OK, Yankee fans, as hard as it may be to do so, it’s time to give props to the Red Sox for what may be one of the best seasons of all time record-wise. SU’s observations:
- Full disclosure: I watched very little of the playoffs after the Yankees were eliminated but I saw enough. The Red Sox beat the Yankees, Astros and Dodgers – they did not have any gimmes and were dominant.
- David Price has gotten the playoff monkey off his back. He was big in the World Series. Conversely, Clayton Kershaw has once again shown that he is mediocre in the post-season – the only blemish on his remarkable career. And it’s a significant body of work so not an aberration.
- SU says look for this in 2019: both the Red Sox and the Dodgers abused their relievers and starters. Lots of warming up and sitting down, pitching several days in a row, pitching more innings than they are used to. This will be an issue next season when these same pitchers have arm issues, Tommy John surgery, etc. Something to look for next season.
- Alex Cora pushed all the right buttons. We will see if the trend continues next season. SU says these things even out and he is not likable.
- The Dodgers were like the Yankees. All or nothing. No clue how to hit in situations to get a run home, move a runner along. The Red Sox put the ball in play and have a circular line up.
- It just makes SU more annoyed that the Yankees traded for Stanton. So unnecessary and where is the pitching going to come from in 2019 for the Yankees? Manny Machado? Does he ever hustle? Don’t sign him. Bryce Harper? Same thing – unless he can pitch, SU says stay away. The problem is not home runs; the problem is starting pitching and hitters who put the ball in play.
- Brian Cashman will have a busy off-season – don’t screw it up.
The NY Giants are officially unwatchable. I cannot watch Eli try and throw from the pocket and get sacked over and over again, or throw 5-yard passes over and over again. Team is going nowhere – see what the youngsters can do at QB. I am not saying it’s his fault but he cannot be productive on a team with a porous offensive line. No point and no chance.
Finally, while the Knicks are losing, don’t lose hope – you have to play the youngsters and see what you have. Also, Caris LeVert is a stud on the Nets (and ex-Michigan). The guy can play and the Nets are fun to watch.
Any love for Boston this morning?