Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora told MassLive why he decided to not put in All-Star closer Kenley Jansen, and instead put in Zack Kelly in a post-game interview. It came down to the fact it wasn’t a save situation.
Kelly was then blown up, giving up five runs in five hits and an intentional walk. Chris Martin would have been the other option, but he is sick, and hasn’t pitched since September 3rd. “He’s sick,” said Cora. “He’s around but not feeling well. We gave him one more day. He’ll be available tomorrow.”
Cora also spoke on Kelly’s implosion. “Lack of execution, to be honest with you. He’s had some good ones (outings), really good ones when he’s on and then that happens…We want him to be like a big dog in the bullpen. That’s the reason he pitched the ninth. Because stuff-wise, there’s not too many guys like him. But we’ve gotta be consistent. That’s the most important thing. And there’s a few things he needs to work on to accomplish that.”
The Red Sox will host the Baltimore Orioles tomorrow at 7:10pm EST.
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