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Numbers like 50, 55, 66 and 77. Spring training numbers in July. The kind of numbers that when in a starting lineup at this time of the year spell forced surrender when matched up with the one the New York Yankees had hanging on their clubhouse wall.
With little other choice available due to the growing parade of infirm Red Sox, manager Bobby Valentine sent out four offensive linemen and a fullback to tackle the Yankees in the first game of a day-night doubleheader. Predictably, the Sox lost by a field goal and a safety, 6-1.
Baseball is a game obsessed by numbers. It is driven by numbers, defined by numbers. Numbers give the game a certainty other games do not possess, the belief being that a player who has put up numbers for a number of years will eventually do so again unless his number is up.
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Yesterday afternoon’s lineup was one that should have been used in Fort Myers in March not Boston in July, a lineup that included Daniel Nava (66) in left field, Mauro Gomez (50) at third base, Pedro Ciriaco (77) at second and Ryan Kalish (55) in center. These were not your father’s Red Sox. These were Pinky Higgins’ Red Sox.
Herald: Sox' numbers don't lie
We are pretty much watching the Pawsox play the Yankees in this series. With injuries plaguing this team and set-backs in rehab stints, the Red Sox don't have much of a choice but to keep dipping into the Pawsox roster. That's what they are there for. The problem is, these guys have become more likable and productive than the Sox' regulars.
Ciriaco and Gomez will likely be back in Pawtucket before you know it. Their production will also be short-lived, but for now, they are flying high and winning their place in the hearts of fans.
We will likely see most of these guys in the lineup tonight and then some will make the 45 minute drive back to Pawtucket after the All-Star break. Ellsbury is making his way back and will soon return to the lineup. Who knows about Carl Crawford, and Middlebrooks could be in the lineup at any time.
This is just a very quick flash of brilliance for the "replacements" and you can't fall in love with these guys too quickly. The Red Sox have a $173 million reason why you shouldn't.
Related: Globe: This team has big-time trust issues
On Page 2, Gonzo's hitting streak is all about the singles, or is it?
