Boston Red Sox
Who has the edge in what category?
02:53 PM EDT on Wednesday, October 3, 2007
The Providence Journal / Bob Breidenbach
OFFENSE
| EDGE: | Red Sox | Angels |
The Red Sox were second in the American League in runs scored and have a more balanced attack than the Angels. The Sox battled injuries in the last month, but so did the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The Angels won’t have Gary Matthews Jr. (ankle) for this series, and Vladimir Guerrero (triceps) isn’t at full strength, further widening the gap between the teams.
SPEED
| EDGE: | Red Sox | Angels |
The Sox stole more bases than they have in more than a decade and have three legitimate stolen-base threats on the roster (Coco Crisp, Julio Lugo and Jacoby Ellsbury). Still, they’re no match for the Angels, who run all the time and build their offense around
aggressive baserunning.
STARTING PITCHING
| EDGE: | Red Sox | Angels |
This category might have favored the Angels if Bartolo Colon were healthy, but not as things stand now. Even if John Lackey and Josh Beckett are a near wash, the Angels don’t have another starter with Curt Schilling’s
postseason experience.
DEFENSE
| EDGE: | Red Sox | Angels |
Once more, injuries are a factor. Guerrero and Matthews are both plus defenders when healthy, but Matthews is out and Guerrero won’t play the outfield tonight. The Sox have the edge at second base and third base, while Angels are better at short.
MIDDLE RELIEF
| EDGE: | Red Sox | Angels |
The Angels have a more experienced set-up crew with Scot Shields and Justin Speier. Conversely, Eric Gagne’s value has dipped considerably over the last two months.
CLOSER
| EDGE: | Red Sox | Angels |
Jonathan Papelbon may be the game’s most dominant closer as the postseason begins, though Francisco Rodriguez is no slouch.
BENCH
| EDGE: | Red Sox | Angels |
Yet again, injuries play a role here. If the Angels don’t have to use Reggie Willits or Juan Rivera, they might warrant the edge. But with Matthews gone and Guerrero iffy, their depth is depleted. Ellsbury could be a wild card.
MANAGER
| EDGE: | Red Sox | Angels |
Even. Both Terry Francona (2004) and Mike Scioscia (2002) have managed their
respective teams to world championships. Scioscia is more active in-game because of his personnel, but Francona is underrated when it comes to running a game. Both managers have the utmost respect of their players.
SCOUTING REPORT BY SEAN McADAM
|
More top stories
Sox sign Wakefield to 2-year deal, pick up Martinez’ option
Most Viewed Yesterday
The hunt for Stephen Saccoccia’s hidden assets
Vehicle fatalities climb in R.I.
Suspect shot during struggle with undercover officer
Patriots journal: Belichick says Moss is smartest receiver he’s seen
Most active surveys
Are the Yankees on the brink of another dynasty?
Is it a bad thing or a good thing that prostitution is legal in Rhode Island, indoors?
What's your favorite breakfast/lunch place?
React to Carcieri's veto of R.I.'s first saltwater fishing license
Has your behavior changed in light of the swine flu outbreak?
Most e-mailed in the last 24 hours
Reader Reaction










You must be logged in to contribute. Log in | Register Now!
You are logged in as screenname | Log Out
You are logged in, but do not have a "screen" name. Create a Screen Name