AL East Round Up: Happy Returns Edition

Boston Red Sox

Ian Browne of MLB.com tells us exactly the issue with the Red Sox first month of the season. He calls it “disjointed”.  It is no wonder they’ve not been able to put on a run that will propel them up the standings…yet. But with returns to the lineup from Shane Victorino and Will Middlebrooks, and Jon Lester looking like a true “ace” the Red Sox may actually be about to take off.

Victorino has come back from a hamstring injury that has limited his playing time to just 7 games this season. Yet, he’s managed 9 hits and a .290 average. He’ll probably take a bit of time to live up to his “Flyin’ Hawaiian” nickname. But, as he becomes more comfortable and the weather warms up, look for Victorino to add a much needed boost to this team.

Will Middlebrooks is also back in the Sox lineup. He suffered a calf injury earlier this season and is back and ready to contribute to the lineup. If healthy, this team is a force to be reckoned with. In 12 games, Middlebrooks is batting .225. He’ll need to pick that up, obviously. But, he’ll also bring a calming effect on the defense as he is able to regularly play 3rd. Although, he’ll need to improve on his 10 errors from last season.

Jon Lester is a flat out BEAST. I’m not sure why the Red Sox are waiting so long to re-sign him. If he hits the free agent market, they may not be able to afford to sign him. Lester leads the league in strikeouts with 58 in his league leading 7 starts. His ERA sits at 2.59. He is fresh off a career high 15 K performance against the Oakland Athletics. Since 2008, Lester has made over 30 starts every year. He is off to a good start this season even though his record is at 3-4. If his offense can help him out, he could return as one of the best pitchers in baseball.

* David Ortiz will once again return to the spotlight. According to Quinn Roberts at MLB.com EPIX will air a documentary on the life and performance of Big Papi. Enter eye roll here.

*Celebratory

high five to

who hit his 100th HR of his career- a grand slam! It was reviewed, but it stood. It came in the 6th inning against the A’s on Friday.