BaseKnocks

Today on SI.com, Tom Verducci identified some big name youngsters who are leading candidates for the “Year After Effect.” Topping the list of ten hurlers are Cy Young winner, Tim Lincecum , World Series MVP, Cole Hamels , cancer survivor Jon Lester , and the two brightest names in the Dodgers rotation, Chad Billingsley and Clayton Kershaw . Cole Hamels was not a surprising name to see on this list considering he threw more innings than any other pitcher in 2008, at one point even... Read Full Story

Today on SI.com, Tom Verducci identified some big name youngsters who are leading candidates for the “Year After Effect.” Topping the list of ten hurlers are Cy Young winner, Tim Lincecum , World Series MVP, Cole Hamels , cancer survivor Jon Lester , and the two brightest names in the Dodgers rotation, Chad Billingsley and Clayton Kershaw . Cole Hamels was not a surprising name to see on this list considering he threw more innings than any other pitcher in 2008, at one point even... Read Full Story

Prior to the first pitch of Florida’s opener today, Neyer lambasted Fredi Gonzalez’s decision to bat Emilio Bonifacio in the leadoff spot of the potent Marlins lineup. Two points here, both of them so obvious that perhaps you don’t need me to make them. … One, 30 or 40 or 25 at-bats isn’t really any opportunity at all. Even a good hitter might easily go 8-for-40 (.200) and (by Gonzalez’ logic) lose his job. Two, Bonifacio’s career averages in the majors against lefties and righties... Read Full Story

Prior to the first pitch of Florida’s opener today, Neyer lambasted Fredi Gonzalez’s decision to bat Emilio Bonifacio in the leadoff spot of the potent Marlins lineup. Two points here, both of them so obvious that perhaps you don’t need me to make them. … One, 30 or 40 or 25 at-bats isn’t really any opportunity at all. Even a good hitter might easily go 8-for-40 (.200) and (by Gonzalez’ logic) lose his job. Two, Bonifacio’s career averages in the majors against lefties and righties... Read Full Story

How many 16 year-olds can brag about 500-foot home run power? It’s probably about the same number that can say they have Scott Boras as a personal advisor. Bryce Harper has both. At this year’s International High School Power Showcase, a home run derby at the Tropicana Dome in Tampa in January, Harper bashed a mammoth 502-foot home run. Officials said it would have traveled out of the old Yankee Stadium. Maybe even have hit the elevated train. Last year, Harper batted .590 with 11 home... Read Full Story

The last pitcher to win the National League MVP award was Bob Gibson in 1968.  This year, C.C. Sabathia deserves to be the first pitcher in 40 years to take the honor.  No, C.C. didn’t post a 1.12 ERA and win 22 games.  No pitcher will ever do that again.  But what Sabathia did do was bring a refuse to lose attitude to a franchise that hasn’t made the playoffs since 1982—back when recently fired manager, Ned Yost was their backup catcher. Of course, there are a number obstacles that stand... Read Full Story

The last pitcher to win the National League MVP award was Bob Gibson in 1968.  This year, C.C. Sabathia deserves to be the first pitcher in 40 years to take the honor.  No, C.C. didn’t post a 1.12 ERA and win 22 games.  No pitcher will ever do that again.  But what Sabathia did do was bring a refuse to lose attitude to a franchise that hasn’t made the playoffs since 1982—back when recently fired manager, Ned Yost was their backup catcher. Of course, there are a number obstacles that stand... Read Full Story

In his nearly 60 years in the organization, John Michael Pesky has epitomized what it means to be a member of the Boston Red Sox. He’s basked in the tragic losses; he’s celebrated on the diamond during the sweetest victories. He’s even heard his share of boos. Johnny Pesky has earned his Sox after scores of years caught up in the bittersweet drama that is Red Sox history. As a player, he set the table for Ted Williams, batting leadoff during the Hall of Famer’s prime. He was on the bench as... Read Full Story

In his nearly 60 years in the organization, John Michael Pesky has epitomized what it means to be a member of the Boston Red Sox.  He’s basked in the tragic losses; he’s celebrated on the diamond during the sweetest victories.  He’s even heard his share of boos.  Johnny Pesky has earned his Sox after scores of years caught up in the bittersweet drama that is Red Sox history. As a player, he set the table for Ted Williams, batting leadoff during the Hall of Famer’s prime.  He was on the... Read Full Story

I have created a new blog that is 100% focused on Boston sports, titled “ Oh, Boston You’re My Home .” And yes, we do love the Standells here in Boston. The site will serve as a mini-portfolio to show off my knowledge and passion for Boston sports for a contest hosted by the biggest name in Boston sports media, WEEI. WEEI is looking for the “Next Great Sports Blogger” in Boston. For those that aren’t familiar with the Boston sports scene, WEEI is the sports scene. WEEI-AM is the constant... Read Full Story