After losing the longest game in World Series history(18 innings), the Boston Red Sox demonstrated their quality and resilience. They didn't lose another game, and they beat the Dodgers on LA's home turf 3 games in a row to win the Series match up. The final game was won by veteran pitcher David Price who can now add World Champion to his resume. He won 3 games during the playoffs and was a standout in the finale, going 7+ innings, holding the Dodgers to 3 hits.
His focus and his performance elevated the game for his teammates who lauded the athlete with superlatives usually reserved for singular heroes. Of course, he had help. Seasoned veteran pitcher for the Dodgers, Kershaw, gave up 3 one-run homers in the final game, giving credence to Boston's balance as a team: pitching, hitting, and defense equals victory(s).
A word about Red Sox defense is called for. Some of the plays resulting in outs at critical points during play remain memorable. The strike thrown by right fielder Mookie Betts(league MVP) to throw out a streaking Dodger runner will be replayed for years to come. The long ball to right field was chased down by Betts who turned and threw the ball on a line to the second baseman who placed the tag on the sliding runner for the out. What a delight to watch that play! Additionally, a catch by left fielder Benintendi spoke volumes: a deep flyball came off the LA hitter's bat and looked like extra bases, at least a double. Benintendi, at full stride, dove to the ground with glove hand fully extended and caught the ball. LA fans sat down and assessed their fate: the Red Sox came to play.
So, maybe next year for the Dodgers; and maybe next year for the Red Sox. First year manager, Alex Cora, will be hard pressed to repeat as history illustrates how difficult that is to do. A look at past winners, such as San Francisco in 2010, 2012, and 2014, demonstrate those difficulties, even with proven talent.
See you in April, 2019.
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