Gresh & Zo: Jon Heyman On John Lackey's Transformation
MLB insider Jon Heyman of CBS Sports joined Gresh and Zolak Wednesday to preview Game 6 of the World Series, as the Red Sox try to close out the St. Louis Cardinals at Fenway Park.
Gresh kicked off the interview trying to pick Jon's brain on what his ideal Game 6 lineup and batting order for the Sox would be, and both agreed that it should be David Ortiz batting third, followed by Mike Napoli then Jonny Gomes. Manager John Farrell had Ortiz in the three-hole in Game 5, but now Papi is back batting cleanup for Game 6.
Ultimately though, Heyman thinks it all comes down to John Lackey Wednesday night - somebody he believes to have an advantage over Cardinals pitcher Michael Wacha.
"I think Wacha was better in the previous games, it wasn't just that one pitch to Ortiz [in Game 2]. I don't think he was as good as I've seen him earlier in the playoffs. I'd be a little concerned about Wacha right now. I actually think that Lackey gives them the edge for Boston tonight."
Throughout the morning Gresh and Zo have been talking about John Lackey's transformation and image rehab. He was once a member of the "chicken and beer" club - but now, with the way he's pitched this season, he's earned the respect of the fan base. Heyman gave his thoughts on the topic.
"I figured we were nearing the end of Lackey in Boston [after Tommy John surgery during the 2011 offseason]. But the guy is a very good pitcher. I can't think of too many bad games he's pitched all year," said Heyman. "He wanted to come to Boston. He's a guy that can handle it. We've learned a lot about John Lackey in a short period here in Boston, mostly good at this point."
Listen to the full interview below and get Jon Heyman's prediction for Game 6:
Jon Heyman On Game 6
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