Did They Really Lose a Series To The Pittsburgh Pirates?

Yes, they did. And I'm glad I missed it.

6-4. Four straight losses for the Red Sox. An unhappy return for Tim Wakefield to Pittsburgh.

Second straight series they've dropped to a lousy or mediocre team.

New York's win over Colorado now puts the Red Sox in second place by a half-game.

My friend Peter wrote me on Facebook tonight, and it began "162, John, 162." I know it's still a long year, but these are the series you should at least take two of three. And tomorrow, the Red Sox will try to avoid a sweep in Pittsburgh (did I really just write that?) with Andrew Miller taking the mound.

Let's just say my optimism is not at an all-time high right now.