Are You Picking Up What John Smoltz is Putting Down?

John Smoltz certainly knows more about the game of baseball than I do, I would never question that. However I am starting to question his constant optimism after some difficult starts. Sure, he's only 3 games into his Red Sox pitching career, but after last night's struggle against a weak-hitting A's lineup, I was surprised to see the positive statements continue from the future hall of famer....

"I went back and watched the whole game again and I'm still shaking my head on some of the hits and some of the plays. Some of the pitches that I didn't think should have gotten hit, and they found holes. ... What I hate more than anything is two-out runs. But I felt in control. I threw the ball really well. I didn't have much to show for it tonight, but as mad as I get, I have to make sure to realize I'm making a lot of progress even though the results don't look like that."

So allowing 13 base runners over 6 innings to the Oakland A's is a good thing? Smoltz wasn't exactly hitting his spots last night, especially with his breaking stuff....clearly he's battling the combination of old age and rust, at least he expects to be better....

"I've given up all two-out runs except one or two, and that has to change. I'm going to look and see if there are any trends. I don't think I have to be perfect. I haven't pitched away from my fastball or contact. I'm almost there."

Would I be writing this quick post if the Sox had won in a high-scoring game last night? Maybe, maybe not. I guess I continue to trust John Smoltz, but perhaps I want to see him kick a water cooler or two....maybe sever Julio Lugo's arm so he can't launch balls into the stands....something to show he's pissed off and expects better.

Thankfully Josh Beckett looks to pick up the pieces tonight. After losing two of three to the Mariners and making a 21 year old kid look like Cy Young last night, the local nine need to get their collective asses in gear. Go Sox.

Nomar Loves You

The fourth of July is over and done with, so it's back to work and focusing on the second half of the season. We all know Nomah is coming to town tonight for the first time since 2004.....so long as he doesn't blow out his hammy climbing up the dugout steps, he should receive a warm reception...

Nomah recently sat down with a San Francisco writer and discussed both is time in Boston and the fans....try not to shed a tear:

"I got my ring for that. I was cheering them on and rooting for them," said a smiling Garciaparra, who will be playing at Fenway Park for the first time as an opposing player.

"I was just as much a part of that as anything, although I might not have been there. No one knows all the phone calls I got during it and everything, and that was great. I was calling them back multiple times. The whole thing was to win one for the city. I felt every bit a part of it."

Five years later, Nomar returns, and guess what, he's banged up. His calf issue will likely limit him to one game in the field and keep him available to be a designated hitter or pinch hitter in the other games.

Asked if he thought he'd get a positive reception from Red Sox fans, Garciaparra said, "I would hope so. I always loved them and appreciated them. They were great to me, and I gave them everything I had there, for sure."

Also, does this confirm that no one can actually write in the city of Oakland? I know San Fran is a rock's throw away and everything, but wouldn't you think a hometown guy would get this story....or at least someone who covers the American League??

Welcome back Nomah and good luck, but we'll never forgive you for taking that SI photo....