ESPN

Buzzmaster

  (11:37 AM)

Jonah Keri won the coin toss and he'll be joining you during tonight's Game 1 of the World Series! Join him as he chats during the entire game!

Jonah Keri

  (8:06 PM)

Welcome to tonight's Game Chat for Game 1 of the World Series. We'll have to endure a good 40 minutes of FOX pre-game hell before first pitch, so let's get the ball rolling as we get set for the game to start.

Patrick England (Richfield Minnesota)

Do you think Josh Beckett is feeling pressure from having to start pitching Game 1 of the World Series?

Jonah Keri

  (8:09 PM)

Given this is the guy who shut down the Yankees in the 2003 World Series, and has more broadly emerged as one of the top pitchers in the game, I'm going to give that one a big, fat no. Beckett could be the biggest difference maker for the Sox in this series.Having said that, let's remember that the Rox beat Peavy and Webb, who're just as good as Beckett is. Should be interesting.

Jim (BOSTON!)

Sox in 4. Agree or disagree?

Jonah Keri

  (8:10 PM)

Sox in 2. That's how overmatched the Rockies are. You can calm down now, Rox fans, I was kidding.

naomi (iowa)

how is the difference between the teams days off going to affect the game?

Jonah Keri

  (8:12 PM)

The biggest factor to me was allowing Beckett to get his full rest. If he had to pitch on short rest, or the Sox had to bump up Schilling, that would've made a difference.Here's something else to chew on: Here in New England they're forecsting lots of rain next couple days. Meanwhile Colorado has been seeing some snow. If enough games get postponed, it's conceivable that Beckett and Francis could both be available Games 1, 4 and 7.

ryan (tampa)

Free tacos at Taco Bell if somebody stole a base!

Jonah Keri

  (8:13 PM)

Check out the article Darren Rovell wrote bout this for...MSNBC.com or CNBC.com, I forget. The tacos are given out on a very specific day, only from 2 to 5 pm (i.e. off lunch house). Rovell estimated that only about 0.1% of Americans would actually collect on the tacos. So great marketing, at very little cost to the company if that's true.

Ksri (Colorado)

What time does the game start Colorado time?

Jonah Keri

  (8:14 PM)

We're looking at first pitch around 45 after the hour, so 8:45 East Coast, 6:45 Denver time, give or take a few minutes. Why they couldn't just run all the pre-game junk before 8 and start the game at 8:05 is beyond me.

Brian (Austin)

...and of course the boston announcer can't pronounce Taveras.

Jonah Keri

  (8:14 PM)

Which is funny, because Julian Tavarez pitches for the Red Sox!

James (Milwaukee)

So you won the coin toss? dont you mean lost it and now you have to spend the whole game watching chat and the game?

Jonah Keri

  (8:16 PM)

Heck no! I'd be glued to the TV all night anyway, and this way I can kibbitz with several thousand fellow maniacs while doing it. It's a sweet gig.Of course Neyer is actually at the game, so I hate him for sticking me with you guys. (Kidding!)

al (DC)

Tell me you were being funny about :45 after the hour, please?

Jonah Keri

  (8:17 PM)

That's what I heard. Definitely after 8:30, and rumored to be close to 8:45. I hope I'm wrong.

Josh (Madison)

Wonder if JD Drew will get the loudest reaction from the crowd.

Jonah Keri

  (8:18 PM)

Nope! But I did predict big things for him in the playoffs in my LDS writeup. Nice to be right once in a while. Ask Rockies fans what they thought of my NLDS pick.

Flemming (Copenhagen, Denmark)

Give me a good reason for staying up 'til 6 am....

Jonah Keri

  (8:19 PM)

I'll regale you with stories of how I spent the past 2 weeks in the Balkans, and all the hilarious lengths I went to to stay on top of the playoff happenings.

Willie G (Chicago)

Am I the only person in the country that thinks the Rox can win this thing?

Jonah Keri

  (8:20 PM)

Not at all. This is a team with all the ingredients...killer defense, 5-6 very good hitters, nice pen, and at least enough potential in the starting staff to have a shot at keeping the Sox down. These are two good teams, and no one outcome would surprise me.

Mike (MD)

Nothing like a little rain in your french horn, eh?

Jonah Keri

  (8:20 PM)

Is that a euphemism?

Mike (NY)

What do you think of Jacoby Ellsbury? Is he the Redsox's Lenny Dykstra?

Jonah Keri

  (8:21 PM)

Love him. He'll allow them to trade Crisp for pitching in the off-season. Strong in every facet of the game and young enough that he could develop power later on. The young Damon comparisons are pretty apt.

Gerard (Houston, TX)

Jonah, where'd you go? I kept hoping to see new articles by you on Page 2, but you disappeared and my Monday's went by slower.

Jonah Keri

  (8:22 PM)

Thanks for noticing, Gerard. My 10-year wedding anniversary trip (to Greece, Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia and Slovenia) happened to coincide with the past couple weeks. I made sure to make it back in time for the World Series, though. Best of all worlds.

Gabriel (Boston, Mass)

Do you think Mike Lowell will in some way make an impact in the World Series?

Jonah Keri

  (8:23 PM)

Sure, why not. Great defender, near-career year at the plate. If he does what he's done all year, he'll make a big positive impact. And if he doesn't, the Red Sox will be worse off for it.

Luc (Denver)

Wait, isn't this the chat where we talk about the Yankees?

Jonah Keri

  (8:24 PM)

Good point. It's in every ESPN writer's contract to make every Torre third word ARod about the Yankees.

Jonah Keri

  (8:25 PM)

Treehouse of Horror commercial. YES! Kang and Kodos always slay me.All hail President Kang.

Javier (Brasilia, Brazil)

Ok, I'll bite. What did you hit, Ljubljana, Dubrovnik, what else?

Jonah Keri

  (8:26 PM)

Athens, Delphi, Meteora (magical), Bittola, Ohrid (great), Tirana (insane), Budva and Kotor (Montenegro might be the most beautiful place on Earth), Split, Zagreb, Bled and lots of coastal towns. Tree-mendous trip, highly recommended.

Zach (Texas)

Where do you see BARRY BONDS ending up next year?

Jonah Keri

  (8:27 PM)

I could see the A's signing him. He's gotta DH at this point, and Beane is just the type to make best use of his strengths without dwelling too much on his weaknesses.

Ted (Boston,MA)

Are you a better dancer than Jon Papelbon?

Jonah Keri

  (8:28 PM)

Astaire himself can't match Paps' stylings. I'm not for or against the Red Sox either way, but I have a soft spot for crazy Papelbon.

Dave (Boston)

Hey Jonah, where do you see Coco Crisp ending up next year?

Jonah Keri

  (8:28 PM)

Dave, I've been speculating that he'll go to the Twins in a deal for someone like Scott Baker for some time now. Makes a lot of sense for both teams.

Ryan (Ohio)

What team can you see Joe Torre managing if managing at all?

Jonah Keri

  (8:29 PM)

I could see Joe taking a year off, then making a comeback. If the Mets disappoint in '08 maybe Torre replaces Willie, who knows?

Mark (Syracuse, NY)

Is anyone else sick of the America doesnt know who the Rockies are? Baseball fans know who they are even if they did not a month ago. It was the same thing last series with the Indians. Fox, you don't need to build them up anymore they are already the loveable underdog. Just stop it already, it's almost as annoying as Chip Carrey saying here comes the Yankees after every base hit.

Jonah Keri

  (8:32 PM)

Mark, everything has to be a storyline, and this year's garbage is David vs. Goliath, which completely undermines the Rockies' success. Fortunately this Chat will be storyline-free.Ugh, now they're got new-fangled Weezer music playing over Nip/Tuck ads. I miss the days of "My Name Is Jonas".

Luke (Greenville, SC)

Who do you say the X-factors are on each team? I say Pedroia and Taveras.

Jonah Keri

  (8:32 PM)

J.D. Drew and Ubaldo Jimenez. If Drew hits like he can, the Sox might be too much offensively. Jimenez needs to be that second SP hammer for the Rox to have a shot.

Tom (NYC)

Why do they give the lineups twice? No wonder these games take forever.

Jonah Keri

  (8:33 PM)

We're at 33 after the hour and I'm watching an ad for crappy Dish Network, which dares to denigrate my beautiful TiVo. Bastards.

charlie (chicago)

Jonah, who was going to be playing in the 2008 World Series?

Jonah Keri

  (8:34 PM)

Tough to say until we saw how the Hot Stove shakes out. If for instance ARod went to say...the Angels, that would change the dynamic of the AL completely.

Ryan (Akron, Ohio)

Do you think the Rockies will suffer from the long break between series?

Jonah Keri

  (8:35 PM)

All this momentum talk is garbage. Pixie dust and fairy tales and momentum and chemistry. The Rockies won all those games because they;re good. But of course if they lose now people will blame the time off. Again, other than allowing Beckett full rest, I don't see it as a huge deal.

Luke C. (New Bern, NC)

How big of a role will Willy Taveras have to play in the World Series for the Rox to have a good chance?

Jonah Keri

  (8:36 PM)

Taveras can be valuable covering ground in that spacious Coors Field outfield. He's not much of a hitter.

Chris (Munich)

Hi Jonah, why do you think McCarver was late for the start of tonight's broadcast?

Jonah Keri

  (8:37 PM)

He was eating babies' souls, then spent too much time thinking of ways to work Derek Jeter into the gamecast.

Jonah Keri

  (8:37 PM)

First pitch a strike to Taveras, and we're under way!

Jonah Keri

  (8:38 PM)

Beckett throwing fastballs right down the middle, I like it. Taveras should be batting 8th, I liked the Rockies better with KazMat leading off.

David (Denver)

What will you do if the Rockies win the series??

Jonah Keri

  (8:39 PM)

Um, write a column about it?

lee wood (columbus In)

its gonna be a cold game

Jonah Keri

  (8:39 PM)

Not that cold out here (I'm in southern NH, just over an hour away). I imagine it'll be colder in Denver.

Justin (Toronto)

Jonah, do you ever feel like umpires get caught up in the hype of a starting pitcher's reputation? Like when Beckett is pitching, they want to be a part of a great performance, which leads to borderline calls going the pitcher's way?

Jonah Keri

  (8:40 PM)

You could occasionally see that happen, Justin. But with the exception of Eric Gregg making a superstar out of Livan Hernandez in '97, I think we generally get the best umpires and best ump performances in the playoffs. I think it'll be pretty fair.

Joe (Squarejaw, NY)

If you had to pick a favorit for the Series MVP, who would it be?

Jonah Keri

  (8:41 PM)

Beckett's the easy choice, but yeah, he'd be my guy. I like Tulo if the Rockies win.

Luke (Vanceboro, NC)

think Taveras will be key in this series. He's the fastest guy in the league and Lowell's gonna have a tough time trying to throw him out on grounders.

Jonah Keri

  (8:41 PM)

He won't bother Lowell if he keeps striking out. Can't steal first base.

Joe (Boone, NC)

Are you over or under on 8 K's for Beckett tonight?

Jonah Keri

  (8:42 PM)

I'll say 8 even.

Arthur (Worcester)

Is there anything less relevant that gets talked about more than the thin air in Colorado? I don't see it affecting the series enough to warrant a discussion.

Jonah Keri

  (8:43 PM)

I'll tell you what I'm watching for in Colorado: That HUGE outfield. Manny at the Fens is a defensive asset. In Colorado, he could be a disaster.

Jonah Keri

  (8:44 PM)

Sweet sassy molassey Beckett is nasty. He could have 8 K's by the 3rd.

Ben (OK)

does the game stay under 9 runs?

Jonah Keri

  (8:44 PM)

I think it will, yes. Francis is pretty good in his own right when he's on.

Jonah Keri

  (8:45 PM)

Hot blonde chick holding up a Rex Grossman jersey has officially entered my top 10 commercial moments of the playoffs.

Michael (NH)

Does anyone think Gagne has any right to pitch in this series?

Jonah Keri

  (8:45 PM)

Sure, Rockies fans love the idea.

drew (MA)

do you think the rockies lineup stands a chance against the redsox pitching?

Jonah Keri

  (8:46 PM)

Yes. The Red Sox starters drop off a fair bit after Beckett. Schilling has a good playoff track record, but he's not automatic like he used to be. And Dice-K and Lester don't thrill me.Yaz doing the lineups! That kills Helton doing them for the Rox. Of course Helton is about as big a historical figure as th franchise has. Unless you count the immortal Kent Bottenfield.

Ronald (Michigan)

How much stock do you put into their meetings during the season?

Jonah Keri

  (8:47 PM)

Zilcho. Rockies fans who bring it up are clutching at straws.

Jonah Keri

  (8:47 PM)

Wow, Pedroia goes yard again! My buddy Dave Metz, a big Sox fan who's also 6'8"+ and owns a jersey of the 5'7" Pedroia, will love that.

Cody (SC)

How many games are there going to be?

Jonah Keri

  (8:48 PM)

I have the Red Sox in 6, but the playoffs are always tough to predict.

Jonah Keri

  (8:49 PM)

And my favorite big-noggined M.O.T. smacks another extra-base hit.

Jonah Keri

  (8:50 PM)

Papi bunts. Now I've seen everything.

Ryan (Maine)

Is Youkilis the slowest leadoff hitter in the history of baseball?

Jonah Keri

  (8:50 PM)

I can definitely say he isn't. He bats 2nd.

Anthony (Dyer,IN)

Who is your surprise hot players for each team? Don't say Pedroia... That's just cheating at this point.

Jonah Keri

  (8:50 PM)

My surprise players are same as my X-factors. Jimenez and Drew.

Isaac (KS)

Is there any real explanation as to the lack of drama in recent WS's? There have been legendary LCS's but once it gets to the the Classic, whole lot of nothin. What gives?

Jonah Keri

  (8:52 PM)

This decade, the 2001 and 2003 series were great. Other than that though, yeah, a bit lacking. These things just go in cycles sometimes. Never know, this one could turn out to be a lot of fun too.

Jonah Keri

  (8:52 PM)

Infield in. Gotta love that goofy Clint Hurdle. And Manny immediately takes advantage.Hurdle deserves exactly zero credit for the team's success. They have good players, not a good manager.

aj (ct)

what about 2002

Jonah Keri

  (8:54 PM)

Yup, '02 was great as well. Game 4 of the Angels-Yankees that year is one of only 2 playoff games I've ever seen live.

Luke (SC)

Who wins Rookie of the Year, Pedroia or Tulo? And will how the Series turn out have anything to do with it?

Jonah Keri

  (8:54 PM)

Different awards for different leagues, I think they'll both win in their respective leagues. The voting ends at the end of the regular season.

Scott (Boston)

Speaking of Managers, how come Francona gets no respect around the league?

Jonah Keri

  (8:56 PM)

He's got a lot of talent at his disposal, mostly.Honestly I think the best managers just get out of the way. Being too cute with one-run strategies, mismmanaging your bullpen, these are the ways that many of em hurt their teams. Loved the job Bob Melvin did this year, he was one of the few value-add guys.

Mannyganja (Beantown)

is coco playin tonight?

Jonah Keri

  (8:56 PM)

No, Ellsbury in CF. Rightly so, he's a better player.

Aaron (Kansas)

Will Manny hurt the Red Sox in the field and on the bases more than he helps at bat?

Jonah Keri

  (8:58 PM)

On the bases no biggie, but I do think he could have a negative impact in the field during games at Coors. In Boston he's an asset, plays the caroms well, understands the Monster. His throw-out of Lofton last series was typical of that.

Jonah Keri

  (8:58 PM)

Francis needs to get out of this only down 2-0 or if this could get ugly.

Lucas (NC)

Im gonna have to say you are much more fun to talk to than Rob Neyer.

Jonah Keri

  (8:59 PM)

I appreciate the kind words, Lucas, but I've gotta stick up for my man Rob. He's a font of baseball history, a sharp observer of the game, and maybe the nicest guy in the biz. Heck, he's one of the reasons I decided to pursue a career writing online.

Jonah Keri

  (8:59 PM)

J.D. Drew, what did I tell you!

Jesse (Buffalo,NY)

Why are New England area sports so hot right now?

Jonah Keri

  (9:00 PM)

I think Bill Simmons lives a charmed life. At least B.C. is sticking it to him, he's no fan of the Eagles.I'm excited to see some C's games this year especially.

Dave (Boston)

Hey Jonah, did you happen to catch The Sports Guy's article on ESPN with all of the hilarious JD Drew email responses? I have never laughed so hard!

Jonah Keri

  (9:01 PM)

Dave, Drew single-handedly inspired me to write that article on the 100 Players Most Hated By Their Hometown Fans. People's reactions to Drew have been so harsh it's hilarious. He's a good player who had an off year. Poor guy's got a kid suffering from serious health problems. He's not a wife beater or a serial drunk driver, we should cut him some slack.

Ian (iraq)

i wish i could watch this game

Jonah Keri

  (9:01 PM)

Stay safe over there, Ian, and I'll do my best to keep relaying the action.

justin (arkansas)

jonah, can you rate lugo as a shortstop for me?

Jonah Keri

  (9:03 PM)

Not very good, and certainly not worth 4/36. Defensively I'd say a little below average, and his offense obviously went to pot this year. He'll gravitate back toward the mean a bit next year, but he's their worst everyday player, easy.Great play by Atkins and Helton! That inning could've been much worse. Rockies have more than enough offense to come back, they just have to find a way to solve Beckett.

Jason (NY)

do u thikn the rockeis can come back from the 3 runs

Jonah Keri

  (9:03 PM)

Definitely. See above.

Randy (Knoxville, TN)

Is Cook going to pitch this series?

Jonah Keri

  (9:05 PM)

They moved Morales to the pen, so looks that way. They must be confident Cook's healthy. Morales is an unknown on this stage, but his talent can't be denied.

Seb (Boston)

"They just have to way to solve Becket" is as insightful a commentary as "they just have to score more runs to win"

Jonah Keri

  (9:05 PM)

Typing as fast as I can, sorry for the simplistic comment.Yes, the Rockies can definitely come back. Period.

Jeremy (Boston)

Jonah - Beckett has given up a total of 3 runs in the last three weeks, you think he will give up 3 in this game?

Jonah Keri

  (9:06 PM)

Rockies have a better offense than the Angels or Tribe, so it's certainly possible.

John (NJ)

Who has the best numbers on the Rockies vs. Beckett

Jonah Keri

  (9:07 PM)

Stats of individual players vs. a pitcher are irrelevant. Sample size is always too small to glean any meaning.

Jonah Keri

  (9:07 PM)

4 K's, wow

Louie (Boston)

NL is so much worse than the Al..

Jonah Keri

  (9:08 PM)

Yup, I know the 2006 Cardinals are proof of that.

Jonah Keri

  (9:08 PM)

Wow, only in Boston does that ball not go out.

jamie (Orlando)

do you think josh beckett is the next Roger Clemens he is so over powering it's not een funny it's scary

Jonah Keri

  (9:08 PM)

Roger Clemens is the best pitcher in baseball history. So no, I'm not ready to make that comparison.

Keith (mass)

Johan, only in Boston is that not an out

Jonah Keri

  (9:09 PM)

No, that high it would have gone out. If it was a high pop up that hit the bottom of the fence, then I think you can make that case.

Chris (Denver)

You don't think Greg Maddux was even better than Clemens? Clemens actually had stuff, Maddux used guts and guile to make the Hall.

Jonah Keri

  (9:10 PM)

How a pitcher does it is irrelevant. We're talking results here.That said, I like Maddux as top 5 all-time too. Phenomenal career.

fremont, ca

Roger clemens has NOT won a big game in over 4 years...He is over-rated and coming to yanks this year did nothing great.

Jonah Keri

  (9:10 PM)

He's 45 years old dude. The fact that he's even upright is pretty imprssive. Look at the body of work and it's as good as anyone's.

Sean (IWU)

Who else is in your top five? Maddux/Clemens....

Jonah Keri

  (9:12 PM)

Hmmm...off the top of my head, Walter Johnson has to be there. Lefty Grove maybe. If you're talking peak only, Pedro and Koufax.Clemens, BigTrain and Maddux might be top 3 though.

Jonah Keri

  (9:13 PM)

There's Tulo my Rox MVP pick coming through. He's terrific, the Jeter comparisons are apt, only he plays better defense and has more power.

Isaac (Boston)

nolan ryan?

Jonah Keri

  (9:13 PM)

OVER-RATED! (da-da-da-da-da)

Craig (Kansas)

what about Greatest active Pitchers?

Jonah Keri

  (9:14 PM)

Clemen, Maddux, Pedro, Unit, Glavine

Denis (Denver)

What do you think we'll be saying about Tulo five years from now?

Jonah Keri

  (9:15 PM)

That he's on pace for a Hall of Fame career.

Jake (WA)

unit over schilling?

Jonah Keri

  (9:15 PM)

By a mile.

Brad (Georgia)

Where does Smoltz rank on your list

Jonah Keri

  (9:15 PM)

Top 10 active. Another great career, and the RP dominance makes the comparisons fun.

Pinchy (ct)

what's your thought about dane cook being the face and voice of mlb post season

Jonah Keri

  (9:16 PM)

My wife loves Dane Cook. I ummmm...do not.

Donald (kirkland , WA )

please tell me you think moose will be or at least should be in the HOF some day ... never one 20 or a cy . but got to love the k/bb ratio, era, durabilty , and quality pitcher he was for a really long time right ?

Jonah Keri

  (9:17 PM)

I've been a Moose fan since he was in the O's farm system. I think he's just a bit short of HoF credentials though, unless he miraculously turns it around for a couple more years.

Will (Los Angeles)

After loving Ryan Braun all year and even adding him to exclusive list of the 18 best Jewish ballplayers of all time, how can you abandon him now for Tulo? Who's not even a member of the tribe by the way...

Jonah Keri

  (9:18 PM)

Who's abandoning my man Braun?! I still love the guy.And yes, Google some combo of my name, Jewish Ballplayers and Salon and you can enjoy some of my finer ranting.

Travis (Minneapolis)

Come on Keri, give the Minnesota Wild just a LITTLE love:( Please...

Jonah Keri

  (9:18 PM)

Best team in the NHL to date.

Jonah Keri

  (9:20 PM)

For those who don't buy that Ryan is overrated, Neyer was writing this years ago, it's not a new opinion or anything. Tons of Ks are great, but tons of walks too. Plus Ryan benefited from pitching in some excellent pitcher's parks. Hall of Famer of course. But the fact that some consider him among the top 5 all-time still leads me to believe he's overrated.Francis first Canuck ever to start in the WS btw. A proud day of us hosers.

Jonah Keri

  (9:22 PM)

Francis still struggling, walks the Greek/Jewish god of walks.Francis likes Shawshank, and went to UBC. All good.

Jeff (NYC)

7 career no-hitters is a pretty unbreakable record, though, don't you think?

Jonah Keri

  (9:22 PM)

Yes, but 7 games don't define a career.

Jonah Keri

  (9:23 PM)

Oof, Francis caught a b reak there, I thought that ball might drop in.

lisa (nh)

Jonah, where are you out of NH, the AM station the GAM? second q....how poorly do you expect the bruins to do this year?

Jonah Keri

  (9:24 PM)

I'm spitting distance from UNH, where you can ridicule my pickup hoops skills 3 days a week.And Papi goes the other way again, 4-1 Sox. I like the Rockies bullpen, but everyone's vulnerable if they're forced to come in by the 3rd.

Matt (Chatham)

Jonah, dont you think Carter gets no love for his 93 WS winning HR? As a fellow hoser you gotta feel it too!

Jonah Keri

  (9:26 PM)

That HR indirectly led to me meeting my future wife, so I always have warm feelings for Joe.

Coco (Venezuela)

Jonah im desperate someone answer me , please i know you can. Do you think the Indians will trade Sabathi if they fail to give him an extension this offseason ? ... And What do you think of the Indians any trade they have plenty talent off there that may lose sooner or later (Choo,Laffey,Sowers,Francisco,Lee,Marte).

Jonah Keri

  (9:27 PM)

I think they'll pay up for CC. Their payroll isn't so high that they can't afford to do it.

Pete (Boston)

Jonah - what's the precedent with calling a WS game after 5 innings because of weather? Will they hold out as long as possible if they go to a delay?

Jonah Keri

  (9:28 PM)

Great question and I don't have a pat answer for you Pete without doing a bit of research (which I can't while chatting). If the game is 7-1 or something, I imagine that might make it a little easier to call it. But generally speaking, I'm sure the umps will go to any length to avoid doing that.

Jonah Keri

  (9:28 PM)

THIS IS OOOOOOUUUURRRR COUNTRY!(except it isn't)

Greg (Orlando)

Tell us more about the Carter home run and your wife.

Jonah Keri

  (9:30 PM)

A friend of a friend was going to Haverford College in Philly in 93, but he was from Toronto and a Jays fan, wanted to watch Game 6 in friendly territory. So our mutual buddy invited him up to McGill to watch the game. I bought the visitor a $1 Labatt's Blue (it was buck a blue night at the campus pub). Of course you buy someone a Blue and you're friends for life. Also, when you're stiunking runk jumping on vans and signing O Canada after the Carter HR.A few months later my McGill buddy asks if I want to visit that guy who came to visit. I say of course. Go down to Haverford for a few days. Turns out the guy lived across the hall from, and was good friends with, the girl I would eventually marry.So go Joe, I say.

Timothy (Memphis)

Jonah- Tell us your favorite player from each team.

Jonah Keri

  (9:31 PM)

Tulo and Youk.

Jon (Pullman)

When the Yankees tear down the house that Ruth built, Will the Babe curse them longer than he did the Red Sox?

Jonah Keri

  (9:32 PM)

I liked Jim Caple's article about Fenway and his criticism of the Yankees moving to new digs. I like many of the newer parks, and I kind of think Yankee Stadium is a hole, but Caple made a compelling case nonetheless.

Matt (Chatham)

Blue Jays rotation in '08, anyone have a better rotation?

Jonah Keri

  (9:32 PM)

I'm not sold on Jesse Litsch, but the other 4 guys stack up with anyone, I agree. If V. Wells has a bounceback year, the Jays could be very dangerous in '08.

JDOGG (PTOWN)

Cheese balls and crackers are good baseball food. Would you agree?

Jonah Keri

  (9:33 PM)

I've got water and throat lozenges. Fighting an ugly bug.What a loopy catch by Manny. He really *does* move at one speed at all times.

Erik (Boston)

Simmons article reference?

Jonah Keri

  (9:35 PM)

Yup. I've been reading Bill since his old Digital City days in the late 90s. Back when the Internet ran on 98% hamster power.

Steve (Seattle)

38 pitches through 3 innings for Beckett, he looks locked-in.

Jonah Keri

  (9:36 PM)

Francis needs some quick innings to give his team a chance to come back. They can't blow through the pen too early.

Joseph (CA)

Hey Jonah thoughts on an exit strategy?

Jonah Keri

  (9:36 PM)

The developing Kurdistan situation isn't going to help, that's for sure.

Allen (Tampa)

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20061025andcontent_id=1723544andvkey=ps2006newsandfext=.jspandc_id=mlb No world series game has ever been shortened due to rain.

Jonah Keri

  (9:37 PM)

Thanks Allen, excellent sleuthing.

Jonah Keri

  (9:38 PM)

Wait, I thought steroids were awesome. Jose Canseco lied to us?!

bb (boston)

I want to know who hit the home run for the red sox, I missed the game

Jonah Keri

  (9:38 PM)

Pedroia led off the game with a HR.

Joseph (CA)

Jonah will you be doing these all series long?

Jonah Keri

  (9:39 PM)

I'm on for Games 1 and 6. Rob's got 4 of the other 5, and the esteemed Keith Law's doing the other.

AJ (Londonderry, NH)

Jonah, Spitting distance from UNH? I bet if I started at Jillian's down the raod I may be able to locate you.

Jonah Keri

  (9:40 PM)

Not if you live in Londonderry.

Mark (Boston)

Hey, in a business meeting. How my Sox doing?

Jonah Keri

  (9:40 PM)

4-1 Sox. Francis getting knocked around, Beckett throwing gas. Rox fans praying for rain and/or more Tulowitzki at-bats.

Jonah Keri

  (9:41 PM)

Reggie Cleveland indeed. Francis *was* the 2nd Canuck SP in the WS, my bad.Too bad the great Fergie Jenkins never got a shot at it.

Sam (Boston)

How many innings fo you think Francis can make it with his pitch count?

Jonah Keri

  (9:42 PM)

Locating pitches much better here in the 3rd, close to getting out 1-2-3. Could pitch into the 6th if he can keep it up.And as I say, Lugo nabs a 42-foot single.

Jordan (Kansas)

Jonah, what uniform do you see A-Rod putting on next year?

Jonah Keri

  (9:42 PM)

Yankees. They'll pay whatever it takes, I'm guessing.

Dan (KC)

With their young talent, how many games will the Royals win next year?

Jonah Keri

  (9:43 PM)

Like every other team, depends on Hot Stove. Right now I'd say 74.

Joey (UT)

What about Mo and Posada?

Jonah Keri

  (9:44 PM)

They'll be aggressive with those 2 as well. Posada timed his career year oerfectly, he's going to get overpaid in his next deal.There's a guy that I'd like to see make the Hall one day. Not easy to be underrated as a Yankee, but he is.

Craig (Tucson)

Jonah, with the Dbacks young talent, will they be playing for the title next year?

Jonah Keri

  (9:44 PM)

They need their young hitting to start paying dividends. Stephen Drew had a tough '07, Chris oung needs to learn how to get on base, J. Upton has some growing up to do, etc.

Jonah Keri

  (9:45 PM)

Wow, FOX playing RATM going to commercial! Most excellent, beats the usual crappy music.

JT (Atlanta)

Why are you talking about anything BUT the GAME!? If I wanted senseless babble, I'd find some message board...

Jonah Keri

  (9:48 PM)

Good point, I'll do a bit more play by play especially for those who aren't watching the game.

Jonah Keri

  (9:49 PM)

There's Lowell's defense coming into play. Beckett still dealing.

Jonah Keri

  (9:50 PM)

Another double high off the wall, this time by Helton. I wonder if the rain could impact the pitchers most. If Beckett doesn't grip the ball quite the same, maybe that gives the Rockies hitters a chance. Potential rally brewing.

Shane (Naples, Italy)

Thanks for the play by play....The game is not on TV

Jonah Keri

  (9:51 PM)

Shane, I'm neaded to NApoli for the first time in January. You send some must-see sights ideas along, and I'll keep relaying info.Joe Buck is telling pointless stories. It's raining. Helton's still hitting under .200 in the postseason.You're welcome.

Jonah Keri

  (9:52 PM)

Good call to have that a ball. Close but not quite. Beckett really is throwing a ton of fastballs. Pretty impressive to dominate with 1 pitch. Mo Rivera does it, but he throw 1 inning, not 7-8.

Jonah Keri

  (9:53 PM)

And as soon as I say that, monster curve for strike three. Woosh.

Jonah Keri

  (9:54 PM)

And now the curves are coming out. That's some fancy pitchin'

Jonah Keri

  (9:55 PM)

Goes back to the low, outside fastball for strike three. 7 Ks through 4. It'd be a shame if this game got delayed or cut short. Fun to watch Beckett dealing.

Mike (Quincy, Ma)

Is it a bad thing that I'm in love with Josh Beckett AND Mike Lowell?

Jonah Keri

  (9:55 PM)

Takes some of the sting out of trading Hanley Ramirez to get them, yes.

Randy (Minnesota Minnesota)

where will torri hunter be playing next year and will the twins trade santana?

Jonah Keri

  (9:56 PM)

I think the Braves make a run at Hunter. If liriano's healthy, the Twins could have enough to make a plyoff run. I'd hope they at least keep Santana until the trade deadline, longer if they're in the mix.

bob (ca)

so do u want any twizzlers

Jonah Keri

  (9:57 PM)

I'm good with my Ricola and water, thanks. Gotta kick this cold.

Patrick (Syracuse)

How m8uch credit does Varitek deserve for Beckett's success? i know he won a WS in Florida, but hios Won-loss there in reg season was pretty ordinary...

Jonah Keri

  (9:58 PM)

If catchers made a big impact on pitchers, you'd see it consistently in the ERA of the pitchers they catch. Smart people like Keith Woolner have looked at this topic and found that the effects for the most part aren't there. I'd just say Beckett has matured as a pitcher and steer clear of giving too much credit to Varitek.

roger (denver)

Rockies should win in 7, since Beckett can't pitch more than 3 games, right?

Jonah Keri

  (9:59 PM)

If there are no rainouts, Beckett gets 2 starts and a relief appearance, max, I'd imagine.

Jonah Keri

  (10:00 PM)

Rockies D looking good in support of Francis. One out away from another quick inning, that helps a lot.

Mike (Wyoming)

Does Curt Schilling return to pitch next season, and if so, for who?

Jonah Keri

  (10:01 PM)

Schilling seems to have ambitions beyond baseball. If the Sox win it all again, I wouldn't be shocked if he retires. If he keeps playing though, he'll be a Sock.

Brendan (NYC)

Do you see Ortiz or Youk starting at first in Denver? If it's Youk, does that make Ortiz the scariest pitcher in WS history?

Jonah Keri

  (10:01 PM)

I think Papi plays 1B, Lowell plays 3B and Youk sits in Denver. It's a good problem to have.

JT (Atlanta)

Think this is Francis' last inning or will he last one more?

Jonah Keri

  (10:02 PM)

He should have one more. 3rd and 4th have been much better for him.

Erik (Boston)

Youk could also play a game in right, I'm hearing.

Jonah Keri

  (10:03 PM)

If a lefty starts, that could make sense. OTOH, Coors outfield is so spacious, you have to think twie before starting an iffy defender out there.

Alec (WA)

You can't like Ortiz's defense at 1B. That plus Manny in left is a disaster.

Jonah Keri

  (10:03 PM)

First base D isn't that big a deal. Manny in LF worries me a lot more.Of course if the Sox crush the ball all over the park, that would erase a lot of the potential defensive issues.

Manny (NH)

I would honestly put youk at 3rd and sit lowell

Jonah Keri

  (10:05 PM)

Tough call. Lowell's great with the glove. Hasn't been as hot as Youk in the playoffs, but great season overall. Rockies are starting Cook-Fogg-Francis Games 3-5? If so, maybe in Game 5 you rest Drew or Ortiz for a RH.

Kyle (Springfield, mo)

Sit your leading RBI man? Insane!

Jonah Keri

  (10:06 PM)

Lowell can thank Pedroia, Youkilis, Ortiz and Manny for all their hits and walks, as far as all those RBI go.

Kyle (Boston)

Why not bench Lugo and put Youk, Lowell, or Pedroia at SS?

Jonah Keri

  (10:07 PM)

Pedroia could handle SS. But still no one who'd make sense to play 2B.Double by Manny. That's got to be 4-5 opposite-field hits for the Sox now. Francis needs an out here badly. Walk Lowell and pitch to Drew? You decide.

Jonah Keri

  (10:09 PM)

Yup, they are walking Lowell.If my X factor Drew gets a big hit against a lefty with the sacks loaded, I may have to buy some lottery tickets.

Nick (Phoenix)

It's not Drew, Varitek.

Jonah Keri

  (10:09 PM)

My bad, Drew usually bats 6th, forgot they bumped him down with the LH pitching.

Jonah Keri

  (10:11 PM)

Two decent pitches that just missed, 2-0 to Varitek. He's not the threat he once was, but Tek can still hit a meatball if he gets one.

Jonah Keri

  (10:11 PM)

Nice fastball on the corner, 2-1

Jonah Keri

  (10:11 PM)

Was that really fair? Looked foul, I want to see a replay. Big hit, at any rate, 6-1 Sox.

Jonah Keri

  (10:12 PM)

Yup, fair. This game might be over.

T. J. (Omaha)

Jonah, Beckett hasn't been overtaxed this year. He's fairly well rested, and he has pitched well on short rest in the playoffs. Is there any good reason not to just use a 3 man rotation right now? Lester is a good story, but I'd rather pitch Beckett all we can.

Jonah Keri

  (10:13 PM)

T.J., let's see where the series is at by Game 4. If the Sox are ahead in the series, I imagine they take their chances with Lester.

Dan (Mariposa, CA)

Is it me or is this game going pretty fast?

Jonah Keri

  (10:16 PM)

About average. It just seems long because the pre-game festivities took 3 weeks. Between the long pre-game, the non-top typing and the cold bug, I'm getting a little loopy. Might be time for some chips.

Peter (New York City)

Jonah, please offer me some insight on why the DH isn't one of the three greatest evils visited upon mankind?

Jonah Keri

  (10:18 PM)

1) Hitler 2) Pol Pot 3) New Coke 4) DHI've got it top 4 only, sorry Peter.

Matthew (Seattle)

Hey, Jonah. At the risk of encouraging "mindless babble," I would love to be updated on your choice of chips.

Jonah Keri

  (10:19 PM)

Fancy tortilla chips from the excellent local market, with some bonafide New Hampshire salsa.

Jonah Keri

  (10:19 PM)

Mmmmm...

Jonah Keri

  (10:19 PM)

8 Ks already. Beckett might need a new mantle at this rate.

Mike S. (San Antonio)

New Hampshire?!... Get a rope.

Jonah Keri

  (10:20 PM)

It's terrific here, Mike, don't knock it 'til you've tried it. I'm all about living free or dying.

Jonah Keri

  (10:21 PM)

Wow, even when Beckett misses it's a spectacular pitch. 1-2 to Spilborghs, these guys are just trying to foul pitches off right now.

Chris (Boston)

Nothing beat foliage in New England

Jonah Keri

  (10:21 PM)

Damn straight! We went zip-lining last year during foliage season up north of Winipisaukee. Loads of fun.Beckett issues a walk! He's cut! The Russian is cut!(OK, maybe not)

Jonah Keri

  (10:23 PM)

Holy shmoley 34 Ks/2 walks this postseason for Beckett. And of course now he's 2-0 to Taveras. Morales in the long man role could be interesting for the Rox. He's got the stuff to pitch multiple shutdown innings when his team is behind and allow them to come back.

Brad (keystone)

i have zero respect for you. are you even remotely qualified to host a ws chat?

Jonah Keri

  (10:24 PM)

Oh I'm the low man on the totem pole compared to Rob and Keith, no question. On the plus side, you get to hear stories about Weezer, my drunken college days and NH salsa. That's not easy to find,

Jonah Keri

  (10:25 PM)

Beckett gets the pop-up to end the inning. No need for him to nibble, they're not hitting his fastball tongiht. Certainly Taveras isn't a big threat.

Bill (Boston)

jonah, can we expect to see alex cora fill a hole for the sox?

Jonah Keri

  (10:26 PM)

Cora's no better than Lugo with the stick. Shortstop is their Achilles heel, not much they can do right now.

Daniel (Birmingham AL)

The real question is when will Weezer come out from hiding and make another beautiful album?

Jonah Keri

  (10:27 PM)

My cell phone ring is "My Name Is Jonas". I dig the fun, boppy stuff of old, and of course the Pinkerton era was terrific. Rivers is like the Manny of surf rock or whatever genre they belong to.

Dan (Montreal)

Hey Jonah, please answer this one, Who have the best Curveballs in baseball, top 5, Are Beckett and Zito in there?

Jonah Keri

  (10:30 PM)

Hmmm, I used to always answer this question with Dennis Martinez. Bedard's got a good one IIRC. Flash Gordon's still got a good yakker. Not too many guys throw a true 12 to 6 curve anymore. A lot of slurves and modified sliders out there.

Jonah Keri

  (10:30 PM)

I rip Lugo and he raps out 2 hits.

Ken (CT)

Official game now, right?

Jonah Keri

  (10:31 PM)

Yes. They're not going to call the game though. Too much controversy. Don't like that choice by Ellsbury to bunt there, even if the sacrifice would've worked.

donny (lawrence mass)

what about bucholz's curve

Jonah Keri

  (10:32 PM)

Oh definitely. I got to see his 1st big league start (like an idiot, we all know what he did in is 2nd). Curve looked terrific, though.

Corey (Madison, WI)

To answer the earlier question about best curveballs, I have two words for you: Ben Sheets.

Jonah Keri

  (10:32 PM)

Sheets, Brett Myers good suggestions.

Tony (Seymour, CT)

Jonah I did a little bit of a study and Keith gets an average of 11 more posts up per inning...are you "just happy to be here" like Colorado?

Jonah Keri

  (10:33 PM)

Just for that I'm about to go on a huge run here.

tonya (marietta ohio)

do you think A Rod will leave the yankees?

Jonah Keri

  (10:33 PM)

I him re-signing. He'll test the market, Yanks will make the biggest offer and he'll stay.

Jonah Keri

  (10:33 PM)

That did look like a balk, too weird not to be.

Justin (Charleston)

Jonah who has the best sinker in baseball?

Jonah Keri

  (10:34 PM)

Brandon Webb, Derek Low, Chien-Ming Wang and Jake Westbrook all excellent. Kevin Brown used to be the master.

Vince (MA)

Fatty Wells and Aaron Sele had great curves.

Jonah Keri

  (10:34 PM)

And Fatty Wells' curves were all in the right places baby, OH!

Brett (Boston)

Jonah, let's stop beating around the bush and just get to the question everyone is too afraid to ask. Who has the best eephus pitch in baseball?

Jonah Keri

  (10:35 PM)

Pick a Hernandez brother.Pascual Perez's eephus used to leave me cackling with Expo glee.

Willy (Boston, MA)

Do you think the trade of Wily Mo Pena was a good trade for the Sox, i mean he was only 25 and he could have still developed.

Jonah Keri

  (10:37 PM)

Sometimes that'll happen. Team loses faith in a player, he can't find playing time, and they have little other recourse but to give up on him. Not the right move but I could see why they did it.Youkilis drives in another run. Yup, they might have to find a plae for him in Coors.

Pete (Burlington)

Jonah, When should Terry pull Beckett out to save him?

Jonah Keri

  (10:37 PM)

I'd let him go 6 at least. Rockies have too good an offense to try and get cute.

John (Ny Ny)

Did you ever see Wily Mo play baseball?

Jonah Keri

  (10:38 PM)

Sure did, before and after he left Boston. Talented but erratic player.Papi third hit. Tough, tough team when they're on.

Olga (boston)

Is that what happened to Ortiz...trading too early...no faith

Jonah Keri

  (10:39 PM)

He was non-tendered arbitration, not traded, but yup. He had a good track record too, Twins ditched him because they were enamored with the devastating Dougie Mientkiewicz.

steve (San Francisco)

what do you think about gagne? will he get his groove back? is he healthy? i was amazed watching him in LA - will he be with boston next year? or where else?

Jonah Keri

  (10:40 PM)

He'll never have that lights-out fastball again. Good change-up though, it was working for him in Texas before the trade. There's still hope, sure.

Jonah Keri

  (10:41 PM)

Wow, it's an onslaught of bloops.

pat (me)

Do you take becket out after next inning so he can pitch in game 4?

Jonah Keri

  (10:42 PM)

Hmmm...maybe to have the *option* of starting him in Game 4. What's Beckett's pitch count right now?

dan (reno)

59

Jonah Keri

  (10:43 PM)

One more inning and I pull Beckett then, yes.

Louie (Medford)

the pitch count is 69 pitches, 46 for strikes

Jonah Keri

  (10:44 PM)

Even at 69, figure 15-20 more pitches next inning if he's going well, then pull him. They wouldn't HAVE to start him in Game 4, but it becomes an option.

Jeremy (Boston)

No way, let Beckett go 8 so that you can use everyone tomorrow night in case you need it. Pap for 2 tomorrow would be fantastic.

Jonah Keri

  (10:44 PM)

They can use their lesser RP for 3 innings, save Okajima and Papelbon.

Derek (San Diego, CA)

Josh Beckett has been coming through for the Sox but do you think he is good enough to be the MVP?

Jonah Keri

  (10:45 PM)

He was MVP of the LCS. Why not?

Chris (Munich)

Does Francona risk pitching Gagne in this setting?

Jonah Keri

  (10:46 PM)

I'd like to see it. Try to build his confidence in a low-pressure situation.

whitney (boulder, CO)

You can't be the MVP if you don't win the series!

Jonah Keri

  (10:47 PM)

Yup, I like Tulo if the Rox win it.

Johnzo (Durango)

Some one steal a base.

Jonah Keri

  (10:47 PM)

If Manny steals home and wins tacos for all of America, it would instantly become one of the top 10 moments in playoff history.

Fred (NH)

Been trying to build Gagne's confidence since he got here

Jonah Keri

  (10:48 PM)

Good point.10-1, they can't get an out.

Austin (Utah)

Another RBI for your sleeper pick

Jonah Keri

  (10:48 PM)

I read palms and am an expert with tarot cards too.

Greg (Denver)

If Lowell steals home, I'll buy tacos for all of America.

Jonah Keri

  (10:50 PM)

I'm posting this for posterity. We'll see if Greg is a man of his word.

zach (az)

Who does colorado plan on throwing tomorrow?

Jonah Keri

  (10:50 PM)

I believe it's Ubaldo Jimenez, right? Schilling could be his dad.

Jonah Keri

  (10:51 PM)

From Rage Against The Machine to Foreigner. Oy.

jack (massachusets)

would you ever consider having them pull becket early so he can be used later on

Jonah Keri

  (10:52 PM)

Jack, yup we were talking about that a few minutes ago. I'd like tos ee them pull Beckett after the 6th to give them the otpion of starting him in Game 4.

Nick (Arlington, VA)

Worse name: Ubaldo or Asdrubal?

Jonah Keri

  (10:52 PM)

You kidding? I'm already lbbying the wife to name our 1st kid Asdrubal. Especially if it's a girl.

Jonah Keri

  (10:53 PM)

11-1, the rout continues. Luckily I get paid time and a half after 2 a.m.

Josh (Montreal)

Jonah, You should get comp days too.

Jonah Keri

  (10:54 PM)

Josh, if you're lobbying to be my agent, it's working.

Craig (Kansas)

your getting robbed, Neyer claimed to get paid by the word

Jonah Keri

  (10:55 PM)

Neyer's got 10 more years at ESPN than I do. I get paid in ESPN Mobile minutes and ESPN The Magazine fleece sweatshirts only until my 5th year with the company.

Jonah Keri

  (10:56 PM)

12-1, another walked in run. It really could start to get historic some time soon.

Justin (Montana)

is Kansas City in Missouri or Kansas

Jonah Keri

  (10:56 PM)

There's one in each state, across the border from each other. Good barbecue in both.

David (New Brunswick, NJ)

This has to be pretty demoralizing for the Rox. Think they can rebound tomorrow?

Jonah Keri

  (10:57 PM)

McCarver just mentioned the 19-8 loss to the Yankees in Game 3 of the 2004 ALCS. Only one precedent, but it does speak volumes.

Ryan Clark (Elk Grove)

are you ashmed of the awesome S curl you rock in your profile picture?

Jonah Keri

  (10:58 PM)

Heck no. If anything I'm sad that after growing my hair another 8 months after that without a cut, I foolishly returned to a normal 'do.

Jonah Keri

  (10:59 PM)

Another walk. This is one of the worst playoff innings I've ever seen.

Jonah Keri

  (10:59 PM)

It's Gagne time!

Steve (Upstate NY)

Ball 12! and vaughn's got them loaded again.

Jonah Keri

  (10:59 PM)

Laughed so hard I started coughing...

Jonah Keri

  (11:00 PM)

And the cute blonde holding up the Rex Grossman jersey reappears. The comedy gift that keeps on giving.

Chad (Tennessee)

Man, I've got to work tomorrow with a bunch of red sox fans. I have been running my mouth about the awesomeness that is the rockies. Any words of advice to cope at work tomorrow?

Jonah Keri

  (11:00 PM)

Wear a mask.

jared (bozeman, montana)

anybody got the time on how LONG this inning has been?

Jonah Keri

  (11:00 PM)

31 minutes, I believe.

Jonah Keri

  (11:02 PM)

And fireman deluxe Matt Herges does the job. 34 minutes later.

Jonah Keri

  (11:05 PM)

Just checked the time, saw it was 11:05, doublechecked to make sure it wasn't still set to Zagreb time.

Jonah Keri

  (11:06 PM)

I like Buck mentoning Beckett and Game 4 here, only an hour after all of you guys pointed it out.

Ian (Salt Lake)

Keri what do you think about putting gagne in now so the sox have time to repair the potential damage.

Jonah Keri

  (11:08 PM)

I'd like to see that happen. I imagine Francona wants at least 1 mor einning from Beckett though to feel a little safer. If the Sox miraculously blew this game, he'd be fired before he hit the parking lot.Nice pickup by little Pedroia, sweet DP.

matt (stillwater,ny)

nothing good can come out of beckett still being in the game.. even gagne can be trusted with a 12 run lead

Jonah Keri

  (11:09 PM)

Yup, I agree.

Chris (Cleveland)

"to feel a little safer"? they have a 12 run lead...

Jonah Keri

  (11:10 PM)

I'm not saying I'd feel safer. I'm saying that managers will do anything to avoid being second guessed.OK, easy inning for Beckett. If he comes abck out for the 7th, I'm officially miffed.

Dan (Mascoutah, IL)

is this going to be a 4-game joke?

Jonah Keri

  (11:11 PM)

Red Sox pitching drops off considerably after Beckett. I'm not counting the Rox out of this series.

Jonah Keri

  (11:12 PM)

Because the game wasn't agonizing enough, we bring you....DANE COOK!

Zack (behind Jonah Keri)

dont u think this much of a beating can affect the rockies moral

Jonah Keri

  (11:14 PM)

Nope, I don't. Momentum is only as important as your next game.

MikeyTee (CA)

So Jonah...ESPN is paying you to watch FOX huh?

Jonah Keri

  (11:14 PM)

And eat NH-brand salsa. I have the best gig in the world.

Jonah Keri

  (11:15 PM)

Royce Clayton is on the Red Sox? I had completely forgotten about that. How, if they win, that might be the easiest World Series ring ever.

Adam Fishman (Toronto)

Jonah????

Jonah Keri

  (11:16 PM)

Adam, you have to ask an interesting question to get posted here. You're lucky I make exceptions for my Blue Jays-rootin cousins.

Thom (UH Hawai'i) (Honolulu,HI)

Historically how are the BSOX against Lefties?

Jonah Keri

  (11:18 PM)

Thought their record was pretty similar this year against both. Anyone have this stat handy?

Bryan (New York)

Hey, the Indians got clobbered in Game 1 and look what they did the next 3 games. We know what happened afterwards, but just saying. These 13 runs don't mean that much, right?

Jonah Keri

  (11:18 PM)

Not at all. One game is one game. Jimenez can really deal when he;s on too.

Ian (Salt Lake)

HOW CAN YOU SHOW THAT CLIP FOX? HOW? Just when i can't hate Joe Buck any more....

Jonah Keri

  (11:19 PM)

Seriously. The supposed curse was broken 3 years ago. Give it a rest already, poor Buckner should be able to live in peace.John McNamara, on the other hand...

Tom (Toronto)

Why does FOX keep Joe Buck as the commentator for virtually every major event?

Jonah Keri

  (11:20 PM)

He's the only one who knows how to taser McCarver before a long, pointless story ensues.

Dan (Montreal)

One day.... One day one of those Bill Buckner replays will show him fielding that ball correctly...one day..

Jonah Keri

  (11:21 PM)

Like that Gatorade commercial with Jordan missing, Giambi sliding and Dwight Clark dropping the ball? That would be something.

Jonah Keri

  (11:24 PM)

Nice change by Herges gets Varitek. Maybe they can take *something* positive out of this game.

Vince (Vermont)

Beckett coming back for the seventh?

Jonah Keri

  (11:25 PM)

I hope not. Wouldn;t show much resourcefulness on Francona's part. Not that I'm absolutely advocating that Beckett pitch Game 4. But it'd be nice to have that option.

Jon (Cambridge, MA)

Boston: 25-23 against lefties, 71-43 against righties. (Rockies: 20-24 left, 70-49 right.)

Jonah Keri

  (11:25 PM)

Interesting, thanks Jon. Of course the Sox had few problems with Francis tonight.

Jeff (Plainville, MA)

I still think it makes no sense to start Beckett on short rest in Game 4, since you definitely can't start Schilling and Matsuzaka on short rest for Games 5 and 6, so you almost certainly need Lester anyway. Better to use Lester in Game 4 and keep everyone on more normal rest.

Jonah Keri

  (11:26 PM)

Except starting Beckett in Game 4 then sets up the option of starting him in Game 7. Other than that, I agree.

Jason (PA)

Where was my post when I put those stats up 5 minutes ago?!?!?

Jonah Keri

  (11:27 PM)

Missed it, sorry Jason. I've received 22,867 questions so far, and we're just through 6.And Beckett's still pitching for no earthly reason. Wow.

Sally (Denver, Colorado)

Any comments on the way ticket sales were handled for the Rockies? People are saying it wasn't legit and the Rockies get a huge cut from stubhub since all the tickets were sold on line. True? And think the Rockies are now cursed with the "Nightmare Before Halloween"?!?!

Jonah Keri

  (11:28 PM)

Can't say for crtain what kind of back deals they may have had. The big danger with Net sales is that sophisticated buyers have devices to speed up the process, leaving people who do it legitimately potentially left out.

david (schofield Barracks, HI)

he's only thrown 81 pitches and there is no plan to pitch him in Game 4

Jonah Keri

  (11:28 PM)

Plans should be malleable, depending on circumstances. In Francona's world, they apparently are not.

Jonathan (Lewiston ME)

so is crisp healthy or are they prefering to start jacoby?

Jonah Keri

  (11:30 PM)

They see Ellsbury as the better player at this point. He was starting before Crisp got dinged up on that final out of Game 7.

Joe (New York)

The lefty/righty splits indicate that both the game 4 pitching changes favor Boston: Wakefield (righty) to Lester (lefty), Morales (lefty) to Cook (righty)

Jonah Keri

  (11:30 PM)

Cook showed flashes this year when healthy. But when healthy is the key there, we don't know how he'll fare after being out.

VegasJoe (Las Vegas, NV)

Jonah...for 2007, the Red Sox hit .428 with an .801 OPS against lefties with only 41 of their 167 HRs againstleft-handers.

Jonah Keri

  (11:31 PM)

The HR split isn't damning, since of course they fce a lot more RH than LH.

Matt (Atlanta)

so if the red sox see ellsbury as the better player, then why did they put crisp in instead of letting ellsbury finish the game?

Jonah Keri

  (11:32 PM)

Ellsbury stayed in that game, shifted to left in place of Manny.

Robert (Monrovia (Ca))

I stopped watching when it was 6 to 1, what's the score now?

Jonah Keri

  (11:32 PM)

13-1. It's really not that close, though.

kevin (texas)

where would you rate josh beckett in all time post season pitchers, after what is more than likely going to be another really good post season start

Jonah Keri

  (11:33 PM)

I'd need to see a couple more postseasons so that his track record starts to take on a significant sample size. So far, so great though.

John (NY)

Where is Neyer!

Jonah Keri

  (11:34 PM)

At the game. He's scheduled to do 4 of the remaining 6 series games, if it goes a full 7. Keith Law and I are on for 1 more each.

Garrett (Massachusetts)

Jonah what game will you see ganye pitching in

Jonah Keri

  (11:34 PM)

If it doesn't happen tonight, I don't know that it will at all (barring an 18-inning affair).

joe (boulder, CO)

god bless amaerica sung in the middle of the world series on national television? AWESOME. thats really great to see.

Jonah Keri

  (11:36 PM)

I'm trying REALLY hard not to comment here.

chris (chicago)

How is bostons lineup going to look in denver? Will ortiz be at first or what?

Jonah Keri

  (11:37 PM)

Chris, we speculated on this earlier. Tough to say. Rockies don't have a lefty going until Game 5 with Francis, so hard to bench Ortiz or Drew in Games 3 or 4. Youkilis or Lowell? Youkilis is on fire, but Lowell's great defensively. I could see 3-4 different, palatable combinations.

chester (cleveland)

Would the sox ever start Papelbon?

Jonah Keri

  (11:37 PM)

I think he's much better suited for the pen. Whereas with Joba, I would have him in the 2008 Opening Day rotation.

Boston Joe (Boston)

why not put Youk in Right Field in CO, and remove the rally killer....i mean JD Drew?

Jonah Keri

  (11:38 PM)

Drew's looked pretty darn good last few games.

Jeff (Plainville (MA))

Speculation before tonight's game here in Boston is that they might sit Oritz against Francis, and sit Lowell and Youk one game each.

Jonah Keri

  (11:38 PM)

Sounds about right.

Austin (VA)

Jonah, last few games isn't a large enough sample size. Just using your own logica against you.

Jonah Keri

  (11:39 PM)

No but Drew's whole career is. He could part the Red Sea and still get abuse 'round these parts.

publius (Pittsburgh, PA)

Where are you based at jonah?

Jonah Keri

  (11:40 PM)

Seacoast region of New Hampsire, great part of the country.

tim (ca)

so u a red sox fan?

Jonah Keri

  (11:41 PM)

Nope. I was an Expos fan, but after they vanished, I don't root for anyone anymore. Stinks as a fan, nice as a writer in that I'm bias-free.

Norm (Danbury CT)

I stepped away. Any sane reason Beckett pitched the 7th?

Jonah Keri

  (11:42 PM)

The logic seemed to be that Francona was going to pitch Beckett in Game 5 anyway, so didn't hurt to have him fo one more.

Matt (West Virginia)

The other problem with sitting Drew is the size of the outfield in Colorado. He covers much more ground than Youk would and it would be hard to put another limited fielder in right with Manny already in left.

Jonah Keri

  (11:42 PM)

I agree completely. Drew is an underrated defender, and Youkilis doesn't have much experience in RF, much less at Coors.

Ben (Atlanta)

Doesn't that mean you should be a Nationals fan?

Jonah Keri

  (11:43 PM)

Not the same team once it moves. If the Braves moved to Belarus, would you still root for them?

Jason (Boston)

So they had Delcarmen warming up. Do we see Delcarmen in the 8th and Gagne in the 9th?

Jonah Keri

  (11:44 PM)

That would make some sense. They could ahve Delcarmen go 2 also, I suppose.

Brenner (Madison, Wi)

How many pitches has Beckett thrown?

Jonah Keri

  (11:44 PM)

94 or so, I believe.

James (Brisbane AUS)

Thanks to ESPN and Jonah for providing this service, its so hard to keep up to date with proceedings down in Australia

Jonah Keri

  (11:46 PM)

My pleasure, James! I met a bunch of friendly Aussies on my recent trip to the Balkans, including some folks from Brisbane. Each one a beaut.

Danny (Montreal)

As a diehard Expos fan we now cannot root for the Nationals but still follow MLB faithfully

Jonah Keri

  (11:46 PM)

Yup, that's about my stance. And I actually moved to DC for a couple yrs after leaving Montreal too.

Blaine (Idaho)

timlin?

Jonah Keri

  (11:47 PM)

Timlin might be their 3rd best RP option right now. I'd have rather seen Gagne. Unless they just want Timlin to get some work to stay sharp.

Bill (Okinawa Japan)

Thanks to ESPN for bringing this to the troops out here in Japan

Jonah Keri

  (11:47 PM)

Thanks for your service, Bill!

Michael (Fairbanks, Alaska)

Before this game I honestly thought the Rockies would win this series. Now...do they have any chance? They just look ridiculously overmatched.

Jonah Keri

  (11:48 PM)

Absolutely they have a chance. Schilling < Beckett and Dice-K and Lester < < Beckett. Rockies didn't stop being a good team in one night.

Jason (Florida)

Jonah, do you know how much tickets are on top of THE MONSTER?

Jonah Keri

  (11:49 PM)

Well you could never land any for the playoffs. A pair on the Monster for a World Series game? I'd guess 5 G's or so.

matt (newton MA)

how many questions have you been asked today?

Jonah Keri

  (11:50 PM)

25,205 so far. My apologies to anyone I've missed btw. I'll post my email address at the end of this chat so that anyone I missed can feel free to contact me there.

Chad (Michign)

regular season monster tickets are a few hundred if you can get your hands on them

Jonah Keri

  (11:51 PM)

I bought tickets off eBay earlier this year, and found a pair on the Monster for only about $175 each. It was a weeknight game against a so-so team, but still.

Kevin (Richmond, VA)

the monster seats are not the best seats in the house though! YOu can't see the bottom of the field

Jonah Keri

  (11:51 PM)

I loved sitting in the CF bleachers. Great view from there, same as the CF camera in most parks, and lots of atmosphere.

Javi (L.A)

what is YOUR FAVORITE ballpark????

Jonah Keri

  (11:52 PM)

It was Tiger Stadium. Now I probably go Wrigley #1 (only if I'm in the bleachers), ATandT #2, Fenway #3. Haven't been to PNC yet, that's on my list for next season.

Jeremy (Fredericton)

Olympic Stadium??

Jonah Keri

  (11:53 PM)

Well yes, that was always my *real* favorite.

Steve (North Dakota)

what, no Metrodome? haha

Jonah Keri

  (11:53 PM)

Actually that's the only MLB city where I haven't seen a game live. Also on my list for the near future, if for no other reason than to complete the list of 30.

big al

do u think the yankees will make a comeback next year and do u think that arod will be with them

Jonah Keri

  (11:54 PM)

I really like how Cashman exercised patience and didn't trade their top young talent for quick-fix vets. The Yankees are in good shape for the next several years when you look at Cano, Wang, Melky, Joba, Kennedy, Tabata et al.

Tim (Rockland, MA)

jonah.. 32.. you'll need to see games at the new mets and yankees parks when they open in a few years.. plus the new place the A's want to build

Jonah Keri

  (11:55 PM)

I just count the cities, easier to keep track that way. I've been to Tiger Stadium but not Comerica, Three Rivers but not PNC, Camden Yards but not Memorial Stadium, etc.

Jonah Keri

  (11:56 PM)

Well all the Rockies relievers get a chance to shake off the rust anyway. That's reliever #5 or #6 already.

JB (Gainesville)

wheres the love for the trop?

Jonah Keri

  (11:57 PM)

Got to the Trop 10 minutes before game time one night. Asked for best available tickets. Got two, 20 rows up behind home plate. $22 apiece I believe. So yes, love the Trop.

Stu (Boston)

Jonah, what is your outlook on game 3 with Dice-K on the mound? I'm 50/50 with this.

Jonah Keri

  (11:58 PM)

And that's about right. He really has great stuff, but we can never know which Dice will show up. Plus it'll be his first start at Coors, and the Rockies can really hit, tonight notwithstanding.

Javi (L.A)

How come NATIONAL league has not added the DH rule?!?!

Jonah Keri

  (11:58 PM)

They want to keep their unique identity, I imagine. Many people would ask why the AL hasn't abolished the rule instead.

Nat (Boston)

If this series goes 2-1 in favor of the Rockies after 3 games....would you consider Josh in the 4th?

Jonah Keri

  (11:59 PM)

I might, but Francona won't. He made that clear when he hd Beckett pitch 2 more innings than he needed to.

Patrick (Minneapolis)

Latroy Hawkins...If the game was close he would be a perfect Byun Kim imposter.

Jonah Keri

  (12:00 AM)

He's been surprisingly great this year.And look who's coming in for the 9th! It's my fellow born and raised Montrealer, Mr. Gagne.

logan(RED SOX NATION) (co)

so do you think the rockies will be able to recover from this humiliating loss???

Jonah Keri

  (12:00 AM)

I don't see why not. Considering they'd lost once in a month coming in, that should give you an idea about how important momentum is (or isn't).

Frank (Boston)

What are the odds that Gagne has a clean inning?

Jonah Keri

  (12:01 AM)

I say one baserunner, otherwise unscathed.

Chuck (Baton Rouge, LA)

What time will this chat end?

Jonah Keri

  (12:01 AM)

At game's end. We're four hours in and I'm going blind.

Derek (Idaho ID)

Let me get this straight, Crisp is not healthy enough to start (wink,wink), but is able to come in as a defensive replacement? hmmmm

Jonah Keri

  (12:01 AM)

Nothing that sinister. Ellsbury was starting before the injury, he's their guy now and going forward.

Greg (New Hampshire)

when Jonah's mom tells him it is bed time

Jonah Keri

  (12:02 AM)

It's a good thing baseball nerds like myself have our moms' basements to set up shop. Sunlight scares me.

Ben (LA)

Well, the fire is really close now. But, they don't have a big screen TV down at the shelter like they have in my house o I can see the end of this game.

Jonah Keri

  (12:03 AM)

Ben, stay safe. My in-laws live in San Diego and had to leave their house for a night too. Scary stuff.

Jonah Keri

  (12:03 AM)

Quick first out by Gagne, good sign.

Javi (L.A)

I remember when i used to see GAGNE at dodger stadium.. before he would come out they would play "welcome to the jungle" song and the WHOLE stadium would errupt and go crazy for him

Jonah Keri

  (12:04 AM)

I lived in LA from 1999 to 205, remember those days well. He was a big favorite of mine. I hope he gets right eventually.

dan (mesa, az)

who is up for free agency this off-season for the redsox and will that player or players likely stay

Jonah Keri

  (12:04 AM)

Their young talent will avccount for most of the roster changes you'll see. Guys like PEdroia, Ellsbury, Buchholz and Lester will have jobs all year. Not many holes that need fixing, regardless of how this WS plays out.

Jonah Keri

  (12:05 AM)

2 batters, 2 outs for Gagne.

matt (newton MA)

who will be in first place next year in the east? Sox yanks or other

Jonah Keri

  (12:05 AM)

Too soon to tell, depends on hot stove. Don't count out the Jays, great SP.

Dave (Virginia)

save the bullpen in game 2 as well? how many innings you think theyll have schilling go?

Jonah Keri

  (12:06 AM)

He's not a gimme to buzz through the Rockies lineup. If Colorado can steal Game 2, it's a totally different series. Jimenez will be a focal point.

Juan (Ecuador)

Tampa is going to be scary good in a couple of years. Agree?

Jonah Keri

  (12:06 AM)

Mos def. The hitting we knwo about. But guys like David Price and others are waiting on the wings pitching wise too.

Dan (Wayland, MA)

Who is more important to their team? Jeter to the Yanks or Varitek to the BoSox?

Jonah Keri

  (12:06 AM)

Jeter by 100 miles. Varitek is well past his prime

Vince (Naperville)

any chance they turn out like the marlins and unable to hold on to their young talent because of money?

Jonah Keri

  (12:08 AM)

Marlins willingly dumped all their players because of Huizenga. Rays have a very smart front office

Jonah Keri

  (12:08 AM)

And that's ballgame, 1-2-3 for Monsieur Gagne. Final Q's before we call it a night.

scott (denver)

what are the rockies chances in this series? do they even have a chance or are the red sox just too good?

Jonah Keri

  (12:09 AM)

Definitely got a shot. If they win Game 2, theyll have homefield and would only face Beckett one more time.

Chris (Columbus)

Jonah, come on must not be to smart! have they been close to a winning season yet?

Jonah Keri

  (12:10 AM)

You'll see, Chris. The core of young talent is off the charts. Few people were talking about the Rox before this year too.

Rob (Dallas)

How do you see game 2 playing out?

Jonah Keri

  (12:10 AM)

Rockies will swing the bats. Closer game obviously, I could see something like 6-5, going either way.

Matt (Lincoln)

Which rookie would you rather have as a GM, Pedroia or Tulo?

Jonah Keri

  (12:11 AM)

Tulo. Shortstops are more valuable as is, and Tulo's a better player regardless.

Jonah Keri

  (12:12 AM)

OK folks, that's it for me. If I missed your questions, feel free to email me at jonahkeri@gmail.com. It's been fun, catch you again in Game 6, and stay tuned for Rob Neyer for Game 2. Good night.