Author Archives: @mickgurn

About @mickgurn

I am a sophomore at Providence College and I am a huge Boston Sports Fan. Writing for Boston Sports Extra is a dream come true, I have always had aspirations of covering local teams. I am a big fan of both college hockey and minor league hockey and baseball. You can always find me cheering on the Paw sox, P-Bruins, or the Friars!!!

Jackie Bradley Jr. Is What the Red Sox Need

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“He cannot hit!”  “Send him down.”  Blah, blah, blah.  When discussing Jackie Bradley Jr. and what he means to the Red Sox, these are the responses I get.  However, I disagree.  Jackie Bradley Jr. is doing exactly what the Red Sox need him to do.  Jackie Bradley Jr. is currently hitting .225 with two homeruns and six runs batted in.  If his average climbs to the .240-.250 range for the season, that is all we need.

Defensive Wizard

In case you are living under a rock, Jackie Bradley Jr. is already making jaw-dropping plays.  His spectacular catch against the Marlins is pretty much forgotten because of the catch he made against the Orioles.

Watch the catch here:

I mean, this ball is about a millionth of a centimeter from touching the ground, and JBJ swoops in and catches it.  The fact that Jackie Bradley Jr. was not a finalist for a Golden Glove last season is a joke.  If you search “Jackie Bradley Jr. Catch”, about thirty different shocking plays will pop up.  JBJ takes so many runs away from opposing teams.  In addition to Craig Kimbrel, David Price and Chris Sale, all owe him a debt of gratitude.  The hits he takes away from teams more than makes up for his (sometimes) disappointing bat.  However, by no means is Jackie Bradley Jr. a slouch at the plate.

Hitting

Is Jackie Bradley Jr. the best hitter on the Red Sox? No.  Is he an instant out?  Absolutely not.  JBJ can drive the ball.  When he gets a hold of one, it flies off his bat.  His numbers from the 2016 campaign are outstanding.  A .267 average, 26 homeruns, and 87 RBIs.  Many players only dream of achieving these stats.  Not to mention an All-Star selection and a 29-game hitting streak mixed in? Wow.  As a matter of fact, JBJ is one of only five Red Sox players to hit a homerun onto Eutaw Street at Camden Yards.  Only 89 dingers have reached Eutaw Street.  Jackie joins David Ortiz, who hit two, Mo Vaughn, Carl Everett, and Troy O’Leary. Not bad company to be in.

If Jackie Bradley Jr. keeps playing the way he is, there is no reason not to keep him in Boston long term.  With Scott Boras as his agent, he might look to get his client overpaid.  However, JBJ is a smart guy.  Despite this, I hope to see him manning center field for years to come.

#AllthewaywithJBJ

 

Follow Matt McGurn on twitter: @MickGurn

Providence Bruins Heading to Allentown

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The Dunk is rocking following two intense Atlantic Division matchups this past weekend in Providence.  The two games were split amongst the Providence Bruins and the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.  Games 3 and 4 are taking place next Friday and Saturday in Allentown at the PPL Center.  If the Providence Bruins continue to play the way they are plying, this is going to be a quick series.  Going out to Allentown is going to bring some new challenges to the team.  Not to mention the last two times the Providence Bruins played at the PPL Center, the Phantoms shut them out.

Providence Bruins

 

Game 1

The Providence Bruins are playing well enough to reflect a 2-0 series lead.  However, as we all know, the puck does not lie.  Sometimes breaks do not always go your way.  Phantoms’ goalie Alex Lyon has been playing some of the best hockey of his young career.  Former Boston College Eagle Ryan Fitzgerald got the game going with a late first period, power play goal.  However, Lehigh Valley did not give up and quickly scored, ending the first period with a score of 1-1.  Notably, Ryan Fitzgerald got the Providence Bruins going quickly again, scoring early in the second period.

Multiple penalties continued to prove costly for Providence.  The Phantoms were able to score twice on a 5-3 power play, giving Lehigh Valley the 3-2 lead.  No scoring occurred during the third period.  Despite out shooting the Phantoms 15-2, Lyon was able to smoother up everything and secure a Game 1 victory.  In the end, Lyon stoned 39 out of 41 shots.  However, if the Providence Bruins keep putting shot totals like that, good things will happen.  Zane McIntrye played well, stopping 21 of 24 shots.  However, one weak goal seemed to make the difference.  Danick Martel’s blue line shot jumped over McIntrye’s glove.  How can some one blame Zane for the two power play goals?

Game 2

The Providence Bruins kept the trend of starting off strong in Game 2.  This time it is Anton Blidh and Peter Cehlarik who scored quickly.  Five minutes and eight seconds into the game the Providence Bruins secured a 2-0 lead.  Again, the Phantoms did not going down quietly.  Lehigh Valley scored twice in the second period.  Both goals occurred within one minute and eleven seconds of each other.  Momentum continued to swing in this series, as Jordan Szwarz scored a short-handed goal to give the Providence Bruins the 3-2 lead.  Peter Cehlarik continues to light the lamp this series.  The Providence Bruins went on to win this one 5-3, evening out the series.

 

Austin Czarnik is the unsung hero so far of this playoff matchup.  Czarnik currently leads the Calder Cup Playoffs with four assists.  Both he and Ryan Fitzgerald have two goals this series.  Zane McIntyre mysteriously did not play in Game 2.  Rumors were flying that he would be the third goalie in Toronto, but Daniel Vladar was on the practice lines.  Not to mention Jordan Binnington played out of his mind in Game 2, stopping 23 of 26 shots.  It is unclear who is going to be manning the pipes for Game 3.  All the Providence Bruins need to do is keep playing the way they are and things will work out.

Watch the Providence Bruins preparing for their run here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqpWgEI83ZA

Follow Matt McGurn on Twitter: @MickGurn @TA_CawHawkey

Paw Sox Longest Game Ever Played

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It was some 37 years ago today, on a frigid Saturday night, that the Pawtucket Red Sox hosted the Rochester Red Wings.  No one at the time ever realized how historically important this game would be.  The game between the Paw Sox and Red Wings began on April 18th, 1981.  The two teams battled up to the 32nd inning.  At 4:07 A.M. on April 19th, 1981, play was suspended.  While there were a solid group of fans at the beginning of the game (1740), only 17 fans stuck around until 4:07 AM.  Nevertheless, Harold Cooper, the International League President, shockingly ordered the game to suspend play.  Had I been there, I like to think I would be sticking it out with the other 17 fans.  Nevertheless, I was not yet born.

Paw Sox Longest Game

Pawtucket’s Dave Koza gets a pat on the head from teammate Mike Smithson after driving in the winning run in the bottom of the 33rd inning

Interesting Facts

This 33-inning game is historically significant for many reasons other than the length.  One of the most notable facts about this game is that two Hall of Famers played on both sides.  Wade Boggs for Pawtucket, and Cal Ripken Jr. for Rochester.  Cal Ripken Jr.’s nickname “Iron Man” is on display here, as he played all 33-innings.  Sticking with the theme of the Hall of Fame, Cooperstown is now home to the official score card from the game.  A whooping 822 pitches met the 822 batters during the three-day game.  Wade Boggs went 4-12.  Cal Ripken Jr. went 2-13.

Both Cooperstown residents spoke about the game years later.  Ripken saying, “Of all the games I’ve played in, that’s one of the few that I easily remember.  It’s still fresh in my mind. We’ve all played in marathon nine-inning games and extra-inning games, but that game was different.”  Wade Boggs spoke in a 2006 interview saying, “When I doubled in the tying run in the 21st inning, I didn’t know if the guys wanted to hug me or slug me.  But, being competitors, we did want to win the game.”  Boggs continued speaking later on, “I remember calling my father the next day and telling him I got four hits. “He said, ‘That’s great.’ I said: ‘Yeah, but I was up 12 times. We went 32 last night.”

June 23rd, 1981

The triumphant return of the game took place on June 23rd, 1981.  Fans came into McCoy Stadium unsure of what to expect. Not to mention, 5,800 fans sold out McCoy Stadium.  Nearly five times the amount of fans than April 18th.  They were curious as to if the long game would keep going on.  Nevertheless, the fans got a quick 18 minute inning.  Pawtucket’s Bob Ojeda came in to continue the game.  The eighth Paw Sox pitcher to appear gives up a single to Cal Ripken Jr.  Ojeda went on the strike out Floyd Rayford and pop out John Valle to keep the game tied.

Steve Grilli came into pitch for Rochester.  Grilli was not a member of the Rochester Red Wings on April 18th.  Grilli hit Marty Barret by a pitch to get things going.  Chico Walker stepped up to plate and ripped a single that Barret was running on to move him to third.  To set up a force on any base, Russ Laribee was intentionally walked.  Cliff Speck came in to save the game for Rochester but ended up only throwing four pitches.  Dave Koza came up to the plate confidently.  Koza was the best player in the game at the moment with a 4-13 day(s).  Koza was able to groove a 2-2 curve ball into left field to bring Marty Barret home and, mercifully, ending the game.

 

Relive the game here:

Remember this when you are complaining that baseball games are too long.

Merrimack Warriors Hire Scott Borek

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The newest Head Coach of the Merrimack College Warriors Ice Hockey team is Scott Borek. Merrimack College lured Scott Borek away from Providence College. Scott Borek has been working under Nate Leaman the past three seasons.  Before that, he was working under Dick Umile at the University of New Hampshire since 2003.

Coaching History

Scott Borek first broke into the college hockey scene as a Dartmouth man before a neck injury.  However, the end to his playing career did create some positives.  He remained with the Big Green as a student assistant coach.  Little did Scott Borek know how important to his life taking that role was to his career.

Scott Borek did not squander this new opportunity.  After learning and becoming a student of the game, he turned it into a full time career.  In 1985, Scott Borek became an assistant coach for the Providence College Friars.  Rhode Island remained his home until 1991.  He left his assistant coaching job for his first head coaching job with the Colby Mules.  Scott Borek’s reign as a head coach is an uneventful one as he accumulated a record of 33-35-5.  This led Scott Borek back to the Division 1 scene as, again, an assistant coach with the Lake Superior State Lakers.  Nevertheless, his time as assistant coach only lasted one season.  Following this season, the head coach title was his. This stint lasted four seasons.  Then Borek had another head coaching gig with New England College.  That only lasted one season.

Student of the Game

His up and down time as a head and assistant coach did not last.  Borek found himself working under the legendary Dick Umile.  While a certainly successful run as assistant coach in New Hampshire, Scott Borek’s time at UNH was not without controversy.  During the 2007-2008 season, Borek, who worked with recruits, sent over 900 text messages that are described as “impermissible.”  What is said in these messages is unknown.  However, the incident was self-reported by the school.  Not to mention, Borek only served a two-year suspension.  If the messages were anything unspeakable it is unlikely he would be allowed to remain the game of hockey.

In 2015, Borek made his triumphant return to the Friars. This time working under another legendary coach, Nate Leamen.  During his time as assistant coach, the Friars are extremely successful.  Reaching the NCAA tournament every season under Leamen and Borek.  He oversaw recruiting for the Friars, as well as the defense and the penalty kill.  Under Borek’s tutelage, Providence ranked 7th nationally in defense, and 6th nationally in the penalty kill.  Not too shabby.  When asked about Scott Borek, Nate Leaman says,

“Scott is a tireless worker who has an excellent mind for the game.  He is an effective communicator with the student-athletes and develops long-lasting relationships with his players. His 16 years of experience provide a great base of knowledge for what it takes to be successful in Hockey East.”

Scott Borek is replacing Mark Dennehy as the Warriors head coach.  This upcoming season is going to be a good one for Merrimack.  Watch out for the Warriors on the penalty kill and defense.  Watch his introduction interview:

 

Follow Matt McGurn on Twitter: @MickGurn @Ta_CawHawkey

Down the Farm: 2018 Paw Sox Outlook

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For Pawtucket Red Sox Opening Day on Friday, April 6th , there is a 100% chance of rain.  Somewhat fitting for all the news that surrounds the team and their future.  Nevertheless, the excitement for a new upcoming season is what Pawtucket needs.  Tickets remain cheap, parking is free, and amazing fan giveaways will continue this season.  Attendance is going to make or break the Triple-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox this season.  I encourage all readers to make the trip down, it is well worth it.

Roster

The powerhouse Bryce Brentz and his 30 homeruns will not be on display in Pawtucket this season.  The roster is hurting following the prospects that were sent away in trades involving Chris Sale and Craig Kimbrel.  I am not saying those trades are bad.  However, the Red Sox farm system is not what it once was.  Also, players graduating to the majors as well.  Although this may be true, there are some names to look out for this season at McCoy Stadium.

Sam Travis continued his tradition of raking in Spring Training.  Although the first base position is currently in use, Travis is not out of the running for the foreseeable future.  In spite of Hanley Ramirez, Mitch Moreland, maybe even Blake Swihart and Brock Holt manning the bag this season, it is unclear if they will be here next season.  Tzu-Wei Lin, who made his name known this past season, is also a guy to watch out for.  The $72.5 million man, Rusney Castillo looks to repeat his strong 2017 Minor League campaign.  Ivan DeJesus Jr. and his Mexico career .289 batting average looks to make his name known as well.

Michael Chavis, who is currently recovering from his oblique injury, is going to start the season in Portland.  If Chavis can continue to put up impressive numbers, a Triple-A call up is in his future.  When that happens, all eyes are going to be on him.  The only way Chavis is going to play at Fenway Park this season is if they continue the Futures at Fenway Series.  Be that as it may, the McCoy Stadium faithful look upon future stars with high expectations.

Jeremy Barfield is looking to be the reincarnate of Bryce Brentz.  The 29 year-old sent 27 long balls over the fence in Portland last season.  If he mashes the ball in Pawtucket like he did last season, fans are going to be clamoring for him to make an appearance during September call ups.

Giveaways

Minor League baseball is famous for the wacky and incredible giveaways throughout the season.  This season is no different for the Paw Sox.  The Paw Sox will be giving away wall calendars, ceramic mugs, replica jerseys, and everyone’s favorite; bobbleheads. Rafael Devers, the G.O.A.T., and Mo Vaughn bobbleheads will be given away to the first 3,000 fans on the respective day.  Replica jerseys will include Roger Clemens and Wade Boggs.  Of course, Saturday night fireworks will continue with a new theme each week.

This season for the Paw Sox can sway the relocation process either way.  If it is successful and every game is sold out, it makes it harder for Larry Lucchino to move them away.  If every game is empty, what is the point in staying?

 

Follow Matt McGurn on Twitter: @MickGurn

 

Cover image courtesy of Rhode Island Public Radio.

Hobey Baker Award Finalists

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March is here, therefore it is time to announce the ten finalists for the Hobey Baker Award, given to the best player in College Hockey.  Before I list the ten finalists, I think it is important to clarify what it means to be the best player in all of college hockey, and how Hobey Baker’s legacy stands today.

Hobey Baker

Today, Hobey Baker, is synonymous with the award sharing his name.  However, not many fans know much about him.  It is easy to just assume Hobey Baker’s skill at the game is why the award is named after him.  It is basically an “MVP Award” for college hockey.  In many ways that is true.  However, Hobey Baker is also one of the most tremendous athletes in American history.  Hobey Baker is one of the United States’ first great hockey players.  Playing at the legendary St. Paul’s School in Concord New Hampshire, Baker represented the team with poise and class.  Hobey Baker’s game was speed, endurance, and stickhandling.  These traits led him to Princeton.

Baker’s fame on campus matches was that of Jack Eichel at Boston University.  Throughout all this, Hobey Baker never let the fame go to his head.  Not to mention being named the, “King of Hockey.”  He stayed true to himself as a humble gentlemen.  His fame and gentlemanly persona made him a target by opposing teams.  Many players, Wayne Gretzky especially, faced similar obstacles.  Nonetheless, Hobey Baker always went to opposing locker rooms to shake hands with other players.

Finalists

There is not much controversy regarding this season’s Hobey Baker Award Finalists.  In alphabetical order the finalists are, Henrik Borgström (Denver), Ryan Donato (Harvard), Matthew Galajda (Cornell), Adam Gaudette (Northeastern), Dylan McLaughlin (Canisius), Cale Morris (Notre Dame), Colton Point (Colgate), Jimmy Schuldt (St. Cloud State), Dylan Sikura (Northeastern) and CJ Suess (Minnesota State).

The way the voting process takes place is the 60 head coaches of Division 1 teams vote, as well as online voting.  This is the beginning of the voting process.  Now, the member selection committee and more online voting ends the process.  The winner is announced during the Frozen Four, on April 6th.  Last season, the honor went to Will Butcher of Denver, currently part of the New Jersey Devils organization.

It is hard to pick a winner of such a prestigious award.  Most Hobey Baker Award winners go on to great success.  Not just in the NHL, but throughout the entire hockey world.  These winners also go on to great financial success, just look at Johnny Gaudreau.  In my mind, I believe this award should belong to Adam Gaudette.  Although Dylan Sikura contributes exceptionally to the Huskies success this season.  Gaudette is the face of the team.  A new Beanpot legend, if Gaudette adds the Hobey Baker Award to his trophy shelf his future knows no bounds.  Even if he does not win the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, his future is bright.  But this could mean so much for his career with the Canucks.

 

Follow Matt McGurn on Twitter: @MickGurn

Cover Image courtesy of WCHA.com.

Pace of Play in Major League Baseball

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MiLB is now a testing ground for everything baseball related. This ranges from players to umpires. Not to mention, future big-league executives. In recent seasons Minor League Baseball has become test subjects for rules that the major leagues might employ in the future. Pace of Play is a big debate in baseball. The addition of a pitch clock in MiLB and Spring Training games is the root of the changes so far. It is yet to appear in the Big Leagues due to player backlash. Today, Commissioner Rob Manfred announced some new rules that will be in effect this upcoming season.

Manfred announced the following rules: placing a runner on second base to begin extra innings, limit of six mound visits, and a clock for between innings and pitching changes. The last rule was also in effect last season. These rules stir the pot between players, fans, and front office executives. Many “pure” baseball fans hate seeing our game changed. Many of the players hate rules limiting their “rituals” and processes they go through. David Ortiz’s comments on rule changes a couple of seasons ago reiterate this.

Many high up executives and some “fans” think games are too long. Michael Felger wants every possible second saved when watching a game.

Why the Change?

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. While many news outlets and baseball haters argue that Major League Baseball is struggling to make money, this is just not true. Major League Baseball is a $9.5 Billion Industry. Nearly three times what the National Hockey League is at $3.7 Billion. Yet so many, like Commissioner Manfred, find the need for change. While games are certainly long, why is this such a terrible thing? If a family is going to a 1:05 Red Sox afternoon game, they plan a day out of it. They plan on the game ending sometime around 4:30.

Yet so many team executives find the need for drastic change to America’s Pastime. So many ideas are flying around the Major League Baseball offices looking to shave every conceivable second off game time.  Bullpen carts, pitch clocks, limiting mound visits, not being allowed to leave the batter’s box are all considered “time savers”. But how much time do they save? What, 10-15 minutes off the game? Thank goodness, I really need those 15 minutes off the game or else it is just unwatchable. Why ruin a beloved sport for the sake of 15 minutes? It just does not make any sense.

New Rule

The rule of adding a runner to second base at the start of extra innings is unbelievably stupid. How can you lose a game because of a runner you did not put on base? How will this affect a pitcher’s earned run average? There are so many unanswered questions regarding this rule. The rule somewhat makes sense in the minor leagues where winning is not the most important thing rather the experience the players are getting. However, in Major League Baseball the rule should never be allowed. Extra innings are magical in baseball. Every swing, pitch, catch, play is amplified.  Why ruin that? Yes, there are some games that go 19 innings, but is that really such an epidemic in baseball? That will, at most, happen twice a season. Many fans who stick it out are proud of such an accomplish meant.

With all these changes it seems that no game will ever come close to the 33 inning contest between the Pawtucket Red Sox and the Rochester Red Wings. Today, that game is celebrated as one of the biggest events in Baseball history, many fans who were there, wear it as a badge of honor. I wish I were one of the lucky few who went.

 

Follow Matt McGurn on Twitter: @MickGurn

Cover image courtesy of USA Today.

Worcester and the Pawtucket Red Sox

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A Tale of Two Cities

Every time the possibility of the Pawtucket Red Sox relocating comes into the news, the city of Worcester is thrown around as a possibility destination. Worcester is on the up and up when it comes to minor league and small market teams as of late. The issue is quickly becoming a tale of two cities, Worcester and Pawtucket. Two very similar cities. The Worcester Railers received nothing but open arms when they moved into the DCU Center to replace the Worcester Sharks. The ECHL affiliate of the New York Islanders continue to bring economic revenue to the city of Worcester. Consequently, it is easy to see why Worcester wants to see the Paw Sox continue that trend.

Pawtucket, R.I.-04/28/2017- Larry Lucchino is trying to find a new home for the Pawtucket Red Sox, as millions of dollars has to be spent to improve the old McCoy Stadium where they currently play. John Tlumacki/Globe Staff (business)

Worcester Willing to Pay

The ongoing issue of the Pawtucket Red Sox relocation process continues to take up the news in Rhode Island and Worcester. New reports say that the city of Worcester is spending $54,000 on consulting services. That is an incredible amount of money to spend. Just to try to wine and dine the Pawtucket Red Sox, and show them around Worcester. Apparently, wooing the Paw Sox costs a pretty penny. The city believes money is not an option and are desperate for some minor league baseball.

The hiring of expensive consultants, who charge anywhere from $225 to $525 an hour, proves this notion. The consultants, Jeff Mullan and Foley Hoag, are proving to be worth the price tag by putting in the hours for the city of Worcester. A total of 131 hours, equaling a little over five days, is the amount of time they have put in so far. A tremendous amount of time spent trying to charm the Paw Sox, not to mention a lot of money.

The news saga between the two cities is few and far between. Rhode Island lawmakers and voters continue to fail to reach new grounds. While the Paw Sox themselves continue to say “nothing is changing,” the consultants beg to differ. As a matter of fact, the public display of affection between the city of Worcester and Paw Sox team officials continue to die down. Photos of team officials and Worcester officials whooping it up at the newly crowned Worcester Railers’ game made their way around the public. Nevertheless, Larry Lucchino maintains nothing new between the two parties.

The Future Ahead

Most of this ongoing issue is one party saying nothing is happening, pictures come out, then the other party saying the same thing. The relocation of the Pawtucket Red Sox seems like a never-ending process.  The team is in McCoy Stadium until 2020.  It is hard to see a future where the Paw Sox are not in Pawtucket.  Worcester wants it another way.  This seems like it could go on forever.  The history of the Pawtucket Red Sox continues to grow and I hope it grows for a long time.

 

Follow Matt McGurn on Twitter:  @MickGurn

 

Cover image courtesy of Stadium Journey.

Back in Boston: Brian Gionta

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The Bruins signing of 39 year-old Brian Gionta to a one year, $700k deal means a former Boston College legend will be returning to Boston. The last time Gionta wore a jersey with Boston across the front was in 2001.

Offseason

Brian Gionta’s 1000 NHL games are the reason why he is a household name throughout the National Hockey league.  Gionta last put in time in the NHL last season with the Buffalo Sabres.  Gionta captained Buffalo for three straight seasons after signing a deal in July of 2014.  During his time in upstate New York, Gionta solidified himself as a leader.  The Sabres did not resign him this past offseason.  Buffalo’s AHL team, the Rochester Americans, also the home town of Gionta, inked him to a practice squad contract.  This let Gionta stay in playing shape.

The United States Olympic committee named Brian Gionta the Captain of the U.S. Men’s Olympic Ice Hockey team.  Not being in the NHL allowed the Olympic Committee to put his name on the roster.  Being a captain of an Olympic hockey team is an incredible achievement, not to mention it gave Gionta the chance to play with many young, talented hockey players.  This includes possible future teammate, Ryan Donato.

Boston College

Brian Gionta’s path to Olympic leader began as a leader for the Boston College Men’s ice Hockey team.  Gionta flew with the Eagles from 1997 to 2001.  Jerry York, current coach of BC, guided Gionta into the legend he is today.  Gionta acquired the skills and traits of a leader by playing on a team filled with leaders and future stars.  Marty Reasoner, a native of the city Rochester like Gionta, mentored Gionta during his freshman season.  With the guidance of Reasoner, Gionta put 30 goals in the back of the net and put up 62 total points.  The University of Michigan Wolverines put an end to Gionta’s incredible season, defeating Boston College in the National Championship game in Boston.

Gionta continued to put up numbers at Boston College, scoring 33 goals with 56 points as a sophomore.  The playoff woes still plagued the Eagles as the University of Maine Blackbears eliminated BC in the semi-finals of the Frozen Four.  The phrase “the more things change, the more they stay the same,” is continuing to reign true for Gionta at this point in his BC career.  Junior year for Gionta was more of the same.  Continues to put the puck in the net and put up points with 33 goals and 56 points.  However, once again, BC was not able to get it done in the playoffs with a loss to the University of North Dakota Fighting Sioux in the national championship game.

Senior year for Gionta, the season all the pieces were falling into place.  Gionta’s point total took a hit, but remained strong at five points.  Not to mention he led the country in goals with 33.  Amongst an Eagle roster crawling with talent, Gionta stood out as the leader.  Vengeance for the loss in the National Championship game was even sweeter for Gionta and the Eagles.  The won in overtime with a score of 3-2, in Albany New York no less.  Not quite Rochester, but it is something.

Gionta continues to prove himself despite his age.  His mentoring and leadership skills are extremely valuable to the Bruins and some of their emerging young talent.

 

Follow Matt McGurn on Twitter:  @MickGurn

 

Cover image courtesy of The Boston Globe.

What to Do with Blake Swihart?

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“See my smile? It feels good.”- Blake Swihart after smacking an RBI triple.

Blake Swihart has been, one of the hottest players in Spring Training so far for the Red Sox. While there have only been a handful of games, Swihart shines in every opportunity this spring. First and foremost, I am a Blake Swihart guy. I see him hitting the ball all over Fenway Park, and have seen him blast balls out of McCoy Stadium. However, Swihart being a catcher for the Red Sox no longer seems possible. That being said, I believe there are many other ways in which Blake could contribute to the team.

Ultimate Utility Man

This may be a little redundant with the signing of Eduardo Nunez, but Swihart could take this role and run with it. Swihart is out of options and is looking for any sort of playing time he can get.  With questions surrounding Brock Holt and Marco Hernández, who is in need of further shoulder surgery, the Red Sox will be looking for someone to bail them out with injured players or those in need of a day off.

Blake Swihart played 13 games in the outfield in 2016. While this ended up with an injury, that experience is incredibly valuable. Blake played shortstop in high school, and is getting looks in at second base. It is not hard for catchers to convert to first base. This covers the majority of positions the Red Sox are in need of depth this season. While it is unlikely Swihart will reach the levels of 2014-2015 Brock Holt utility man, nonetheless Swihart could be an incredible player for Alex Cora to call upon to fill in any role.

Trade Him

Blake Swihart Thumbnail photo via Reinhold Matay/USA TODAY Sports Images Read more at: https://nesn.com/2015/09/torey-lovullo-returns-to-toronto-as-red-sox-interim-manager-video/

Sep 12, 2015; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox catcher Blake Swihart (left) and interim manager Torey Lovullo (right) talk during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

Blake Swihart was one of the many Red Sox players to thrive under Torey Lovullo while he was the interim manager of the Red Sox in the late part of the 2015 season. During the 2015 season, Swihart swung a decent bat with a .274 average, 31 RBIs, and just five home runs. However, one thing to look at is his numbers after Lovullo took over in the second half of the season. In that time Swihart raked with a .354/.415/.490/.905 slash line. The Red Sox letting Lovullo go is something that will always bother me. He could bring things out of his players that other managers just cannot do. If Swihart does move, this would be the time to do it, his value is the highest it can be, and he is out of options. A trade with the Diamondbacks might help both sides.

Although Arizona just signed veteran catcher Alex Avila to a two year deal, he is prone to injuries. Not to mention the Diamondbacks are in need of a utility player, especially one the 2017 National League Manager of the Year knows and likes. The Red Sox could land 23 year-old Tyler Mark in the deal. Arizona took Mark in the 6th round of the MLB Draft from Concordia. There Mark was the single-season save leader. Arizona attempted to convert him into a starter. This started off slowly, so he returned to the bullpen. Many believe that he now has a better feel and command for his pitches and could become a Major League regular.

 

Cover image courtesy of NBC Sports.