Never underestimate the impact a good catcher can have on a pitching staff, which is why the signing of David Ross may wind up being the Red Sox’ most significant one this offseason.
It’s everything from the pitcher being confident in the catcher and what he’s calling; the catcher’s ability to throw out a runner (Ross threw out 37 percent last season) and bail a pitcher out of a jam; blocking a ball at an opportune time; and getting a pitcher straightened out if he’s lost his composure.
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Scott Boras represents Derek Lowe. Last year, Boras convinced the Yankees to pick up Lowe as a relief pitcher by showing them that Lowe could still pitch effectively, but not for a lot of innings anymore, not for the kind that starters are expected to throw. Lowe must know this, so it's hard to see where he's coming from.