It's a Kind of a Family. It's a Kind of Insanity.

Winning's the goal, but it isn't the point

2009-08-13T20:22:48Z

A couple of years ago, I had the chance to attend a pitching clinic that Jonathan Papelbon gave for kids. My eldest son, who was about 8 at the time, was one of his 40-or-so students that day. The night before the clinic, Pap had blown a save against the Yankees, so we were all a little worried about the mood that he would bring to the clinic. And he did look exhausted and beaten down, but he was tremendous with the kids, teaching them a lot of important pitching basics and spending some one-on-one time with all of them. And after the clinic, he stuck around to sign autographs for the kids and to answer all of their questions.

Pap said a lot of great things that day -- things that a parent really wants his son to hear from an all-star major leaguer -- but what I remember most was what he told the kids about winning. Someone asked him about how he bounces back after a painful loss to the Yankees, and he went off on a philosophical rampage. "Hey, I feel bad because I let my teammates down. But you young kids, you need to remember that playing baseball is supposed to be all about fun. Winning and losing -- it really doesn't matter when you're young, as long as you're having fun." He went on to say, "Now, when you start getting paid to play, winning becomes the main thing. But not until you get to the pros. And you all have a long way to go 'til then. So don't get all caught up in winning and losing. Remember, baseball is all about having fun." It was a message straight from his heart, almost like he wished he could go back to those days when fun was the main goal of pitching - not beating the Yankees, not making a living.

This past summer, my son played on a summer baseball team of very good 9/10 year-olds. I was one of the coaches. We had practices or games perhaps 4-5 nights per week, and we ended up going 20-2-1 and winning the league championship on the last day of the season. At the end of the championship game, we presented the kids with their championship trophies, and they all felt really marvelous. All of us coaches high-fived and embraced - after all, we were champion coaches, and we had helped to give our children and their teammates the unique feeling of being champions (plus, we had successfully avoided the uncomfortable feeling of coming oh-so-close and then losing).

I received congratulations from many people for winning it all - parents of our players, other coaches in the town, and some close family and friends who had followed my son's team's season. Being the last team standing is just such a rare achievement, and it's a fantastically simple, no-nonsense way to evaluate the success of a team's season.

But the success of our season shouldn't be defined only by our win-loss record or the fact that we won the league championship. Winning was the goal, but it was never the point, and the allure of winning makes this easy to forget.

The point was, as Papelbon said, having fun. The point was improving young baseball players' physical skills. The point was teaching them how to think - before the game and in every game situation. The point was teaching kids the value of practicing in the right way. The point was teaching them to play as a team. The point was teaching them to never give up, and to bounce back from disappointing at-bats, plays, or games. The point was improving their resilience and focus. The point was developing leaders. The point was teaching kids to have the courage to dream about winning but to avoid becoming attached to that outcome. The point was teaching them to cheer for each other and keep each other "up" at all times. The point was teaching them to stay loose and to smile. The point was giving kids an experience, through a series of practices and games, that would not only give them joy today -- for joy's sake -- but also help them to grow into happier, more self-confident people, better equipped to face challenges in the future.

We coached with these objectives in mind all summer, and this is why I'm proud of our team's season. The goal of winning simply gave us a context for teaching all of these other vastly more important lessons.

Lots of coaches achieve these objectives with their youth athletic teams, but fail to win the championship or even to have a winning season. And, I fear, plenty of youth athletics coaches "win it all" and point to that accomplishment as justification for everything they did -- even though their coaching methods may have totally missed the point of youth athletics.

So I have my championship trophy, but its value isn't its inherent symbolism of our team's ability to score more runs than almost every other team. The value of the trophy -- to me -- is in the memories it holds of the players' happy afternoons and evenings playing the wonderful game of baseball, and in my son's and his teammates' evolution as competitors, as teammates, and as human beings.

(Click here to see video of the awards ceremony.)

Illusions of Momentum

2009-08-10T19:14:03Z

We can get carried away with illusions of "momentum" in this game.

Here's my advice: celebrate momentum when it's working in your favor; ignore momentum when it's not.

Right now, the Sox clearly don't have any positive momentum going -- but only if we look at the last week.

Since looking at this short period of time is such a downer, let's look at the whole season and acknowledge this: The Red Sox are tied for first place in the Wild Card race. All we have to do is play good baseball going forward, starting today, and we'll land in the playoffs again.

Those four games against the Yankees hurt a lot, but they're history. We're still in good shape. Time to cowboy up.

Manny's A Man

2009-05-11T03:12:20Z

Manny took performance enhancing drugs.

As I re-read that sentence I just wrote, it's almost oxymoronic.

Manny -- the natural -- took a steroid?

To me, that's like saying Larry Bird took a steroid.

Manny and Larry are equally important to Boston sports, and they're equally unsuspicious.

It's truly unbelievable. And yet, I believe it. There's hardly any room for doubt.

Here's what we must remember: professional athletes are human beings, and as such, they are mirrors of ourselves. We can judge them for their actions, but were we in the same situation, many of us would behave the same way. Am I defending Manny and other cheaters? No. But I am saying, "There but by the grace of God go I." And I'm also saying, I'm not going to stop loving Manny just because he's so.... human.

Jerry Remy, Get Well

2009-05-08T05:14:06Z

It's true, Jerry Remy and I have a unique connection to each other as the two guys who placed first and second in the voting for President of Red Sox Nation back in 2007. But even though we have worked together as the President and Vice President these past two years, I still see Jerry the way all fans see him, and I got the same lump in my throat that all loyal fans got when I heard the news of his illness.

Sometimes, you don't know what you've got until it's gone... and without Jerry's presence alongside Don Orsillo, the experience of watching Red Sox games on TV has been diminished. Not so much because his analysis is first-rate - which it is - but because his on-air personality is so consistent, so easy to identify with, so friendly. It's not a stretch to say that, in his role as the voice of the Red Sox, he has become like a family member to all of us who have followed the team closely over the last 20 years. Even though he hasn't personally met most of us, even though we don't send him a Christmas card, he's been one of the constants in our lives for a long time, someone we've come to know very, very well, and someone we've developed enormous fondness for -- and so we not only miss him now that he's on leave to recover from cancer surgery, we also feel his pain.

Of course, I join all of Red Sox Nation in wishing him a full recovery and a swift return to the NESN booth, where he belongs.

And as I think about why I care about Jerry Remy so much, I am compelled to share two brief stories that reveal the kind of person he is.

The Presidential Debate, Fall 2007

At the Red Sox Nation presidential debate at BU back in 2007, most of the candidates were waiting in a conference room when, an hour and a half before the debate began, Jerry strolled in. The rest of us candidates who participated in the debate were nobodies (except Sam Horn, but he wasn't in the room with us at that time), so it was a big moment for all of us to shake Jerry's hand, and we couldn't quite believe it when he grabbed a bottle of water, pulled up a chair, and hung out with us.

We all assumed Jerry would have his own room, or would show up just before the debates began, or would be off talking with the press, or would be chumming around with Henry, Lucchino, Steinberg, and maybe even Tim Russert. And he could have done any of these things. But he sat down and talked with us. And I remember we all talked - the 5 or 6 of us - right up until the moment we walked out onto the stage.

I remember Jerry in his Hawaiian shirt telling all of us, with a reassuring smile, "Don't be nervous, you're all going to do great, just relax and be yourselves." And in that moment, we all realized we weren't competing against each other - we realized Jerry was the man, and we were his supporting cast in a made-for-TV spectacle. And this helped to put all of us at ease.

And I remember that we politely (but somewhat aggressively) peppered Jerry with questions that every fan would want to ask him - about his own playing career, about his opinions on certain players, about the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry, etc., and he gave long, complete, honest, personal answers to all of our questions without any impatience. His demeanor wasn't the same as it was on TV - the perpetual smile took a rest while he spoke with us and we saw a more reflective, balanced side of Jerry. But the two things that impressed me most about Jerry that day were: 1) His willingness to let down his guard around this group of strangers who had been thrown into the final round of this bizarre contest with him, and 2) His respect for us. Not for one instant did he give us the impression that there was somewhere else more important for him to be than right there, with us, in the "green room." Before we went out on that stage for the televised debate, he had already won all of our votes.

My interview of Jerry following his 20th Year Celebration

During the 2008 season, the Red Sox and NESN celebrated Jerry's 20 years in the broadcast booth, and I got to interview him a couple of days later for The Red Sox Report. I don't remember the questions I asked him and I don't remember his responses - except for one. Jerry had mentioned that it was particularly meaningful to him that his grandson was present for the festivities, and I asked him what he hoped his grandson would learn from his remarkable example as a major league player and legendary TV broadcaster. I expected Jerry would say something about hard work and perseverance, but I was wrong. He said, "That he should be himself. Find out what you like to do, and do that. Be your own person."

Best answer I ever heard. Jerry Remy, get well.

Yanks' Improvement Intensifies Anticipation

2009-02-24T03:01:42Z

The quotation Ken Davidoff used for me in his blog was 100% accurate. I did say those things. However, if you could read the full transcript of my comments, the quotes he used would make a lot more sense. He asked me if I think that A-Rod's connection to steroids will heighten the anticipation of the first Red Sox-Yankees series in the spring. I said, yeah, perhaps a little bit, but what will create much more anticipation will be the new Yankees, particularly Mark Teixiera, CC Sabathia, and AJ Burnett, because of how much they improve the Yankees squad and intesify the rivalry. Davidoff did not misquote me, but he did pluck the Teixiera comments from a longer comment I made about A-Rod's steroid use being a footnote in comparison to the larger issue, which is that the Yankees are better this year than they were last year, and THAT'S what will create more anticipation on Yawkey Way for the first Sox-Yanks series.

Big Salary, Big Lie....Big Deal

2009-02-10T03:04:22Z

The A-Rod news is simply not a surprise. I don't even consider it to be a massive news story. Show me the list of great players who DID NOT use performance enhancing drugs during the steroid era. THAT is the massive news story. Let A-Rod's quick admission and apology be a lesson for everyone about how to handle a crisis like this -- at least Alex was smart enough to learn from Rocket's gigantic errors.

My New Addiction

2009-01-21T03:03:04Z

I have a new addiction.

It's called The MLB Network.

Like drinking gallons of lemonade from a fire hydrant on a hot, dry day.

What's the point of having over 800 channels when all I need is one?

Jim Ed Rice

2009-01-12T21:56:51Z

Jim Rice is in the Hall.

So much has been written about Rice from the vantage point of looking back on his career. I have nothing to add to that. Instead, I prefer to write about Rice from the perspective of my 10 year-old self, back in 1978, at the peak of his greatness.

The number 14 jersey always got picked first in youth sports. Why? Pete Rose and Jim Rice.

I can't shake the sound of Sherm Feller announcing his name: "Number 14, Jim Rice. Left field, Rice." And as his serious, imposing figure walked to the plate, ripples of anticipation would shudder throughout Fenway and over the TV 38 airwaves.

His batting stance -- along with Dewey's and Yaz's -- was the most emulated in neighborhood wiffleball games. Elbows down, then the emphatic half-swings as he cocked his bat, the expression of a stern school principal on his face coupled with the aura of tiger about to maul a smaller foe.

The Southwest Airlines ads that have the tagline, "Wanna get away?" could just as easily have been created to describe the feeling that pitchers had when Rice stood at the plate.

We knew we had the best three outfielders in the American League - Rice, Lynn, and Evans -- and Rice was the Big Daddy of that trio.

I have Jim Rice's autograph on about five different Red Sox programs, all procured while he was a player. Why? Because he was out there all the time, signing autographs for kids. I don't think I ever saw him smile or even speak while he signed -- he did it like a machine -- but he was out there, taking a break from the game to give something back to the fans.

87.4% of all children in New England had a poster of Jim Rice on their wall at some point between 1976 and 1987. We all wanted to play baseball like him.

When Bruce Springsteen played at Fenway about five years ago, I ran into Jim Rice outside Fenway Park. I asked if I could have my picture taken with him, and he happily obliged. While my friend was taking the photo, I remember saying, "Here I am, with Hall of Famer, Jim Rice," and Rice immediately replied, "Hey, I like this guy," smiled for the camera, shook my hand, and headed into Fenway.

Soon, the number 14 will join numbers 1, 4, 6, 8, 9, 27, and 42 above the right field grandstands at Fenway Park. Where it belongs.

Oh, and the fact that Bert Blyleven was not elected to the Hall (again) is an utter travesty. And Sox fans can take pride in Henderson's election too, since he ended his MLB career wearing the blue B cap....

Letters To The 2008 Red Sox

2008-10-25T01:51:09Z

One week ago, I wrote to the 51 Red Sox Nation governors and asked them, "If you could write a 100-word letter to any Red Sox player, coach, or front office person (or the whole team) about the 2008 season, and you knew that that person would read your letter, to whom would you write and what would you say?" Below are the letters I have received so far. Please contribute your own brief letters in the comments section.

Dear Jon Lester,
Thank you for being the most inspirational story in all of baseball. 27-8 to start your career with two postseason wins, a World Series ring and a no-hitter under your belt already. You are quickly becoming one of the most elite pitchers in the game before our very eyes and it is players like you that make me proud to call myself a Red Sox fan. So to you Mr. Lester, I sincerely thank you for being such an inspiration to me as well as the rest of Red Sox Nation. I can't wait to see what the future has in store for you.
-- Jared Carrabis, Red Sox Nation Governor of Massachusetts (http://soxspacenews.com)

Dear Justin Masterson,
Congratulations to the Red Sox for a successful season and to you, Justin, for a totally outstanding rookie year. When you came up to the show last April it appeared that the Red Sox had another ace. Winning your first four starts at Fenway Park was incredible. So, it was difficult to understand why you were sent down to become a relief pitcher. Does Terry know baseball or what? Your return to the Red Sox as a stopper was truly sensational. The poise and confidence you exude spreads throughout the team. Special congratulations for topping off the season by winning one of the greatest comebacks in baseball history.
-- Hank Larsen, Red Sox Nation Governor of Oklahoma

Dear 2008 Red Sox,
Thank you for making my days rock! Your hard work and dedication didn't go unnoticed and your determination inspires me to do my best at my job every day. You fill a void that nothing else can. You don't realize it fully, but you unite a whole lot of people that would otherwise have nothing in common. You DO create a NATION of sorts and for that reason, you are AMBASSADORS of goodwill! Since I cannot write each player individually, I will ask the skipper, Terry Francona, to deliver that message for me. And while he's at it, he should give himself a pat on the back, too!
-- Lety Haynes, Red Sox Nation Governor of Arizona

Dear Theo Epstein,
Thank you for working to bring a winner to Boston every year. The list of aggressive moves is long: claiming Millar off waivers before the 2003 season which kept him from Japan; putting Manny on irrevocable waivers; spending Thanksgiving with the Schillings; dealing Nomar; admitting mistakes like the Renteria signing; letting the 2006 team struggle because there was no quick fix; bidding on Matsuzaka; drafting good but expensive young players; and trading Manny. So, now the offseason is upon us and we get to watch you play. That you take calculated risks makes rooting for the Red Sox a year-round joy.
-- Ben Crawford, Red Sox Nation Governor of Virginia

Dear Kevin Youkilis,
Thank you for giving us such a tremendous season of baseball. I really appreciate the way you play the game. I love baseball. It's fun. And we can learn so much from baseball about life. You demonstrate those lessons every day. You play with your whole heart. You are engaged with every pitch. You run out every hit ball, often turning outs to hits. You chase any ball that comes near you. You're a good team player. Even when the team is down 7-0, you never give up. You are an inspiration to all of us, to live each moment to the fullest, to do our best, and to never, never give up. With deep appreciation,
-- Eleanor LeCain, Red Sox Nation Governor of Washington, D.C.

Dear Mike Lowell,
I just wanted to thank you for playing the game the right way. It was clear to the most casual observer that you were far from 100% for most of the season, but you still gutted it out to the best of your ability. It was actually painful for me to watch you during September and October but I never heard you complain. I look forward to a healthy Mike Lowell and another World Series title in 2009. Have a restful and rejuvenating winter. Sincerely,
-- Jud Barber, Red Sox Nation Governor of Alabama

Dear Dustin Pedroia,
Nice job this year. You showed all of the characteristics that make me proud to be a Red Sox fan. Take care of your fingers; you will need them to be in good shape for all those rings you will be winning in the next few years. GO SOX!
-- Drew Jackman, Red Sox Nation Governor of Tennessee

Dear Jason Varitek,
You've been an integral part of this team and the city of Boston for a long time, and I want you to know that I appreciate your efforts over these years. I am sure that no one is more disappointed than you to be watching the Series rather than playing in it. While it's true I cursed your struggles in the post season, I respect how you wore your C with pride and gave all you had for your teammates and your team. I hope that you and the Red Sox come to an agreement that keeps you in Boston; but should you decide to part ways, please do so with positive memories and the knowledge that the fans of Boston appreciate your sacrifices and constant professionalism. Go Sox!
-- Nathan Emerson, Red Sox Nation Governor of Wyoming

Dear Red Sox,
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for such an exciting season! The crazy, impossible catches from Youk, the exhilarating hits from Pedroia, Drew, and Bay, Tito's great love of Double Bubble (also my fav!), I could go on and on. It was a truly stand-up performance this season by everyone. The way you pull together in the worst of times and the precision with which you all play is the best. You show us by your example what a "team" really is. That is why we love you so much. 2009 here we come!
-- Niki Gallagher, Red Sox Nation Governor of Nebraska

Dear 2008 Red Sox,
Thank you for what you gave and taught my family this season. For teaching my sons they are as important to you as grownups are through Kids Nation. For tickets in Conigliaro's Corner around which we planned a vacation that will be remembered forever! For playing in Minnesota, which gives us our only chance to enjoy a game in the Metrodome. For putting team ahead of player and trading Manny and reminding us that hustle matters! For teaching us you go to work even when you need surgery. Lastly, for Game 5, which taught us to never, ever give up! Thank you,
-- Bob Boucher, Red Sox Nation Governor of Minnesota

Dear Mr. David Ortiz,
I know it was a difficult postseason for you, but I have faith that you will be able to get back to the high caliber player you were in 2004 and 2007. You showed us a glimpse of that Big Papi with the 3-run HR in Game 5. However, maybe during the off-season you can work on hitting or bunting the ball towards 3rd base/left field to beat the shift. That way, next time there is a hit and run and Pedroia is trying to steal 2nd, you can prevent the strike out/throw out double play. A "little" hit in that situation could have made the difference in getting those pesky 2 runs we desperately needed in game 7. Sincerely,
-- Heather Mascuch, Red Sox Nation Governor of New Jersey (http://redsoxnationgovnj.mlblogs.com/)

Dear Jason Varitek,
I realize that you're probably still dealing emotionally with the Red Sox's recent Series loss in Tampa Bay. I hope in a short time (if not already) you will feel very proud about the great 2008 Boston Red Sox team and all that was accomplished. There were of course many obstacles put in the team's path for another championship and I for one feel that the team overcame adversity admirably well, particularly under your leadership as Captain. Considering there is mounting talk about your future with the team (something that¹s certainly out of the fans' control), I felt that this was a good time for a huge fan such as myself to let you know what your inspiring performance and leadership has meant to me over the years. Jason, you have truly been the heart and soul of this team and worn the "C" on your uniform with style and class. To me you are the type of player that all athletes should strive to be: honest, very hard working, focused, and a true team player. No matter what happens in the future, I and most Red Sox fans will always wish you well and remember what a true member of the Red Sox you have been and will forever be. Best wishes always,
-- Chris Porter, Red Sox Nation Governor of Washington

Dear Red Sox Organization,
On the field, the players and coaches were amazing and so professional. Off the field, you were even more inspiring. The amount of time that everyone spends with their different charities is unbelievable. So many times you see pro athletes that only care about how much they get paid and then do not give back to their local communities or their fans in general. Being out in South Dakota, it is fun and interesting to hear players on radio streams, such as Kevin Youkilis on WAAF. Whether you win or lose, I am proud to be a Red Sox fan and to be a part of all the great things you are accomplishing and all the lives you change off the field. Thanks for being such an inspiration and not being like every other typical athlete.
-- Sara Brusseau, Red Sox Nation Governor of South Dakota

Rob, since I represent the members of the Nation from here in North Carolina, I put the word out that there might be an opportunity to submit a 100-word message to the Sox. Our members came up with some nice work. The best are below; I'll let you choose.

Dear Dustin Pedroia,
There is something magic in every game you play. I really admire your determination, guts, and spirit, which all shine through. I enjoy watching the team play, but to me you are the shining star. I always say that I wish they would pay you what you are worth. I also loved your "dancing" video. I have to assume the guys gave you a hard time because you are a fun person at heart. It just made me admire you even more. You will always be the MVP in my book. Thanks for making watching baseball so great for me!
-- Kim R., North Carolina

Dear Terry Francona,
You did an amazing job this season, given all that went on. We had a superstar who quit, injuries to major players, rookies in important positions, and YOU need back surgery! This is a lot for one man to put up with, but you did a great job keeping us in the race and leading the Sox to yet another playoff berth. Here's to the best manager in MLB! Get well soon!
-- Mike D, North Carolina

From me, a simple thanks to all the fellas for that incredible Game 5 comeback - it will live with me forever. Thanks for reminding me to never give up, and for making me so proud to be a Sox fan.
-- Sean Bunn, Red Sox Nation Governor of North Carolina

Dear J.D. Drew,
I would like to thank you for coming through so strong so many times this year. I was proud to see that you were recognized for your toughness and professionalism, because I think in the past (with the Cards) you were given a bad rap and inappropriately accused of not caring or not being tough. I would also like to point out a great moment, one that not many people may have noticed. In the ninth inning of game 2 against the Angels, you hit your two run homer (which everyone noticed) but I saw something that actually made me happier and pointed out to my son who so looks up to the players. When you sat down in the dugout, the camera caught you with the biggest smile cracking your usual calm exterior, and you looked like a kid having the best time of your life. I thought that was truly special - it's what the game is all about. Thanks,
-- James Fletcher, Red Sox Nation Governor of Arkansas

Dear Red Sox team, coaching staff, and front office personnel:
I would like to congratulate every one of you for the tremendous effort this season. With many adversities this year, ranging from the exhausting travel schedule beginning this season, injuries to key players, and personal changes in the middle of the year, this season was nothing less than a miracle. To make it into the playoffs and get to Game 7 of the ALCS is incredible. If you had told me in spring training everything that would happen to this team, I would have told you there was no way we would be in the playoffs. I'm holding my head up high, proud to be part of Red Sox Nation.
-- Jim Silva, Red Sox Nation Governor of Hawaii

Dear Kevin Youkilis,
Thank you for a fantastic season. I want to tell you how much I appreciated your talent and athleticism. Your ability to take over 3rd base (and do it well) was so important to the team's success this year. The Red Sox organization is always touting its philosophy that it's a team of guys and not a bunch of individuals on ego trips, and your flexibility exemplifies this attitude. Enjoy the winter break and see you in Fort Myers in the spring.
-- Kelly Thompson, Red Sox Nation Governor of Idaho
p.s. Loved the shout out to your "fiance and the little one" - as a female fan I like to see a glimpse of the personal side of the players.

Dear 2008 Red Sox,
As the Governor of Red Sox Nation for the state of New Hampshire I would like to not only thank the entire Red Sox Team, Terry, and the coaching staff for a phenomenal season but also to acknowledge my appreciation for the hard work you all put into playing each and every time you take the field. I have been a Red Sox Fan my entire life and I think I can speak for the members of Red Sox Nation in NH in saying we will keep believing in you and look forward to the 2009 seaon. Thanks again for a GREAT YEAR!!! GO SOX!!!
-- Janice Page, Red Sox Nation Governor of New Hampshire

To the Red Sox:
It was great season and a great game 5 comeback. We're looking forward to the 2009 campaign.

To Terry Francona:
I want to thank you, Tito, for being who you are....the best Red Sox manager in my lifetime and probably in the history of the club. You are a remarkably strong, thoughtful and caring man. I cannot say how much you are admired here in Red Sox Nation.
-- Eric Weisman, Red Sox Nation Governor of Kentucky

Dear Coco Crisp,
Congratulations on a wonderful season! You not only proved to be the best center fielder on the Red Sox roster and one of the best in the league, you also asserted your rightful to claim to being one of the five best centerfielders in Red Sox history. And you did this while fighting for the "job" and against the wishes of a substantial portion of the fan base. But you hung in with maturity and poise and proved them all wrong. Have a great off-season, and I look forward to seeing you in centerfield for the Sox in the spring of 2009. My wife Phyllis and I sat close by to your wife and daughter at spring training. You are a lucky guy to have such a beautiful family rooting for you.
-- C. Ted Schmidt, Jr., Red Sox Nation Governor of Rhode Island

This is for Mr.Epstein:
You have done a super job over the years. Now we need a BIG BAT and a pitcher of Beckett and DiceK quality, but my main question is, are you looking for a catcher that can throw out runners out and hit more then .220 and run well? Maybe it is time to let one of our young catchers step up. Do you agree these are the three concerns? Maybe Lowrie as utility man and get a shortstop somewhere. Thanks.
-- Phil Price, Red Sox Nation Governor of Delaware

Dear Red Sox Players, Coaches, and Front Office,
Being a loyal fan of the Boston Red Sox has been an exciting and rewarding journey, and 2008 was yet another example. Since 2000, we have not had a repeat World Series Champ, but this year we were so close to achieving that. Through many injuries, this team battled to make the playoffs, and that says a lot about their dedication. I can speak for all of the members of Red Sox Nation in Illinois when I say, thanks for another great season, and enjoy your off-season. See you in the spring. Sincerely,
-- Brendan Mulcahy, Red Sox Nation Governor of Illinois

Dear Manny Ramirez,
I want to thank you for your time and service in Boston. Your bat can never truly be replaced, and even your antics (some) will be missed. There is no doubt that you were an integral part of our first two world championships in 86 years. Nothing will take that away. You earned $160 million while here, plus several playoff/world series shares. Your award bonuses alone would be enough for most Americans to retire on. I'd like to think that the satisfaction of your team's accomplishments, and the knowledge of what these titles meant to the fans of Red Sox Nation, are equally valuable... but that's probably a stretch. Having said all that, given all that you've done, please don't think for a minute that what you did to us in the end will be forgotten.
I can understand in part why you blame the media, but the fact is that you quit on your fans and your team. The very people who's small but hard-earned paychecks gave you your large ones. Your sudden NL production was no fluke and we all know it. It's a terrible thing you did to us. I can't even bring myself to think of the "what ifs" had you decided to play your heart out for us as you did for them. I'll never boo you Manny. (Excluding a pinstripe appearance.) I will rise in a standing ovation upon your return, but alongside goofy, you will now always be remembered as selfish, greedy, shallow, unfaithful and untrustworthy. Thanks for something and nothing,
-- Glen Jardine, Red Sox Nation Governor of Vermont
P.S. How dare you make me agree with Tim McCarver on something. Not cool man.

Dear Theo Epstein,
The 2008 season was dramatic, exciting, and fulfilling for Red Sox fans - even without a World Series appearance. At the same time, it begs the question: what has to change in order for the Sox to repeat as world champs in 2009? Good luck in your quest to determine the answer to that most difficult question.
-- Karen Kupiec, Red Sox Nation Governor of Connecticut

Dear Jason Bay,
I appreciate how you filled some shoes that were not easy to fill. Manny was a big part of the Red Sox team, but you gladly filled that spot, overlooking the pressure that you might have felt. I am so grateful that you quickly adjusted and helped us reach the postseason. Your presence on the team made a big impact on team dynamics; I could tell that other players enjoyed playing with you, and that you enjoyed being in Boston. Thank you, Mr. Bay, for a great first season with the Red Sox!
-- Melissa Rehon, Red Sox Nation Governor of Utah

Dear Jason Varitek,
Thank you, the team and the entire organization for one of the most incredible Red Sox baseball seasons ever! Starting with early morning games from Japan, through watching some team players achieve record milestones, stealing first place form the Rays prior to the All Star Break, making the playoffs, and playing some of the most inspiring and captivating baseball ever even with injuries and adversity. I also want to personally thank you for your perseverance and always performing as the ultimate professional and Team Captain. It is this type of example, which helps us all get through these tough times and believe as long as we have a chance and perform as hard as we can we can win at anything! For the Glory!
-- Bill Moore, Red Sox Nation Governor of Pennsylvania

To the Boston Red Sox,
Thank you for the excitement you bring to our household. We thoroughly enjoy every minute of your 162 game schedule, the post season, and even action that takes place in the off season. Watching the Red Sox brings our family together in the evenings and gives us conversation fodder at the dinner table. You have provided us with so many lasting memories over the years. Thanks again for the great jobs everyone does throughout the year, we appreciate it.
-- Bob Lever, Red Sox Nation Governor of North Dakota

Dear Red Sox Players and Coaches,
We would like to thank each and everyone of you guys in the dugout this year. There were so many reasons to make excuses. From flying halfway around the world for Opening Day, all the injuries to deal with and personal discord (just to name a few). But you fought through all of it and you were still only one game away from the series. You never gave up, YOU NEVER MADE EXCUSES and you should all be proud of that. I know we are. So go back home and enjoy some well deserved personal time off. For Mikey, Papi, Josh and of course Tito ... Get well soon. And if you make it to Texas this off-season, let us know .. we would like to shake your hands and say THANKS!!
-- John Mathews, Red Sox Nation Governor of Texas

Dear Theo Epstein,

Thanks for keeping such a great team together who are so dedicated to the Red Sox and the members of Red Sox Nation. The signing of Jason Bay was a great addition to the team and he quickly won the hearts of the Fenway Faithful and RSN. Your continued dedication has helped the Red Sox put together the best run of seasons in nearly a century. Red Sox Nation thanks you for your continued hard work and dedication to the Red Sox! Best,

-- Megan Berlo, Red Sox Nation Governor of Indiana

Dear Terry Francona,
First of all, thanks for a great season in 2008. The team played great right to the end and we are very proud of what they accomplished this year, especially with all the adversity and injuries we had to play through. How do you keep the team focused during the off-season and build on this momentum heading into the 2009 campaign? Thanks again. West Virginia loves the Sox!
-- Todd Barrett, Red Sox Nation Governor of West Virginia

To the team:
Thank you for the effort, heart, strength and dedication you all showed throughout the season. You make us so proud to be Boston Red Sox Fans. We'll forever remember game 5 in the ALCS and the incredible feeling we had witnessing a historic comeback that will never be duplicated or taken away from us. What a magnificent battle! Francona giggling after the win was sweetness defined. (Unless you were an owner of the Dubble Bubble Company.) Truly, a great season. Cannot wait for '09. Thank you again. Sincerely,
-- Karen Doherty, Red Sox Nation Governor of California

Dear Red Sox Players, Coaches, and Staff,
Even though as fans we always want our team to go all the way, we know it is not always easy. Making it to the postseason and being on top as one of the two best teams in the American League while other teams were playing golf is more than enough to make us proud. There are days when you get up in the morning and things aren't the way you had hoped they would be. Sometimes winning is not all that matters, it's the footprints you leave while playing the game, and you guys did that in game 5. History and being part of that history sometimes is worth more than a win. Thank you for a great year and I hope to see all of you back as part of the Red Sox in 2009. WE ARE VERY PROUD TO BE RED SOX FANS.

-- Alexa Jimenez, Red Sox Nation Governor of Florida

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A Day In The Life of a Believer

2008-10-20T10:45:26Z

I have two minutes to write before getting my kids ready for school, and myself ready for work. Here's what I have to say today:

I will run into and hear from scores of people who will either say out loud, or with their eyes and body language, "I was right to doubt the Red Sox -- they couldn't pull it off after all," or, "Turns out you were wrong to believe the Sox would come all the way back, eh? " My response to them is the same today as it would have been if the Sox had won game 7:

"Believing isn't about being right or wrong, it's a way of life. And life's a heck of a lot more fun when you expect the unreal."

How Red Sox Nation Is Watching, Far From Fenway

2008-10-19T04:54:39Z

Prior to the ALCS, I polled the 50 governors of Red Sox Nation, plus our one mayor of D.C., asking them how many games they expected the ALCS to go, and how they prefer to watch Red Sox playoff games if they can't be at Fenway. Now, as we head into GAME SEVEN versus the Rays, it seems fitting to highlight a few of those governors who predicted a 7-game series, and to visualize how fans across the country will be watching the game on Sunday night:

1. How many games do you expect the Red Sox will need to win the series with the Rays?

4 games - 2 votes (5%)

5 games - 10 votes (25%)

6 games - 18 votes (45%)

7 games - 10 votes (25%)

"The Sox will win in 7. We like the dramatic wins. The downside is we'll wear out our fingernails. The upside is we get to watch more baseball before the snow falls!" -- Eleanor LeCain, Washington, D.C.

"I'm thinking it's gonna take 7, and the full 7 at that. Seems like no game is over against these Rays until the last out is recorded. Great team, fun to watch but we'll take 'em!" -- Nathan Emerson, Wyoming

"This will take 7. I am really hoping we don't face 3 or 4 elimination games again." -- Ben Crawford, Virginia

"It's going to go all 7 and its going to be THE most dramatic, emotional rollercoaster ALCS in a long time." -- Niki Gallagher, Nebraska

"This one's going to take 7. Gonna be a dogfight." -- Lynn Kimball, Louisiana

"A gut-wrenching seven." -- Evan Welch, Colorado

"This series will go 7...This is turning into a great rivalry. The Rays are the real deal and have proven that they are not intimidated." -- Ben Maciariello, Oregon

2. If you can't be AT the game, how do you prefer to watch Red Sox playoff games?

"Watching at home on my big screen TV, drinking root beer and praying!" -- Eleanor LeCain, Washington, D.C.

"Since many of the games are on very late during the work week, I end up watching most of them in my bed in a Red Sox shirt and shorts. However, on the weekends, I prefer to watch the Red Sox games at a local bar with my family and boyfriend. I usually wear my "The Best Girls Root For Boston" shirt or one of my many other Red Sox shirts while drinking a Sam Adams Octoberfest. -- Heather Mascuch, New Jersey

"If I'm not AT the game, I have the same seat at my house that I've sat in for postseason games since '99. It's superstition that my mom stays upstairs for the ALCS and can only come downstairs to watch the World Series with my dad and me. Call us cruel but hey, if it works, it works." -- Jared Carrabis, Massachusetts

"I prefer to be at home wearing my Yaz t-shirt underneath my Papi jersey with the hat I bought just before the all-star break in '04. I have a 12 pk of Dr. Pepper and a couple of New Castles handy with salt and vinegar chips and hot dogs. I normally don't sit because I am constantly pacing the floor with my hands on my head. And I carry around something I like to call the "Mojo Stick" (read about it on my Sawxheads under blogs or rsnksgov.mlblogs.com) -- Jonathan Sherman, Kansas

"Either in my living room on the edge of my sofa, with my good luck charm Masha my wonder dog close by, wearing my lucky Boston Red Sox apparel, drinking various Octoborfest beers, and eating a loaded sausage sandwich OR hosting a Boston Red Sox Party at either of two incredible Bosox Friendly Establishments: Bridge Street Cafe (soon to be Zack's & Rocco's) or at Revello's Cafe, both located in Old Forge." -- Bill Moore, Pennsylvania

"I have an awesome 92" screen at home, complete with comfy recliners, a cooler full of chilled adult beverages, and a souped up remote. I worked hard for this perk and I enjoy it to the max with friends and family!! HD makes you almost feel like you are there." -- Lety Haynes, Arizona

"Here in Texas, it'll be walking into the Fox and Hound here in Houston (Westheimer) with "The First Lady" of RSN, TX by my side. I wear number 9 and the First Lady wears 33. Shaking hands with the manager on duty on the way to our section. Making sure the sound is throughout the place and all the TV's are set to the Sox game. We make sure everyone has chips and salsa, spend time meeting all the old and new Sox fans that have come out to join us from all over the U.S., and make sure everybody is well taken care of, AND THEN LEAD BY EXAMPLE !!! And don't forget to take care of your servers .... that goes a long way..." -- John Matthews, Texas

"I prefer watching the game with a few close friends (people that can handle me yelling at the TV). I like to turn up the volume VERY loud, and sit about 6 inches from the screen - that way there is absolutely NO chance I'll miss something. I also need to be holding onto something (especially if the game is close) like a pillow - and of COURSE I have to be wearing my Red Sox hat." -- Melissa Rehon, Utah

"Since I live in Honolulu and can't ever make it to the game, I LOVE to sit on my couch in the living room, get one of my many Red Sox t-shirts on, get my orignal Wally Beanie doll (the first one they gave away at Fenway) down off the shelf in his adirondack chair (same one that Jerry Remy has), put Wally on the coffee table, turn on the surround sound, pour myself a Coke classic, watch NESN pregame, get pumped up, and then it's game on!" -- Jim Silva, Hawaii

"Because I live in Tampa, I have the luck, honor and opportunity to attend the game live, so I will be at Tropicana Field watching games 1 & 2. I will watch game 3 & 4 at a local bar name KD's Bar & Grill, with my Red Sox gear on baby!!!" -- Alexa Jiminez, Florida

"On the couch with my husband and also all three dogs on the couch - it brings the Sox luck to have all three dogs on the couch - unfortunately they don't always know that! Go Sox!" -- Karen Kupiec, Connecticut

"Since 2004, my outside layer is always a red t-shirt that says "Fenway Park". I wore it to Yankee Stadium for Game 7 of the ALCS and for every postseason game since then. I usually find myself watching these games alone with a glass of water and a phone nearby for brief conversations between innings. Honestly, I don't have a preference as to where I am, as long as I can watch EVERY PITCH. I pretty much block out everything/everyone else while the game is on, taking time between innings for brief conversations with others who are also watching." -- Benjamin Crawford, Virginia

"I will have to make runs back and forth between my two favorite sports bars, Mulligans and Home Team Sports. I'll be wearing my favorite Red Sox hat, my 1986 Red Sox WS Pin, and holding my Ted Williams bat." -- Bill Grogan, Lt. Gov of Virginia

"Lying on my couch while my gorgeous wife Alice massages my back, refills my beers, does Red Sox cheers between innings, and the only thing she says is Yes my Governor...." -- Marty McLoughlin, Michigan

"Any great Vermont pub will do as long as I'm with friends, but if it's a high pressure game where the Sox possibly face elimination, I tend to hide out at home where I don't necessarily have to pay for anything I might 'accidently' break." -- Glen Jardine, Vermont

"In my family room, with my wife Kelly and our two members of Kid's Nation, Marin and Reed, eating popcorn and drinking Dr. Pepper." -- Bob Boucher, Minnesota

"It would depend on the situation. The more stressful/meaningful the game, the more I prefer to watch at home, alone on my couch so if something happens and I start to get nervous, I can flip away for a few moments before tuning back in. If it's early in the series, I would prefer to go to a friend's house or out to a local restaurant/bar and watch the game with a small group of people." -- Rachel Yacouby, Maine

"On my couch. I don't have lucky slippers but I do have boxer shorts that are starting pitcher specific. For Dice-K I have a pair with sumo wrestlers on them." -- Judson Barber, Alabama

"At Nic n Dinos Tripoli Tavern surrounded by 100 screaming Red Sox fans with a line of Jameson as far as the eye can see after each win." -- Brendan Mulcahy, Illinois

"My living room is set up as a great place to watch a game with a good group of friends and other fans. I like to pack my three couches with people, grill some burgers, and make some chili dogs. Throw in a few plates of BBQ nachos and you can't find a better place (away from Fenway) to watch the Red Sox." -- Garreth Blackwell, Mississippi

"I like being in my recliner with my PJ's on and my lucky charm (my wife) a cold one (Bud) with a bag of pretzels. GIT-R-DONE SOX." -- Phil Price, Delaware

"I prefer to watch at home alone on the big screen in HD wrapped up in my Red Sox rally blanket, decked out in Red Sox gear, drinking mojitos. That way I can throw my temper tantrums and shed my tears in private when things don't go our way." -- Niki Gallagher, Nebraska

"I prefer to watch the games in my "man cave" surrounded by Red Sox paraphenalia with my girl friend and my dog and my curious good luck rituals." -- Nathan Emerson, Wyoming

"In any series I watch half the games at home and half out at a bar so when at home I really like to be left alone and not talked to, sitting on the floor, drinking a Michelob Ultra Amber or Bud Light, wearing Red Sox gear and yelling and cheering at the TV. When at a bar I usually go to Middleton Sport Bowl and drink taps of local Capital Brewery or Bud or Coors Light. When I am out I like to talk and hang out with whoever might be joining me." -- Kellie Hernandez, Wisconsin

"Whether it's at home or at the bar, I gotta have some buffalo wings!" -- Bob Lever, North Dakota

"Home alone (with a couple beers to take the edge off the nervousness) so I can be really fidgety and yell at the TV (or the FOX broadcasters, but that never happens....)" -- Lynn Kimball, Louisiana

"At home, with my 3 sisters and my nephew Jacoby - the newest member of Red Sox Nation - and celebrating a win by cranking the Dropkick Murphy's on the iPod!" -- Misty Haungs, Missouri

"I'm usually too nervous to sit so I meander back-and-forth from the kitchen to the living room, peeking out from around the kitchen cabinets so my wife and friends can't see how anxious I am. "Jonny Bravo" usually comes over wearing his winter Patriots hat (regardless of the temperature inside or out), we make some wings, salsa con queso, or other homemade bar food. This year, the beverage of choice will be Sam Adams Boston Lager as it was my good luck charm against, and source of constant harassment from, Rockies Fans last year." -- Evan Welch, Colorado

"I prefer to watch the games in the throng of Sox fans in New York City whooping it up and celebrating like only an expat community can. The scope of knowledge and passion among the fans of New York that seek out the best place to watch games behind enemy lines is astounding. I'm constantly amazed at all of the experts, celebrities, and everymen (and everywomen) here that share the Red Sox as their common bond." -- Chris Wertz, New York

"I like to watch the playoff games with my son and a couple of friends. Everyone comes over and we have a great party with drinks and food that my wife makes. Might not get the thrill of being there, but we cheer like we are." -- Justin Robertson, Montana

"In my media room ... recliner/HD satellite....Hey, Brenda .... grab me a beer." -- Hank Larsen, Oklahoma

"Alone in my basement recliner in front of my 65" HDTV, clutching and swinging my black Commemorative "Crowing of a Champion" Sox bat from '05, wearing my authentic home #24 jersey (Dewey and Manny!) and fitted blue Sox cap purchased from Twins, and sipping Coors Light from a bottle, frequently." -- Jason Downie, Maryland

"At a place that feels like home at this point, Raleigh's "Fenway South," aka Fox & Hound in Raleigh's North Hills, drinking Octoberfest with my buddies from the Triangle Red Sox Nation. Wait, didn't we all just do that last weekend? Well, why mess with a good thing?" -- Sean Bunn, North Carolina

"On the weekends, I like to watch the game at the Charleston Beer Works on King Street in Charleston. I feel like I'm back in Boston when we watch there. (A HUGE thank you to Tim, the owner, for getting in Fenway Franks last week. I never thought I would see a top split roll in the South!) If there is a game during the week, I am parked on the couch trying to take minimal bathroom breaks. I am 6 months pregnant. If I have to be out of the house or away from the Beerworks, I am tuned into my XM Radio. No matter where I am, I have my Sox gear on." -- Traci O'Rourke, South Carolina

"My favorite place to watch the game: with my dad at the ranch after a day of wiffle ball at Fenway West. Gotta be wearing my Sox hat and standing behind the couch pacing and powerstancing. I would also say the one advantage of being a West Coast Sox fan is that the games start at 5:30pm and even if they go extras I can watch NESN post game and still be in bed by 11 o'clock." -- Ben Maciariello, Oregon

Expect The Unreal

2008-10-17T15:14:27Z

This morning, while walking my children into their school, a friend of my 6 year-old's told me, "My dad was at the Red Sox game last night, but he left after the top of the seventh inning."

Then, at the coffee shop, the guy at the cash register (observing the B on my sweatshirt) said to me, "I assume you stayed up to watch that game. I turned it off after they went down, 5 to nothing. But what a comeback. That was unreal." Then another woman in line said, "What, they WON? I was there but I left after the fifth inning. They WON?"

Yes, I was at the game last night, and I could write pages and pages about what I saw and what I felt. But the morning after the greatest comeback in League Championship Series history, I've gotta write about Yogi's profound quotation, "It ain't over 'til it's over."

The whole reason to attend a baseball game is to see the seventh, eighth, and ninth innings. If you are leaving a game before it's over, or turning off your TV before the game ends, you haven't yet evolved to the point of understanding what baseball IS ALL ABOUT. (Or, you fell asleep on your couch after a long day at work.... regrettable, but understandable.)

I know that there are many reasons to attend a baseball game besides seeing great comebacks. The festive atmosphere, majestic home runs, phenomenal defensive plays, spending quality time with a child or sibling... but the core point of baseball is to remind us all that, in life, anything CAN happen, and anything WILL happen. And the decision to stop watching a game before it's completely over nullifies a fan's potential to personally experience this amazing truth in all its glory.

Now, I must say that only about 10% of Fenway's seats were empty when J.D. Drew smoked that game-winning line drive over Gabe Gross's head in the wee hours of the morning. It turns out that most of the fans who ventured out to the game last night were the kind who always stay 'til the end, and based on the LOUD noise they made when Pedroia drove in the first run of the comeback (to make it 7-1 Rays, still a bleak situation), they were a fervent band of believers. They "get it" about baseball.

To suck all the juice out of being a baseball fan, you must become A BELIEVER. You must resist the tug of logic that lectures to you, "This game is over, there's no way they can come back and win." You must ignore the mature voices in your head that advise, "If you leave now, you can beat the crowd and be asleep in your bed by midnight. After all, big day at work tomorrow." To be rewarded with all that baseball has to offer, you must bet the house every game. Truly expect something spectacular to happen, and sacrifice convenient home-bound transportation, sleep, and even your reputation as a grounded human being to the Diamond Gods. Have faith in the unreal.

People who leave games early have their feet planted firmly in "reality," and in "rationality," and in "the odds are...", and in "being smart," and in avoiding life's (and baseball's) sublime exquisiteness! People who leave Red Sox elimination playoff games early .... well, they just haven't learned yet that you don't do that, despite the lesson of Dave Henderson in 1986, and the lesson of Dave Roberts in 2004, and the many other startling lessons from recent Sox history (some happy memories, some not).

"The Rays haven't lost a game all season when leading by 4 or more runs".... "no team since 1929 has overcome a 7-run deficit in an elimination playoff game".... "the Red Sox are slumping and the Rays are at the peak of their game".... all of these "facts" scream at us to "face reality," give up, and go home. But reality doesn't exist until it unfolds before us, and over and over again Red Sox fans have learned that in postseason play, the reality that unfolds is usually shocking!

A friend came into my office this morning and said, "Watching those hits by Coco, Papi, and Drew -- it was like a DREAM." Not only was it LIKE a dream, it WAS a dream. Reality and rationality and the odds and being smart go right out the window when the Sox have their backs against the wall. Red Sox playoff games - indeed, ALL baseball games are dreams that we get to participate in with eyes wide open. And you don't leave dreams early.

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The 2008 Season Starts Today

2008-10-16T14:37:55Z

It's fascinating to see how many people have given up hope for the 2008 Red Sox. Hello, don't you realize that the season doesn't even BEGIN for the Red Sox until they have their backs against the wall? And have you forgotten that the Red Sox have won 7 straight elimination games in the ALCS? To win those games, they had to defeat guys like Mariano Rivera, Kevin Brown, Mike Mussina, C.C. Sabathia, and Fausto Carmona. Is it really that unthinkable to add Scott Kazmir and James Shields to this list?

And it's fascinating to me to hear people say, "Yeah, but this time, IT'S DIFFERENT." Really? So, when the Sox were down 3-0 to the Yankees in the 2004 ALCS (after getting pounded in game 3), you had more faith in their potential to come back? And when they were down 3-1 to the Indians in the 2007 ALCS (after getting pounded in game 4), you had more faith in their potential to come back?

Look, when the Sox are down in the ALCS, their mojo turns around. Mark Bellhorn was 1 for 12 in the first three games of the 2004 ALCS, then he went 4-14 with 2 huge home runs in games 4,5,6, and 7. Johnny Damon was 1 for 18 in the first four games, then he went 5 for 17 in the next three games, with 2 huge home runs in game 7 in Yankee Stadium. I know, these guys aren't even HERE this time around... but it's the same uniform, and mojo carries over from year to year.

More evidence that the Rays are about to implode came over the newswire when we learned that Joe Maddon has decided to over-manage by switching up his rotation to pitch Scott Kazmir in game 5. MISTAKE. He has just messed with his team's mojo and he's about to learn a valuable lesson -- don't mess with your team's mojo. With Kazmir pitching batting practice at Fenway tonight, we'll win game 5 and head to the Trop with momentum. The fear we saw in the Rays' eyes in game 1 will be back for games 6 and 7, and Beckett and Lester don't lose big games. Good luck next year, Tampa Bay.

Am I the only one who is predicting the Red Sox will win their next three games? Are people so worried about their reputations, so obsessed with statistical probabilities (the chances of winning three in a row against an equal opponent is one in eight), so ignorant of what REALLY matters (mojo) that they have truly jumped ship?

Red Sox Nation, history has shown that Boston baseball memories don't begin to be manufactured until TODAY, when the Red Sox MUST win. Buckle your seatbelt. If you can get a ticket, get your butt to Fenway. The 2008 Red Sox season is about to begin.

Sox in 7, then it's bring on the Phillies.

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And then there were four...

2008-10-10T03:19:23Z

Here are my thoughts as we gear up for the ALCS:

1) The day that the Mets lost and the Brewers won, on the last day of the season (breaking their first place tie), was one of the most exciting baseball-viewing experiences I've had in the last few years. My son and I were watching the Mets game on the TV and the Brewers game on MLBtv (Internet), and even though I'm not a Brewers fan, I could feel their hunger to make it to the postseason (for the first time in 26 years). Sabathia pitched like a God. And the pain that Mets fans feel, having lost the division on the last day of the season TWO YEARS IN A ROW, might be their payback for games 6 and 7 of the 1986 World Series. What comes around goes around...

2) The Cubs' problems were clearly mental. You don't finish the season with the best record in MLB and then drop three in a row in the Division Series unless you're psyched out. And you don't make three errors in one inning with your ace on the mound unless you're psyched out. What did the Red Sox do after game 3 of the 2004 ALCS (down, three games to none) to gain the momentum they've had ever since? They didn't suddenly get BETTER. Something clicked in their heads. Oh, what would the Cubs give for the formula for that "click?"

3) I enjoy watching the NLCS games almost as much as I will enjoy watching the ALCS games. It's baseball. Playoff baseball. Every at bat, every pitch is one of the most important in each player's career. This is what these players dreamed about, playing wiffle ball in their driveways growing up. The thousands of hours of practice, the hundreds and thousands of games they have played in their lives, have all led to playing in baseball's "final four." Every starter, every bench player, every relief pitcher, even the managers and third base coaches could be part of a moment that will define their careers -- and it could happen at any time. Plus, these are great players, many of them future hall of famers -- Howard, Utley, Rollins, Hamels, Lidge, Ramirez, Furcal, Maddux, Lowe, and of course, Joe Torre.

4) I sent out a new poll to the Red Sox Nation governors this evening. Here are my answers to my own questions:

a) I expect the Red Sox to win the ALCS in four games. That's right, a sweep of the mighty, precocious Rays. Yes, it's hard to really imagine sweeping, but I have difficulty imagining a Red Sox loss -- in fact, I refuse to imagine that. So, I predict a sweep.

b) The National League team that I would prefer to face in the World Series is the Dodgers. Why? Boston-L.A. is a raucous rivalry, and it would be a blast to "beat L.A." twice in one year. It would be a classic battle of coasts, a battle of cultures, a battle of climates, a battle of styles. It's two teams with incredibly rich baseball traditions. It would be a reunion of the 2004 Red Sox, with almost as many members of that Red Sox team on the current Dodgers squad (Manny, Lowe, and Nomar, though Nomar was only on the Sox for the first half of 2004). You know they'd show lots of highlights of the '04 Series if the Dodgers were our opponent -- and that would be fine with me. Even the Manny highlights. I still love the guy and what he brought our team.

c) When I can't be at Fenway, my preferred mode of watching the Red Sox in a playoff game is to watch in my living room, sitting half the time and pacing the other half of the time, drinking a Polar Orange Dry soft drink, either alone or with my nine year-old son. (I'm not the best company during a Red Sox playoff game.... "anti-social" would describe me well during these three hours....)

5) I love that Francona is showing such faith in his pitching staff by keeping them in order... Daisuke, then Beckett, then Lester, with Tim Wakefield thrown in for good measure.

Trop time!

The Sleepless Veep

2008-10-07T18:06:37Z

I wish I had the energy to write everything I'm thinking about the last two games of the Sox-Angels series, but like most of Red Sox Nation, I am operating today on about 5 hours sleep (and that's the TOTAL amount of sleep I've gotten over the last TWO nights), and like most of Red Sox Nation, I have a full-time job that continues to demand my time and brain power regardless of how late I'm staying up, and I have a slew of young children who claim every other waking minute, around the clock. Suffice it to say, WHAT A BALL GAME LAST NIGHT. And what a gutsy call by Angels manager Mike Scoscia is for trying the suicide squeeze with one out in the ninth in a crucial playoff game that's tied. And will the Red Sox please re-train Jon Lester to think like a nine-inning pitcher? Or at least an eight-inning pitcher? He CAN'T come out of that game. GO SOX!!

Gotta go.