After every series, we'll take stock of how each individual and group performance affects their overall value.
Offense
Mike Aviles: It is safe to say his overall value went down after getting stumped by White Sox pitching. It was bound to happen, and let's hope it is short term
Ryan Sweeney: Sweeney looked continued to looked great in games 1 and 3, then put up a goose egg in the final game that didn't hurt his value too badly. Still lovin' what he is bringing to the table.
Dustin Pedroia: As quickly as he gets back over .300, he is right back below that mark. We are all waiting for Pedey to start rakin' again.
Adrian Gonzalez: It kills me to put the red arrow next to his name, but this is not the Adrian we were expecting. His .284 batting average with 2 homers is nowhere near impressive.
David Ortiz: Papi continues to swing a good bat. The 2-run homer in game 2 of the series was a spark for the offense. The excitement is back when Ortiz is at the plate.
Kevin Youkilis: He is really hurting his trade value. He exploded in game 1, but the struggles continue and the patience is growing thin around Boston. We all thought that could have been the slump breaking game.
Jarrod Saltalamacchia: Like Youk, Salty had a monster game 1, but went downhill from there. I still think he is progressing and will raise his average in the coming month.
Cody Ross: Not much of a change this series from last. Still producing, so that is all that matters. I am starting to like the #7 again.
Marlon Byrd: I might be getting a little ahead of myself, but I like the addition of Marlon Byrd. Especially compared to Darnell McDonald. Byrd contributed with 4 hits and an RBI against the other Sox and is batting .308 with Boston. Not bad for a guy that is 10 years past his prime.
The Bench: Aside from McDonald's homer in game 2, there was very little production. That's why they are on the bench most of the time.
Starting Pitching
I liked what I saw from everyone, even Beckett. They finally got their act together and made people realize that they can pitch. They will be up against some bad teams in May, giving them a huge change to build up their confidence.
Bullpen
Finally, no huge numbers in the run column for the pen. They are starting to redeem themselves and hopefully this will last.
Managing
I'll give Bobby some credit for the 6-game winning streak. I also give him credit for keeping his mouth shut.
Overall
How can you not like what the Sox have been doing lately? Even with the poor performance on Sunday, this team is getting recognized again, for the right things. They have a great opportunity to keep it going.
