Kimbrel has been dancing on disaster's precipice this entire post-season. In four appearances, Kimbrel has given up 5 runs in 5.1 IP walking three batters and plunking two for a ghastly 8.44 ERA. Kimbrel gave me and many other New England residents a coronary episode last week after nearly forcing a Game 5 in the ALDS against the New York Yankees. He was also shaky in Game 2 of the ALCS at Fenway.
Needless to say, I was mystified when Red Sox manager Alex Cora brought in Kimbrel in the 8th inning. After all, Matt Barnes had only pitched a third of an inning and looked sharp. I thought Barnes would face at least two hitters in the 8th. Instead, Cora sent Kimbrel out to get his first ever two inning save. My mystification turned into anxiety after David Price started warming up in the bullpen after Kimbrel gave up a run on two hits and a hit batter. My anxiety turned to angina after Brian McCann came up with the tying run in the 9th after issuing back to back walks.
When Bregman came up, I reverted to superstitious behavior by moving from the sofa chair to the couch. On the next pitch, Bregman hit the ball to Benintendi. I shudder to think what might have happened if I hadn't moved a moment before.
Chances are the Red Sox will win the AL pennant. But if they do as long as Cora sticks with Kimbrel and he doesn't regain his form sooner or later the Red Sox will fall off the precipice resulting in a World Series title for either the Dodgers or Brewers.
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