In a game that was dubbed crucial to Daniel Bards chances at a rotation spot, he gave up 5 ER and walked 3 in 6 innings. While in competition with Felix Doubront, Aaron Cook and Alfredo Aceves for just two rotation spots, these results may not be good enough.
It’s been highly publicized the last several days that Bobby Valentine wants Daniel Bard in the pen. After Sundays outing, the Red Sox front office may finally agree with him.
Bards line looked like this– 6IP, 6H, 5ER, 3BB, 5K
After two very good starts to begin spring training, Bard has looked slightly less than mediocre ever since. The righty now carries a Lackey-esque 7.32 ERA into the final week of March with just 8 games remaining in spring training. I’m curious to see if Bobby V gets his way on this one after today’s game. With guys like Felix Doubront and Aaron Cook making strong pushes for rotation spots, todays game may have increased their chances.
Notes From The Game
–The front runner for the Red Sox starting shortstop position Mike Aviles was 3 for 4 with an RBI and 2 Runs scored from the leadoff spot today. His spring average is now .333
–2011 Red Sox draft pick Jackie Bradley made the first spring training appearance of his professional career going 0-2 in the game.
—Darnell McDonald had 2 RBI in the game, continuing his impressive spring.
—Kevin Youkilis sat the game out with back stiffness but is expected to get some at bats in a minor league game on Monday.
–Lefty Justin Thomas gave up the go ahead run in the bottom of the 10th giving the Blue Jays a 6-5 win over the Red Sox.