The Boston Barrage

Last night's game revealed the myriad ways the Red Sox can beat you. They have power but they also have the patience to beat you with singles as they did last night. Big Papi against Jamie Walker was a classic duel showing that Papi can sometimes revert to Rod Carew if he needs to--meaning he'll take what he can get. They have middle relief. And perhaps the scariest thing of all, they have Theo Epstein applying the principles of MoneyBall with an unlimited budget. They are the new Yankees but not as nefarious in this fan's opinion--and their decisions all seem to be paying off. When I was in Fenway last summer, I felt the bond between the fans, the ownership and the team. They have upgraded all phases of their game with Dice-K, JD Drew, and Okijima. They have players who can step up to the plate and change the game. They have always been tough to beat--with Lynn, Rice, Evans, Yaz, and Tiant--and that hasn't changed. I like the principle of taking back the Yard, but it will not happen any time soon against the Red Sox. They will be tough to beat this year.