Author Archives: kyle porch

About kyle porch

I'm a 19 year old college student from New Hampshire just chasing my dream of being a journalist/analyst for the Boston Red Sox! I am a die hard fan since day 1. Bringing you the most reliable coverage on the most reliable website! follow me on twitter: @porchie16

The Craig Kimbrel Conundrum

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A depleted farm system, a costly contract among the horizon, what do the Red Sox do about Craig Kimbrel?

With this being the last year before free agency, Where do the crossroads line up for Craig Kimbrel? The all star closer is in line for a huge payday potentially earning over $100 million contract. This could go down one of three ways: 1. Sign him in hopes of a team discount/ pay what he wants. 2. Trade him at the deadline to get something out of him. 3. he walks on his own. Either way, The Red Sox need to act fast.

Let’s say the team offers him a friendly 4 year/ $80 million contract as a team friendly deal. He could either gladly accept, or demand more money than fellow closer Alroldis Chapman who got his 5 year $82 million contract almost two years ago. He is a fastball dominant pitcher, meaning without that there’s not a lot of wiggle room to be above par. Sure, his knuckle curve is a great set up pitch, but you’re not throwing that three to four times an at bat.

Our second option is a pill swallower: trade one of the best closers in the league. This one would hurt, but it could address one of our biggest holes. THE FARM SYSTEM!!!!!! With only two prospect in the top 100 ( Chavis- ped suspension) ( Groome- Tommy John surgery) the farm system is depleted. Along with first round pick Tristan Casas, there’s not much going on at the moment. This could be the trade to get a package that consists of a bullpen arm and a prospect or two. You can’t go wrong with that if there’s little to no help on an extension.

This idea also keeps money on the table for future extensions ( Betts, Sale, Benintendi< Bogaerts) While keeping the team in the witch hunt for Bryce Harper. With various other teams sure to be in on him.

The worse case scenario: He walks on his own terms with nothing gained for the Red Sox.

In this scenario, the team not only loses out on a closer, but misses out on a chance to gain something for his services. The club needs to look into every avenue before trying their luck in free agency. Anything can happen, it is a business. With that being said, they have to keep everything an open possibility. Even if it becomes a negative move from the fans perspective.

Eduardo Rodriguez Has Finally Earned His Spot

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After what seemed to be a very rugged two and a half seasons, Eduardo Rodriguez has finally proved that he can be a stable option. Question is, how long can he achieve this?

The Red Sox will be 13-1 when Eduardo Rodriguez stats bearing they hold on to their 9-2 lead in tonight’s game. With that being said, it has been a long and bumpy ride during his tenure with the team. Since the 2014 trade that sent him here for Andrew Miller, he’s posted a 28-21 record with a 4.13 era to go along with 429 strikeouts in 437.2 innings pitched throughout his young career.

While holding up physically thus far, he has had a lot of injuries throughout his career. Last October, he finally got a knee surgery that should keep it strong. After all, he has had three separate knee injuries that has derailed him. Usually whenever he finally starts to take off.

He’s in the position to get better under the wings of Chris Sale and David Price. The trio of southpaws could always help him elevate his game. With his mid 90s fastball, killer changeup, and who can forget that sinker that will buckle your knees Alex Cora has another pitcher who can destroy the American League. Hopefully, these numbers can be less stagnant as they have been throughout his career.

While the season is leaning towards midseason, the challenges and competition will only strengthen. How he handles all of these hurdles will only solidify his case. If all goes well for the 24 year old, he could have sights set on comeback player of the year.

How does his knee hold up throughout the remainder of the season? Will he be able to continue his dominance? Stay updated with the best red sox coverage here on bostonsportsextra.com for all the latest Boston news, rumors, and highlights!

Who Can Trade For Kawhi Leonard

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With the finals MVP and defensive player of the year requesting a trade, the news and speculation of Kawhi Leonard’s impending future looms a huge topic before free agency.

When news spread about all star Kawhi Leonard requesting to be traded, speculation of many teams came into fruition. With breaking news such as this, this could shake up the free agency plans of almost every team. The longer this holds off, the better the potential return. Here are some projected trades for the all star.

Los Angeles Lakers receive: Kawhi Leonard, Patty Mills

San Antonio Spurs receive: Lonzo Ball, Luol Deng, 2019 first round pick, 2020 first round pick.

This trade ( if the spurs will trade in conference) makes a lot of sense. The Spurs duo at guard ( Parker, Ginobili.) have been on the decline for the last few years. The Lakers get their superstar to entice Lebron James, and coach Pop gets the young talent to revitalize his team for the future.

New York Knicks receive: Kawhi Leonard, Davis Bertans

San Antonio Spurs receive: Emmanuel Mudiay, Enes Kanter, 2018 first round pick.

The spurs get an athletic point guard who can score well on the one-on-one iso plays, and move the ball effectively as a floor general. They also receive a high pick in this year’s draft ( maybe a Trae Young selection?) The Knicks do this because they finally give Kristaps another excellent player to pare up with. It might be the jolt the Knicks have been looking for. This is a great step in their rebuild.

San Antonio Spurs receive: Jaylen Brown, Marcus Morris, Terry Rozier 2019 first round pick.

Boston Celtics receive: Kawhi Leonard, 2018 first round pick

The Celtics get the ultimate team in the east with Kyrie, Gordon, Al, and Leonard. While giving up a lot of great young talent, they get another draft pick to stockpile as trade bait for anyone else Danny Ainge wants. The spurs receive a great dynamic trio, along with a draft pick in 2019. Jaylen Brown and Terry Rozier proved they can start and handle any challenge that comes their way. In addition, the spurs keep Kawhi out of direct competitions hands.

Philadelphia 76ers receive: Kawhi Leonard, Dejounte Murray, 2018 first round pick.

San Antonio Spurs receive: Dario Saric, Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot, 2018 first round pick, 2021 first round pick.

If the 76ers needed any better case to covey Lebron it’s this. Kawhi Leonard. They get one of the great defenders in the game to join Joel Embiid. The Spurs get two athletic wing players who are great catch and shoot players. Coach pop would love to coach these athletic scorers who can spread the court effectively with more development.

Whoever lands this superstar is gonna have to pay a small fortune for one year of his services. With no extension hopes alive, who will win the Kawhi Leonard sweepstakes?

MLB Al and Nl All Star Ballot Update

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In the first of three ballot updates before the big all star game, let’s see who holds the edge, and who gets snubbed after update 1.

In the National league’s first ballot update, the Atlanta Braves stood out by far. Having three players leading in the votes thus far. Here’s how the ballot is shaping up after the first ballot update.

First Base: Freddie Freeman ( 633,342 votes) Second Base: Ozzie Albies ( 398,816 votes) Third Base: Nolan Arenado (527,863 votes) Shortstop: Brandon Crawford ( 466,021 votes) Catcher: Buster Posey ( 281,331 votes) Outfielder 1: Bryce Harper ( 496,189 votes) Outfielder 2: Nick Markakis ( 494,206 votes) Outfielder 3: Matt Kemp ( 351,780 votes)

New to this year, the manager for the national league team will select the designated hitter for that team, the fans cannot vote for it.

For the american league squad, the powerful duo of Betts and Martinez are no doubters thus far.

First base: Jose Abreu ( 267,812 votes) Second base: Jose Altuve ( 701,236 votes) Third Base: Jose Ramirez ( 443,234 votes) Shortstop: Manny Machado (321,887 votes) Catcher: Gary Sanchez ( 336,280 votes) Outfielder 1: Mookie Betts ( 748,872 votes Leads all players) Outfielder 2: Mike Trout ( 639,882 votes) Outfielder 3: Aaron Judge ( 541,993 votes) Designated Hitter: J.D Martinez ( 513,415 votes)

The american league race is shaping up as a lot of people thought it would. The next two ballot updates are announced on June 18 and 19! Stay tuned to how it all unfolds right here as the all star races continue to heat up.

A Letter to Hanley Ramirez, From Red Sox Nation!

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With the untimely departure of the fan favorite, the memories will last for a lifetime.

With the injury prone Dustin Pedroia back in the lineup, ( so they thought) Hanley Ramirez was officially released. After not finding a trade partner within the last 7 days after being designated for assignment, Red Sox nation had to say goodbye.

While we can’t say for sure how this all plays out, one thing for sure is he captivated the audiences at Fenway park as we all knew he would. For the fans, El Trece kept the fans smiling. Hanley, this part is for you!

With all the memories that left us in awe, we thank you! Especially hitting this walk off bomb off of Dellin Betances. The entire park was roaring after that sweet hit. You always were the go to guy, being the best hitter for average last postseason. ( .571 batting average.) You are having such a productive season, that you will become a huge asset to whoever signs you. There is much more to come for you this season.

When you came to the team in 2014, the pairing of you and David Ortiz sparked the clubhouse in ways it hasn’t seen before. It was electric! The charisma and patience you brought to the field everyday should stand as an example for players for years to come. While all good things come to an end, this book has a new chapter waiting to be written. As fans of the game, we are all excited to cheer you on as a former sox.

Baseball is a business, with that being said the fans and organization will miss you dearly. Thank you, Hanley Ramirez, and best of luck on your future endeavors and hopefully you get a shot at a world series ring. ( Please don’t sign with New York)

JD and Mookie: The Next Power Duo

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The power duo of JD Martinez and Mookie Betts are tearing up starting pitching this season. How long can they keep up this historic pace?

After the Red Sox beat the Rays 4-2 at the trop, Mookie Betts took sole possession of league leader in home runs. He ripped a three run laser to left field to drive in Sandy Leon and Jackie Bradley Jr. in the third inning. He currently leads the league in average (.365), Home runs (16), runs (49) and slugging percentage (7.60). The list continues. With teammate JD Martinez not too far behind him in some categories, will the duo be able to tear up the league all year?

While cold streaks do occur, Red Sox nation has seen this before. From 2003-2007 Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz tore up the American League, taking hostages on a nightly basis. Their combined home runs ( 388) and rbis ( 1,210) rank among the best duos MLB has ever seen. In their best season as a duo (2005), the two hit a combined 92 homers and 292 RBI. While both players should be no doubt hall of famers, JD and Mookie have long careers ahead.

With Martinez already cashed in his big payday, it’s time to give Mookie his. The two-time gold glove winner could be in line for a massive 7 year/ $210 million contract. There will be teams lined out the doors to ink up this stud. While the outfielder has been reluctant to talk extension, now is the time after the way Dave handled his arbitration. No matter what happens, expect to hear his name for years to come.

Finally, while the season is gearing up with playoff hopes in the distance, we have plenty of time to witness what these two exciting players have in store!

As the team enters a dog fight for the AL East crown, tune in to Bostonsportsextra for all the latest Red Sox news, highlights, and rumors throughout the season!

Carson Smith: Bounce Back Season Or Back To The DL?

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While his start to the season has proved to be a rocky one at best, will he be able to turn it around?

For Carson Smith, his recovery from Tommy John surgery is over 2 years in the making. While landing himself on the disabled list yet again has stirred up some controversy. After leaving Monday’s 6-5 loss in the end of the 8th, he threw his glove during a tantrum which resulted the injury.

On Wednesday, Smith said in a statement: ” “I think my shoulder’s tired in general, just from pitching. I’ve thrown a lot lately and I think my arm was just tired.” Later that day, manager Alex Cora made a surprisingly different statement when asked about smith’s comments: “I don’t agree with it. On a daily basis we talk to pitchers and how they feel. If they don’t think they can pitch that day, we stay away from them.” He added, “It caught me by surprise. If he felt that way he should’ve told it to us or he should’ve mentioned it.”

While they handle the injury, the bullpen still has guys like Kimbrel,Kelly, and hopefully a bounce back week from guys such as : Johnson, and Hembree. While the bullpen hasn’t lived up to expectations, it’s still a long season. Combined, the bullpen sports a 6-4 record with a 3.63 combined ERA in just over 100 innings of relief work. While also tallying 121 strikeouts combined.

Smith is responsible for a 1-1 record with a 3.77 ERA through 14.1 innings pitched and striking out 18. After a fantastic showing in his Red Sox debut last season, the numbers haven’t matched up.

The latest update:

Smith was placed on the 10 day Dl as of yesterday. The team also recalling relief pitcher Bobby Poyner from AAA Pawtucket. Also completing the Deven Marerro trade by acquiring LHP Josh Taylor today as well. How both the team and Smith himself handles this situation remains to be seen. Soon enough, time will tell if Smith is bust or bounce back material.

The Red Sox Need Another Right Handed Starter

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With 4 southpaws in the starting rotation, adding another right handed starting pitcher would help bring more transition throughout series.

As of right now, the rotation consists of Sale,Price,Porcello,Rodriguez, and Pomeranz. Does anyone else spot the problem? There is only one right handed starter!!! Sure, Steven Wright has recently been activated by the Red Sox but will he make an impact? Well, his last start was April 29, 2017, and he will start his way back as a bullpen player ( for now.)

The rotation has struggled a little bit within the last two series. Within the last seven days, the starting rotation sports a 4.33 ERA in 54 innings pitched with a 3-3 record. Compared to April where they sported a 3.40 ERA in 230.1 innings pitched with a 19-6 record.

While the month of May has seen a decline, now is the time to make the adjustments that are so desperately needed. There are many different low cost candidates that the team could look for in a trade before the trade deadline.

Trade Candidate: Julio Teheran Atlanta Braves

The 27 year old is molding a marvelous season thus far, with a 4-1 record throughout his first 9 starts, he sports a 3.49 era in 49 innings pitched with 43 strikeouts. In his last start against the Chicago Cubs, he lasted 6 innings while giving up 4 earned runs on 4 hits and only 1 strikeout. While he’s not totally a makeshift player, he has lights out stuff. What would it cost in a trade? In short, it all depends on his market value up until the trade deadline. With the right mentoring, he could blossom into a powerful name in the future.

Trade Candidate: Dan Straily Miami Marlins

The 29 year old finished his first full season in 2017. In 2018 he has a 1-0 record with a 5.54 era in 13 innings during his first three starts. While he has never had eye popping stats, he is a ground ball pitcher. He does pitch well in hitter friendly ballparks. Like Miami, Fenway is a hitter friendly park. He has a very team friendly contract, only making $3.375 million this season with three years of arbitration afterward.

With the team still in great shape, there are so many avenues the team could take.Time will tell.

Jackie Bradley Jr. Has To Go!!!

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While his outstanding defensive plays keep us in awe, this experiment has to end at some point.

Jackie simply cannot hit the ball, need I say it again?? While after every at bat that becomes an out, we all think it. Sure his catches and amazing arm is very helpful, there’s others who can replace him. Without him, the outfield is still strong. With Mookie Betts and Andrew Benintendi in the corners, we could always use another fierce hitter in the lineup.

The red sox had that opportunity. Back in July, rumors came about that the team turned down a swap with outfielder Kyle Schwarber of the Chicago Cubs. That lineup would’ve been scary. This is his sixth season in the major leagues, hearing a streak of 5 for his last 50 at bats are getting old. While he had the 29 game hitting streak stun the entire league, it was also two seasons ago!!!

While looking for a replacement deems impossible, they have one on the roster already. Enter Blake Swihart. The catcher turned utility player was the hottest hitter for the Red Sox in spring training, if not one of the best in all of spring training. With growing experience, he could revitalize his career with an opening such as this one. Throughout his injury plagued career, Blake finally has his chance as an every day player.

With a highlight reel type player like Jackie there is still a great demand for a player with his skill set. Mainly national league teams would line up and pay a small fortune for his services. Also having one more option increases his value even more. Thus saving money for a free agent that also plays the outfield. ( Bryce Harper) Sorry Red Sox nation, but in order to put the best lineup game in and game out, the Red Sox need to trade Jackie Bradley jr.

The History Of The Boston Red Sox: Jersey Number 1-3

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In a new series by Boston Sports Extra, we decided to take a look back at the historic players to dawn our jersey numbers. Let’s witness history!

Number 1

Bobby Doerr: Until recently, Bobby was the oldest living member of the Cooperstown Baseball Hall of Fame. He played second base for the Red Sox from 1937-1951. He once lead the American league with consecutive chances without an error (414) in 1948. Throughout his career, he hit a .288 average with 233 career home runs, 2,042 hits, and 1,247 career runs batted in. He currently has his number retired at Fenway Park.

Number 2

Jerry Remy: The “rem-dog” played for his hometown Red Sox from 1978-1984. As a member of the Red Sox he hit a .285 average with 802 hits, two home runs, and 211 runs batted in. While his career stats weren’t as eye popping as they could be, he has been a color commentator for the Boston Red Sox since 1988. He has been in the homes of millions with NESN, and receives so much support with his off and on battle with cancer. Glad to have you back, Jerry!

Xander Bogaerts: The current shortstop since the 2013 playoffs, Xander has had an up and down career. The 25 year old is entering his fifth season. He sports a career .284 average with 53 homers, 292 runs batted in, and 698 hits to go along with 41 career stolen bases. While he is still on the disabled list for the time being, he has shown signs of his best offensive season yet. He should rejoin the team during their west coast trip. They play Japanese phenom Shohei Ohtani on Tuesday.

Number 3

Jimmie Foxx: He dawned the uniform number 3 from 1936-1942. He put together twelve 30 home run seasons, and 13 consecutive 100 RBI seasons. As a member of the Red Sox he hit .320 for average, with 222 home runs, 788 runs batted in and 1051 hits. He was one of the most dominant hitters of his generation.

Jody Reed: The second baseman played second base and shortstop for the Red Sox from 1987-1993. In that time, he hit .280 for average, 17 home runs, and 227 RBI.

While some of the players on the list will be Hall of Famers, some will be barely relevant guys. All players matter. Their stats may be incumbent, but they did make an impact during their respected seasons. Join us next time, as we look at numbers 4-6 on our list!