Pomeranz

Top 5 Ways the Red Sox Should Improve the Bullpen

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We’re now officially in the dog days of summer, and a familiar weakness has been glaring for the current Red Sox roster: the bullpen. Earlier this morning, the Sox announced the activation of Tyler Thornburg, who has spent close to eternity on the DL since being traded from the Milwaukee Brewers in 2016. Thornburg will surely bring a new presence to the ‘pen, but the problems run a bit deeper than one man can fix.

In order for the Sox to sure up their suspect bullpen, a few key moves need to be made. The race for the pennant is well underway and this team needs reinforcements. Here are the top five ways the Sox can restock the pantry and be ready for the storm come September and October.

5. Move Steven Wright Out of the Rotation

Wright

Courtesy of Getty Images

Steven Wright has anchored the starting rotation since his return to the lineup earlier this season. In four games started, he is 2-1 with a 3.38 ERA. Over 40 total innings pitched, he has given up 30 hits, only 15 earned runs while walking 20 batters, and striking out 31. Wright’s knuckleball has been nothing short of brilliant thus far, minus the shelling he received against the Mariners in his last start before landing back on the DL with a bum knee.

The belief is that Wright could return to full health within the next two weeks. But with the starters doing their part to produce quality outings, Wright’s services may be better utilized out of the ‘pen. After all, he was extremely effective as a long-term reliever when he first rejoined the team earlier this season. His ability to provide stability after a shaky start – coupled with his borderline un-hittable knuckle pitch – makes him much more of a valued asset in later innings of the game.

4. Trade for Kyle Barraclough

Barraclough

Courtesy of Elite Sports NY

The Miami Marlins have not had many bright spots in their 2018 campaign. With a current record of 35-52, they are festering in the cellar of the NL East. Miami is a full 15.5 games back from first place. The Marlins are unquestionably out of the playoff picture for this season, so they will be evaluating their current roster for trade pieces. Kyle Barraclough sits at the top of this list like a cherry on top of a melting sundae.

The Marlins don’t have many valuable pieces they can sell for younger, rising talent, but Barraclough is without a doubt catching the eye of many pennant-chasing teams as the trade deadline draws near. This season, the 28-year-old hurler has somewhat quietly put together a dominant showing, amassing a 1.17 ERA in 38 innings pitched. The accolades continue – he has allowed only 14 hits, two home runs, and 19 walks while striking out 42 batters.

The Red Sox have been rumored to be interested in the right-handed pitcher in recent weeks. Barraclough would provide extra insurance to the backend of the bullpen, currently anchored by the likes of Joe Kelly and Craig Kimbrel. A flashy arm, like the one Barraclough possesses, would elevate this ‘pen to a dominant status.

3. Trade for Rasiel Iglesias

Iglesias

Courtesy of ESPN

Rasiel Iglesias is in a similar situation as Barraclough; his team is dwelling quite steadily in the cellar of the division and are evaluating their roster for trade pieces. Iglesias is clearly a guy with surefire talent that could command a hefty return on the trade market.

The right-handed closer for the Reds has been the last stop in the Red’s bullpen for the season, notching 16 saves and a 2.63 ERA. In 37 innings pitched, Iglesias has allowed only 26 hits, 6 of which left the ballpark, and 13 bases on balls. But his 42 strikeouts speak for themselves – this guy can really get it done.

Iglesias is yet another arm the Red Sox have been linked with in trade rumors. He seems like he would fit snug like a glove as a setup man for Kimbrel. But if the Sox want to grab this guy, they have to act quickly. Iglesias has been linked with other teams, including the Wahington Nationals and Houston Astros, all hoping to provide reinforcements to their ‘pen before the postseason. Iglesias won’t be available for much longer, so it’s time for the Sox to make their move.

2. Move Drew Pomeranz to the Bullpen

Pomeranz

Courtesy of Getty Images

There aren’t many Sox fans who can say they’ve been satisfied with Drew Pomeranz’s performance this year. Frankly, I’m not sure if Red Sox management has a differing opinion. Pomeranz has been a real stinker, a true shell of himself from his former all-star days with the San Diego Padres. His 6.81 ERA leaves much to be desired, and the team seemed forced to give him some time on the DL just to move him out of the starting rotation.

The question now remains, should he even be allowed back into the rotation once he is “healthy” again?

Chris Sale, David Price, Rick Porcello, and Eduardo Rodriguez are the pitchers on the roster who are locks for starting slots moving forward. That leaves one final spot to round out the rotation, and you have to believe it is up for grabs. There are at least three pitchers, including Pomeranz, who will be vying for that role. The other two are Wright and Brian Johnson. Both Pomeranz and Wright have had success in a Red Sox uniform in the starting rotation. But this season has them better slatted for relief work. That leaves one man for the job.

1. Promote Brian Johnson to the Starting Rotation

Brian Johnson

(AP Photo/Derek Hamilton)

Brian Johnson represents the exact opposite of Wright and Pomeranz; he brings much more value to the starting rotation than to the bullpen. Johnson has provided spot-starts for Boston in recent weeks while Pomeranz and Wright work towards better health. He certainly has made the most of them. Though Alex Cora has been quick to yank him out on his short leash, Johnson has offered the backend of the rotation a bit of stability that the other two pitchers have not. In his past two starts, he has allowed a combined three earned runs in close to nine innings pitched. In four games started this season, he has allowed no more than two earned runs in any outing.

However, his splits out of the bullpen have been less impressive. Though he has still shown to be an effective reliever for Boston, he has been exposed at times. Recall the extra-inning game in Toronto when he was called in and promptly allowed the game-winning two-run blast. Johnson was shelled at Fenway Park just 10 days earlier by the subpar Kansas City Royals. He allowed three hits and an equal number of home runs in only one inning of work.

The numbers don’t lie. Johnson has enjoyed moderate success in a starter’s role and been relatively susceptible in relief work. With Pomeranz and Wright scuffling to find their way in the rotation, the open spot is for Johnson’s taking. In the coming weeks, we will see if Alex Cora and company reward him with that prize.

Proposed Trade: Kyrie Irving for Karl-Anthony Towns

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Rumors have been swirling surrounding Celtics superstar, Kyrie Irving, and his reported interest in playing with Jimmy Butler. Butler has recently reciprocated this perceived interest, openly discussing his discontent with the ‘nonchalant’ attitude of the young Wolves. Together, the duo are planning a reunion at some point in the near future. The two All-Stars are set to become free agents after the 2019 season, so these rumors should come as a bit of a concern to the front offices of the two franchises.

The Deal

(Staff photo by Stuart Cahill)

There is a simple solution to this whole issue, and it begins with shipping Kyrie Irving and Abdel Nader to Minnesota. In return, Minnesota would hopefully send back All-Star big man Karl-Anthony Towns, along with veteran forward Taj Gibson. Boston would likely have to toss in the Memphis Grizzlies’ 2019 first-round pick to sweeten the pot. The proposed trade is as follows:

Minnesota Receives:

Kyrie Irving

Abdel Nader

2019 Memphis Grizzlies first-round Pick

Boston Receives:

Karl-Anthony Towns

Taj Gibson

Financial Logistics

Kyrie Irving is going into the final year of a fully guaranteed 5-year/ $94.3 million contract. Irving will carry a cap hit of $20 million into next season. For any deal to work, Boston would need to absorb a similar amount of money in contracts from Minnesota.

Abdel Nader is entering into the 2nd year of a 3-year contract with a 4th-year team option. The contract is worth $4.1 million total with $2 million guaranteed. The salary cap hit for next season stands at $1.3 million.

Karl-Anthony Towns is going into the final year of his rookie contract with the Timberwolves. In 2015, Towns signed a fully guaranteed 4-year/ $25.7 million contract. He will carry a cap hit of $7.8 million into next season. This figure is much lower than that of Irving’s contract, which is where Gibson comes into play.

Taj Gibson is entering into the final year of a fully guaranteed 2 year/ $28 million contract. He will carry a cap hit of $14 million into next season.

If this deal went through, this is what the cap hit for each team would look like for the 2018-19 season:

Boston:

$21.8 million against the salary cap.

Minnesota:

$21.3 million against the salary cap.

Financially, this deal works just about evenly, with Boston set to absorb a mere half a million more than Minnesota.

Boston Makes This Trade If…

Kyrie Irving is serious about disbanding from the team to join forces with Jimmy Butler. A healthy Irving is just about as good as any point guard in the league, and with him in town Boston is a formidable opponent against just about anyone. There isn’t a whole lot of sense in making a move like this unless he truly is planning on leaving. Danny Ainge will have a sit down with Kyrie at some point, whether that is before the season or before the trade deadline. If Ainge feels he’s going to lose his star point guard at the end of the season, he will not hesitate to pull the trigger on a deal.

What better value can the franchise get in return than an All-NBA caliber big man? Towns is 22 years old and has been in the league for 3 years. He is averaging 21.6 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game for his career. Towns adds a major boost to the team’s thin front court while solidifying the starting lineup for years to come.

Taj Gibson gets thrown into the deal as a salary filler. But he could still provide a veteran presence to a young Celtics squad. Gibson had a bounce back year in Minnesota after struggling with the Thunder. He averaged 12.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game last season.

Minnesota Makes This Trade If…

Jimmy Butler is serious about leaving the team to play alongside Kyrie Irving. This deal works so well because both players seek to join forces with one another. Minnesota Head Coach Tom Thibodeau loves Butler and utilizes the versatile 2-way guard as the focal point of his offense. The last thing Thibodeau wants is to let his star walk. By making a deal that brings in Irving, Butler gets exactly what he wants while bolstering the team’s backcourt for the foreseeable future.

Kyrie is already considered a top 3 point guard in the league. Last season Irving averaged 24.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds while shooting 40.8% from three. This trade would likely satisfy both stars and give the franchise a boost towards contention in the Western Conference.

Abdel Nader gets included in the trade as a young prospect with a respectable amount of potential. He didn’t see the court much last season with the Celtics, but he shined bright as a rookie in the G League. Nader took home the G League rookie of the year with averages of 21.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. He has a long way to go to make it in the NBA, but the potential is undoubtedly there.

The Memphis Grizzlies’ 2019 first-round pick conveys to the team if it falls between picks 9-30. If it does not convey in 2019, it becomes top-6 protected in 2020. If it yet again fails to convey, the pick is fully unprotected in 2021. The inclusion of such a reasonably valuable pick would be the icing on the cake in this proposed trade offer. Adding another lottery talent to a roster centered around Jimmy Butler and Kyrie Irving could tremendously help the franchise contend for years.

Will a Deal Get Done?

This deal is a win-win for both franchises. Both teams get a young All-Star caliber talent that will bolster their roster for years to come. Kyrie and Jimmy will be satisfied with the opportunity to play alongside one another. Such a deal relies heavily on how much pressure Irving and Butler put on their respective front offices to make it happen. That being said, don’t be surprised if trade rumors start picking up surrounding the two teams. Karl-Anthony Towns may be closer to Boston green than we think.

Recapping the World Cup Round of 16

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This World Cup has been nothing but surprises and the Round of 16 games were no different.

The road ended abruptly for both Ronaldo and Messi fans. The team many expected to win it all were ousted by the host nation. There some familiar names still remaining, as well as others who are battling to win it for the first time.

Let’s Break it Down

France vs Argentina

Photo courtesy: FIFA

In one of the most entertaining games so far of the tournament, France prevailed after taking an early lead. Even after Argentina fought back to take a 2-1 lead, Mbappe took over the game and lead them to a 4-3 win. There is even speculation that this could have been Messi’s last game for Argentina.

Uruguay vs Portugal


Photo courtesy: FIFA

Cavani was the star of this game, scoring both goals for Uruguay. An earlier header broke the game open. Portugal would go on to tie it, but moments later Cavani’s beautiful strike ended Ronaldo’s hopes of World Cup glory.

Russia vs Spain

Photo courtesy: FIFA

In a game many expected to to go Spain’s way, Russia silenced the doubters. Both teams exchanged goals in regular time, but in spectacular fashion, the Russian goalie made clutch saves and a beautiful kick save on the final chance for Spain. The Russians relished in the 4-3 win on penalties.

Croatia vs Denmark

Photo courtesy: FOX

This game was a goalie duel. Both teams worked tirelessly to notch the winning goal in full time. Croatia had a penalty awarded to them in the final moments and had a chance to win the game, but the shot was stopped. No goals were scored in extra time. Croatia finally won 3-2 on penalties after several exciting saves by both goalies.

Brazil vs Mexico

Photo courtesy: FIFA

Mexico has never prevailed past this round and this year was no different. Brazil, who started the tournament slowly, has finally found its groove and won 2-0 as Neymar scored and assisted on both goals. Mexico had their chances but simply could not capitalize.

Belgium vs Japan 

Photo courtesy: FIFA

Japan looked to upset the world. However, Belgium clawed its way out of the depths of soccer despair. Japan was able to take a 2-0 lead, but Belgium snatched momentum back in a matter of minutes. A three-pass sequence from Belgium ended with the ball in the back of the net right before extra time. Belgium was the first team to come back from two goals in the second half in World Cup history.

Sweden vs Switzerland

Photo courtesy: FIFA

Sweden is heading to the Quarterfinals as they held on to beat Switzerland by a score of 1-0. This was a game that started off in a fast pace and was back and forth. But as the game went along, it became a stalemate. Switzerland tried to find the equalizer, but other than a header in the box in the final moments that was stopped, they didn’t have many good chances.

England vs Columbia 

Photo courtesy: FIFA

England finally broke its curse with penalties but not after a scare. Kane had scored a penalty and it looked like they were on their way to victory. Columbia mustered a late-time header to tie it up. Despite both teams having their chances in extra time, the game needed to be decided in penalties, . England finally were victorious in penalty kicks; they flipped the script of the previous three games in which they were eliminated. The keeper made a beautiful one-handed save and sealed the 4-3 win.

 

Lookout for the next article where I will preview and predict the Group of 8 games.

Follow me on Twitter: @SOURCEFRIAS

Potential Trade Packages for Jimmy Butler

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It looks like All-Star shooting guard, Jimmy Butler, does not want to play in Minnesota anymore. He has grown tired of playing for a young, nonchalant Timberwolves team, according to recent reports. As reported by the Chicago Sun-Times, Butler is looking to team up in free agency with Kyrie next season.

The question is if the Celtics should pursue Butler or wait to see if they can get him in free agency.  Butler has not stated that he is interested in playing for the Celtics, but has said that he would love to team up with Kyrie. Both Kyrie and Jimmy Butler are set to become UFAs in 2019.

With the Golden State Warriors adding Demarcus Cousins to their team, this could be the Celtics counter-move in the war of attrition. Butler has proven that he is top-20 player in the NBA. He is a four-time All Star, Most Improved Player, four-time All-Defensive second team, and two-time All-NBA third team. He even looked like he was on his way to being a nominee for MVP last season before he got injured.

Jimmy had 22.2 PPG, 4.9 APG, 5.3 RPG, and 2.0 SPG in 59 games. Over the past four seasons, he has averaged over 20.0 PPG, 3.0 APG, and 5.0 RPG. He is an inarguably solid scorer and one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA.

With Butler saying he won’t re-sign with the T-Wolves next season, he is most likely on the way to the trade block. If the Celtics were going to get him, it would cost some big assets, but nothing too big since Butler already said he is out of Minnesota. Here are some trade packages the Celtics could do for Jimmy Butler:

Terry Rozier, Sacramento/Philadelphia Pick, Marcus Morris

Photo Credit: NESN

This trade involves Terry Rozier, Marcus Morris, and the first round pick which will either be from the 76ers or Kings. Rozier has one year left on his contract and will look to get paid this upcoming season. His role was significantly increased after Kyrie got injured. He started 16 regular season games and all 19 playoff games.

Marcus Morris also has one year left on his contract. Morris was acquired from the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Avery Bradley last year.

Lastly, the first round draft pick the Celtics would give up will most likely be a high pick with the recent history. This adds even more value to the pick.

https://twitter.com/TheRenderNBA/status/988941821299625984

Jaylen Brown

Photo Credit: Sports Illustrated

Jaylen Brown has been thrown into a lot of trade scenarios this offseason. Brown was the third overall pick by the Celtics in the 2016 NBA Draft. He showed last year why he was selected so high with 14.5 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.6 APG, and starting in every game in which he played (70). Jaylen is one of the best perimeter defenders in the Eastern Conference. He is a target of interest for many teams. However, Brown looks to be a future all-star in the NBA and would be tough to give up.

Other Considerations

If the Celtics do acquire Jimmy Butler, they would have no cap space to sign Marcus Smart. The Celtics are placed in a tough scenario with Jimmy Butler. Butler and Kyrie want to play together, but the C’s would have to break up the core chemistry to acquire him.

But at the end of the day, Celtics are among the favorites to make it out of the East. Jimmy Butler could be the reason the Celtics hang banner number 18.

Eye of the Tiger: Part 2 of Patriots Training Camp

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This is Part 2 of the 10 Patriots with the most to prove heading into training camp. To read the first five Patriots visit Part 1.

Who’s got the eye of the tiger?

The thrill of the fight…

Heading into the 2018 training camp for the New England Patriots, there are 90 hungry young men vying for 53 roster spots. Who wants it most? Which player will fight off challengers for a roster spot? Training camp is the place to find answers to these questions. The quest for a sixth championship begins with the start of the regular season. There is lots of work to be done in that time.

For your pre-training camp look at which Patriots have the most to prove, we have dived deep into the roster and dissected position depth, contract details, and likelihood of making the roster. Of course, we will apply the highly scientific Shakeup Factor to let you know the potential impact if these players do not make the team.

Elandon Roberts, LB

Roberts has performed admirably for a sixth round pick. He has started for the bulk of two years with the Patriots and won a Super Bowl while playing in another. However, his limited coverage abilities have been exposed and the Patriots may be looking for younger, better replacements.

Shakeup Factor: 4.8

He has definitely fallen short of being the “best linebacker in the Draft.” But Roberts has made a very positive impact and replacing his snaps will have to come from Hightower or some of the unproven players on the team.

 

Mike Gillislee, RB

When the Patriots signed the restricted free agent from Buffalo, many thought that he would turn into the next big thing at running back. It didn’t quite work out that way. In fact, he was not even active for a good portion of the later part of the season. With just under 2.2 million in cap space, it seems unlikely that the team will allow the Gillislee experiment to continue.

Shakeup Factor: 5.2

The SF number takes into account the likelihood that Jeremy Hill will get cut as well. It seems logical that the two big backs are battling for one roster spot. If Sony Michel, Rex Burkhead, and James White are ready to shoulder the load, then it could be that the Patriots don’t keep another RB at all. This logic is surprising, but not unthinkable.

 

Phillip Dorsett, WR

Trading away a young, cost-controlled quarterback that had already shown he can win games as a rookie would normally result in shockwaves. The Patriots trading Jacoby Brissett for a lackluster Phillip Dorsett was only the second highest QB trade they completed last season. After a year of limited impact, Dorsett has a good foundation and could make more noise this year in the crowded group of receivers. But it will be a dogfight for the speedster to make the team.

Shakeup Factor: 5.5

Trading away a quality QB prospect for a single season of poor production from a wide receiver would be considered a bad deal by any team out there. Dorsett getting cut before the year starts would go down as one of the poorer evaluations from Bill Belichick.

 

Dwayne Allen, TE

Despite his lack of quantifiable production in 2017, Dwayne Allen made a big impact that didn’t necessarily show up on the stats sheet. As the second tight end on the depth chart, his blocking abilities were surely underestimated. Will that be enough for the Pats to keep him, especially with a 13.4 million cap hit and no dead money over the next two seasons? It doesn’t seem likely.

Shakeup Factor: 7.3

Allen has competition at the tight end spot. The Patriots signed Troy Niklas and Will Tye as veterans and reports on Jacob Hollister have been just short of glowing. Allen will have to turn in his playbook if someone steps up and shows they can block as well as be productive in the passing game. That 5 million cap space could probably be used more resourcefully than for a blocking pylon.


Joe Thuney, OG

The story of Joe Thuney is a compelling one; he was a third round offensive line prospect that won the starting job as a rookie and has started every game since. The current chapter may be coming to an end.

Thuney has struggled at times. Alongside the smaller David Andrews at center, struggles between the two can contribute to breakdowns on the offensive line. Still, there are a lot of questions to be answered. Does Trent Brown win the starting left tackle job? If Isaiah Wynn plays guard this season, do the Patriots value Thuney as a backup? 

Shakeup Factor: 8.2

The Patriots have always been relatively unconventional with their offensive line. O-line savant Dante Scarnecchia has surely gained the right to make the risky roster decisions. If Thuney is the best option, he will play. If they can get good value for him, he will get a second chance somewhere else. Regardless, the offensive line should be better for the 2018 season and help the Patriots back to the Super Bowl.

Training camp will shake the tree and the nuts will tell the story. Stay tuned.

 

All photos courtesy of Getty images unless noted otherwise.

Be sure to check out other great articles for all your favorite Boston sports teams on Bostonsportsextra.com

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Free Agency

Where the Bruins Stand After Free Agency

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The Boston Bruins were very active at the beginning of free agency this past Sunday. They signed four players to NHL contracts as some fan favorites departed for other teams. Their additions included Jaroslav Halak, John Moore, Chris Wagner, and Joakim Nordstrom. The Bruins were able to fill most of their holes, but missed out on prized free agent John Tavares as he choose to sign with his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs. The NHL offseason is young and the Bruins roster will undergo more changes before the season begins.

Will They Trade a Defenseman?

With the addition of John Moore, the Bruins now have nine defensemen on the roster. Moore will be a big part of the Bruins future after signing him to a five-year deal. If The Bruins make a trade to improve their second line then one of their defenseman may get dealt. Torey Krug has been mentioned in trade rumors and could help net the Bruins an impactful piece. Adam McQuaid and Kevin Miller are also possible trade targets for other teams.

Free Agency

Photo Credit: Charles Krupa/ AP Photo

Bruins Find Their Backup Goalie in Free Agency

Anton Khudobin had a breakout year for the Black and Gold last season. The Bruins were unable to keep him, however, as the Dallas Stars signed him to a two-year deal worth $2.5 million a year. Khudobin’s replacement will be former Islanders goaltender Jaroslav Halak, who the Bruins signed to a two-year deal. Although Halak is a capable goalie, his number were not impressive last season. In Boston those numbers should improve as he will have a better defensive group in front of him.

Free Agency

Photo Credit: Brett Cyrgalis/ New York Post

Bruins Add a Physical Presence

Halak was not the only former Islander the Bruins signed. Halak’s teammate forward Chris Wagner will join him as well. Wagner is only 27 years old and is a Massachusetts native. Wagner will provide the Bruins with a physical presence on the third line. He was second among forwards in hits last season with Anaheim and New York. Wagner is coming off his best offensive season as last year he had a career high seven goals and nine assists.

Chris Wagner

Photo Credit: Christopher Pasatierie/ Getty Images North America

Where Does This Leave the Bruins?

Sweeney prioritized depth over making a huge signing. He has set the Bruins up well to compete next season. He has put them in a good position to make a trade if the Bruins can find the right match. The Bruins will be connected to players like Wayne Simmons and Artemi Panarin until a deal is actually made. This will be a very interesting offseason for the Black and gold, free agency is just the beginning.

Patriots Training Camp Preview: Tight Ends

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There are many different players on this Patriots team compared to last year. New England acquired four guys from trade, fifteen from free agency, and nine from the NFL Draft. They also lost nine players from trade and free agency and had three players retire.

In this new series, I will be looking at every player from each position leading up to training camp. For this installment I will talk about the tight ends. The tight end position has been very valuable for the Patriots since Belichick took over. They became the first team to use three tight end packages and move tight ends to wide receiver slot. This past year they gained two tight ends from free agency and added one through the draft.

Rob Gronkowski #87 (2010-Present):

Gronk is considered the best tight end in the NFL, and has been for most of his NFL career. He is entering his ninth season for the Patriots after being drafted in the second round. Rob has proven to be great, but has also had some major injuries along the way. He has not played in 16 regular season games since the sophomore season. There were murmurs of Gronk retiring after New England’s loss in the Super Bowl against Philadelphia. It escalated all the way to the Patriots exploring trades for Rob. However, Gronk will be a Patriot for the upcoming season.

Rob has shown on the field why he is so good. In Gronkowski’s rookie season he had ten touchdowns. He then followed up with an outstanding second year showing with 18 TDs, 90 receptions, and 1,327 yards. He broke the single season touchdown record by a tight end in NFL history en route to becoming a first team All-Pro. 2012 and 2013 was where Gronk missed a lot of time, participating in 18 games over the two-season span. He then came back in 2014 and 2015 with 1000+ yard seasons and 23 combined touchdowns. In 2016 he missed a lot of time again due to injury and only played in eight games. Gronkowski last season had a healthy year with him seeing the field for 14 games. He hauled in 69 receptions, 1084 yards, and eight scores.

https://twitter.com/Patriots/status/945006630113984512

Gronkowski will need to be a major piece for the Patriots offense if they want to win another Super Bowl next year. Gronk needs to stay healthy for the season, especially with Edelman’s pending PED suspension. Rob will make it to the Patriots roster, no doubt.

Dwayne Allen #83 (2017-Present):

Dwayne Allen is entering his seventh season in the NFL and his second with the Patriots. The Pats acquired Allen via trade in the 2017 offseason to help with the loss of Martellus Bennett. The Pats have a history of bringing in veteran backup tight ends to fit their offense, and that is what Allen was supposed to be.

Allen started his career in Indianapolis as the Colts’ third-round pick in 2012. His rookie year he had 45 receptions, 521 yards, and three TDs. The next year he missed almost entirely due to a knee injury. He came back in 2014 where he had 395 yards and eight scores. In his last season with the Colts he played all 16 games and had 406 yards and six scores. The Patriots traded a fourth-round pick to Indy for Allen and expected him to be the solid backup tight end that Gronk has always had. Allen’s season was ultimately a disappointment with him catching only ten passes for 86 yards and a TD.

https://twitter.com/CaseyBake16/status/929906514898407424

Dwayne is coming off an awful season for the Pats and will need to show something off big in training camp, or else he might not make the roster.

Troy Niklas #86 (2018-Present):

Troy Niklas was signed by the Patriots in the 2018 offseason. He signed a one year deal worth $940 thousand. Niklas has been primarily a blocking tight end in his career, which is why the Pats brought him in. He will be entering his fifth season in the NFL and his first for the Patriots.

Niklas’ first full NFL season came in 2015 where he played in 16 games and had four catches, 33 yards, and two TDs. He missed 13 games in 2016 due to injury. Troy had 11 catches for 132 yards and one score in his last season for Arizona.

Even though Niklas’ stats don’t look appealing, he has been on an NFL roster for his whole career due to the fact he has been a successful blocker. Troy will still have to fight in training camp to make the roster, but he has a good chance to make it.

Jacob Hollister #47 (2017-Present):

Hollister is entering his second season in the NFL and the Patriots. He was an undrafted free agent signing out of Wyoming after the 2017 NFL Draft. He played a larger role than a lot of people expected out of him last year.

Jacob played in 15 games last year for the Patriots. He had four catches and 42 yards last year. He also showed how good he was at catching the ball in preseason where he had 12 catches for 146 yards and a TD. Hollister only played one playoff game and he had one catch for a yard.

https://twitter.com/FilthyHits/status/895853246752804864

Jacob Hollister exceeded expectations last year when he played in 15 games. He definitely has a good chance of making the roster for the upcoming season as long as he does well in training camp.

Will Tye #82 (2017-Present):

Will Tye will be entering his first full season for the Pats and his fourth in the NFL. He was acquired by the Patriots in October of 2017 after being cut by the New York Jets. He did not play for the Patriots in 2017 and was placed on the practice squad for the remainder of the year.

Tye had his most success for the New York Giants. In his two-year stint with the Giants he had 90 receptions, 859 yards, and four TDs. He then was claimed by the Jets, where he only played three games and had four catches for 38 yards.

https://twitter.com/NFLonLive/status/676595952933838848

Will has been an extremely good blocker and has played a lot of fullback because of it. If Tye can return to his form from his Giants days, he will have a shot at making the roster.

Ryan Izzo (Rookie):

Izzo was the Patriots 250th overall draft pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. He was a four-year player at Florida State University.

Ryan was more of a blocker than a pass catcher in his college career, with him not having more than 320 yards once in a season. His senior season consisted of 20 receptions, 317 yards, and three TDs. In total, he left college with 54 receptions, 761 yards, six scores, and 29 games under his belt.

Izzo will have a very unlikely chance to make it to the active roster next year. His only hope will be making the practice squad.

Shane Wimann (Rookie):

Shane Wimann was picked up by the Patriots as an undrafted rookie out of Northern Illinois. He had a solid career for NIU where he played 31 games.

Wimann is also a dominant blocker like many of the tight ends the Patriots have. He hasn’t been to special in the pass game with only 65 receptions, 635 yards, and 17 TDs. Shane is a big man though coming in at 6’4″ and 260 pounds.

Shane will have to show something in training camp if he wants to make the practice squad over guys like Izzo.

The Patriots have a lot of new faces at tight end this year which will make it hard to narrow it down for the 53 man roster.

Danny Ainge Displeased with Robert Williams’ First Impressions

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When Texas A&M big man Robert Williams III fell to the Celtics with the 27th pick, people dubbed him the “steal of the draft”. Many wondered how such a talent bursting with so much potential could fall out of the lottery, let alone to the end of the first round.

Blunders

It didn’t take long for Williams to show the world why. The day after he was drafted he was set to be on conference call to answer questions from the media. He slept through the call, then was practically incoherent on the follow-up conference.

Williams then followed up this blunder with another, reportedly missing his flight to Boston for the team’s first Summer League practice. Two pretty big errors all within his first two weeks with the team.

Robert Williams managed to get himself to practice Monday with Danny Ainge in attendance. Here is what Ainge had to say about his troubled new rookie:

Can He Recover?

It’s safe to say Williams has a lot of work cut out for him. If he seeks to get on his new boss’s good side, this is not a good start. Boston has a reputation for running a tight ship with their players, and Williams will be no exception.

Perhaps the veteran leadership of Al Horford will help right the ship for Williams. Stick his locker next to Big Al’s and let him mentor Rob throughout his rookie season. The good news is that the rookie is joining a quality franchise. The Celtics are in prime position to contend for championships for years to come. If Robert is to succeed in the NBA, this is the perfect place for him to land.

If Williams can figure out the off the court issues his potential as a player is boundless. Showing up to practice would be a great starting point.

Should David Price’s Big Stage Woes Cause Panic?

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Sunday night gave the David Price doubters all the fuel they needed to spit off every reason why he is not worth the big investment. I wonder how many times that has been used in Price articles? I’ve found myself as Price’s last line of defense when it comes to most conversations about the lefty. It does seem that when it comes to the big stage, Price does get a bit rattled. Here, we will make the case of both sides and evaluate where we stand.

 

Why to Panic

Let’s start off by pushing away the blow-hard Boston media perception of Price that has festered since his arrival. The theory is that he is not a good clubhouse leader and has a bad attitude or anything involving Fortnite.  A lot of the young guys in the clubhouse look up to Price, even players who are no longer on their team.

Fingers should be pointed at factual, unfortunate statistics for Price. After this career-high eight spot put up by the Yankees, Price’s totals against the Bombers went to a 2-6 with an 8.43 ERA. Price gave the Yankees and Aaron Hicks (3 HRs) possibly the best night of their July on the first night.

Now Price has jacked up his ERA to a 4.28. Less than desired from the $217M dollar man. And in the days after this Yankees start, it is hard to forget the fact that Price has yet to claim that post-season win. If we are truly bringing his attitude into play as well, David Price does not seem like the happy man who will keep committed to this contract when faced with an opt out. It has never seemed like Price’s statistical timeline has matched up with the rest of the team, so maybe sound the alarm.

 

Why Not to Panic

I vaguely remember a pitcher for the Red Sox who mightily struggled against the Yankees on the road. Years ago, a small Dominican man with a red glove was put into a mental pretzel in the Bronx. It’s very easy to get lost in the mayhem of New York baseball, especially when you are seen as the prey. IN NO WAY AM I CLAIMING DAVID PRICE IS EQUAL TO THE QUALITY OF PEDRO MARTINEZ. But if we are analyzing Boston greats, even the cream of the crop struggled with the New York Yankees, and even in the postseason at times. He won’t call them his daddy, but Price is certainly aware of the situation at hand.

“I’ve faced these guys a lot of times,” said Price. “Been in this division for a long period of time. I’ve faced the Yankees many times. It’s time for me to kind of go back to that drawing board and kind of reinvent myself against these guys.” -MLB.com

It’s clear that as the games go on, the pressure for Price to outshine the Yankees will be there. There are several check marks Boston fans have placed on Price in order for his lucrative contract to benefit them. One of which being consistent quality performances against New York. What I’m concerned with is the quality of David Price that was there before this New York start. Since May 17(disregarding Sunday’s start) Price was premium quality compared to the rest of the roster. Price had a 2.65 ERA, a 6-1 win-loss record, and a 3.27 FIP. This David Price would be nice to get back post this July 1st massacre.

My Conclusion

Personally, I have never had permanent doubt when it comes to David Price. Whether or not we should be paying him for this kind of quality is not in the fans’ control. Personally, I was swayed by postseason Price last year. The fire that was in that version of this pitcher is something that will come out in a divisional series against the Yankees. Rather than a no as meaningful series in the month of July.

 

 

I believe either side has a valid argument. But when it comes down to it  Price has produced quality statistics this season. For some people, the Price will never be right. What do you think?

The Red Sox Should Have Signed Lester, Not Price

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In the winter of 2014, Jon Lester was the big name free agent to hit the market. The Cubs ended up signing him to a six-year, $155M contract. The following winter, David Price was the big name free agent. Lester’s has a $25.8M per year, with Price at $30M annually. Here’s why the Red Sox made a huge mistake.

Jon Lester

Lester said that he would take a discount, making it easier for the Red Sox to sign him. NESN reported that he probably would have signed a five-year extension worth $120M (24 per). In 113 starts as a Cub, Lester has a 3.09 ERA. Lester’s 3.09 ERA since 2015 ranks 10th in the MLB, minimum 500 innings pitched, one spot below Chris Sale. So the Red Sox could have two top-ten pitchers in the league right now. In eleven postseason starts, he has a 1.63 ERA since 2015, and he won the 2016 NLCS MVP.

David Price

After a rough 2015 when Clay Buchholz was the opening day starter, the Red Sox needed to go out and make a big move. They were competing with the Cardinals, so they upped their offer to a seven-year, $217M dollar contract (31 per). Since 2016, Price has a 3.95 ERA in Boston. Price’s 3.95 ERA ranks 27th in the majors since 2016, minimum 400 innings pitched. He ranks third in annual salary, with his 27th slot in the majors is not good enough. In three postseason games as a Red Sox, he has a 4.50 ERA and a 13.50 ERA in his only start.

The Comparison

The Red Sox have won the division both years Price has been in Boston, but they are 1-6 in the playoff games. In his only start against the Indians, Price gave up five runs in 3.1 innings and took the loss. To Price’s credit, he pitched well against the Astros in the bullpen. Lester’s Cubs went to the NLCS in 2015 and 2017 and won the World Series in 2016. Lester is more clutch and trustworthy than Price and is on a better contract. Price is 32 and could opt out of his contract after this year, but I doubt he will given his struggles. I do not like watching a 32-year-old David Price, and I am certainly not looking forward to watching a 36-year-old David Price.

I believe this is the dumbest move ownership has made in the last decade. Some may make the case for the Ramirez and Pablo signing, letting Epstein and Francona go, or something else. But with the difference in money and performance, the decision not to sign Lester and to sign Price is the worst one. There is not a huge difference in money, but the money could be better spent elsewhere. Price is going to get worse as he ages, and the contract is going to look worse and worse each year.