What's with NL pitchers in Boston?

John Smoltz and Brad Penny were (relative) bargain signings this year for the Sox. Penny was the better of the two, and while he was never great, he chewed up a lot of innings. In that regard, he fulfilled his end of the bargain.

On the other hand, the pitching-smart Braves had given up on Smoltz, and the Red Sox should have paid closer attention to why.

But now the two pitchers have gone back to the National League. And while Smoltz had a one-game revival for the always-smarter-than-you Tony LaRussa, he may be now reverting to form. Penny on the other hand has had back-to-back solid starts for the Giants. Is this a National League v American League thing, or just an anomaly? The Red Sox have had little luck importing National League pitchers.

We can use more like him

Ok, I’ll admit I hate David Ortiz. He wears a uniform of the enemy. He was a nobody until he was claimed off the scrap heap from Minnesota and now that he’s in Boston he’s sold his soul to the Green Monster. Now, he’s a real “Godzilla” not to mention bearing a strong resemblance. Batting in front of who may arguably be one of the top five right handed hitter of all-time Manny Ramirez, they form an imposing challenge to anyone who toes the rubber. But remember I hate him.

But I have to take off my Yankee hat and stand and applaud this man. He chose to become an American citizen. He went all Red, White and Blue. He gets it. It’s great to see an athlete with some skill above the neckline. He’s not abandoning his native Dominican heritage; he simply has shown the understanding and appreciation what the United States has allowed him to accomplish both professionally and personally. In the fouled up sportsworld we live with, he’s providing a great sense of leadership. Keep it up and bring a few more in from the cold.

Next time though he digs in at the Stadium though…hard up and in.