Faith Remains With Coco & Beckett
It’s been ages since there’s been a post here. It’s felt like centuries since the Sox won a game before last night’s. There has been a lot of criticism thrown at the Red Sox organization, and much of it is deserved. Some really horrible deals have been made the last couple of seasons, and for awhile everyone seemed to be turning a blind eye because of the trade that shocked the Nation and brought a World Series to Fenway (if you don’t know which trade I’m referring to, stop reading now and go back to your Yankees website).
Danny boy over at the Globe loves times like this. In fact, I think he prefers agony over victory when it comes to the Sox. He has, on a number of occassions, referred to the Coco as being disastrous, and Beckett as disappointing (maybe not those words, but you get the point). As I’ve been extremely disappointed completely by the entire season, I think Coco and Beckett could very well still have their best years ahead of them. On that note, I really hope they aren’t moved this winter.
Coco started the season with a splash and then got hurt. He’s faded quite a bit and hasn’t been the ideal lead-off guy. Youk stepped in and revolutionized the lead-off role. Given the right circumstances, a lot can turn for the better next year. Coco has been exceptional defensively and will probably continue to improve the more he plays at Fenway. He’s having an uncharacteristic year, but I have confidence he’ll turn it around next season — hopefully the Sox don’t ditch him like they have others in the past while they keep Clement.
Beckett is in his 20’s and locked up for 3 years. His stuff can be nearly magical. The upside is still there, and another season in the AL East and at Fenway will teach him a lot while improves. Picking up another top-level starter this offseason would certainly help in Beckett’s development. I still salivate at the prospect of getting a proven closer and having a rotation with Schilling - Beckett - Papelbon.