Former Boston Red Sox pitcher Pedro Martinez recently publicly criticized Red Sox designated hitter Hanley Ramirez for his lack of leadership within the clubhouse.
Boston legend Pedro Martinez believes a big issue with this year’s Red Sox team is the lack of leadership. He believes a void was created when David Ortiz retired about a year ago and he also believes Hanley Ramirez should have been the one to step up.
Thursday with OMF, Martinez harshly criticized Ramirez about his lack of leadership and for his lack of production this year. Ramirez began Game 1 of the American League Division Series on the bench while Eduardo Nunez got the start. Nunez, unfortunately, got injured early in the game and will not return.
"“You never replace David. David is such a leader,” Martinez said on OMF. “He knew when to pull the team together and say, ‘We’re not playing the best ball.’ I think they’re lacking that leader could pull them aside and say, ‘We’re not playing the kind of baseball we’re used to playing.’ Hanley hasn’t been that guy, Hanley is not reflecting the same energy he was showing last year. The team is different this year. Very little to rely on when it comes to being that guy.”More from Red Sox NewsRed Sox Nation deserves far more from Fenway Sports GroupBizarre trade deadline comes back to haunt Red Sox after Nathan Eovaldi departureRed Sox’ Moneyball-style offseason continues with Corey Kluber contractRich Hill’s Red Sox departure puts him within striking distance of unique MLB recordRed Sox offseason takes another nasty hit with Nathan Eovaldi departure"
Ramirez has had an inconsistent season, hitting .242. He also battled shoulder pain throughout the summer. However, he did have a strong performance in Game 1 after coming off the bench.
Martinez went on to say that since Ramirez won’t step up for the Red Sox, Chris Sale should. He started Game 1 and wound up with the loss but he does carry the “Ace” title for the team.
"“I remember when I was the ace, everything would rub off on my teammates,” Martinez went on to explain. “When they didn’t score runs, you guys felt bad. You knew I was battling my tail of to get a win. So you guys really went about your business exactly the way I wanted. That’s what I’m expecting with this team, to feed off the energy Chris Sale brings.”"
Next: Chris Young added to the ALDS Roster
Both Ramirez and Sale will need to bring the energy now that the Red Sox are down 0-2 in the American League Division Series. The Red Sox are coming back home to Fenway to try and turn the tide and Doug Fister will be the man they send to the mound. Maybe he can be the unlikely hero of the series as Boston tries to figure out Houston’s potent lineup.