Blogs

Tim Wakefield

Pitcher
Position
P
Bats
R
Throws
R

Contract: Signed through 2008; Sox have perpeptual $4 million option.

  • Height: 6-2
  • Weight: 210 lbs
  • Born: Aug 2, 1966

  • Debut: July 31, 1992

SEASON

IPWSKERA

Newsbreakers

November 9, 2009

The Boston Red Sox and knuckleballer Tim Wakefield have agreed to a new two-year contract, according to WEEI.

Our View:

The deal is worth $3.5 million up-front in 2010, and $1.5 million in 2011. If he reaches a list of incentives, it could end up being worth $10 million. Wakefield will be 43 on opening day next season.

October 21, 2009

Updating an earlier report, Tim Wakefield underwent successful surgery on his back today, according to the Providence Journal.

Our View:

The procedure repaired a herniated disk in his lower back. The Sox intend to pick up his 2010 club option for $4MM, and the veteran knuckleballer is expected to be ready to participate at the start of spring training.

October 21, 2009

The Boston Herald reports that knuckleballer Tim Wakefield will undergo back surgery Wednesday morning.

Our View:

Wakefield is having a herniated disc in his back repaired, and barring any setbacks, he is expected to make a full recovery by the start of spring training. The Red Sox still plan on picking up his $4 million option for 2010, so it looks like if he's healthy he will once again figure into Boston's rotation plans.

October 16, 2009

Fanhouse.com is reporting that the Boston Red Sox plan to pick up the contract option on knuckleballer Tim Wakefield for next season, pending the results of his upcoming back surgery. Wakefield is scheduled for the surgery on Wednesday to relieve pressure on his herniated disk.

Our View:

As long as the surgery is successful, Wakefield should be back for his 16th season in a Sox's uniform next year. The 43-year old pitcher is at the end of his career, but he showed this season that he can still be more than effective when healthy.

October 12, 2009

According to MLB.com, Red Sox's knuckleballer Tim Wakefield is scheduled to undergo surgery this week on his lower back. Wakefield would like to return to the team for another season, but he will evaluate his situation after the surgery.

Our View:

Wakefield pitched through a ton of pain when the Sox needed him this season, and he would like to come back for at least one more year to take another run at a title. He was an All-Star in the first half of 2009, but the injury turned his dream season into a nightmare.

October 4, 2009

The Providence Journal is reporting that it is likely that Red Sox's pitcher Tim Wakefield is done for the season. Wakefield is dealing with a herniated disk in his lower back that is causing weakness and numbness in his left leg.

Our View:

Although it is not official just yet, it appears as if Wakefield will need surgery on his back very soon. He has battled through the injury during the second half, but there comes a point when you have to just shut it down and get the problem fixed. He will finish the season with an 11-5 record and a 4.58 ERA.

September 30, 2009

Tim Wakefield was rocked for five earned runs on seven hits over a mere three innings in Wednesday's 12-0 loss to the Jays at Fenway Park. He had two walks with two strikeouts, and gave up two homers.

Our View:

The knuckleballer is now winless over his last four starts, and allowed four or more earned runs in each of his last three. He had a strong first half of the season before being hindered by injuries down the stretch.

September 24, 2009

According to the Twitter page of Red Sox's beat wrtier Amalie Benjamin, Tim Wakefield's next start has been pushed back to Wednesday. Clay Buchholz will take Tuesday's start to give Wakefield an extra day.

Our View:

No word from the team exactly why this move was made, but it does give Wakefield another day of rest before he takes the mound. He has had a very disappointing second half due to his health, but he is still battling in order to help the team.

September 23, 2009

Tim Wakefield is slated to start Tuesday's game against the Jays at Fenway Park, according to the Boston Globe.

Our View:

Using Wakefield on Tuesday will give Boston some flexibility with how they align their rotation while gearing up for the playoffs.

September 22, 2009

Tim Wakefield is not in Boston's rotation for now, according to the Boston Globe. Skipper Terry Francona said, "You have a normal cycle for the next start. I do not know if he's going to be on that, because he is more at a point where we are trying to pick our spots with him. He cannot go every days. But I do not think he's walking around looking worse, which is good."

Our View:

The Sox will return to a five-man rotation without the knuckleballer, with Paul Byrd starting tonight's game at Kansas City. The club will try to fit him in where it works best for everyone.

September 21, 2009

Tim Wakefield was tagged for five earned runs on five hits over five innings in Monday's 12-9 loss at Kansas City. He had seven walks with two strikeouts.

Our View:

Wakefield had poor control in his return to the mound, and the knuckleballer looks to be an unstable fantasy option going forward.

September 21, 2009

Tim Wakefield is ready to return to Boston's rotation tonight at Kansas City, according to the Boston Globe. He has been dealing with a nerve issue that was affecting his legs and back.

Our View:

The veteran knuckleballer will be making his first start since September 5, and only his third since the All-Star break. He will have a favorable match-up at pitcher-friendly Kauffman Stadium.

September 18, 2009

Tim Wakefield fared fine and did not experience any weakness in his legs during Friday's bullpen session, according to the Associated Press. Skipper Terry Francona said, "He did pretty well. He threw approximately 40 pitches. I think he actually felt some improvement over the other day."

Our View:

Francona added that the knuckleballer is on target to start Monday's game against the Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Wakefield will be re-examined tomorrow to insure that there were no ill effects from today's session.

September 18, 2009

Tim Wakefield is scheduled to throw a side session on Friday to determine if he will be able to start for the Red Sox on Monday, according to the Quincy Patriot-Ledger. Wakefield is still dealing with a nerve issue that is affecting his legs and back.

Our View:

Wakefield wants to return to the mound, so today's session will go a long way in determining if he will be able to do so. It looks like the team plans on having him go Monday, but we will update you when an announcement is made.

September 16, 2009

Tim Wakefield had a closed-door meeting with skipper Terry Francona, GM Theo Epstein, John Farrell and team doctor Tom Gill regarding the knuckleballer's next step, according to the Providence Journal.

Our View:

Wakefield will throw a side session Friday, and will be re-evaluated Saturday. He could potentially start Monday's game at Kansas City if his leg strength is good. He wants to pitch, but Francona noted that the team wants to do the right thing.

September 15, 2009

Tim Wakefield threw a side session today, but the Sox remain uncertain if he will return to the rotation, according to the Boston Globe. Skipper Terry Francona said, "Other than throwing a side, there is really not a lot new. The strength deficit from one leg to the other is very noticeable. It is certainly not getting beter. Because he is trying to hard to get ready to do what he does, which is pitch, we are trying to kind of stay with this and do the right. To be honest with you, I do not know if we know what the right thing is yet."

Our View:

If the nerve problem that affects his back and his lower left leg improves enough to allow him to pitch, he would start either Sunday in Baltimore or Monday in Kansas City. Daisuke Matsuzaka is set to return to the rotation tonight against the Angels.

September 11, 2009

Tim Wakefield said on Friday that he expects to pitch next week after getting a cortisone injection in his spine on Thursday, according to WEEI.

Our View:

Wake was having a fine season at age 42 (now 43) before his back started acting up in early July. He has made just two starts since the All-Star break, and has to be considered un-ownable for the final few weeks of the season. His health has simply become too unpredictable.

September 9, 2009

Tim Wakefield will receive a cortisone shot in his spine Thursday to relieve pressure on his spine that is hindering his mobility and ability to pitch, according to the Boston Herald.

Our View:

The veteran knuckleballer will have to rest for a few days while recovering from the shot before the Sox can determine when he may return to the mound.

September 8, 2009

The Boston Globe is reporting that Red Sox's starter Tim Wakefield may not pitch again until the team's September 18-20 series against the Orioles. Wakefield is still suffering from back and leg injuries.

Our View:

Wakefield wasn't great in his start on Saturday, and manager Terry Francona wants to rest him as much as possible down the stretch. With two off-days coming up, the team can afford to stick with four starters, so look for Wake to be out until that Baltimore series.

September 5, 2009

Tim Wakefield was tagged for four earned runs on six hits over six innings in Saturday's 5-1 loss at Chicago. He had three walks with four strikeouts.

Our View:

Wakefield struggled on the hill today, but it is encouraging that he was able to return from his strained back.

September 4, 2009

Tim Wakefield is considered probable to start Saturday's game against Chicago, according to the Boston Globe.

Our View:

The knuckleballer is dealing with a strained back, but has been feeling better this week. He should be fine to pencil into fantasy lineups if deemed fit to take the hill tomorrow.

September 2, 2009

Updating an earlier report, Tim Wakefield may throw off a mound Thursday, according to the Associated Press. He is recovering from a strained back.

Our View:

Wakefield threw in the outfield before Wednesday's game against Tampa Bay, and felt good with no issues regarding his back. The knuckleballer is 11-3 with a 4.12 ERA over 18 starts.

September 2, 2009

Tim Wakefield's back feels only "minimally better" after a recent cortisone injection to alleviate pain in it, according to the Boston Globe.

Our View:

Manager Terry Francona said his status will remain "up in the air" for the foreseeable future. If you haven't done so already, it's time to drop the ageless knuckler.

August 31, 2009

Tim Wakefield received a cortisone shot to relieve his aling back, according to the Boston Herald.

Our View:

The knuckleballer will be evaluated over the next few days. This marks his second cortisone injection in the last six weeks, and he is hopeful of returning to the mound at some point next week.

August 30, 2009

According to the Twitter page of Red Sox's beat writer Amalie Benjamin, starter Tim Wakefield is planning to get a cortisone shot in his back on Monday. Wakefield is hoping he can resume throwing by Wednesday.

Our View:

Wakefield has struggled to walk over the last few days, so hopefully the shot will help him significantly. The team doesn't know when he will be able to start again, and fantasy owners shouldn't be relying on him down the stretch. He should be able to come back, but his injury looks like something that could linger all season.

August 29, 2009

Tim Wakefield may be forced to miss his next scheduled start Tuesday as his back is acting up, according to Amalie Benjamin's (Boston Globe) twitter page.

Our View:

The 43-year-old knuckleballer is 11-3, and has a 4.12 ERA and 1.36 WHIP over 18 starts, and hopefully he won't be sent back to the DL.

August 26, 2009

Tim Wakefield only allowed one earned run on six hits over seven innings in Wednesday's 3-2 win over the White Sox at Fenway Park. He had one walk and three strikeouts.

Our View:

Chicago tied the game at 2-2 in the eighth inning, so Wakefield was unfortunately forced to take a no-decision for his strong performance. It is nice to see the old knuckleballer perform well in his first start back from the DL.

August 26, 2009

Tim Wakefield has been activated to start Wednesday's game against the White Sox. Wakefield has been out since July 8 with a back injury.

Our View:

The knuckleball will be floating tonight, and we will see how the veteran comes back from this injury. He was an All-Star this season, so he could be a big addition to the bullpen if he can return to form.

August 22, 2009

Tim Wakefield (back) will be activated from the disabled list and start for the Red Sox next Wednesday, according to Danny Knobler of CBS Sports.

Our View:

Wakefield has not pitched since July 8 for the Red Sox. He is rejoining a rotation that is in tatters, with their being no set fifth starter and Brad Penny sporting a 7.82 post All-Star break ERA. Expect him to be on a pitch count Wednesday.

August 21, 2009

The Boston Herald reports that Tim Wakefield allowed just one run on two hits over 5.2 innings in his rehab start on Friday night.

Our View:

Wakefield, recovering from a lower back strain, needed 81 pitches to get through his outing. He felt good afterward and looks to be on track to rejoin the Red Sox rotation early next week.

August 21, 2009

According to MLB.com, Red Sox's manager Terry Francona confirmed that starter Tim Wakefield will make a rehab start on Friday for Triple-A Pawtucket. Wakefield is still recovering from a back strain.

Our View:

If Wakefield makes it through tonight's start without any further complications, he could rejoin the Sox's rotation for his next scheduled start. The 43-year-old knuckleballer was an All-Star this season, and will be a welcomed addition to the rotation when he is ready to return.

August 18, 2009

Tim Wakefield (back strain) threw a pen session before Tuesday's game at Toronto, and is not ready to come off the DL, according to the Associated Press. Skipper Terry Francona noted that Wakefield will likely make one more rehab start with Triple-A Pawtucket Friday. Francona said, "This is a tough decision to make because we all think he can help us on the mound. But there is some other issues involved, like fielding your position, is he going to get weaker, is he going to hurt himself in another area. So we will do the best we can."

Our View:

Wakefield was 11-3 prior to landing on the DL, and the 43-year-old knuckle-baller shall remain patiently stashed on fantasy rosters.

August 11, 2009

Tim Wakefield will make a rehab start with Triple-A Pawtucket Friday, and could return to Boston as early as next week if he fares fine, according to the Boston Globe. He has been recovering from a lower-back strain, as well as a calf ailment.

Our View:

The 43-year-old knuckle-baller has been a pleasant surprise this season, as he was 11-3 with a 4.31 ERA over 17 starts prior to going down. He should be fine to pencil into fantasy lineups upon his return to Boston.

August 10, 2009

Updating an earlier report, Tim Wakefield threw 51 pitches during a simulated game Monday, according to the Providence Journal. Catcher George Kottaras said, "The action on his ball was awesome. It was just like when he left. Once he gets his strength up he will be great." He has been recovering from a lower-back injury and a calf strain.

Our View:

Skipper Terry Francona also felt that he threw the ball great during his session today. Francona will now watch how Wakefield responds and try to come up with a more precise game plan regarding what to do next. He should be back within a few weeks, barring a setback.

August 10, 2009

Tim Wakefield is scheduled to throw a simulated game on Monday at Fenway Park, according to MLB.com. Wakefield is trying to return from a lower back strain that has caused soreness in his calf.

Our View:

Wakefield has been feeling much better as of late, and it looks like he will return to the team in a few weeks barring another setback. The Sox would like to get a healthy Wakefield back in the mix for the last month of the season and playoffs.

August 7, 2009

Updating an earlier report, Tim Wakefield is regaining strength in his weakened left calf muscle, according to the Providence Journal.

Our View:

His back and pitching arm feels great as well, and he will likely face hitters Monday in a simulated game at Fenway Park. The 43-year-old knuckle-baller could return to Boston before the end of the month, barring a setback.

August 7, 2009

Tim Wakefield is scheduled to throw another side session on Friday, according to the Boston Herald. Wakefield is still experiencing some considerable discomfort in his left leg due to a bulging disc in his back.

Our View:

It doesn't sound like Wakefield's condition is improving much, as he is still walking with a considerable limp. The team is hoping he doesn't need a rehab assignment before being activated, but if he misses much more time, it may come to that. We will keep you updated on his status going forward.

August 5, 2009

Tim Wakefield, who is dealing with pain in his calf, threw a side session before tonight's game at Tampa Bay, according to the Boston Globe.

Our View:

Skipper Terry Francona is hopeful that the veteran knuckle-baller would not need a rehab assignment if and when he is ready to resume pitching, but Wakefield's calf ailment is compromising his ability to run and cover first base. At least his arm and back are feeling fine.

August 4, 2009

Tim Wakefield did not throw his scheduled side session Tuesday due to pain in his left calf, according to the Providence Journal. Wakefield is trying to return from a back ailment and he said, "It is frustrating because everything else feels good, I am able to throw 120 feet without a problem. We will see how it feels off the mound tomorrow. My biggest hurdle right now is covering my position. Fielding bunts, covering first."

Our View:

His session has been moved to Wednesday, and he will see how his calf feels. On the positive side, his back and arm are feeling good. The veteran knuckle-baller shall remain patiently stashed on fantasy rosters.

August 3, 2009

The Boston Globe is reporting that Tim Wakefield is expected to receive another cortisone shot in his injured back. Wakefield is still suffering from a sciatic nerve problem, and he could be out for a significant amount of time if the injury doesn't improve.

Our View:

Wakefield said that the injury has spread to his calf, and that he is unable to walk comfortably due to the pain. This sounds bad, but the cortisone shot should help the pain a bit. Wakefield owners should stay updated on his status, but right now it looks like you will be without for a while longer.

July 27, 2009

Tim Wakefield's scheduled session of catch on Monday was pushed back to Tuesday by Boston's medical staff, according to the Providence Journal.

Our View:

Wakefield (back) is eligible to come off the DL on August 2, and it remains to be seen if he'll be ready by then. We should know more after he plays catch on Tuesday, so stay tuned.

July 27, 2009

MLB.com is reporting that injured Red Sox' starter Tim Wakefield is feeling "minimally better" after his cortisone shot earlier this week. The team is hopeful that he will be able to throw off of flat ground on Monday, but it will depend on how he feels when he gets to the park.

Our View:

Manager Terry Francona didn't sound optimistic when asked if Wakefield would throw today, so it seems possible he may wait until later in the week. He may have to miss more than the 15 days required on the DL, but he should return in a few weeks.

July 24, 2009

Tim Wakefield received a cortisone shot to aid his lower-back strain, according to the Boston Globe.

Our View:

The source believes that Wakefield will not be ready to come off the 15-day DL when first eligible. Clay Buchholz is filling his spot in the rotation while on the shelf.

July 21, 2009

As expected, Tim Wakefield has been placed on the 15-day DL with a lower-back strain, according to TSN. Clay Buchholz was recalled from Triple-A Pawtucket to fill his roster spot.

Our View:

He suffered the injury Saturday during a side session. The DL move is retroactive to July 18, and he will be on the shelf until at least early August. Wakefield earned 11 wins this season, and shall be patiently stashed on fantasy rosters while out.

July 21, 2009

Tim Wakefield is reportedly headed for the 15-day DL due to a lower-back strain, according to Amalie Benjamin's twitter page.

Our View:

Clay Buchholz is expected to take Wakefield's next turn in Boston's rotation Wednesday. The veteran knuckleballer will be missed while on the shelf, as he currently co-leads the AL with 11 wins.

July 8, 2009

Tim Wakefield got it done on Wednesday. The knuckleballer allowed three runs (just one earned) by scattering 10 hits and a walk over six innings. The Red Sox 5-4 win over the A's gave him his 11th victory of the season.

Our View:

Wakefield struck out eight in Wednesday's outing, which is uncharacteristic of the knuckleballer. He now has just 61 strikeouts in 108.2 innings this season. The A's hitters were likely having trouble adjusting to his knuckleball after seeing Josh Beckett's blistering fastball the night before.

July 3, 2009

Tim Wakefield allowed five runs on ten hits over eight innings on Friday, but did not factor in the decision as the Red Sox fell to the Mariners 7-6 in 11 innings.

Our View:

Not Wakefield's best game, but he did go eight innings and gave his team a chance to win. He struck out three and did not walk a batter. The crafty knuckleballer still remains a solid fantasy option in mixed leagues.

June 27, 2009

Tim Wakefield improved to 10-3 on Saturday, keeping the Braves off the scoreboard in six innings and allowing just three hits and one walk while striking out one.

Our View:

The 42-year-old Wakefield remains one of the toughest in the game to hit when his knuckler is in top form, and that it was on Saturday. Though he'll get roughed up pretty bad from time to time, his potential in the win column keeps him as a fine roster filler in most formats.

June 16, 2009

Tim Wakefield only gave up two earned runs on six hits over six innings in Tuesday's 8-2 win over Florida at Fenway Park. He had one walk and four strikeouts.

Our View:

Wakefield claimed his team-leading ninth win of the season, and is 6-0 at home. Keep the veteran knuckleballer active in fantasy leagues.

June 10, 2009

Tim Wakefield picked up his eighth win of the season as the Red Sox defeated the Yankees 6-5 on Wednesday. The knuckleballer scattered eight hits and three walks, while allowing three earned runs in the win. He struck out two on the night.

Our View:

One way or another, Wakefield continues to pile up wins. His ERA remains 4.50 and he has walked the third most batters in the AL. Regardless of the wins, do not overvalue Wakefield. It may be a good time to try and sell high on him.

June 4, 2009

After a shaky first two innings on Thursday, Tim Wakefield settled down and went six and two-thirds to earn his seventh win of the season. He gave up three earned runs, struck out three and walked none.

Our View:

Wakefield has proven to be a surprisingly reliable fantasy option in 2009. He should by no means be leading your staff, but he is a perfectly respectable roster filler and should remain so throughout the season.

May 24, 2009

Tim Wakefield got roughed up by the Mets on Sunday, but his offense bailed him out. The knuckle-baller allowed five runs on seven hits and four walks over six innings, but earned the victory as the Red Sox stomped the Mets 12-5.

Our View:

Wakefield's ERA jumped to 3.99, but he's now 6-2 on the season. He's only had three bad starts this season, and Sunday's effort was one of them. At least he gave fantasy owners a win.

May 19, 2009

Tim Wakefield was masterful on Tuesday as the Red Sox defeated the Blue Jays 2-1. Wakefield went eight innings and allowed one run on five hits while walking two and striking out three.

Our View:

The knuckler was dirty tonight, and when it is on Wakefield is pretty much unhittable. Wakefield will always have decent value as long as he produces more good nights than bad, but he is really an all-or-nothing option. You have to hope for the best every time he pitches, and he gave it tonight.

May 13, 2009

Tim Wakefield got knocked around on Wednesday as the Red Sox lost to the Angels 8-4. Wakefield went 4.2 innings and allowed seven runs on 11 hits while walking three and striking out two.

Our View:

The knuckleball wasn't dancing tonight, and when the knuckler isn't working Wakefield is in trouble. He is anything but consistent, but when he is good he is very good. There will also be nights like tonight on occasion though.

May 7, 2009

Tim Wakefield improved to 4-1 as the Red Sox defeated the Indians 13-3 on Thursday. The knuckleballer gave up two runs on four hits and four walks. He also struck out three batters.

Our View:

Wakefield had been roughed up by the Rays in his last start, but he got it going again against Cleveland. He is off to an excellent start, but he typically thrives early on in the season and fantasy owners cannot expect this type of performance all season.

May 2, 2009

Tim Wakefield allowed five earned runs on seven hits over five innings in Saturday's 10-6 win at the Rays. He had five strikeouts with three walks.

Our View:

It was a sloppy outing for the knuckleballer, but Boston hit well enough for him to claim his third win of the season.

April 27, 2009

Tim Wakefield had his third straight dominant outing on Monday as the Red Sox beat the Indians 3-1. He allowed only one hit and no runs in seven innings. He walked four hitters while striking out five and left with a no-decision.

Our View:

Wakefield typically performs very well in April, but he has been dominant in his last three outings. Over that span, he has allowed only three runs in 23 innings. This is probably as good as it gets for Wakefield and you may want to shop him around while his value remains high.

April 22, 2009

Tim Wakefield had another dominant outing on Wednesday in the Red Sox 10-1 win over the Twins. Wakefield went seven innings, allowing one run on five hits while walking just one and striking out four.

Our View:

Wakefield picked up his second win in three starts today, and lowered his season ERA to 2.45. Wakefield has looked very good thus far in 2009, but the knuckleball is still very unpredictable.

April 15, 2009

Tim Wakefield was masterful in his win against the A's on Wednesday. He took a no-hitter into the eighth inning, and finished with a complete game victory. He walked only two and struck out four, while only allowing four hits.

Our View:

When the knuckleball is working, it is nearly unhittable. That was the case in the first 7.2 innings of today's game for Wakefield. He is pretty hit or miss when it comes to fantasy worth, but he will give you days like this throughout the year. He will also give you days that make you curse yourself for allowing him to be on your team.

March 24, 2009

Pitcher Tim Wakefield held the Yankees to four hits and one run over 5.2 innings on Tuesday. He walked one and struck out five.

Our View:

The knuckleball must have been dancing. Wakefield typically pitches very well in April, and he may be gearing up for another strong opening month. We make no promises about his effectiveness as the season continues, though.

March 7, 2009

Tim Wakefield did not look to great in his start against Tampa Bay on Saturday, giving up two earned runs (four total) off two hits and one walk while striking out three.

Our View:

Wakefield has now been roughed up in two of his three outing this spring. His spot in Boston's starting rotation to open the season is still safe, though he'll have to prove he can remain effective at 42 years of age with prospect Clay Buchholz expected to threaten for a spot at some point and John Smoltz due to return from a shoulder injury at some point.

February 12, 2009

Tim Wakefield, who has dealt with shoulder and back ailments over the last two campaigns, noted that he is feeling good heading into the new season, according to the Boston Globe. He feels 100 percent again.

Our View:

The 42-year-old knuckler will remain an injury risk, but is still worth targeting in AL-only leagues as a late-round value pick.

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