Alex Cora Defends Controversial Decision In Loss Vs. Athletics

Connelly Early took the mound for the Boston Red Sox against the Athletics for the second time in as many weeks. The first start was outstanding. Early struck out 11 over five shutout innings.

The second start was nearly just as good. The lefty pitched 5 1/3 innings, striking out seven without a walk. He left the game with a runner on first base in the sixth inning with the dangerous right-handed hitting Brent Rooker at the plate.

Early was lifted in favor of Greg Weissert. The righty handled Rooker, striking him out for the second out of the inning. The Athletics then responded by removing Colby Thomas for lefty Tyler Soderstrom. Soderstrom doubled, tying the game. Weissert then issued a walk to Carlos Cortes before allowing a single to Brett Haris, which scored what would go on to be the winning run as the Athletics won, 2-1.

Any time the Red Sox only allow two runs, they should win the game, though it’s fair to question the decision to remove Early. He threw only 80 pitches, and his stuff appeared to be sharp. According to Cora, the decision was based on the matchup with Rooker.

“It’s about the guy that is hitting,” Cora said.

To Cora’s point, Weissert did the job against the righty. Unfortunately, the A’s inserted Soderstrom into the game, and Weissert couldn’t get him out. On the season, he’s held lefties to a .209 batting average. Since the All-Star break, they’ve been slightly better at .238. On Tuesday, he left a pitch over the middle of the plate, and Soderstrom took it off the monster.

While the decision will be heavily scrutinized, the Red Sox left nine runners on base. The bottom of the lineup found ways on base, but Romy Gonzalez and Alex Bregman were a combined 0-9. Gonzalez grounded into two double plays, including one to end the game. The offense will need to get going for the team to get to the postseason.