1960 World Series

After watching the Bucs get bombed out of another game tonight against the powerful St. Louis Cardinals, I recalled the 1960 World Series against the Bronx Bombers.  The New York Yankees outscored the Pirates in that seven game series 55-27.  The Yanks sported a lineup that consisted of some big names:  Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris, Yogi Berra, Elston Howard, and Bobby Shantz.  Maris was the MVP that season.  All but Howard had previously won MVP awards.  The Yanks beat the Buccos in games two, three, and six, by scores of 16-3, 10-0, and 12-0 respectively.  Of course, Pittsburgh went on to win that series in 7 games.

My point is, these last two games mean nothing more than two games in the standings.  These are not the same old Pirates.  They will rebound from this.  Maybe as early as tomorrow.  They will also get a shot in the arm soon with the return of Pedro Alvarez, I am guessing on Monday or Tuesday.  Brandon Wood playing tonight at 1B gives a hint at some options being considered.  Garrett Jones and/or Lyle Overbay could be in line for a move of some sort.  Steve Pearce playing in RF might mean he is being considered more for that job than the 1B one.  Alex Presley and Jose Tabata are battling it out for LF job and the leadoff spot.

I suppose it is possible Brandon Wood could be a trade piece.  He is only 26 years of age and has put of some big HR numbers in the minors.  Anyone who saw that bomb he hit in Houston knows his power potential.  Once Ryan Doumit returns from his rehab stint, the Bucs won’t have a scary lineup, but at least they will have a decent one.  As long as someone emerges at 1B and provides the power they so desperately need.  These last two games has changed the whole thought process on a small ball approach and slammed home the realization that a more powerful lineup is needed.  So, I’ve rethought my whole predicated August lineup, but there are so many scenarios I won’t even bother attempting to put another guess in writing.