A pretty interesting step-by-step breakdown of "the path to Will Middlebrooks' big hit", that ends with a quote from Jonny Gomes about Middlebrooks' at-bat that perfectly encapsulates the reason he's so well-respected by his teammates. (Rob Bradford; WEEI)
And an interesting look at how Middlebrooks' new found plate discipline has helped the team get back to .500. (Jason Mastrodonato; MassLive)
But is getting there really something to get excited about when it comes to winning as many games as you've lost? It's hard to say based on the response from the team. (Ron Borges; Boston Herald)
Homer Bailey knows exactly what his $105-million-dollar contract may mean for Jon Lester, and like any good fellow union member, he hopes it helps him get every penny he can from the Red Sox (or whomever is willing to pony up the money.) (Brian MacPherson; Providence Journal)
Xander Bogaerts WILL hit better with runners in scoring position. And not just because he pretty much has to. (Peter Abraham; Boston Globe)
It's always nice having someone like Andrew Miller in the bullpen. (Maureen Mullen; Boston.com)
Especially when the AL East race could end up being so very very very very tight. (Gordon Edes; ESPN Boston)