By Jordan Long
The Boston Red Sox will miss reliever Carson Smith. On Monday night, Smith gave up a home run to Khris Davis in the 8th inning. Once the inning was over, Smith chucked his glove into the dugout in frustration. Throwing the glove caused him to hurt his shoulder and he is now on the 10 day disabled list. There is no timetable for his return. According to ESPN, President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski said, “It’s got the potential of being a major injury.”
Smith is one of Boston’s top relievers. He goes out in the late innings to hold the lead for Boston or to keep games tied. This season hasn’t been his best. His record is 1-1 with an ERA of 3.77. He is having trouble with his command with 2 home runs given up and 6 walks. Even with his struggles, Smith is still striking out batters with 18.
On Monday he let his emotions get to him. Many pitchers give up home runs. Smith pitched 1 inning and it was the only run he gave up. He might not have been happy to give up a home run since that is how his year has gone. This is not a reason to toss the glove. Next time Smith needs to be smarter by sitting down and talking to the pitching coach. Maybe if he did that, he wouldn’t be on the disabled list.
Smith hopes this is not the end of his year. He may have surgery to repair the shoulder, but Smith is seeking a second opinion to possibly avoid it. If Smith is able to pitch, hopefully he will learn his lesson.
The Red Sox had to recall Bobby Poyner from Triple A. This is his time to shine. Poyner doesn’t have much Major League Baseball experience. He appeared in 7 games for Boston this season. In those games he has a 2.25 ERA with 9 strikeouts. If he is able to pitch well in Smith’s spot, he may be able to stay with the Red Sox.
Nice insights