Rusty Relievers, Brilliant PawSox Defense, Bulls Lose

Wrap, Box, Herald-Sun, N&O, Pawtucket

The last time Rhode Island native Jeff Beliveau was on a pitcher’s mound was an inning back on September 4th. Before that, he hadn’t pitched for the Bulls since August 22. So when he came in after a very fine 7 innings by Jake Odorizzi, I was worried. A single, hit batsman, sac bunt, and two-run single later the Bulls were behind 2-1 and Steve Geltz was in to finish the inning. Too late.

But the Bulls did have their chances and we really do need to credit the Red Sox with a string of very nice defensive plays in the 7th, 8th, and 9th innings, mostly by second baseman Brock Holt. His range and glovework was exceptional. In the 8th he was assisted by a rally-killing catch by center fielder Justin Henry.

Have say a bit more about the brilliant job that was done by Odorizzi last night. He struck out the side in the 7th inning to finish out with 7 scoreless innings and a simply dominating performance. I’m guessing he will be on a plane to St. Petersburg very soon to see if he can get in some more time with the Rays before the end of their season.

So here we are. Tonight is the last game to be played in the DBAP this year. Next year the place is going to look different with more than just a fresh coat of paint. If the past is any indication, the team will be different as well. In all likelihood, not more than three or four of these guys will suit up as Durham Bulls next year, so this is the last time you will be able to see them play ball. And they will be playing for the Governors’ Cup. What could be more fun than that?

Outside the game —

• Note for the N&O: it is the Governors' Cup, not the Governor's Cup. See earlier item to understand why.
  Tonight the Bulls have ace J.D. Martin going up against knuckleballer Steven Wright. The PawSox have two knuckleballers on staff. How weird is that? 
• Infielder Ryan Roberts tweaked something in batting practice yesterday and Montgomery Biscuits infielder Shawn O’Malley was activated for his slot. 
• See the table below regarding the current status of the nostalgia races. Will they run for the last time tonight? If so, who will win the 40th running of the Bull Durhams?