SonofaRoache

Pick your team is a terrible idea. Just go 1-8, 2-7, 3-6, 4-5.

Actually, the Astros selected the Yankees as the top seed but they were denied. The Yankees then selected the Twins and the Astros got the Ray's.

To be fair, he is only there because Mazara is hurt and Madrigals service time. Engel is necessary even when we are at full strength for his defense. But yes, I was hoping he, Fulmer, and Delmonico would be long gone by now.

He has no business being here.

If you watch, you are the point MLB is making this year. In a 60 game season, they need the games to be exciting. If each league has 8 PO teams, teams are less likely to tank, providing a much better product. Fans will also hang around knowing their team has a shot to make the playoffs. And most importantly, people will watch.

If the Sox get in as the 8th seed will you not watch?

This would be amazing. It would mean we'd have a really good shot to get in. Next year we may be division favorites anyway, so it could revert back then.

Also, for those who haven't been paying attention, our World Series odds have skyrocketed in the last few weeks. We are typically between 20-1 to 25-1.

Abreu has earned it but if Eloy mashes even he will understand a move down.

With those two teams, Engels defense will be more important than Mazara's bat. Engel may also hit decently for a few weeks if need be.

How long will Mazara and Madrigal need to sit out for the IL (retroactive?)and for service time?

I still think we need to be careful. Everyone used to reference what the Cubs did with Bryant as a reason to play the service game. That is true, but for years I said Bryant was pissed and would hold it against them. They will have to trade their best talent this winter because of that manipulation. I am okay doing it, I just want the Sox to make sure they can smooth things over to avoid a disgruntled star. I think they did a great job with Eloy because you could tell he was hurt by not being called up.

Yep. Fun two days.

Yu garbage got mercy ruled.

It would be Engel in RF and Garcia at 2B.

Maybe, but is he really a 30 man guy?

Yeah but we have a lot of young pitchers I'd rather see pitch than a guy who has no future here.

He's fine. I'd be concerned if they said he were healthy, or he were doing great, just away from the team for now.

Why are we starting that pitcher?

The Sox shouldn't count on him at this point. You wish him the best because he is human and hope he produces, but he can't be relied upon.

What front line starters will be available? I looked a few months back and saw Bauer, Q, Lester, Big Jake, and a few others in that class of arm. I think a trade is possible, but who would we trade? I'm not being cynical, I'd really like to hear what our realistic options are.

We may buy because the next 6 years will be a nice window, but we shall see. Who could we realistically pay that will make sense? Rookie is gonna want too much money. Mazara can be replaced and maybe GioG, but who else?

Yep. I think since the season is short, those tanking teams will give it a shot as well. In a typical season, you will see teams start hot and flame out. If Seattle starts 13 and 2 for instance, I think their mindset will be different this year. It is important to note when considering SOS that teams will be trying this year, so there will be few gimmie series. I think you have to treat this like an NBA season were every game you try to win, and when a blowout is taking place, you rest folks. I don't think good teams will have the bad stretches we see from them because of the lack of travel, fans, and "Sunday Lineups".

I mentioned the time change in my earlier post. This post was about difficulties of rescheduling already rained out games.

9 games this season is drastic. Won't be too many dual off days and teams only have 6 days off as is.