The media has grasped hold of the idea that Jacoby Ellsbury is slumping and should be moved lower in the batting order.  He may actually need a rest because it looks like his bat speed has slowed.  He took a big cut at a mid 80’s 2-0 fastball from Washburn last night and was late on it.  He’s playing every day and has taken a lot of wear and tear over the course of the season.  Jacoby is running a lot, both in the field and when he gets on base, which may have worn him out prematurely.

As I always say, the major leagues is about making adjustments.  Sometimes when your body is worn, a player is too tired and frustrated to think clear enough to make the necessary adjustments from pitch to pitch.  Jacoby needs a rest to recuperate both physically and mentally.