Schilling to Seattle
Breaking news: After reviewing the tape of Red Sox manager Terry Francona blocking an enraged David Ortiz Friday night, Patriots coach Bill Belichick has asked Tito to come to camp and try out for the right guard position. Change in itinerary: Schilling goes with team to Seattle while Pedro flies home to Boston. (BTW: Tito said Curt would be flying back not the evil media.) Curt posts on SoSH this afternoon: "As far as me coming back on the flight, I am guessing there was miscommunication yesterday between a few people, though I wasn't one of them, and someone assumed I would fly back with Petey. To tell you the truth I've never flown ahead more than a day before a game, BUT, I have never made this trip, Seattle-Boston as a starting pitcher. With a short series here and a day game Tuesday I don't think him flying back is a bad move if he thinks he needs that to be ready Wednesday." Gammons ESPN chat wrap -- On Ortiz: "My guess is five games and have the suspension reduced to three. They should suspend that umpiring crew for two months after watching three games of incompetence." On Tito sending Manny a message: "when Manny hurt his hamstring his last year in Cleveland -- he missed 49 games (!) and took a lot of heat. ... Joe Torre asked about Manny's status for the All-Star game and was told he was fine to play. There are certainly missing pieces here that none of us entirely know or understand." On Beltran to Boston? "I think they will trade Beltran. They have to get a young catcher back in the deal. Keep your eye on Boston b/c of Kelly Shoppach who when to McClean's alma mater. He has to OK any trade ... and I wouldn't hold my breath."
