy get to the post season without a new deal? That’s ridiculous. (Of course, if he pulls a Grady Little during the ALDS or ALCS or WS, The Nation would want his head in a basket.)
• J.D. Drew remains an enigma, but how about Varitek? He has left just as many people on base this year as Drew. Aside from his spectacular and well-deserved status of Captain, ‘Tek needs to get his head around the pitches he’s seeing (or not seeing at the moment).
• Youk is in a horrible slide as well. His production has dropped in the last three weeks to the point where his BA is below .290. Not good, no matter how many times he looks like someone hit his dog when he’s called out on strikes.
• Wake is hurt more so than he cares to let on.
• Tavarez did an outstanding job of coming in to the game in long relief.
• Lowell deserves to finish his career with the Sox. He’s been durable, dependable and has quiet leadership in the clubhouse. His articulate responses to questions surrounding anything from his teammates dogging it to the manager’s future have been incredible, if not unheard of in the Hub. Add to the fact that he’s multi-lingual and has had a resurgence in his offense and you not only have someone playing for his contract, but someone who would be appreciative once a deal is done and continue to perform next year.

Finally, a note of appreciation to my former father-in-law, who passed away over the weekend. Your family will miss you, but we will celebrate your memory with kind and warm thoughts based on your generosity and commitment to family.