Okajima Unravels in Seattle
Clinging to a one run lead, Red Sox manager Terry Francona gave another of his struggling relievers a chance to redeem himself, and again the pitcher failed. Hideki Okajima let the Mariners score three runs in the bottom of the eighth inning to come back for a 4-2 victory. It was a scene that's played out all too often for Boston this season.
Their bullpen has been dismal to say the least and remains their biggest need in terms of trying to find an upgrade at the trade deadline. Worse yet, Okajima's implosion yesterday dropped the Sox back to five games out of the wild card and nine behind the Yankees in the AL East.
Now, the daunting West Coast trip continues in Los Angeles against the Angels who fired the first major shot of the trade deadline yesterday by acquiring Dan Haren from the Diamondbacks. The former Arizona ace is expected to start against Boston in the series.
Brady Contract Talks Show Promise
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Patriots and Tom Brady have made enough progress towards a long-term contract extension that a deal this summer appears imminent. This is great news for New England fans that were worried about a possible holdout from Brady with training camp starting this week. While things are moving at a turtle's pace because of the salary cap uncertainty, the two sides at least appear to have committed to each other.
Victor Martinez On the Way Back
Red Sox catcher Victor Martinez continues to make strides towards returning to the lineup. Based on early reports out of Los Angeles today, there is a chance that Martinez could be activated for tonight's series opener with the Angels. With the recent offensive slugishness, Martinez's return would certainly be a welcome sight to the lineup.
Lowell Draws Some Interest
As Mike Lowell battles down the road back from the disabled list, his name is being floated out there as a trade option. The third baseman made it clear from the start of training camp that he wasn't thrilled with Boston's plan to use him as an occasional starter and preferred to be moved somewhere where he could play everyday. Now, teams looking for an offensive shot in the arm are inquiring about Lowell. Odds are the Sox would still have to pay a chunk of his salary and would only get a low-level prospect in return.
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