Historically Bad Day For Bard

I think Daniel Bard belongs back in the bullpen.

He was historically awful on Sunday, walking six batters and hitting two others, as he allowed five runs in 1 2/3 innings in a 5-1 loss to the Blue Jays in Toronto.

Bard had absolutely no command, allowed a three-run home run to Jose Bautista, and hit both Yunel Escobar and Edwin Encarnacion in the arm in the second inning. Bard threw 55 pitches and allowed just one hit.

And five runs scored.

Bard became the first starting pitcher since 1918 to allow at least six walks and two hit batters in less than 2 innings. Thankfully, Bobby Valentine yanked Bard before any more damage could be done, to the Red Sox or the Blue Jays.

More and more, it looks like Bard should return to his 8th inning role, especially when Daisuke Matsuzaka returns (and that should be shortly). 

The bullpen was again stellar, especially Franklin Morales, who went 4 1/3 innings, allowing just two hits and striking out four.

The lone Red Sox run was on a solo home run by Kelly Shoppach.

The Sox could do little with Drew Hutchison, who actually hit two batters in the game: Shoppach and Kevin Youkilis, who was not pleased when he got hit on the left shoulder. Nothing happened, but both benches were warned.

The Red Sox drop to three games back, as Tampa Bay won. They are off on Monday, and play Baltimore at Fenway for three starting Tuesday night.