Boston Red Sox - 2006

[Thrasha]

Re: Boston Red Sox - 2006

First JD and now (possibly) Helton?

Wow

What exactly is Theo doing?

[NYJets]

Re: Boston Red Sox - 2006

First JD and now (possibly) Helton?

Wow

What exactly is Theo doing?

All part of his long term plan.

[Misfit]

Re: Boston Red Sox - 2006

First JD and now (possibly) Helton?

Wow

What exactly is Theo doing?

I'm not sure if you're looking for a serious answer but I'll bite. Theo is clearly trying to put together a lineup that is really hard to pitch too. I think he saw where the Red Sox missed out on Abreu and he's trying to replicate that. Think of it this way, both JD Drew and Helton have the same approach at the plate as Abreu and are both arguably better hitters than the former Phillie. A lot of the Yankees success offensively last season was that most of the guys in their lineup were not free swingers and are tough outs. Really, the only guy I can think of who isn't is Cano but he's shown an ability to put the ball in play which partially makes up for it. If the Red Sox add Helton to the mix, they'll have a lineup that's pretty much the same way. The only guy projected to start for the Red Sox who is more of a free-swinger is Crisp, and he's not too bad, just not what I would consider a patient hitter. Lowell certainly is though, and as we saw in the second half of last year when he isn't getting doubles he's virtually useless in that lineup. I don't think his glove made up for his offensive shortcomings at a position that demands solid offensive contributions.

It isn't a new concept for the Red Sox as their philosophy since Epstein came aboard was to get high OBP guys who work the count. Last year I think they got away from that a little and now are trying to get back on track. Certainly Helton isn't a perfect solution as he comes at a high price and brings some risk but if healthy, he gives the Red Sox another dangerous bat and maybe the best lineup in baseball.

[Thrasha]

Re: Boston Red Sox - 2006

It isn't a new concept for the Red Sox as their philosophy since Epstein came aboard was to get high OBP guys who work the count.

That's true. And I could understand this and roll with it a little bit better if didn't hear how the sentiment amongst the RS FO is that Manny's contract is a anvil around their neck.

If that's the case with Manny, what would Helton be? Even at a reduced rate.

[Misfit]

Re: Boston Red Sox - 2006

Manny at 20 million/year and Helton at 10 isn't really that comparable. Though part of the anvil mentality is Manny's attitude and behaviour and desire to be traded. Now that Manny only has a couple years left, I think the Red Sox prefer to keep him as evident by the past two winters when they refused to just dump him to save some money.