| 21 September 2009
Wake makes his second attempt at a return from back problems tonight. Who knows what to expect tonight, but here's the skinny of the Royals and how they handle the "kuncklah."
None of the Royals have seen much of Wake, but Betancourt is 4 for 10 and has taken him deep once. Bill Butler is probably the other guy to look out for. He's 2 for 5 (.400) against Wake and leads the Royals with a .356 BA at home. Callaspo and DeJesus are also hitting over .300 at home and have been two of KCs hottest hitters as of late. Willie Bloomquist (.404, 52 AB) and catcher Mike Olivo (.317, 6 HR, 41 AB) have also played well in September.
Flip-side, the Sox will be facing former temmate Lenny DiNardo. Lenny was just called from the minors earlier this month, but he hasn't really impressed. He's faced the Tigers twice and allowed six runs over 10+ innings, earning a loss and a no decision. He has pitched weel against the Red Sox, posting a 1-0 record and a 3.60 ERA five games (1 start), but I don't expect DiNardo to slow down the Sox.
Victor Martinex is riding a 19-game hitting streak. Pedroia is riding a 12-game hitting streak. Jason Bay is hitting .345 with 6 ding dongs and RBI so far this month and Jacoby is hitting .333 with 8 stolen bases. Youk has struggled since returning from back spasms, but he love facing the Royals - 7 for 16 (.438) with 2 HR, 6 RBI.
Bottom Line: If Wake can hold the Royals down for five innings, we should be able to look to the offense and/or bullpen to seal the victory.
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