A-Rod Gets Surgery in Germany

What does that tell you about A-Rod & steroids that he has to go to Germany to get his knee operated on? Remember his "come clean" interview in Spring Training a few years ago? I think it was more than a youthful indiscretion & I think it was more use than once or twice. Ask his crumbling body. Hip. knee, back - all going south.

A-Rod wasn't worth $25 million last year & he won't be worth $25 million a year for the remaining 6 or 7 years on his renegotiated contract. With a 50% A-Rod, an aging Jeter, an aging Mo Rivera & no Jorge Posada the Yankees better hope that CC doesn't catch old age disease anytime soon. With no acquisitions in the off-season to date the Yanks of 2012 will just keep getting older & hope to keep winning with smoke & mirrors.

Bailey - A Late Christmas Present

Yesss... The Sox may have been the bridesmaid on the Gio Gonzalez deal, but they put together the right compliment of players to acquire closer Andrew Bailey from the Oakland A's, as well as Ryan Sweeney. The Sox give up Josh Reddick & 2 minor leaguers in the 3 for 2 deal.

Getting Bailey is a huge feather in Cherington's cap & has to be viewed as his best signing to date. The 27 year old closer is under control for several more years & gives the Sox much needed flexibility with Aceves & Bard.

With Melancon & Bailey at the back-end of the bullpen now the Sox could try both Bard & Aceves in the #4 & #5 spots in the starting rotation, leaving Bobby Jenks & Frank Morales to compete for the 7th inning job.

As Peter Gammons says, the Rays success has been predicated upon the number of innings pitched by their starters. More innings by starters equates to less innings by the bullpen. Less bullpen innings means you don't need to have the best guys out there since you can switch them up every batter or two as necessary to get a favorable matchup. The Sox bullpen pitched way too many innings last year.

This trade for Andrew Bailey is huge for the 2012 Red Sox. I'm getting ready for Spring Training now.

Brees Breaks Marino's Mark

A few years ago Drew Brees & the Saints brought a Super Bowl title to a state that had been ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. It was a great moment for the folks in Louisiana. It gave them hope & something to cheer for.

On Monday night Brees surpassed the most passing yards in a season by Dan Marino. He again is playing at a very high level & his Saints look to compete again for the Super Bowl title in 2012.

Congratulations to Drew Brees. Of the 2 accomplishments, I'm sure he would say that the pride of a Super Bowl win for the city of New Orleans was the more important. Like all true players, a team goal trumps an individual goal.

Jets Lose to Giants, Rex Almost Out

Rex Ryan is almost speechless. His J-E-T-S team has one foot in the playoff grave after a loss on Saturday, dropping their record to 8-7, & losing the battle for hearts & minds in the Big Apple. As the Big Tuna use to say, you are what your record says you are. Therefore, the Jets are a .500 team - no better, no worse.

It's one thing to back up your mouthiness on the field. It's another thing not too. Rex started the year announcing his Jets as the Super Bowl winner. Then it went to I'd like one more chance against the Patriots. Then it was we are the big brother of the Giants in the battle for New York.

I'd say Rex is 0-3 with his verbal predictions & his team is regressing badly this year. Rex may keep talking, but no one listens when you're a loser.

Sox Coaching Staff Finalized for 2012

Ben Cherington & Bobby Valentine have their coaches in place for 2012.

Tim Bogar, Bench Coach

Bob McClure, Pitching Coach

Dave Magadan, Hitting Coach

Alex Ochoa, 1B Coach

Jerry Royster, 3B Coach

Gary Tuck, Bullpen Coach

Of all these guys, the focus is on Bob McClure & how he will handle a pitching staff that underperformed at the end of the 2011 season. I wish him well.

Other than more pitching & a right-hand hitting outfielder, the Sox are ready to go into the New Year & Spring Training - about 7 weeks away if you're counting.

Tale of Two Halves in 27-24 Win

It was almost coal in the stockings of the 68,000+ that showed up at Gillette Sunday. But the Patriots bounced back after being down 17 at the half to beat the fish & give their fans a first round bye.

We saw a first half with bad Tom Brady who bounced balls in the ground to his receivers. Maybe that shoulder injury was acting up or maybe it was worse than anyone let on.

Then there was the good Tom Brady in the 2nd half who led his offense to 27 points & a win over the Miami Dolphins. Abandoning the run for much of the half & using a no-huddle to wear down the defense, the Patriots looked like a completely different team. The D did get 2 huge turnovers as well - a fumble recovery by big Vince & an INT by Devon McCourty.

Much of the 1st half problems had to do with an injury-plagued O line that was without the services of Matt Light & Logan Mankins. Brady had little time to let his receivers run their routes & he was rushed & inaccurate as a result. However, as good teams do, the Pats coaches & players figured it out at halftime to overcome a 17-0 deficit.

The win assures the Patriots of a bye in the playoffs. Another win next Sunday assures the Pats of a #1 seed & playing at home the entire playoffs.

Gio Gone, Bailey Still Available

Billy Beane pulled off one of his signature moves by getting a 4 for 1 trade accomplished with the Washington Nationals. Gone are Washington's top 4 minor league prospects. In return, the Nationals get a young, dependable arm in Gio Gonzalez.

I'm not sure that the Sox had the same quality & number of prospects to give Oakland in return for Gonzalez. You can bet that Ben was talking with Billy. But in the end it looks like Oakland made the best deal out there.

A's closer Andrew Bailey is still being shopped by Beane. It wouldn't surprise me to see the Sox make an offer for Bailey to add to the back end of the bullpen. Just who? I'm not sure.

The only other closer of note is Ryan Madsen whose price & years must be coming down every day he doesn't get signed. Maybe the Sox will wait out Boras for a 1-year deal with Madsen.

Bob McClure New Pitching Coach

Good luck, Bob! You really can't do any worse than Curt Young.

McClure was the pitching coach in Kansas city for several years. He inherits a staff that under-performed, to say the least, down the stretch last season. I'm sure the discussion has already taken place about how to keep Beckett, Lester & Buchholz in line & focused on reaching the playoffs.

Maybe he can use some of his rah-rah experience with young pitchers in Kansas City to get our vets to enjoy the game again & play up to their potential. As we use to tell our kids, when you don't give your best, you hurt your fellow teammates, but most of all you cheat yourself.

This pitching staff may be sick of hearing all the off-season criticism. Maybe they will all come back with a chip on their shoulder & with something to prove. The fans deserve their absolute best after last year.

What's With Carl Crawford?

Maybe it's something. Maybe it's nothing.

Bobby Valentine has not been able to reach Carl Crawford yet. Bobby V. said the two are scheduled to talk after the New Year.

You could interpret this as Crawford not happy about Valentine's comments on ESPN about his pretzel-looking stance at the plate. Or Crawford could be legitimately busy & working out.

Either way, I'm thinking after the ugly, ugly year Crawford had at the plate & in the field that Carl would want to get on the same page as the new manager sooner than later. It's one thing if you had an Ellsbury or Gonzalez kind of year to keep a new skipper waiting. But not when you posted your poorest numbers in the last 7 years.

Even chicken & beer Josh Beckett gave Valentine an earful on their first phone call about the long pauses he takes in-between pitches. Now they can move forward.

This situation with Valentine & Crawford bears watching.

New Podcast

Gaff, Steve & I finished up a new podcast today. As soon as my tech specialist Dave can upload to the blog, please take a listen. It's entitled "Hot Stove 2011."
If you have any thoughts about the subjects in the podcast, feel free to hit the comment button below & give us your feedback.

Thanks & happy holidays!

Sox Show Interest in Cordero and Oswalt

The Boston Red Sox are reportedly in talks with the agents for Cincinnati closer Francisco Cordero & Phillies starting pitcher Roy Oswalt. Both could be additional pieces to the roster for Ben Cherington in 2012.

Cordero is 36 & has spent 5 years as the closer in Cincinnati. He could provide another option for the Sox, along with Bard, Aceves, Jenks & Melancon at the closer's spot. The Reds would like him back & the number of years in any potential deal could be too much for the Sox to handle. However, it never hurts to kick the tires.

Oswalt has had a nagging back injury. He recently dropped his request for a multi-year deal & now will accept a 1-year deal to prove he is healthy again. This sounds like a deal right up the Red Sox alley with no long-term commitment. When right Oswalt is one of the best pitchers in baseball. I hope the Sox make an offer if they feel Oswalt is healthy.

Not much talk recently about Gio Gonzalez from the A's. He's another guy that would be salary friendly, but the Sox would have to unload several players & key prospects to Billy Beane in a trade. It's not likely that the Sox have the manpower to give, but you never know.

Texas Posts $51.7 Million for Japanese Pitcher

C.J. Wilson out. Yu Darvish in?

The Texas Rangers posted a $51.7 million posting fee for 25 year old pitcher Yu Darvich & now have 30 days to sign him to a big league contract. The Darvich posting fee is even larger than the one the Sox paid to sign Dice-K in 2006.

Japanese pitchers are iffy business in the U.S. bigs. But Nolan Ryan continues to build the Rangers organization in the area where they were the weakest - pitching. If nothing else, it shows the Rangers are not going to relinquish their AL crown in 2012 to New York, Boston, Detroit or Anaheim without a fight.

We'll see very quickly if the the risk is worth the reward.

Holiday Cheers

I heard a caller on a radio show say it's Christmas, so how about acting like your happy. I can do that...

Here's a few things that I'm happy about this Christmas.

- I'm happy that I have this blog which helps me to stay in touch with family & friends. In addition, I need to give a big thank you to my most loyal blog follower in Mountain View, CA. Thanks for your great support over the past several years.

- I'm happy for all the service men & women returning home from Iraq. I'm happy for their family & friends. 4,000+ of our brave troops paid the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq. 30,000+ returned home with injuries from this war. Many others have returned home with the effects of PTSD. Let's not forget the huge sacrifice made by these American heroes.

- I'm happy to be alive and to be an American. Do we have problems in this country? Yes. Look at healthcare. Look at the political gridlock in Washington. Yet with all these problems there is no other country I would rather live in.

- I'm happy to have witnessed a decade of Boston sports excellence from 2000 to 2010. We had wins in Super Bowls, World Series, NBA finals & the Stanley Cup. No other city in the country can say that.

There is a lot to be happy about this Christmas. As the radio caller said, find something you can be happy about & enjoy this time of year.

Merry Christmas!

Broncos Choke, Pats Win 41-23

It started off as a shootout. Then,

- missed PAT on bad snap

- fumble by running back

- fumble by quarterback

- fumble by punt returner

The Denver Broncos committed multiple turnovers that led to an 18 point victory by the New England Patriots in Sports Authority Stadium in Denver.

Scott Zolak had it right in his pre-game comments. He predicted it was all about Brady & that Aaron Hernandez would have a big day. Both came true.

The Pats porous defense came up with huge turnovers that the offense converted into twenty-something unanswered points. Other than the first quarter where Denver scored 16 of its 23 points the Pats defense held their ground after an adjustment from a 4-3 to a 3-4 which contained Tebow well for the rest of the game.

Andre Carter will be a big loss on D if his leg injury requires surgery & he is out for the remaining 2 games & playoffs. Mark Cunningham turned in a great performance in place of Carter.

The Pats win the AFC East with their road win yesterday. For good measure the Jets lost & now need to be concerned about securing a wild card spot.

It's never dull with the Patriots. But we can look forward to playoff football in January.

Tebow Time Is Here

Finally, everything that can possibly be said by the sports papparazzi is coming to an end at 4:15 today. The Patriots & the Broncos kick it off later this afternoon & we will find out if the legend of Tebow lives or dies by 7:15.

Every Sunday is a crap shoot with the Patriots porous defense. And, like every other Sunday this season, it's up to Tom Brady & the offense to score more points than the other team. If the Dencer D can hold the Pats scoring down & it's close going into the 4th quarter, watch out for Tebow magic.

Hunker down with your favorite beverage & snack & enjoy the game.

Cuddyear Off to Colorado

The Sox missed out on Michael Cuddyear who accepts a 3-year, $31.5 million offer from the Rockies. Cuddyear turned down a $25 million deal to stay with his current team, the Twins.

Seems like everyone is signing for big money. I guess Cuddyear was just too rich for the Red Sox. Too bad.

Bonds Gets 2 Years Probation

Probation, house monitoring & community service. After all the hoopla surrounding Barry Bonds he gets a slap on the wrist for lying to the feds about taking steroids. And he's appealing.

Don't we have a better way to spend taxpayer money. Either put some teeth into your punishment, feds, or just don't bother going after high-profile athletes.

Sox Versus Boras on Madsen

Finally, I heard an interesting comment by Lou Merloni last night on the acquisition of potential closer Mark Melancon. His comment was backed up by a phone interview with Ben Cherington.

Is Mark Melancon the Sox closer for 2012? According to Ben, he has the makeup to close in the AL East after doing a better-than-average job for the Astros last year. But it will be up to Bobby Valentine as to how he uses his roster, including the proper role for Melancon.

Lou thinks that the acquisition of Melancon is a direct, in-your-face move thrown at Scott Boras, super agent for Ryan Madsen. Lou thinks the Sox are showing no signs that they need anyone else in the closer sweepstakes with both Melancon now on board & internal fix Daniel Bard available. Boras sees another major market go away for his client & maybe his contract demands for Madsen - both in money & in number of years - goes down as well.

The Sox have never gotten over the A-Rod deal with Boras, even though they deal with him as well as any other team. It would be nice to stick one to him. Maybe Madsen needs to find a new agent.

Nick Punto Added to Roster

The same day Jed Lowrie is traded to Houston the Sox acquire veteran utility infielder Nick Punto. Punto signs a 2-year, $3 million deal to backup guys like Pedroia, Scutaro & Youk. He may also backup highly touted Jose Iglesias next year if Iglesias can improve his hitting skills at triple A Pawtucket in 2012.

Shoppach, Melancon & Punto are all nice parts to fill-in various needs on this year's roster. Now Ben needs to concentrate on stockpiling more pitchers to complete for jobs this spring. A right-handed hitting outfielder would be nice too.

Mark Melancon Acquired From Astros

The Red Sox pulled the trigger on a deal that brings a potential closer to town. Mark Melancon, the Astros closer for most of last season, is traded to the Red Sox in exchange for Jed Lowrie & Kyle Weiland.

Melancon was 20 of 25 in saves for Houston last year. He fits the bill for a reasonably priced closer that the Sox needed to find. At worst he can be a 7th or 8th inning guy if Bard moves into the closer role. Melancon was previously with the Yankees & has a little experience against the AL East.

Lowrie has always had the tools, but consistent injuries have kept him off the field more than on. Weiland has good stuff, but he seemed rushed to the big leagues last year & out of his comfort zone at this point in his career.

Along with Shoppach, I think Melancon is another good signing by Ben.

Shoppach In, Varitek Out

Kelly Shoppach is back where he started. Shoppach returns to Boston in a backup catching role, similar to his position in Tampa Bay last year. The Sox sign Shoppach to a 1-year, $1.35 million deal.

Saltie's new backup signals the end of Jason Varitek's 15-year stint in a Red Sox uniform. Varitek has set every record imaginable for a Red Sox catcher - from most games caught, 4 no-hitters caught, most HR's to 2 World Series rings. The captain has done it all.

Shoppach also gives up & comer Ryan Lavarnway more time to mature in triple A, although Lavarnway's progress may spill over into starting time after the All-Star break or if there is an injury. He could see time at DH as well should Big Papi falter.

The Sox finally have a trio of catchers that can adequately handle a position that has been a sore spot in prior years due to Varitek's decline in hitting & throwing out runners. This was a small signing, but an important one.

10-Year Contracts?

I apologize to my nephew for stealing his thought, but I've been thinking about these contracts since he brought it up.

Will A-Rod & Albert Pujols be worth $20 million plus in year 10 of their contracts? It seems ridiculous to sign any player in his 30's to that kind of deal.

In A-Rod's case it was Goldman Sachs that stepped up & told the Yankees management that they needed to re-sign A-Rod to protect their investment in the New Yankee Stadium, their equivalent of Jerry Jones' temple to football in Dallas. Goldman would not have underwritten the new stadium without A-Rod locked up for the long term. So good timing on A-Rod's part, except his skills are waining now & he stills has 6 or 7 years to go. With his body parts a mess from steroids A-Rod may be collecting his future paychecks from a wheelchair.

Pujols is already 32. Both he & CJ Wilson are coming from the calm of the mid-west to La-La-Land & all the craziness that brings. It might take awhile for both to become comfortable with their surroundings. And in Pujols' case the contract term is just too long for someone who could have retired as a legend in St. Louis. The most the Angels can hope to get from Albert is a good 5 years. So the pressure will be on the team with the longest name in baseball to win now.

A reporter said it only takes one crazy owner to set the bar too high. In these cases there were two crazy owners.

The Silence Is Deafening

The Sox have a small window of opportunity to put together a package of players in a deal with the Oakland A's to obtain Andrew Bailey & Gio Gonzalez. They are not the only team interested in these guys which is why I say the window is small.

Not that the Sox would have outbid the Miami Marlins or the LA Angels of Anaheim for any of their free agent signings, but the managerial search for Bobby Valentine did put other things on hold - like filling roster holes. Like many teams, the Sox are in need of pitching & the better ones for sale or trade will not being around after Christmas. The White Sox, for example, are dangling Gavin Floyd & John Dankes out there to see what they can get in return.

C'mon, Ben. Let's pull the trigger soon before the only deal left is to re-sign Tim Wakefield.

Welcome to Tebow Mania Week

Tim Tebow keeps winning. And the Patriots are the next team to try & stop the Broncos win streak in Denver next Sunday.

The Denver victory over Chicago on Sunday was most improbable & aided by an out-of-bounce play that stopped the clock by Bears running back Marion Barber. The Broncos got the ball back one last time & tied the game on a 50-something plus field goal.

In overtime, Denver again looked like they would score first until Marion Barber fumbled the ball. The Broncos again moved the ball down the field & ended the game with another 50-plus field goal. Bad day to be Marion Barber.

Say what you will, but the Broncos keep winning. Isn't that the only stat that counts? The Patriots will have their hands full in Denver on Sunday.

Entertaining or Ugly?

Depending upon your point of view, you could say that the Patriots win over the Redskins was entertaining or just plain ugly. A costly turnover by the Redskins in the red zone with just seconds left in the game led to the Pats 34-27 win.

Gronk set the new record for TD catches in a single season by a tight end, adding 2 more to his total of 15 thus far with 3 games left. Unfortunately, there was no running game to speak of. Woodhead got more carries than Green-Ellis which was odd. We even saw Kevin Faulk for a few plays. Welker & Hernandez had good games as well, although both missed a TD pass during the contest.

Jerrod Mayo caught a deflected ball for an INT to ice the game. Wilfork & Carter had nice games as well. But that secondary, oh that secondary, is butt ugly to watch. The Pats are going nowhere in the playoffs with such a makeshift crew of DB's & safeties. As Steve DeOssie said, everything rests on Tom Brady & his play will decide how far this team goes into January.

We should feel thankful to be 10-3.

AAU Chief Bobby Dodd Latest Pedophyle Outed

AAU President & CEO Bobby Dodd is the latest coaching figure to be accused of molesting young boys. One accuser, who spoke on the ESPN program "Outside The Lines," experienced a panic attack while speaking to his interviewer about the abuse. Another victim obscured his identity & talked about being drugged, then abused, by Dodd. He was also propositioned by Dodd to perform oral sex for $1,000.

Even though there will be a small number of people who come forward for an easy payday, I applaud the real victims who are coming forward with horrific stories that they would rather forget. Let's pull back the curtain on all these authoritarian figures & expose them for the child abusers that they are. Let these men walk around with the burden that their victims have born for all these year.

Talks Heating Up With A's & Andrew Bailey

The Red Sox are still in hot pursuit of Andrew Bailey & perhaps Gio Gonzalez from the Oakland A's. The Sox have enough spare parts from the current roster, as well as prospects, to fit Billy Beane's mold of low cost, overlooked talent for his 2012 team.

The one big name still out there in trade talks is Kevin Youkilis. Beane was one of the first guys to appreciate Youk's OBP before it was a sexy stat. Perhaps he still feels that way.

Bailey would give the Sox the option of trying Daniel Bard as a starter. Bard could be Plan B as a closer if Bailey withers under the stress of a competitive AL East. Gonzalez would give the Sox the luxury of keeping Aceves or Bard out of the starting rotation & at the back end of the bullpen. Both Bailey & Gonzalez are affordable in the Sox budget for 2012.

I'd like to see them pull off this deal for one or both.

Braun's Star Not As Bright

Ryan Braun of the Milwaukee Brewers, the NL MVP for 2011, has his star tainted over his recent positive test for performance enhancing drugs (PED's). The left-field slugger says that he will challenge the test results.

If the test is accurate, Braun will miss 50 games next season. That would be a huge blow to Milwaukee as their team's other slugger, Prince Fielder, is expected to sign somewhere else this off-season.

Oddly enough, this news about Braun comes on the heels of a report that Manny Ramirez has been reinstated for active duty. Ramirez would also need to serve a 50-game suspension - if he plays again - for violations of the same PED policy.

Manny's rep has been tarnished for awhile now. It's too bad to see a young star like Braun also dim.

Pats Versus Redskins

It's off to the nation's capitol for the Patriots as they take on a bad Redskins team. Not that every game isn't a struggle, but you would think that this one would be a fairly easy road game.

Will Bill continue to experiment with offensive guys on the defensive side of the ball? Will Brady get lifted in the 4th quarter? Will Gronk break the record this weekend? All to be seen.

Will Rex Ryan ever shutup about wanting to play the Patriots again this year in the playoffs? There's a good chance the Jets are watching TV in January given their uphill battle to even make the playoffs.

Another 1 PM start is great. Let's enjoy it.

Angels Sign Pujols & Wilson

It's a great year to be a sought after free agent. Money is flying out of Miami, but it is also flying out of Anaheim now.

The LA Angels of Anaheim filled their Christmas list with the major signings of Albert Pujols - 10 years, $254 million - & starting pitcher C.J. Wilson - 5 years, $77.5 million. The St. Louis Cardinals lose the face of their franchise after Pujols rejected 9 years, $220 million. The Rangers will definitely miss their top starter in C.J. Wilson, but they hope to have Neptali Feliz step into his shoes. Obviously, the Cards are the team hurting the most.

The money is just ridiculous out there.

Is Doubront a Key This Year?

Felix Doubront had a forgetful 2011 like other members of the Sox. He got injured in Spring Training (some say because of coming in out of shape) & he was injured again during the season. He, like Ryan Kalish, never got to make the improvement everyone was hoping for.

In 2012 I see a healthy Doubront making a case to become one of 5 starters. I like his stuff a lot. And talk about a low-cost solution for one of the starting roles. If, & it's a big if, Felix can make the jump this year, it would allow Valentine to leave Aceves or Bard in the pen. Right now, both Bard & Aceves are gearing up for spots in the starting rotation.

Unlike Kyle Weiland who still needs a year or two of seasoning in the minors, I see Doubront as an important piece on the Sox chessboard this year.

Trade Youk?

Say it ain't so. Some reporters are speculating that a Sox trade with the Oakland A's may include Kevin Youkilis.

I say to these reporters "cut back on the medication." The Sox are in need of right-handed hitters to balance out the Crawford-Ortiz-Gonzalez effect. Youk is still an MVP candidate when he is healthy. No doubt that the issue of health has eluded him the past 2 years. But by all accounts he should be ready to go for Spring Training.

Like Pedroia, I would think of Youk as untouchable right now.

Ortiz to Accept Arbitration

36-year old David Ortiz will formally accept salary arbitration today & remain a member of the Boston Red Sox for 2012. He is expected to make $13-$14 million for one year.

Even though the market may have priced out Big Papi's services as a DH closer to $9-$10 million, this is a good deal for both sides. The Sox get a 29/99 guy back in the middle of the order & Ortiz is motivated to produce for his next contract in 2013.

The re-signing of Ortiz now allows Cherington to focus his remaining budget allowance on piecing together pitching for the bullpen & perhaps adding a starter. No major moves are expected via free agency, but the Sox are talking trade with the Oakland A's who have both starting pitchers & a closer available for the right players in return.

Reyes to Marlins for $106 Million

Jose Reyes got his big payday worth over $100 million. He moves from the Mets to become the everyday shortstop for the Marlins for the next 6 years. That makes long-time Marlin Hanley Ramirez expendable or a candidate for a new position at 3B. Reyes joins new closer Health Bell as the Marlins spend away to fill their new stadium next year.

I got sour on Reyes when he bunted for a hit on the last day of the season & then promptly took himself out of the game so he could win the NL batting title over Ryan Braun. That didn't scream of team play to me, but obviously it didn't bother the Marlins.

Albert Pujols & Prince Fielder are still awaiting their big paydays.

Child Abuse At Penn State & Syracuse

Jerry Sandusky at Penn State.

Bernie Fine at Syracuse.

Head coaches who claim no knowledge or limited kinowledge.

Major universities that either covered up or mishandled their responsibilities.

I don't understand the premise of adult men & their attraction to young male children.

What I do understand is that it's always about money. Universities take-in millions through their major sports program & they are not about to sacrifice their cash cow when improprieties arise. They will look the other way.

Fortunately for the victims in these cases, their voices are finally being heard - even if it is years later.

Patriots Hold On 31-24 Over Colts

My oh my! The Patriots 4th quarter yesterday gave me flashbacks to the month of September for the Red Sox. 21 unanswered points by the Colts brought the game down to one on-side kick. Thank goodness for Deion Branch.

While Belichick was trying new personnel on the defensive side of the ball this game was marked by another slow start in the 1st quarter by the Pats offense & an inability to score at all in the 4th. You would think that 31 points sounds good, but it was only 30 minutes worth of work.

Still the Pats had enough against a Peyton Manning-less Colts team. Gronk & Welker had excellent days in the receiving game. So did big Vince Wilford & Jerrod Mayo on the defensive side.

A win is a win & that's the main thing. At 9-3 the Pats are looking at a playoff spot as they travel to DC to take on the Redskins next Sunday. The Jets remain 2 behind at 7-5 with 4 games to go.

I hope Belichick saw what he needed to yesterday in the porous secondary to bolster that back line of defensive backs & safeties for the last 4 games.

Valentine Visits Big Papi

Bobby Valentine wasted no time on his first full day in office by jumping on a plane for the Dominican to meet with David Ortiz. If nothing else, Big Papi should feel the love from the new skipper by getting his immediate attention.

Ortiz can accept arbitration this week & be assured of one more year at $14 million with the Sox. However, reports indicate that Big Papi is looking for a 2 or 3 year deal. Ortiz will fly back to New York today & meet with his agent on Monday to review his options. $14 million for one-year has to be attractive, though.

For Bobby V. it's off to the winter meetings with Ben Cherington to find some players. The Sox are interested in meeting with the agents for Ryan Madsen, one of the few remaining closers, & C.J. Wilson who will probably be too high priced for them. Let's not forget Michael Cuddyear & Mark Buehrle as other possible additions. There are also a few young pitchers from the A's that the Sox may be able to trade for. Should be an interesting 3 days. We may be able to catch up with other active teams with a few good deals this week.

Ben & Bobby Take Over For Theo & Tito

I've decided that I'll watch live press conferences like the Sox had yesterday & then make up my own mind instead of listening to non-stop reporters tear every word apart. It reminded me of a Presidential address that the Republicans counter with their own response.

My thoughts are that I liked what I heard. Ben Cherington gave an excellent, off-the-cuff summary of the managerial search. Bobby Valentine gave excellent remarks about his feelings on becoming the new Sox manager. Both answered tough questions about the process & perceived shortcomings. In the end I was impressed with a line that Bobby V. gave to Dan Roach when he said we wants to build a team of excellence, not excellent players. I like the whole T-E-A-M theme.

As things move along, there will be plenty of time for Valentine to get to know his players before Spring Training begins. He & Cherington need to turn their attention to the upcoming managers meeting next week.

Valentine Official, Players Not Happy

OK, now it's official that Bobby Valentine will become the 45th manager of the Boston Red Sox today. A press conference is scheduled for 5:30 EST. Good luck, Bobby! I hope you keep the clubhouse together & move these prima dona athletes in the same direction with the common goal of striving to win.

And speaking about players, a few of them have been texting each other that they are not thrilled about having a new task master like Bobby V. Probably the beer, chicken & biscuits crowd. My response & all of Red Sox Nation say to you "tough s---." Sometimes you get what you deserve. Don't expect anyone to feel sorry for you as the country club atmosphere goes away. Come back down to earth, suck it up & work hard for a living like everyone else.

Bobby V. Looks Like the Next Sox Manager

Nothing is finalized since Bobby Valentine was flying back to the U.S. from Japan. But reports were flying around last night that Valentine was the chosen one to become the Sox next manager. Remember - until he signs a contract nothing is final. There are always last minute items that can creep up & derail the final approval.

What I would call the Boston sports papparrazzi went into high gear last night on news of the possible signing of Valentine. The Enquirer-type reporters of sports talk started with the usual fabrications of their "make something out of nothing" routine. Let's get friction going, right?

1) How can the Sox treat Gene Lamont so unfairly?
Well, how about the media treating Gene Lamont unfairly by barraging him with calls to see if the Sox management had called him yet. Until the deal with Valentine is signed, sealed & delivered I wouldn't call anyone to tell him he is out of the manager's race until it's official.

2) Lucchino & Valentine will be fighting each other within 2 years. Really? You really have a crystal ball that can see 2 years into the future. Can we hold you to those totally unsubstantiated opinions in 2014?

3) Cherington got run over by Lucchino in the manager selection process.
Maybe the guys that write the checks were not impressed by the group of 5. Maybe Cherington offered to bring in Valentine for an interview after other candidates fell by the wayside. If I'm Ben Cherington, I do my job by vetting candidates & continue working to find the best man for the job, even if that means my group of 5 moves to 6. Isn't it about what's best for the club & not the individual?

4) Cherington & Valentine will never get along.
Great statement with no facts. Again, don't you think both men want to put a winning team on the field? You don't have to go to dinner with someone every night to get along & work effectively for the greater good.

All of these points were brought up on Comcast Sports Net. Shame on you guys - Lou, Bob & Sean - for starting off a new era in Sox baseball with your baseless opinions to rile up an already angry Sox fan base from 2011. If you leave Boston, there's always a job for you in Hollywood following Lindsay Lohan.

Are The Pats Good Or Bad?

As I was exercising yesterday, I listened to some talk shows on TV about the Patriots. Here's what I heard.

The Patriots are OK, but won't go far in the playoffs.

The Patriots are bad. They are going nowhere with their defense.

Maybe it's living in New England & we are use to seeing championship sports around here. Like the 2008 Red Sox team that had no business making the playoffs & came within one game of going to the World Series, I think this Patriots team has over-performed this year.

Like 2004 & 2007 with the Red Sox a lot of things have to aline in order to win a championship. Given the Pats personnel, especially the young & unknown on defense, I think this is a year where Belichick is coaching well & the players are performing above their abilities. Can't we take pride in that?

Let the chips fall where they may in January. Unlike the 2011 version of the Red Sox, the New England Patriots players are giving fans all they have. We should appreciate their effort.

Pats Crush Eagles 38-20

It wasn't as close as the score might indicate. The New England Patriots put a big hurt on the low-flying Eagles in the City of Brotherly Love, perhaps knocking the Eagles out of any playoff hopes.

Green-Ellis ran for tough yards all night which was rewarded by 2 short TD scores. Welker grabs 2 TD throws & had another 100+ yard game. Branch had 100+ yards in catches as well. The game was iced when Gronk caught the last TD pass from Brady & dragged a defender into the end zone with him.

Bill Belichick must have heard me screaming take Brady out, the game is over. Bill finally lifted Brady with about 6 minutes left in the game. Brady got banged around enough in the first half to warrant some time off.

The Pats were the team that executed better. That's why they won. Andy Reid & his players have a lot to answer for today before getting ready for a Thursday night game.

Tough Game for Pats Today in Philly

The Philadelphia Eagles are fighting for their playoff lives with every game as they stand at 4-6. Perhaps Andy Reid is fighting to keep his job.

As the Patriots invade Philly this afternoon with a 7-3 record, they must contain McCoy & the Eagles running game to put pressure on Vince Young. On the other side, the Pats O line needs to give Brady time to find receivers. I expect the Pats to try & run more this game - just to keep the Eagles defense back & avoid the blitz.

It should be a good game. The Eagles, by far, are the more desperate team. I wouldn't count them out.

Valentine or Lamont?

It's down to Bobby Valentine or Gene Lamont. Both guys have lots of experience.

Either one is OK with me. Let's just pick one, stop the drama & move on with putting a team together for 2012.

What's the Hold-Up?

It's time for the Sox brass to make a choice about their new manager for next year. Whether it's Valentine, Lamont or Lovullo just make a pick & go with him.

The manager's situation is impeding progress in signing free agents or trading for new talent. Both Michael Cuddyear & Mark Buehrle would look good in a Red Sox uniform. Several young A's pitchers may be available via trade as well. But they won't be out there & available forever.

We lost out on Joe Nathan. And the Cards & Cubs have already signed their managers. We still haven't gotten out of the on-deck circle as yet.

Let's go, men. Make a decision & move on.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Beside a trio of football games to watch today we have a lot to give thanks for - namely family, friends, food & health. All of us who gather with family, enjoy friends who travel home, eat too much good food & are in good health are certainly the lucky ones. Many people I talk to think Thanksgiving is the best holiday of the year. I can't argue their point.

As we enjoy all the above while watching the Macy's parade & football games today, please remember others who will not have the same day. On-duty military, the homeless & ill people in hospitals or nursing homes are just some of the folks who will experience a different kind of Thanksgiving. Let's take one minute today to say a prayer for those people & remember how lucky we are. And thanks to all the volunteers who take time out of their Thanksgiving to make a better day for others.

Sox Offer Arbitration to Ortiz & Wheeler

David Ortiz & Dan Wheeler were offered arbitration yesterday by the Boston Red Sox. Each players has until December 7th to accept or reject the Sox offer. The Sox also get compensation picks, 2 for Ortiz & 1 for Wheeler, should either player sign with another team.

Players not offered arbitration include Jason Varitek & Tim Wakefield. Both may have played their last games in a Sox uniform, but the Red Sox website says they are still free to negotiate with them.

I liked the 2nd half of Dan Wheeler last year. He could be a 7th or 8th inning guy if he regains his form from Tampa Bay. I like bringing Ortiz back on a short contract for smaller dollars.

I also think Varitek & Wake should hang it up & call it a career. Neither has anything left to prove, although Wake wants to go for the all-time Sox wins record - but at what cost to the team over a personal goal.

Nathan Signs With Texas

Looking to make it back to a 3rd consecutive World Series the Texas Rangers wasted no time in re-assembling their roster for 2012. Texas signed free agent closer Joe Nathan to a 2-year deal worth about $15 million.

Current closer Neptali Feliz has made overtures that he wanted to become a starter. He will get his wish in 2012. The Rangers assume that a bidding war will ensue for CJ Wilson & he will not re-sign with the team. Feliz gets Wilson's spot in the rotation & Nathan takes over Feliz' spot as closer. Nicely done, Texas.

With Nathan off the market that leaves the Red Sox with the possibility of moving Daniel Bard into the closer role or bringing in a Heath Bell type. It seems like the Sox are slow out of the gate this off season, probably due to their on-going managerial search.

Pats 34, Chiefs 3

After another sluggish first half the Patriots put up 24 unanswered points in the 2nd half to route the KC Chiefs 34-3. The Pats were added by several KC miscues -- untimely penalties, 3 INT's & a punt return for a touchdown by Julian Edelman.

Total yards by each team were somewhat close. The difference was the effectiveness by the Pats in closing drives with points versus the Chiefs who squandered their scoring opportunities.

Another big game by Rob Gronkowski. He added 2 more TD's, the second one which looked scary as he flew his big body through the air to score & landed on his head & neck. Gronk was a little woozie getting up, but he quickly regained his faculties & spiked the ball.

A 7-3 record by the Pats ties them with 2 other teams for the best record in the AFC. They travel to Philly on Sunday to take on the Eagles.

Ells Comes In Second to Verlander in MVP Vote

What a year for both Justin Verlander & Jacoby Ellsbury in 2011. Only one could be the AL MVP & Verlander garnered 40 more points than Jacoby to become the first pitcher in a long time to win the MVP award.

It's not often that a pitcher is chosen for an MVP award over an everyday player. Certainly, however, Verlander's no-hitter & no-hit stuff every time he took the mound put him over the top.

That's not to say that Ells wasn't electric at the plate & in the field. He overcame serious injuries in 2010 to put together a solid start to finish season which included a power swing that was Johhny Damon-like. Jacoby was a very deserving candidate for MVP as well.

Maybe 2012 will be Ells' year.

Bills, Jets Both Fall to 5-5

With a loss by the Jets on Thursday & yesterday's embarassment in Miami by the Bills the New England Patriots are poised to open up a 2-game lead in the division with a win at home against the Kansas City Chiefs tonight on national TV. The Pats also control the tie-breaker against the Jets with only 6 games remaining after tonight.

The NFL is an anything-can-happen league. A back-up left-handed quarterback by the Chiefs may give the Pats defense another dimension to worry about, along with a solid KC running attack. Just look at what Tim Tebow did to the Jets on Thursday. Nothing is a sure thing.

Best thing the Pats can do is get off to a better first-half start, score points early & make the Chiefs play from behind. This could lead to mistakes by the Chiefs QB.

This game is a big stepping stone towards the Pats locking up their division & a playoff berth.

Bobby V. Gets Interviewed Today

The unique Bobby Valentine gets interviewed by the Sox management today. The lamboyant, ego-centrist coach may end up with the manager's position due to a small field of other unimpressive candidates. Why else would the Sox bring him in for a talk?

The Boston media would love a guy like Bobby V. It would be like Ozzie in Chicago. As Michael Felger said last night, a media event would turn away from questions about players & be about Bobby & his ego. He might be entertaining.

No matter who the Sox bring in as manager, the 2012 team has enough returning talent to make the playoffs. They just need to hire someone to keep all 25 guys headed in the right direction.

Cherington Kicking the Tires on Wilson & Oswalt

At the managers meeting this week Ben Cherington started conversations with C.J. Wilson's agent & Roy Oswalt. Pitching, both starting & relief, need a makeover for the 2012 season.

Good for Cherington for kicking the tires on every possibility out there. I still like Mark Buehrle, but maybe he will cost too much.

Pats Look to Go 7-3 on Monday

Tom Brady & Co. are coming off an impressive win in New York over division rivals the Jets. Can the defense play another strong game & limit the Kansas City Chiefs running game?

Most of the NFL is a .500 league & the Chiefs are one of those teams that you can easily look past. However, the up & down Pats D cannot afford to do that. Even with a replacement QB for injured Matt Cassel, it would be a mistake for the Pats to underestimate the Chiefs. I'm sure Bill is telling his players the same thing.

A win on Monday night puts the Patriots in solid control of their division. The Jets loss on Thursday drops them to 5-5 with 6 games left. Buffalo also seems to be on the downslide at 5-4.

Another solid game on Monday night would do a lot for this Patriots team to show their fans consistency.

No More Heidi

First it was Tina Cervasio to leave for MSG Network.

Next was Hazel Mae who headed off for the MLB Network.

Now, according to several reports, it's Heidi Watney's turn to leave for Turner Broadcasting in LA. It's a return home for the former Miss San Diego who will report on the Lakers & other La-La-Land teams.

NESN has certainly lost 3 stunning female broadcasters as on-field reporters at Red Sox games. I wonder what the new replacement will look like? I hope not Michael Vega!

All Kinds of Baseball News

There was a panorama of news items yesterday about baseball & the Red Sox. Here's the Reader's Digest version of events.

- MLB will add 2 more wild card spots to the playoffs. Unknown whether these additions will begin in 2012 or 2013. If the end result is a 1-game playoff between wild card teams to see which one continues, I'm for it. It will make winning the division important again & put any wild card team at a disadvantage.

- Houston Astros will play in the AL beginning in 2013. This will even out the number of teams in each league to 15. Not a big deal to me. However, this move paves the way for future expansion - which I think is ill advised in this economy.

- Sox supposedly offer Big Papi a contract. If it's for 1 year with a possible team option only for 2013, I'm OK with it. I'm sure the contract offer was much less than the $12 - $13 million Ortiz received last year.

- Bobby Valentine is in the mix as a Sox managerial candidate. The fiery Valentine may be a short-term bridge for the Sox until they find a more suitable replacement for Tito. I wasn't interested in Valentine when his name first surfaced, but the other candidates don't impress me at this point. Having Valentine as a 2-year bridge wouldn't be the worst thing.

All in all, it was a busy Wednesday.

Sveum Gets Cubs Job

And the list decreases to 3. Dale Sveum accepts the Cubs job today as Theo continues to bring the band from Boston back together. That leaves the Sox with just 3 candidates thus far as Pete Machanin is also out of the running. Neither Louvello, Alomar nor Lamont are sure things, though.

Ben Cherington said that he will take a breather & possibly interview 2 new candidates in the near future. The Sox have no rush now since the Cubs & Cardinals have filled their spots.

Let's get the right guy &/or the best guy out there.

Wake Will Pitch in 2012

The Red Sox website is quoting Tim Wakefield's agent as saying the 45 year old will pitch again in 2012 - maybe in Boston, but definitely somewhere. His agent is hoping to work out a deal with the Red sox, but supposedly other teams has called about Wake's services.

Personally, my thought is that the Red Sox are turning a new page - out with the old & in with the new if you will. I think that the Sox could bring Wake back as a half-year pitcher to give starters a rest - maybe take a turn off - in the dog days of July & August. Other than that, Wake disappointed so much in September that it's difficult to see him in a full-time role as a starter. Because of walks & steals Wake is not a candidate for the bullpen either.

I'd like to see Wake take the high road & retire instead of putting the Sox management in this predicament of what to do with an aging, non-performing player with his best years of service behind him.

Cards Hire Matheny, Not Tito

The St. Louis Cardinals are first to fill their vacant manager's position with former player Mike Matheny. Matheny has little to no managerial experience & he beat out a diverse group of candidates which included Terry Francona.

At 41 Matheny takes over for 16-year manager Tony LaRussa. I respected Matheny as a player & just maybe he is the right fit for the Cards job. No one would be able to replace LaRussa, so why not move in the opposite direction.

Let's hope the Sox can finalize their manager's spot soon as well.

No Chest Bumps for Rex Ryan

The New England Patriots put a beating on divisional rival New York & soundly took command of their division with a 37-16 win over the J-E-T-S. Even the Jets #1 cheerleader looked stunned in the stands as the boo birds came out more than once in MetLife Stadium. Rex watched his team turn the ball over 3 times via interceptions & a fumble.

Mark Sanchez found out that he is not Tom Brady. Rex Ryan found out that he is not Bill B. And the Jets are looking at another Wild Card berth at this point as their only road into the playoffs.

Good games on defense by Derek Anderson, Andre Carter & Vince Wilfork. A no-name defense of unknowns was good enough to stymie a struggling Jets offense. Rob Ninkowitz came up with 2 big INT's & ran one back for a game-ending pick 6 in the 4th.

Rob Gronkowski had a career game with 100+ receiving yards & 2 big TD catches. Brady was very good when it counted.


There is still a lot of time left in the season & anything can happen. But it was nice to see the Pats have signs of life.

Opinions Galore on Pap's Departure

You can't hear a TV or radio show without every talking head voicing a negative opinion on the departure of Jonathan Papelbon. This is the same guy in Spring Training that these same commentors wanted to removed from the closer's role due to a sub-par 2010 season.

Let me add my 2 cents - for what it worth.

The Sox have been burned & burned badly, thus far, by big contracts for multiple years to John Lackey & Carl Crawford. There are several other players (Beckett & Adrian, for example) who also have multiple years left on their big contracts.

Due to current salary obligations I do not see the Sox signing or re-signing players who want $10 million or more a year. We will be forced to live with what big contracts are in place for now for the next few years. Mid-range players like Mark Buehrle or Michael Cuddyer are certainly still signable & I hope they do make offers on both.

If I am the Sox management, I'm looking for a better year out of Carl Crawford - obviously. I'm looking for Dice-K to prove something when he comes back (even if it's for his next contract with another team) in the 2nd half. I'm looking for Youk to get back to his MVP caliber of play. I'm looking for Beckett, Buchholz & Lester to return to being Beckett, Buchholz & Lester. I'm looking for Adrian, Petey & Ells to repeat 2010 or close to it. There is a lot of talent on this team.

It was no secret that Pap wanted multiple years & top dollar. He got that from the Phillies. The Sox can go back to a Nathan or a Bell for a few years at a time to fill the closer's role at a much more reasonable price. This team can live without Pap. This team can succeed without Pap.

Jonathan Papelbon Gone

Jon Papelbon, known as Pap or Cinco Ocho, has closed his last game for the Boston Red Sox. The rich contract offer of 4 years, $50 million by the Phillies was too much for a closer by Red Sox's guidelines.

The Phillies get a prime closer in his early 30's. Pap finally get the big payday that he was looking for through free agency. Can he hold up physically over a 4 year period? The Phillies sure hope so.

Pap leaves as the saves leader for the Red Sox. He has had 30+ saves in each of the last 6 years. And I think he will be remembered for someone who spoke his mind, be it a little goofy at times. He was always good for a sound bite.

The Phillies have joined the Yankees & Red Sox as teams who cater to high-priced free agents in an effort to be the World Series winner each year. It hasn't worked so well for the Phils, especially last year when they were the best team in baseball during the regular season. The predicted World Series between Philadelphia & Boston never materialized.

We can only wish Pap well with his new team. Maybe the Phillies & Red Sox can get another crack in 2012 of meeting in the last series of the year.

Joe Paterno Fired

I have mixed emotions about the firing of Joe Paterno, a legend at Penn State. He fulfilled his legal requirement to report the alleged sexual misconduct by his assistant coach to his superiors. Should he have done more? Hindsight is always 20/20.

Unfortunately, we have not been privy to Paterno's side of the matter as he has not been allowed to address the media. Perhaps he did follow-up with his superiors to see what action had been taken. We just don't know.

The trustees at Penn State no doubt took this action of firing Paterno to insulate themselves from legal liability. It's all about liability these days. And I would think that all the claimants have a legal action against Penn State for not getting the authorities involved earlier. If not a criminal case, they certainly have a civil case.

At the same time I think about my own coaching days at college. If someone reported one of my assistants to me for improper behavior, I would certainly have reported it to my AD. But I would have also confronted the assistant - someone you would see on a daily basis to plan practices & game strategies - & asked more questions about the matter. So I guess I see where Paterno could have done more, possibly. Again, we don't have & may never get Joe's side of the events.

It's too bad that a legacy of winning by Joe Pa for so many years will be remembered in infamy for the actions of a subordinate.

Pap Being Considered By Phillies

Jonathan Papelbon is under strong consideration by the Philadelphia Phillies to become that team's closer if they cannot come to terms with current closer Brian Madsen.

The Phillies have shown a willingness to spend big dollars on Cliff Lee & Roy Halladay. Jim Thome has been added to the 2012 roster. And they are courting infielder/outfielder Michael Cuddyer - a guy who would be a perfect fit in Boston.

The Phillies could be Pap's new home since he is all about the money.

More Potential Managers Being Interviewed

Pete Machanin & Dale Sveum have already been vetted.

Mike Maddux withdrew himself from consideration.

This week brings Sandy Alomar, Jr. (Cleveland), Torey Lovullo (Toronto) & Gene Lamont (several teams) in for a chat.

Ben Cherington has said that he would like to have a new manager in place by Thanksgiving. Who would you pick? If I had to pull a name, I would go with Machanin because of his experience.

As a side bar, Terry Francona interviewed for the Cardinals job yesterday. That team may be a good fit for him.

Personal Responsibility

I was talking with my brothers about the September collapse by the Red Sox for the final time. It's time to move onto 2012, but here's my last comment.

My summary - it comes down to personal responsibility. I know that the concept of someone admitting they were wrong in these days may be like a foreign language to our society. We see examples in everyday life. Criminals caught in the commission of a criminal act plead not guilty. We dishonorably discharge soldiers who carry out orders from their superiors while these superiors go unchallenged. It's a "not me" mentality out there. My parents like my brother better. My girl friend dumped me. It's always someone else must be responsible for my actions.

The Boston Red Sox players are responsible for their lack of preparation & lack of professionalism during their historic September meltdown. It's not Tito, Theo or the strength coach who was let go as a scapegoat. It's the players. Maybe they will be embarassed enough to get the proper work ethic back next year.

As Petey said, we played badly. True. If you work hard & lose, that's one thing. If you lose because you are not prepared to play your best, that's unforgiveable. No one should need to tell a professional player what to do to be ready to play his best. Not to mention the salaries involved.

The player needs to have pride in his own performance not to let his teammates down, not to let the organization down, not to let the fans down. Unfortunately, that's exactly what happened with a few players. That's the problem - no personal responsibility. I'm moving on now.

Secondary Can't Hold Off Giants

Another loss 24-20. Too many mistakes. Pats lose 2 in a row & fall to 5-3 & into a tie with the Jets & Bills.

The offense needed a full half to get going - again. Add another missed field goal by Stephen Gostkowski. Brady forcing balls into covered receivers for 2 picks. Edelmann was horrible on returns all day. 4 takeaways in all by the Giants.

The defense played well in the first half. But when the game was on the line in the 4th quarter stupid pass interference plays, especially the Sergio Brown one on an uncatchable ball, sealed the Pats doom.

Unfortunately, the Patriots are going to stay in the middle of the pack until the O line blocks more effectively for Brady & until the secondary stops giving up long pass plays. It could be a long season.

And can Joe Buck stop talking about the Pats-Giants Super Bowl & the miraculous reception. It's over, Joe.

The Strange Case of Carl Crawford

A week or so ago the Red Sox website had a top 10 list of things to do for new GM Ben Cherington. One item that caught my eye was to visit with Carl Crawford in the off season & see what the Sox can do to get him to relax & play his usual above-average brand of baseball.

Crawford was anything but his usual self last year. He struggled at the plate mightily. He was not a menance on the bases. He also struggled at times in the field. Who won't remember the last ball of the year that he missed to lose the final game in Baltimore?

With 6 more years remaining on his contract & big money coming his way the Sox organization & the fans are expecting a whole lot more from Carl Crawford. If he can even have an average year, we'd take that. Hit .280, club 20 HR's, steal 30+ bases & play good defense. Any of those numbers would be a big improvement over 2011, a year where he just never got into the rhythm of the season.

Mike Maddux & Sandy Alomar, Jr. Get A Shot

Texas Rangers pitching coach Mike Maddux gets an interview with the Red Sox & Cubs in the coming week. Cleveland's bench coach Sandy Alomar, Jr. also comes in for a talk with the Sox brass. Both are the next two in line for interviews for the manager's position in Beantown.

Maddux pitched for the Sox briefly & has to live in the shadow of his brother Greg who won 300+ games with the Braves. As a pitching coach, like John Farrell, he might be an interesting candidate for the job.

Alomar I don't see being a good fit. A former catcher, he has spent time as a first-base coach for the Indians. He is slated to be the Indians bench coach this year. The other candidates have more experience.

Maddux & Alomar join Machanic & Sveum as interviewees. I would think that Cherington would stop at 5 or 6 interviews since Theo is looking at some of the same candidates for the Cubs & the Cardinals are looking for a manager now too. We might have our new manager before Turkey Day.

How About Adding Mark Buehrle?

When Buccholz & Dice-K were on the shelf we got no help in the rotation from Tim Wakefield, Andrew Miller, Erik Bedard, Kyle Weiland & others. Of course, in September we got no help from Beckett, Lester & Lackey either.

Assuming that Beckett, Lester & Buccholz can return to their above-average form in 2012 it would be nice to add a stable 4th & 5th starter that can keep the opposition at 5 runs or less for 6 or 7 innings.

That's what Mark Buehrle does. He's a 200+ innings guy & can anchor down a 3rd or 4th spot in the rotation, giving you quality starts. At 33 he may be the best option on the free agency market. He knows how to pitch & he works quickly which his fielders appreciate, the anti-slow mo Beckett if you will. He wouldn't command a big salary as a bottom of the rotation guy.

Other free agent pitchers available are CJ Wilson, Roy Oswalt & Edwin Jackson to name a few. I think Buehrle would be the pick of the crop & a veteran presence this team could count on. He could be what the Sox hoped Erik Bedard was not.

Giants Invade Foxborough Sunday

Another tough test for the Patriots comes this Sunday with the NY football Giants invading the Patriots home turf for a big game in the standings for both teams. A 3rd loss for either team moves them down from the top of their divisional standings.

The Pats D must play better against Eli Manning & get off the field. The Pats O has a tall order against a good Giants defense to control time of possession & stay on the field. A repeat of the Pittsburgh game by both New England units would spell disaster.

Derek Lowe Traded to Cleveland

This was an interesting trade.

Old friend Derek Lowe of 2004 fame is now a member of the Cleveland Indians. The Braves get a minor league reliever in return & the Braves also eat $10 million of Lowe's $15 million contract this coming year.

For $5 million the Indians get a durable starter in Lowe who had an off season with the Braves last year. Lowe joins a young rotation with fellow ex-Sox Justin Masterson & last year's acquisition of Ubaldo Jimenez. Not a bad #3 or #4 guy for the Indians rotation.

3 Gold Gloves

Some members of the 2011 Red Sox did more than drink beer, eat chicken & eat biscuits. Adrian, Petey & Ells were all rewarded for their outstanding defense last year with Gold Glove awards. All 3 players are very deserving.

Great to see that no Yankee players won at any of these positions.

Big Papi & Pap to Try Free Agency

Ben Cherington, via the Sox website, has said that both #34 & #58 will be trying out the free agency market later this week. While talks continue with both Cherington did not feel that any deal would be in place before Thursday's deadline for exclusivity by the current club.

Pap has made no secret about testing the free agency market. He has been living year-to-year with annual contracts for the past several years. His arbitration number was around $10 million last year. That may be too much for the Sox to swallow at that position.

Big Papi is coming off a multi-year contract that paid him around $13 million a year. The market for aging DH's is not huge, but he may be able to find a multi-year deal out there with another team. The Sox would like to bring Ortiz back, but on a short club-friendly one year contract, perhaps with a one year option, based upon incentives.

Of the two Big Papi is the more affordable player. It will be interesting to see which teams pony up big money for these guys, given the bust by big ticket free agents like Carl Crawford & Jayson Werth.

In The News: LaRussa & Sabathia

Tony LaRussa is quiting on top. The 67-year old manager of the Cardinals is calling it quits after winning the 2011 World Series. Tony did things his way, as evidenced by the shoe-polished jet black hair at 67-years old. Nobody's moss is that black at 67. But I give him credit for having a sustained winning career as a manager. You can't argue with success.

CC is returning to the Yankees with an extra $30 million in his pocket. The Yankees were probably bidding against themselves, but losing Sabathia would spell disaster for their future playoff runs. Even though CC was not as dominant as in the past, he is still an above-average pitcher. His age & weight may start catching up to him in his 30's as he continues to pitch 200+ innings every year. There are only so many bullets in every pitcher's arm. Still he was a necessary signing for the Yankees.

Sox Start Manager Search As Free Agents File

The Sox start their search this week for a successor to Terry Francona. Like him or hate him, Tito is the skipper who guided the Sox to 2 World Series titles with an 8-0 record. The post-Francona era starts with assistants from the Phillies & Brewers (old friend Dale Sveum) getting the first 2 interviews.

At the same time, players begin filing for free agency this week. The biggest names on the Red Sox list are Jon Papelbon & David Ortiz. The Sox have a $3 million option on Dan Wheeler which they need to decide upon as well.

Let the fun begin.

Sox Pick-Up Option on Scutaro

Marco Scutaro will not get to test free agency as the Red Sox bring him back for a 3rd year at the club option price of $6 million. Scutaro could have activated his player option for $3 million, if needed, but would have probably tested the market for his services.

When healthy - like his infield partner Jed Lowrie - Scutaro has been a very serviceable player. He is adequate at short & hit better than average from the bottom of the order.

In addition, his signing gives the Sox another year of seasoning for upcomer Jose Iglesius who has not matured into a big league hitter yet. Iglesius is the shortstop in waiting that we keep hearing wonderful things about.

Scutaro's signing is a good one in my book.

Pats Lose 25-17

The Pittsburgh Steelers were the better team by far today.

Pats defense couldn't stop the Steelers pass attack. It was nice to see Mayo back on the field, but he certainly wasn't at 100%. The secondary got exposed when the front line couldn't get any pressure on Big Ben. They did make the Steelers settle for field goals which kept the score close for most of the game.

Pats offense couldn't get any momentum going against the Steelers D. They had so few plays in the first half that it was as if the offense only played half a game. A few non-calls & a bad call that disallowed a TD in the 4th took an extra 2 minutes off the clock. But it wasn't to be as Brady got striped at the end of regulation.

Talk about a bad game. How about Stephen Gostkowski. Missed field goal. Botched on-side kick. Botched free kick. This was not his finest game. His missed field goal from 42 that hit the cross bar really hurt.

Like I said, Pittsburgh was the better team today. If we see them again, it will be in the playoffs - assuming the Pats improve over the next 9 weeks.

St. Louis Wins

Another wild card team who got hot at the end of the year ends up winning the World Series. Congrats to the Cardinals & local NH native Chris Carpenter for outplaying the Texas Rangers in the last 2 games to win the World Series in front of their hometown fans.

At the same time it has to be very frustrating for the Texas Rangers to make it to the World Series 2 years in a row, a fete in itself these days, only to lose twice. They were 1 strike away a few times in Game 6, but it was just not to be.

2011 is officially over, something that couldn't happen soon enough for Red Sox fans. Now it's on to 2012.

Righties Needed in the Lineup

How about a right-hand hitting DH & a right-hand hitting right fielder? That would even out a very left-handed lineup from 2011. Not that scoring runs was a problem in general last year, but they came in bunches which really skewed the numbers.

Who's out there? How about Cory Hart from Milwaukee? How about the guy from Houston that signed mid-season with the Phillies? If Big Papi doesn't re-sign, we have Ryan Lavarnway in waiting or perhaps a rotating spot at DH. If he does resign, maybe Big Papi is platooned & hits against right-handed pitching only.

It would be nice to see a more balanced line-up in 2012.

Who's Going to Bid on Pujols & Fielder?

The World Series is almost over. Free agency is about to begin. The 2 biggest names out there are Albert Pujols & Prince Fielder. Which teams will make offers on these two guys?

Not the Red Sox or Yankees. Teixeira & Gonzalez are firmly entrenched for years as first-basemen for these 2 clubs.

Which other teams would spend the big cash? Maybe Theo & the Cubs. Maybe St. Louis will try to keep Pujols. Milwaukee doesn't have the money to keep Fielder, but they might pony up after this year's playoff run.

Other possibilities might be LA Angels, Chicago White Sox if they move Konerko to full-time DH, NY Mets, Atlanta Braves.

There may not be that big a market with the Red Sox & Yankees out of it. It's very possible that both guys will stay put.

Who Comes Back - Big Papi or Pap?

Ben Cherington & Co. have a big to-do list in this off-season. On that list are what to do with free agents David Ortiz & Jon Papelbon. Can the Sox sign one or both?

It depends. Money & length of contract are always an issue. I think it is very possible that we could see both Big Papi & Pap in different uniforms next year.

The Sox may offer Ortiz a 1-year deal in the $5-$7 million range (a la Vlad with the Orioles) with a club option for 2013. That may not fit what Ortiz is looking for or what he might get on the open market. The Sox also have to figure out if they want an everyday DH or if they want to leave it as a rotating position.

Pap will be the harder signing just from a dollars standpoint. He made $10+ million through arbitration last year & the Sox may not want to spend that kind of money for a closer. Heath Bell & other closers will be more affordable & in the market.

If we keep Big Papi or Pap or both, I'm OK with that. If we lose both, I'm OK with that too. I'm ready for change.

Cherington In, Lackey Out

Ben Cherington was introduced as the new GM of the Sox today, just as Theo was introduced to the Cubs fans as their new President.

But leave it to John Lackey to upstage the Cherington announcement. News broke that Lackey will undergo Tommy John surgery & missed the entire 2012 season. What a break!

Now Cherington can go out & find some young talent to fill-in as the #4 & #5 starters behind the beer, chickin' & biskit boys of Beckett, Lester & Buccholz. Maybe those 3 will have taken enough heat by Spring Training to actually work hard next year.

Pats, Steelers Should Be A Good one

Brady versus Ben.

The Patriots travel to the Steel City this weekend to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh won last week at Arizona while the Pats enjoyed their bye week.

Same old keys - offense needs to score 30 or more, defense needs to give up less than 30. Maybe the bye week helped the Pats D to plug some of their holes over the first 6 games.

Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh will be a good test to see where the Patriots are as a team.

Has Sox Value Dipped?

If John Henry were to put the Red Sox franchise up for sale, do you think the 2011 season impacts the asking price? I think so.

Mr. Henry & his fellow owners have taken a deep hit to their deep pockets. Plagued by quarrels between ownership, management & players, one would have to think that the franchise value of the Red Sox has gone down. Only the 2012 season will tell if fans continue to lavish their support on a team that failed to return their respect to fans in 2011.

Once the World Series concludes later this week the 2012 season will start to come into focus. For John Henry, Tom Werner, Larry Lucchino & now Ben Cherington there are a lot of bridges to mend with the fans. It starts with putting together a roster of players that will work hard & play as a team to get back into the playoffs. Talent is only one ingredient as we saw last year.

Epstein Deal With Cubs Finalized

Theo Epstein is officially gone. He will be introduced by the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday as their new president of baseball operations.

Congrats to you, Theo. No one in Boston will ever forget the misery of 2003 followed by the curse-reversing year of 2004. The mid-year trade of Nomar was the key piece to winning the World Series. And that took guts.

Not all personnel changes have been winners. But look at Theo's counterpart in New York, Brian Cashman. He's had his share of big money duds, like Kevin Brown, Javy Vasquez twice & let's not forget A-Rod who has disappeared in every post-season except 2008.

I hope Theo can bring a World Series to the Cubs in the future. Our 86 years is nothing compared the 100+ years of suffering by the Cubs fans.

Big Papi Still Posturing for 2012

There was a Big Papi sighting at the World Series last night in St. Louis as David Ortiz won the Roberto Clemente Award for humanitarian service. Big Papi has done a lot for charity in his native Dominican Republic, including a new children's hospital, & he should be commended for his work.

When asked about his Yankee comments Big Papi backed off the rhetoric from earlier last week & said he is still a Red Sox & would like to remain a Red Sox. That's just good PR to keep both teams in the conversation. Remember - it's all about the money.

Vlad Guerrero got a 1-year contract from Baltimore last year for about $7 million. Isn't that about what the Sox should offer Ortiz? Or maybe we take the Ortiz money to help ship away John Lackey & give a newcomwer like right-hand hitting Ryan Lavarnway a chance to balance out the lineup?

I'm OK this off-season with anything that happens - as long as we put 9 guys out there in 2012 that try hard & give it their all everyday. No more prima donas. We've been there, done that.

Enough Already!

I've had enough now.

I can read one more article about beer, chickin' & biskits by the Boston Globe. I can't turn on ESPN & see Gordon Edes & Dan Shaughnessy discussing the collapse anymore. I think the Red Sox & September have been beaten to death.

Let's get back to:

- finding a new manager

- finding a right-hand hitting right fielder

- finding a way to get part company with John Lackey

- finding a way to retire Big Papi, Wake & Varitek

We'll have time to re-visit beer & chickin' gate in Spring Training.

Let's change the dialogue for the next few weeks. Please...

St. Louis Versus Texas in World Series

The Rangers start on the road in St. Louis to begin the 2011 World Series. That's because the All-Star game means something now. How dumb!

The series should have started at The Ballpark since Texas had the better season record. But the NL did win the All-Star game, so the Cards benefit from home field advantage during the series.

Ratings will be down since there are no big east coast or west coast teams in the finals. But it should be an entertaining series between 2 teams who got there much differently. Texas had a consistent season start to finish with a little pitching, a good bullpen & lots of hitting. The Cards pulled a Tampa Bay Rays act by finishing strong in September while the Atlanta Braves faded like the Sox in September.

I hope Nolan Ryan & the Texas Rangers win their 1st World Series. He & his ownership group have put together 2 great back-to-back seasons to reach the World Series twice.

Occupy Fenway Park

We the people have decided to finally protest big corporations running our lives. Politicians, in lock-step with their major corporate contributors - contributors that get them elected every year, have been accused of governing for the top 1% of this country versus the 99%. What started as "Occupy Wall Street" in New York has now spread to every major city in the U.S. & it has gone further to become a global phenomenon.

In that same sentiment I think the fans can send a great message to Red Sox management & players if Red Sox Nation decided to boycott the first home game of 2012. We could call it "Occupy Fenway Park." Instead of going into the park, let's stay outside & let NESN show an empty park on TV.

The only thing that management & players understand is money. So let's hit them where it hurts - in the pocketbook. One game with no ticket money, no concessions, no souvenirs, no TV ratings would embarass this organization into doing the right thing. The right thing is to work hard, to play hard & to never cheat your fans into caring more than our players do.

Don't ever pull a LeBron James statement on us again. We are the 99%.

Pats 20, Cowboys 16

It came down to the last possession by each team.

Dallas had a 3 point lead (16-13) with 3+ minutes left in the game. They were unable to get a first down, went 3 & out, & had to kick it away after taking very little time off the clock.

The Patriots got the ball back with 2+ minutes left. They marched down the field on pinpoint passes & ultimately scored the game-winner on a short TD pass to Aaron Hernandez. Pats win 20-16.

Brady & the offense were frustrated most of the game. But Brady saved his best for last & was money at the end. That's why he's Tom Brady.

The Pats D came up with a huge 3 & out to give the offense one last chance to win the game. They held the Dallas offense to 3 field goals in 4 attempts within the red zone. Don't forget thaty Mayo is out, so this was a solid effort by the Pats D.

Dallas had their chance & blew it. We made the most of ours. Game over.

Patriots - Cowboys At Foxborough Today

If Tom Brady's hair was an issue in New England, how about Tony Romo's inability to win games down the stretch? Not only does he not win, Romo turns the ball over in ugly ways. The drama surrounding Jerry Jones' Cowboys takes flight this afternoon in Foxborough, MA.

These 2 teams haven't met in 4 years. As I listen to a few reports, it seems that the Pats D needs to get to Romo & take away Jason Whitten, his favorite target. The Pats O needs to keep Brady on his feet & be aware of LB Jamarcus Ware.

The Cowboys owner, Jerry Jones, who built a stadium in Dallas like the 8th wonder of the world in admiration to himself adds to the circus atmosphere that surrounds the former "America's team." I bet Troy Aikman is glad to be retired after watching his alma mater these last few years.

On the field it's the same story every week. The Pats need to score 30+ points because their defense is going to give up about 30. Should be a fun game.

John Henry & Terry Francona

The soap opera that is the Boston Red Sox continues on this off-season.

John Henry had to call into WEEI's broadcast to state that it was not him who threw Terry Francona under the bus by revealing aspects of his personal life. That was done by "club officials" who are anonymous.

It came to light that Francona had ended his 30 year marriage & was living in an apartment most of this season. He also needed to seek out a 2nd medical opinion about the use or overuse of painkillers for his 5 knee operations. He also had a son or daughter in the military that was called up to active duty to serve in Afghanistan.

No one deserves to have their personal laundry aired out in the media. But in this age of no responsibility & "don't point the finger at me," John Henry is insulating himself as to why they - the ownership - let Tito go. It may have been the right call anyways, but don't make it personal.

David Ortiz & His Yankees Comments

Big Papi has gotten more press talking in October this year than playing in October in past years. Ortiz now says that he doesn't need the drama in Boston any longer & would like to go to a "good" team like the Yankees.

C'mon, David. How utterly stupid do you think the fans in Boston & New York are? Do you think no one sees through this attempt to get a bidding war going for your services in 2012?

Just another example of "it's all about me."

Where was the talk in the clubhouse by a 9-year vet who could have provided some leadership? And how about the childish interruption of Francona's press conference to bitch about an RBI? Maybe a little more work & less talk would have helped Big Papi contribute more than 1 HR & 8 RBI in September. How about talking about that!

Maybe the Red Sox should let Big Papi walk without making him any type of offer for next year. Most NY papers are saying that Ortiz would have to accept a low-ball deal like Eric Chavez or Andruw Jones to join the Yankees. Big Papi would go from a beloved player in Boston to one of the hated - like Johnny Damon. I don't think his restaurant would do too well either.

This reminds me of the movie "Contagion" which I just saw. There must be something in the clubhouse water that infected everyone into developing the disease of individualism over teamwork.

Ben Cherington Next in Line

A member of the Red Sox front office since 2002, Ben Cherington seems to be in line for Theo Epstein's old job as GM. Cherington is very familiar with the player personnel in the Sox minor league system. That should be a big help as the Sox look to re-establish their farm & add 1 minor leaguer to the big roster every year.

Once compensation between the Cubs & Red Sox is ironed out & Theo is officially gone I would think that Cherington will finalize a new manager within 30 days. Personally, I'd like to see them give the job to an assistant-type, like a John Farrell. Get someone hungry to make his mark & who will put the work in. I'd also like to see someone with an intimidating presence as manager, like a Jim Rice, who could stand toe to toe with any bad apples & let them know what behavior will not be tolerated.

Cherington will be a good pick as GM. We'll see how his first decision - to pick a new manager - works out.

Attitude & Effort

OK all you coaches out there. This article is for you. After reading all the stuff that went unchecked within the Red Sox clubhouse I thought it might be good to go back to basics.

It doesn't matter what sport you coach. It doesn't matter if you are a life coach. The following saying has always rung true to me.

"There are only 2 things that you can control on the field - or in life. That is your attitude & effort."

A poor attitude brings other players, co-workers or family members down. It allows others to join into the negativity & bad attitudes grow like a cancer. I've seen it first hand as a coach as many of you have.

Giving less than your best effort cheats your teammates, your co-workers & your family, but - most of all - a poor effort cheats you. When we were coaching together, my buddy Gaff would say that he had favorite players - the ones who came early, worked hard & stayed late. Hard work is its own reward.

In its simplest terms this is what caught up to the Red Sox organization in September. Bad attitude by some. Bad work ethic & effort by some. The result was inevitable.

Theo Going to Cubs

At least 2 outlets have reported that Theo Epstein will be leaving his GM job in Boston to go to the Chicago Cubs.

Wouldn't that be something for Theo to get a World Series winner in another city that has waited longer than 100 years?

This move may be good for Theo & I believe it will also be very good for the Red Sox organization. Ben Cherrington is more than an adequate replacement. A new start for both the Boston & Chicago organizations may be exactly what's needed.

Let's start the hype of a Red Sox - Cubs World Series in 2012!

Padres Interested in Lackey?

One stray comment that I ran across said the San Diego Padres are interested in acquiring John Lackey.

Put a bow on him & send him first class mail!

What Did We Learn This Year?

You think that you get smarter as you get older, but sometimes that doesn't happen. Remember the banter from sports shows in August as to who the Sox starter in Game 3 of the playoffs would be. Haven't we learned anything from past history?

Here's the things that I learned in 2011 & I hope I never forget.

1) Statements made in Spring Training mean nothing. Example - Josh Beckett predicts a 100 win season in March.

2) It a long grind through a 6 month, 162 game schedule. Results in April, May, June, July & August mean nothing. As a team, all you have to do through the first 5 months is stay within striking distance for September. This year that was staying within 9 games of the Red Sox for the Tampa Bay Rays.

3) Statistics showed the Red Sox had a 97% probability of making the playoffs. Unless the math tells you it's 100%, don't trust it.

4) Injuries happen. Usually the team with the healthiest pitching staff goes to the playoffs.

Like I said, I hope I don't forget these things in the future.

Pats 30, Jets 21

A 4th quarter Patriots drive that ate up the clock, spearheaded by the running attack of Ben Jarvus Green-Ellis, that ended in an all-important field goal by Goskowski led to a Pats win & a 3rd straight loss by the New York Jets.

In a back-&-forth game which featured way too many penalties by the Pats there were fortuitous calls on 2 challenges by Bill Belichick. Both could have been game-changers had they gone the other way.

But the last drive of the game salted away a hard-fought victory. The Pats keep pace at 4-1 atop the East with the Buffalo Bills & drop the Jets to 2-3.

Bravo Diamondbacks!

I spend time in Arizona & foolow the D-backs when I'm in town. They had quite a run in the regular season & playoffs this year.

The Arizona Diamondbacks exceeded expectations by coming within one run of moving onto the NLCS. New manager Kurt Gibson mixed in several youthful players with some veterans & mid-season acquisitions to get to the top of the NL West & within 1 run of the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLDS.

Gibson is known as a no-nonsense guy & he got the most out of a team of mostly unknown players. Ian Kennedy had a career year, similar to Jacoby Ellsbury. An injury to SS Stephen Drew was plugged adequately by Willie Bloomquist. And J.J. Putz was a better-than-average closer.

The D-backs may have lost, but they gained the respect of their fan base for leaving it all on the field. Why don't we get 9 players like that?

Pats Welcome Jets

Can Tom Brady & the offense help a struggling Pats defense to contain the Jets today? We'll find out in a few hours.

Even though the Jets have not looked very Super Bowl-ish in their last 2 consecutive losses, don't expect them to lay down against their arch-rivals.

Big boy coach Rex Ryan of the Jets has been pretty quiet lately. Let's keep it that way. A win would put the Patriots 2 up on the Jets.

Henry & Lucchino Interview

John Henry & Larry Lucchino did nothing to answer two of the hottest questions out there after the Red Sox collapse in September.

1) Is Theo Epstein your GM in 2012?

Sorry, can't comment due to privacy concerns.

2) Was there drinking in the clubhouse before games?

We're checking into it.

Well, I guess that interview won't end up on 60 Minutes. Both Henry & Lucchino were in damage control mode. No revelations about the search for a new manager either.

What are great, hard hitting interview by Dennis & Callahan! It was anything but...

Phillies Out Like Yankees

Fox TV won't like the fact that the big market cities of New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago & LA are nowhere to be found in this year's Championship Series or World Series. The team with the best record in baseball, the Phillies, lose 1-0 at home to the Cardinals & exit the playoffs this year.

It's an all mid-west final round between Texas, Detroit, Milwaukee & St. Louis. Like I said above, I'm sure that Fox is scratching their heads trying to figure out how the big west coast & east coast teams didn't make it at all or didn't make it further in the playoffs.

But that just proves anything is possible in round 1. Let's keep that in mind next year.

Red Sox in 2012

Are you buying the article on the Red Sox website that the Sox are back on top in 2012?

This article goes through a position by position assessment. In my humble opinion, howver, the Sox need 2 major things to happen:

1) Key players need to stay healthy for the full season.

2) A culture of entitlement needs to be replaced with a lunch pail work ethic. We need 9 Dustin Pedroia's & Jacoby Ellsbury's on the field.

Fix those 2 things & yes, I believe we have enough talent to be on top in 2012.

Thank You, Detroit Tigers!

The Motor City boys came through for all of Red Sox Nation. They get a big "thank you" & we wish them good luck in the ALCS.

While the beer-drinking Red Sox hit skid row in September, the New York Yankees with the 2nd best record go down in flames in the ALDS this October, not even reaching the Championship Series this year. Jeter played a little older. A-Rod did his disappearing act once again. Teixeira was cold. And even CC was not as overpowering as he was in the past. Joe Girardi is catching hell for his use of pitchers.

All is right with the world!

Game 5's Abound

New York & Detroit. Philadelphia & St. Louis. Milwaukee & Arizona. All 3 of these series are going to a Game 5 to see who moves to the Championship Series. Only Texas lays in waiting for their next opponent.

I think this shows that anything can happen once you get to the playoffs. And it's too bad for the Boston fan base that we were let down by our players throughout the month of September.

I'm having a hard time to put on my Red Sox gear lately.

Adrian Gonzalez - Year in Review

While God may not have wanted the Red Sox to win per Adrian, his first season in a Red Sox uniform was a tale of 2 halfs - the half before the home run derby & the half afterwards.

Overall, from a statistical viewpoint, Adrian put up the offensive numbers that you thought he would - about 30 homers & about 120 RBI. He also hit for average, producing over 200 hits like teammate Jacoby Ellsbury. Good year, right?

But stats don't tell the whole story. In the 2nd half of this season Adrian was not the same power hitter. And while he continued to chip-in hits at a .300 or so clip there were no big hits, no big RBI down the stretch drive in August or September. That's where his stats are deceiving.

It wouldn't surprise me if Adrian got follow-up surgery on his shoulder after this season. No one can go from the best swing in baseball in the 1st half to so many swing & misses in the 2nd half. Like Dice-K & the World Baseball Classic, Adrian needs to be a non-participant in the All-Star home run derby from now on.

Remember the saying about stats - they are for players who can't win. Let's focus on T-E-A-M next year & winning. The stats will take care of themselves.

Texas Rangers Ride Beltre to ALCS

Once again the Texas Rangers are in the ALCS. They await the winner of the New York / Detroit series which is going back to NY for Game 5.

Texas may have been under the radar this year, even though they are the reigning AL champs from 2010. The Rangers have just enough starting pitching, a very deep bullpen & an offense that can hit with any other team.

Don't be surprised if the Rangers make it to the World Series again. Congrats to Red Sox alum Adrian Beltre for his 3 home run performance last night.

Theo to Cubs?

No official word yet, but the rumor mill is buzzing about Theo Epstein being granted permission to talk with the Cubs about their GM position.

Doesn't it make sense that Theo would follow Tito out the door? What's left in Boston for Theo when his contract expires next year? Should a new GM pick the new team manager?

Theo's reign in Beantown is just about over.

Tim Wakefield Wants to Break Record

Along with David Ortiz, Tim Wakefield wants to be back in a Boston uniform next year. Why? Because Wake thinks fans want to see him break the all-time wins record. Hey Tim, how about fans want a team that hustles & wins!

Just like the beer video, the timing of Wake's comments is way off base. The Sox collapse is barely in the rear view mirror. Getting to win #200 took him 8 tries - along with 7 losses. And setting a personal goal is most inappropriate after the beer video & talk that the next manager needs to change the atmosphere of entitlement among players.

There is no T-E-A-M in a personal wins record.

Ill-Timed Beer Video

When you win in Boston, the whole world is with you. When you lose, it's like have CSI review every possible trace of evidence as to why you failed.

A country video featuring Josh Beckett, John Lackey, Jon Lester, Clay Buchholz & Tim Wakefield has surfaced. The song in the video is "I love beer." Obviously, this is poor timing as rumors of clubhouse drinking before & during games by the Red Sox starting pitchers has come under scrutiny.

If the Sox had kept up their winning ways when the video was shot in July, no one would care. But timing is everything. And the Sox players are in uniform which means someone in the front office had to approve it.

Poor timing for sure. But also poor judgment to promote beer.

Balanced Attack by Pats Sinks Raiders 31-19

The New England Patriots made the most of their red zone chances & the Oakland Raiders did not as the Pats win 31-19 on a day where both the Pats' division rivals Buffalo Bills & NY Jets lose their games. Pats & Bills are tied at the top now with 3-1 records.

I'm not a football insider, but a couple of things seemed odd to me. Why is Tom Brady still in the game in the 4th quarter with the game in hand? Why is the Pats offense not running the ball on every play to eat up the clock instead of going for more points? I don't get that aspect of running up the score.

Wes Welker had another big day with several receptions for 150+ yards. Deion Branch catches a TD pass. Stephen Ridley scampers for a nice 30+ yard TD, his first as a pro. And big Vince gets another pick with a rumblin', stumblin' return.

Each team amassed about the same yardage. Oakland had to settle for a field goal on their 1st possession. Then penalties & picks at crucial times sealed their fate. The Pats defense did give up a TD towards the end of the game due to poor effort & poor tackling.

Also, it was a costly win as the Pats lose Jerod Mayo for 5 to 6 weeks with an MCL injury. Mayo's loss comes at a time where the defense is bending & sometimes breaking. Mayo will probably miss big games against the Jets (twice), Giants, Cowboys & Steelers.

Onto the Jets next week at home.

David Ortiz Wants to Stay

David Ortiz wants to remain a member of the Red Sox. Here are the variables to bringing Big Papi back in 2012.

1) Was he one of the entitlement players down the stretch who didn't set the right example in the clubhouse?

2) How much less than $12 million will he accept on a 1-year contract?

3) What is the negative impact to the team of playing Ortiz in the field during interleague games & possibly the World Series?

I think the Sox would like him to return if the asking price is $5 - $6 million. Multi-years or more than that $6 million salary may knock them out of contention.

How would you replace Ortiz & his 30/100? Take part of that $12 million salary & get a better-than-average right-hand hitting outfielder (Cory Hart, for example). Use Youk, Gonzo, Ells, Crawford & Pedroia as revolving DH's to give each player a day off in the field.

For the right price David Ortiz comes back to Boston. With endorsements & other off-field money available to him in Boston he would be crazy not to end his career in Beantown.

A Few Observations

After listening to various opinions on what should & shouldn't have happened or will happen to the Red Sox team I'm offering a few thoughts of my own.

1) Hard Work.
Every player must have worked very hard to get to the major leagues. There is a saying that "the harder I work, the luckier I get." In order to erase a slump players need to work harder than before to overcome a bad stretch of games. It appears that such a work ethic was not put forth by a few players down the stretch.

2) Cancer.
Cancer starts by infecting one cell. Same thing applies to a sports team. It only takes one player to sink the culture of a team. I've seen it as a coach & I've witnessed it as a player. Whether it was Josh Beckett or John Lackey or David Ortiz or someone else who felt entitled to slack off down the stretch - shame on you. You let your team, your organization & your fans down.

3) Change.
Change can be good or it can be bad. The next manager will need to set ground rules of acceptable behavior & enforce whatever rules are established. Without enforcement, however, you have no rules. There must be consequences & it should be financial. He will need to instill a sense of pride in wearing the blue & red uniform & remove the atmosphere of entitlement.

4) Youth.
As I mentioned at the end of the new podcast, I hope the Sox of the future will incorporate the philosophy of the Tampa Bay Rays. Sign & even overpay for the best young talent. Get 5-6-7 years of hustle & improvement as these players work to get to free agency in their late 20's. Then, let them go for $20+ million a year as 30-somethings & start over. Youthful exuberance makes for an intangible, positive effect on a team.

5) Finally, I still say that Dustin Pedroia & Kevin Youkilis are the heart of this team going forward. We need to find 7 more starters like those 2 who will give it everything on a daily basis. If you bust your hump & give it your best, we can live with the results.

Let me know your thoughts.

Terry Francona Gone

The tenure of Terry Francona is over after 8 years. 5 playoff appearances, 2 World Series & 1 monumental collapse.

Francona's watch as Red Sox manager will be remembered most for the 2 world championships. The miracle year of 2004 & the repeat in 2007 will forever be his lasting mark on this franchise.

I think it's a good time for a change. Terry's message was falling on deaf ears this year by certain Red Sox players. The Boston media is zeroing in on the starting pitchers as the group who decided to make their own rules. Unfortunately, that entire group is back next year for Francona's replacement to deal with.

Who gets the lucky job? Lots of names out there - Tony LaRussa, Bobby Valentine, Tony Pena, Jim Hickey, Demarlo Hale, Eric Wedge, Joe Torre. Whoever it is he will have to be a disciplinarian to clean up the country club atmosphere.

We need to get back to a hard-working team that leaves it all out on the field - win or lose. We can take losing when you give your best.