Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Red Sox Need ALCS-Level "Price Point" In World Series Game Two Tonight

(Getty Images)
In tonight's World Series Game Two, David Price can go a long way toward cementing a new legacy in Boston—one that is already being forged. His ALCS Game Five performance was absolutely dominant—six innings, no runs, three hits, nine strikeouts, no walks. It was the lefty's first winning start in the postseason and allowed the Red Sox to take-out the defending World Series Champions in five games. Price seemed in total control, spotting a devastating change-up to complement a lively fastball and a nasty cutter. If he can even remotely duplicate that performance at Fenway Park tonight, and the Red Sox win Game Two, he will likely undergo what we like to call The Lackey Effect. John Lackey was—for most of his time in Boston—absolutely vilified by both media and fans. He was part of the "Chicken And Beer" cabal and seemed like nothing more than a snarly malcontent who showed-up his fielders. Then, in the 2013 World Series, he pitched a clinching gem in Game Six. Lackey went 6.2 innings—giving up a lone run, walking just one and striking out five. It was more than enough to allow the Red Sox a 6-1 win that solidified the Bearded Band Of Brothers championship. His Boston legacy was immediately transformed. Price has the chance tonight for just that kind of total redemption. He's already got us half-way there, now he can close the deal.