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- Aug 31, 2011
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I watched part of the game against Miami (AKA Florida) on Monday. In an interview, Bobby indicated that he is trying to get the Sox to think 180 instead of 90. He explained that he felt that the Sox' base-runners would think in terms of one base (90) feet on a single but he wanted them to always be thinking two bases (180 feet). If they were thinking two bases they would be running harder to the next base and be able to take advantage of any fielder who took it easy in getting to the ball or mis-handled the ball. During the game David Ortiz and Salty were able to take two bases on singles. Adrian Gonzalez tried too but was thrown out on a perfect relay. I don't think I ever saw him try to go first to third on a single. Terry would have told him not to try because he might get hurt.
He also has told David Ortiz that he wants him to play first base. Although he is primarily the DH he is on the roster as a first basemen and Bobby wants the flexibility to use him there. Terry would have been afraid the David would get hurt.
He did another thing in the Miami game that I liked. In the ninth inning of a tie game, when the first batter got on base, he brought in a pinch-runner who can fly (can't remember his name). This change put pressure on the defense and made the shortstop and second-baseman play closer to the bag. It also forced the first baseman to hold the runner and the catcher to call for more fastballs. Despite all this, the hitter drove a hanging slider over the fence and the Sox won.
He is also forcing the Sox to practice relays and making the outfielders work on their arm strength. The pitchers are learning how to hold the runners on. I like what I see and hear so far.
He also has told David Ortiz that he wants him to play first base. Although he is primarily the DH he is on the roster as a first basemen and Bobby wants the flexibility to use him there. Terry would have been afraid the David would get hurt.
He did another thing in the Miami game that I liked. In the ninth inning of a tie game, when the first batter got on base, he brought in a pinch-runner who can fly (can't remember his name). This change put pressure on the defense and made the shortstop and second-baseman play closer to the bag. It also forced the first baseman to hold the runner and the catcher to call for more fastballs. Despite all this, the hitter drove a hanging slider over the fence and the Sox won.
He is also forcing the Sox to practice relays and making the outfielders work on their arm strength. The pitchers are learning how to hold the runners on. I like what I see and hear so far.