Red Sox Diaries

The seemingly indestructible Dice-K has landed on the DL for the first time since coming to this country, no biggie there. Maybe his arm is a little tired from the WBC, who knows. But what I do know is that the Red Sox have put some pressure on themselves in the early part of this season.

This homestand against the scorching hot Orioles (see standings and stat book) is crucial to our season. I know, I know: You're not even supposed to look at the standings until Memorial Day but you can’t help but notice that the Red Sox are not in their usual place. Last year at this time, the Red Sox led the AL East with a 10-7 mark. Even more disturbing is that you have to go before 2002 to find the Red Sox without a winning record this far into the season.

On top of all that, the Red Sox are near the bottom of the league in almost every critical category. Their putrid .242 average ranks them 12th in the American League, right above powerhouses like Kansas City and Minnesota. Laugh out loud. Look for the team to be more patient at the plate in their upcoming games. It can't hurt.

Now for the scary part, the Red Sox are ninth in the AL with ERA above 5.00.

On a positive note, I am pleasantly surprised that Kevin Youkilis has picked up right where he left off last year. He is hitting over .4oo to lead the team. Without him, the Sox would be in trouble. So buckle up, Red Sox Nation, and get ready for what may be the most exciting, for better or for worse, baseball season in recent memory. --- Nick Barone.