Final Score
Red Sox 13
A’s 6

Another “A’s�-Kicking: Back to back butt whuppins in Oakland have the Red Sox dreaming sweep dreams this afternoon.

The offensive fireworks helped Curt Schilling to lucky victory number 13. Meanwhile, Manny Ramirez looks like he’s in one of those zones he gets in from time to time. He’s absolutely crushing the ball right now, which is bad news for all the haters and radio gabbers. They’ll have to find a new whipping boy…at least until the next time Manny asks for a day off or misplays a ball in the outfield.

For those of you who still want to criticize Ramirez, here’s a challenge; name me one outfielder with comparable hitting ability that is a better defensive fielder. I bet you can’t.

The closest in my mind is Vladimir Guerrero, but other than a rifle for an arm, he’s a mediocre outfielder at best. And while a good hitter, he can’t carry Manny’s jock strap in terms of career accomplishments. Oh yeah, if you think Ramirez misses a lot of time due to injury, check out Vlad’s game totals from recent years compared to Manny’s.

Give up yet? Perhaps you want to talk about Ichiro and Carlos Beltran as great defensive players, but would you rather have them than Manny? Again, compare career totals and you’ll be shocked how far ahead Ramirez stands out.

One more thing; Manny does play the outfield, unlike a guy like Albert Pujols who the Cardinals had to move to first base so he wouldn’t hurt himself chasing fly balls. Remember that next time you ride Ramirez for his defense, and ask yourself; If David Ortiz played the field day in and day out, could he stay rested and healthy enough to put up the numbers he does? Evidence from his Twins days says no.

This message has been paid for by the Manny for President Committee!