Lowell's surgery a success; Epstein speaks
Third baseman Mike Lowell's surgery this morning was "a complete success" and his doctors were "pleasantly surprised" with the condition of Lowell's labrum in his right hip, Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein said this afternoon.
Doctors removed two bony lesions and some tiny portions of the labrum in his hip. "It was a complete success, and they’ll start his recovery tomorrow," Epstein said. The recovery is expected to be 3-4 months, but it could be less than that, Epstein said. Doctors also released an abductor in his labrum, which has to do with his tendons. Epstein is confident Lowell will be back at full strength by the time spring training begins.
"I think today was a big day for that," Epstein said. "They finally got a look in there. They didn’t see anything that they didn’t expect. We’ll monitor the rehab and the recovery, but we expect Mike to be able to contribute right from the start."
Esptein also addressed other Red Sox offseason concerns, beginning with Jason Varitek, who is a free agent. Here's an overview, starting with his thoughts on Varitek:
“He’s an important part of the organization. There’s no doubt about that. Obviously, he’s coming off a year that wasn’t hit best. But he’s important nonetheless. He’s a free agent, and we’ll be talking to him. We have an obligation to explore all of our options. We have to do that. We do that with every position.
"There’s not a lot of elite catching out there. At the same time, that changes the standards from what you’re looking for. What we like to do is be league-average at least in every position, and then be above league-average at as many positions as we can. The state of catching shifts the target a little bit. What’s league-average? What’s above league-average? If we do our jobs well, we’ll be at least league-average at every position. It’s been well-documented there’s not a ton of catching out there. We’ll try to figure it out. "
“We’re at a point now where we have a very solid foundation in the organization," Epstein said. "We’re not just going out this winter to try to address the 2009 team and that’s it. Instead, a better way to look at is we’re continuing the process of building and evolving the organization, and the 2009 team comes to fore as the most important version of the Red Sox that we’ll have. But we’re also going to continue to look at 2010, 2011, 2012, etc. versions of the team. We’re building an organization. When he succeed at the major league level, because of the foundation that we’re trying to build as a whole organization, not just as a major league team.
"We’re at a point now as an organization where we’re not desperate to improve in any one area. If you look at our starting pitching, if we bring back our starting corps and just make minor tweaks, I think we can be solid there. That said, is there an opportunity to potentially improve our starting pitching? Absolutely. We’re expecting to use a great deal of our time this winter trying to improve. If we just brought back our bullpen, would we have a pretty good bullpen? Yeah, I think it would be pretty darn good. That said, are we going to look to improve the ‘pen? Absolutely. We’re going to spend countless hours. Same thing if you look at our position player core.
"We can bring back the same group in any one are and be solid and have all of our bases covered. We can now pick our spots and look for areas to improve. We can be selective shoppers in free agency. Last offseason was great, because we didn’t have to be desperate, because we had built up our organization to the point where there’s no desperation in free agency. I think that’s the same approach we’ll take this year. Being smart, finding value, and being selective -- maybe aggressive in some areas, but selective at the same time. And the same with the trade market. We don't feel like there's anything we have to do. There's a lot of opportunities out there. Maybe there'd be a fit out there.
I can't give you one theme, 'This is what we need to improve.' I think we're pretty solid. But we need to get better, too. Looking at the caliber of play in our league and our division reinforces the notion that we have to always strive to improve. It'll be essential that we continue the process that we started several years ago of getting younger and more dynamic."
Cora would come back because he knows that he is a back-up. Casey probably won't be back because, if rumors hold true, there wouldn't be a spot for him anyway. Kotsay was a stop-gap measure because of the Lowell injury. Boston has four outfielders anyway. If they go after Texieria, then you are looking at too many infielders so do they run a rotation of Lowell, Youk, Texieria?
The biggest hole is the lack of a bat after Bay. People have hinted they would have won with Manny. No, they wouldn't have made the playoffs with Manny. The problem was Tek, Lowerie, Cora, et al., did not hit at all. In the 9th, they didn't give Bay anything to hit the three behind him weren't offering anything. People might think it was Manny that was missing, but it was actually Lowell that was missing. He would have either hit in front of Bay or behind him. That would have changed a lot.
I wouldn't mind Veritek staying...I only wish Tito would pinch hit for him when
it's near the end of the game and in a critical situation. He hasn't come through
in clutch very often this year. Might we have change the outcome of game 7?
Timlin had a great run, not necessarily the best way to go out but I tip my hat to him and hope he retires. This may be sacriligeous in NE but in Theo I trust. As Arnold said and I paraphrase, 'They'll be back~!'
1.)let Timlin,Schilling and Varitek go!!! and sign CC !!!!!
If I have to watch Varitek K or pop out one more time I'm going to smash something !!!!!! And if I hear "oh he good with his pitchers" then let his coach.The man has no reason to be up at bat. I'm sure Dice K or Lester can hit better...
Theo has the perfect game plan and has had it for a number of years now. Some player will need to move on (Casey, Timlin), others (tek) many need to take less money or years if they are interested in being part of this winning organization. And the team is still solid thru out, a tweak here and there via free agancy or bring a kid up from the farm maybe all it takes.
Thanks for another great season Sox!!
timlin sucks
hope you heal fast your team needs you mike. and to the TEAM THANK YOU FOR A GREAT RUN YOU GUYS CAN HOLD YOUR HEAD UP HIGH ..............................is it april yet
"If we just brought back our bullpen, would we have a pretty good bullpen? Yeah, I think it would be pretty darn good."
Did Theo get into the Sox champage stash last night? That must have been the booze talking right?
First of all, Ortiz has to get over the loss of Manny and take some responsibility for his miserable performance in the post season! If he's hurt than that's one thing, but to continue to talk about Manny is tiresome. He needs to shed some pounds and help his body heal if he wants to be a major factor again. Varitek needs to take a serious home town discount if he wants to stay. He is a valuable member and a good draw for potential pitchers, but you can only pay so much for a suspect bat. I think they should trade either Coco or Ellsbury for equal value in pitching. They shouldn't even waste their breath with Schilling, Casey or Timlin. They should be able to be a major player in the market with the manny money they saved
Sorry to hear Kotsay probably won't be back. He was a great fit here.
I hope they go after Texiera, Sheets and Sabathia in FA.
JJ Hardy from the Brewers would be great at short.
Everyone is looking for pitching prospects as well as Center Fielders.
Sox have both, so they should match up well with a bunch of teams.
Bengy Molina is available if they can't sign Tek.
Joe Mauer will be a FA in a couple of years.
Should be an interesting off season.
I love Jason Varitek but his hitting was abysmal! I hate to say this, but we can do better at the catcher position. One for 15 just doesn't cut it in the ALCS!
Unfortunately Varitek's ability to work with pitchers would be better employed as a bench coach rather than a miserable offensive catcher. It's simply a fact of life that catchers don't last as long because of the physical demands of the position, so let's acquire a catcher and bring Varitek back as a player/coach for one year to make the transition smooth and show his replacement the ropes. Allow him to catch once in a while as a backup, kind of a farewell tour for one of the most important players in franchise history.
I agree with Bostonwalt. Theo has done an excellent job following a system that does not require drastic change and a complete overhaul but rather fine tuning. Everyone seems to forget that Lowrie was incredibly good with RISP, even if all he did was fly out with a deep ball during the regular season. He struggled a bit in the playoffs - that's obvious - but he's also a rookie. Expect bigger contributions from both him and El's next season. I think it would help to have a much bigger impact player on the bench for situations that arose during this postseason where there was little Tito could turn to. I'd prefer to see both Lowell and Youk stay, even though that'd negate any possibility of Texiera. And to the person who said sign CC, the yanks will unload to get him, and as it is we should have (with health) three legit 15-20 games winners next season.
My opinion would be to keep Mark Kotsay and look to trade either Coco or Jacoby. I think it would be better to keep Ellsbury because of his upside. CoCo has trade value now and I believe he could bring a starting pitcher. There is still some concern about Beckett and Wakefield. I believe Josh will rebound but with Wakefield's age and history. I think he should consider retiring along with Timlin. Pitching no matter how you look at it is a young mans game. The older you get the harder it is to keep yourself in top form , especially your legs and lower body. In pitching no matter how well you can throw your lower body does most of the work.
My opinion would be to keep Mark Kotsay and look to trade either Coco or Jacoby. I think it would be better to keep Ellsbury because of his upside. CoCo has trade value now and I believe he could bring a starting pitcher. There is still some concern about Beckett and Wakefield. I believe Josh will rebound but with Wakefield's age and history. I think he should consider retiring along with Timlin. Pitching no matter how you look at it is a young mans game. The older you get the harder it is to keep yourself in top form , especially your legs and lower body. In pitching no matter how well you can throw your lower body does most of the work.
Signing CC Sabathia would be a waste of money. His success is in the National league and he proved it this year. Tek stays as does Cora. Timlin, Casey and Kotsay also go.
Byrd goes and a search for a 4th or 5th starter begins.
The need for another bat is also critical
JOE SHOM... Dice K might be able to hit better than Varitek but can he catch? I know, it was PAINFUL watching how far Varitek's hitting fell off this year. But like Theo says in the article, how much offense do most teams get out of their catcher? Who do you replace him with that is so much better? I would probably bring back Tek for short money and hope he bounces back. If not, you could give the job to Cash... not much better but younger and cheaper at least.
CC? Do you remember what we did to him in the playoofs? He is best suited in the NL.
I would let Tek, Timlin, Schil go and move wake to the pen at best, he is to inconsistent. Move Masterson to be a starter......and maybe Clay....sounds like a 1-5 rotation to me.
Do you think both CC and Jacoby will be here next year? I don't. One will be traded hopefully to Texas for Saltalamacchia (spelled wrong I know).
"People might think it was Manny that was missing, but it was actually Lowell that was missing. "
Couldn't agree more. I'm very happy Lame-my is gone, and I pity the fool that hires him. Another person who was missing is Schilling. If he had been what he was last year, and Lowell was healty, Bosox would be in the world series.
I would like to see CC in Boston, but there's rumors the Hankees are going to overpay by 30-40% over everyone else, so that's out. Peavey is staying in the NL, nobody wants Lowe here anyway, AJ might be too big of a risk, so who knows about pitching. Texiera would be a great addition, but that would leave the infield too crowded, not like Youk or Lowell are part timers. Too bad he can't take Lugo's spot. But we do need one more big bat, and for sure it's not going to be Giambi.
My opinion would be to keep Mark Kotsay and look to trade either Coco or Jacoby. I think it would be better to keep Ellsbury because of his upside. CoCo has trade value now and I believe he could bring a starting pitcher. There is still some concern about Beckett and Wakefield. I believe Josh will rebound but with Wakefield's age and history. I think he should consider retiring along with Timlin. Pitching no matter how you look at it is a young mans game. The older you get the harder it is to keep yourself in top form , especially your legs and lower body. In pitching no matter how well you can throw your lower body does most of the work.
As far as Jason is concerned , his age is against him for any long term contact. Maybe 2 more years at the most. He's been a great catcher but it's time they start looking for someone who will give them more than 50 games a year as a backup. My pick is Dustin Brown a catcher with Pawtucket who has done everything. he has potential power, consistent defense and calls a great game and has shown by improving every year in the minors plus has been great in ASL.
Sign CC? Heard what Hank has said lately? Hmmm a bidding war with the Yankees. That would be exciting. CC says he wants to stay with the Brewers
Sox should get a trade going with Texas for catcher Taylor Teagarden . Teach him how to prepare for a game. Someone has been watching Tek prepare for years ( Tito) so I imagine it can be taught. Teagarden could hit .270 to .280 and give you 20 home runs a year. He's expendable because Texas also has Jarrod Saltalamacchia who they preffer as their starter.
Varitek WAS a great catcher... He is getting older and has lost a couple of steps... Why not give Cash the chance he deserves.. It has been an awful year, watching Varitek strike out, time after time, with runners in scoring position.. He use to be a threat, at one time...An easy out now.. Shame on Francona, for not pinch-hitting for him, when the time was right... Loyalty must be checked with your coat, Tito... Cash is the answer there.
I think we need to keep Tek. There isn't a lot of veteran catching, or superior catching. Kevin Cash has been more than capable handeling Wakefield, and when Tek went down, he and George Kottoras both stepped in nicely. I don't think George is ready to take over Tek's starting job everyday, and I still think that Tek's advantage behind the plate makes up for his lack of efficiency at the plate.
That said, you have to deal with the devil when you deal Varitek, because Scott Boras is always trying to get the Red Sox in some way.
I like Jason Bay, but I feel that he could easily be a part of a package deal to get a big name outfielder. Is Vlad available? I would love to see Pedroia-Papi-Guerrero-Youkilis-Lowell. Thats a good lineup. Maybe Matt Holiday? I just feel that the lack of another big bat protecting Papi makes Papi worse and our offense just a bit thin.
I'm still proud of our guys, good season in 08, we just were a bit too injured to finish the young and pesky Rays.
The comments by boy wonder make me realize that we are in store for a 3rd place finish in the division next year. The sox are going to pocket most of the 40-60 million coming off the books while the yankee's will greatly improve their team.
The rays have a very young team that will contend for a number of years also. I am going on record stating that we dont make the playoffs next year.
Look at the principal competition going forward - the Rays. Four terrific starting pitchers, maybe five with Price. We have three, when healthy. If Bucholz isn't ready for prime time, and Masterson stays at set-up, use the Manny, Schilling etc savings to grab a frontline pitcher. That's where we're short. DLowe, if they can swallow hard enough to bring him back, might be a good alternative to Sabathia, whose price tag may go out of sight.
I think the redsox keep V-tek even though he is terrible offensivley. Then need a solid bullpen pitcher, ( Fuentes, Walker, Torres, Wood). And a plus would be to get a top of the line starter because Beckett hasn't been the same. Maybe a Peavy, Dempster, Sheets, Burnett, C.C.'s a strech or a Derek Lowe who actually wants to play here. An outfielder like a Matt Holiday or Vladimar Guerreo would also be tricky but would help out the offense. Mark Texeria would be a luxury but we have the money and would be a great fit, Lowell may be the one out if that happens.And finally bring in a cather from Texas (Laird,Salty) to back him up and put a little pressure on him. If he dosn't perform sit him an put one of them. The Red Sox have a lot of mmoney to spend and I think they have some spots to spend it on.
Varitek went through a divorce and it makes me wonder if that could have been part of his off season. Maybe once he gets through the divorce he can focus more on his catching and hitting. I noticed he had some passed balls this year that he wouldn't have had in the past along with his falling off at bat. But whether to bring him back or not is going to be a gamble. He is still an excellent defensive catcher who knows how to handle the pitchers.
I think the redsox keep V-tek even though he is terrible offensivley. Then need a solid bullpen pitcher, ( Fuentes, Walker, Torres, Wood). And a plus would be to get a top of the line starter because Beckett hasn't been the same. Maybe a Peavy, Dempster, Sheets, Burnett, C.C.'s a strech or a Derek Lowe who actually wants to play here. An outfielder like a Matt Holiday or Vladimar Guerreo would also be tricky but would help out the offense. Mark Texeria would be a luxury but we have the money and would be a great fit, Lowell may be the one out if that happens.And finally bring in a cather from Texas (Laird,Salty) to back him up and put a little pressure on him. If he dosn't perform sit him an put one of them. The Red Sox have a lot of mmoney to spend and I think they have some spots to spend it on.
I agree with Harv and unfortunately, the lack of Tek as an offensive factor really hurt us. Ironically, the only catcher playing who is clearly better O/D is headed for the WS on our new Divisional rivals.
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Bullpen is solid. Starters could use a Bucholz (or a Bowden!).
We'll see about Lowell. SS isn't worse or better than it's ever been . . .
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The biggest place to improve (Catcher, our Captain) may be impossible to.
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Sign Youkilis now, and Vote for Pedro!
why wasn't Casey more part of the scene during the post season???? I would have rather seen him out there instead of Kotsay!!!
living here outside of Tampa, talk radio here already are calling the Rays ths next Braves, winning the division for the next ten years or so. we all know theo will not let that happen! The sox have great young talent too!
Another great season for the Sox... we made it to 1 game away from the world series with tons of injuries to our top player... and w/o manny!!! Just show's how deep we really are... couple minor tweaks, lowell back instead of kotsay and we're right back in the mix... gotta hand it to the rays.. .they played some great baseball.. and we had no answer for garza...
How about replace Francona. Just answer me this question - why didn't he pinch run Ellsbury for Ortiz in the 8th with Ortiz on first then second as the tieing run?
It was a great season. Theo has a good handle on the situation. The Varitek situation is difficult. He's an unbelievable on-field presence and deserves the credit for bringing along some mediocre pitchers. But he is also a liability with the bat. Can he be replaced with equal or greater value? Possible but doubtful. Very few capable catchers on the market.
Kotsay and Casey may or may not stay. I like Casey. Timlin is in the category of great professionals. Time to retire. Yes, but with applause and thanks from a grateful Bosox nation for his effort and success over these past years. Luck!!
Timlin, Cora, Casey and Kotsay all are off to new teams or retirement. We won't miss any of them. Also gone in a trade should be Delcarmen and either Crisp or Ellsbury. Perhaps we can get another power threat (Matt Holliday?) Sign Tek only if he takes a bargain, NO big contracts please! Lastly, our starters seem solid how about a bench. When is the last time we had a guy capable of hitting a HR off the bench, that is an area that needs an upgrade.
Thanks for the 2008 memories guys!
I may be out of place because I'm not a Red Sox fan, but as a NL fan I think I can be objective to know what the Sox are looking at for next year. They will have solid production up and down the lineup. Too much emphasis is being put on Tek to hit, whereas if he plays excellent defense (which he does for the most part) and continues to call good games, he is a perfect fit at $4MM or so. Look at the Molina brothers who all hit fairly well but really play fantastic defense and get rewarded for big contracts. If you have one guy in your order who doesn't hit .275, its ok. Look at the NL, they win with pitchers in their lineup. Also, CC is a great pitcher, but you have to take what he did in the NL with a grain of salt; its the NL. Sign a guy like Derek Lowe, who pitches very well and won't cost nearly as much. Lastly, keep Lowrie in the order. 09 should look something like this: Ellisbury CF, Pedroia 2B, Ortiz DH, Youk 1B, Drew RF, Bay LF, Lowell, 3B, Lowrie SS, Tek C. Beckett, Matsuzaka, Lester, Lowe, Wakefield/Buchholz. Papelbon, Okajima, and Masterson taking the 9th, 8th, and 7th respectively.
the red sox need to get rid of the older players. the team has aged beyond its prime and each position should be evaluated in terms of ability, potential, and age of the player(s). if navarro could play ahgainst the red sox all season long, he would have an unbelievably high throw out percentage.
Besides Timlin, have to think it may be time for Wakefield to hang it up and give up a starting pitching slot to guys like Bucholtz, Bowden, etc.
Maybe use all the freed up Manny money to lock up guys like Youk, Pedroia, Pap, and Lester to longer term deals.
I'm hoping Varitek stays! As a catcher, one of the best in the league...hands down
He was terrible at bat, but he has showed in previous seasons that he can hit....
I really think that the Red Sox biggest need is in the bullpen. We need somebody else out there...Os course Masterson played very well at the end....But Delcarmen didnt go well, Timlin, Lopez....We need another guy there
I trust that Beckett will do well next year, so that would leave a good SP group...maybe a young pitcher from the Minors....Don't see the need to spend millons in a SP
Oh...I also think we could use a shotstop...Lowrie is "good", not "Red Sox good"...specially one that does well at bat....
Its that time of year to make some very obvious changes, so let's play GM for a day.....Timlin, thank you but its your time to retire, Varitek, thank you but if your agent wants Posada money then its time to move on, and Lugo thank you for nothing, please somebody take him off our hands even if we have to pay his salary. Please pick up Wake, he'll eat up innings one way or another.
Sign Tex no matter what it costs because it'll help Big Papi once he's healthy again
Sign or Trade for a starter and much needed bull pen help.
Anyone else think Manny is doing steroids? There's no way anyone can bump his average by more than 100 points for 61 games without some chemical enhancement.
a great year indeed....thanks not to just Theo, coaches and players, but thanks as always to Mr. Henry et al........this winning, and winning it has been, only exploded with the arrival of Mr. Henry and his group, it is to him and him alone that I am most grateful......the Sox did so very well this year, injuries, distractions, a new rival in the division...it was great stuff, of course I would want to win the world series just about every year, who wouldnt....but we all knowthat is not possible, and might possibley get boring or the norm, look at those who bolted out of Fenway during the Rays beat down.....sometimes losing gives you a better edge.......but going to game 7 of the ALCS as the defending World Champs sure beats not being able to defend the title at all...Thanks to Mr. Henry again....oh yes, and in case I forgot to mention, thanks to Mr. Henry
2 things: 1. nobody is saying anything about Papi. It's painful to watch him - is there a medical problem? 2. The team has gotten very white. Maybe that's part of Papi's loss of heart and enthusiasm. Look at the starters. Think about it.
TEK NEEDS TO GO...ANY CTACHER THAT IS FULL TIME PLAYER CAN BUILD REPORE WITH HIS PITCHERS..I AM SO SICK OF TEK STRIKING OUT FLYING OUT OR HITTING INTO A DOUBLE PLAY... ESPECIALLY IN THE LATE INNINGS WHEN WE NEED RUNS
Yeah I think Teks time is done.He just dosen't have the bat speed anymore.Everyone is so quick to dump Mike Lowell.He should be back 100% and just remember what he brings to the table.Clutch bat and solid glove.He looks older than he really is.(he is not young)He could have been the difference.Jay Bay is a solid player.Like to see him for a while.
To say "In Theo we trust" is not sacriligeuos at all, in my opinion. Look at where we have come since Theo took over. As for Timlin, if he has time left on a contract but chooses to retire, good luck and best wishes. In the case of The Captain...I am biased, for sure, and I absolutely hear the concerns/frustration about the hitting. I really do. I'm sure he's twice as frustrated. But you cannot for a minute minimize his impact and value on so many fronts. The handling of the pitchers, (escpecially these young, future stars who need guidance), his preparation and study of the game, (an example to all), and his clubhouse presence in times of tension...I'll stop there. But most importantly for now, congrats to Lowell and best wishes for a speedy recovery.
First it was the Patriots... Now this... It could have only worked out better if the final nail in the coffin was hammered in at Fenway in front of the most obnoxious sports fans in the world. Oh well, you can't have everything I guess.
SAVOR THE MOMENT!
If Varitek comes back can we DH for him and let the pitchers hit??
I am one of the biggest Tek fans you will find in Sox Nation and hope that he is able to finish his career in a sox uniform (both as a player and as a coach) but should we take away anything from that fact that his name is already off his locker in the clubhouse picture of Timlin packing up his stuff???? Worries me just a little.
AS A LIFE-LONG SOX FAN, I GET REALLY TIRED OF PEOPLE BASHING THEO AND THE OWNERSHIP AFTER A LOSS. ARE YOUR MEMORIES SO SHORT THAT YOU CAN'T REMEMBER THE PREVIOUS REGIME AND ALL THE DYSFUNCTION THAT CAME WITH IT? SINCE JOHN HENRY BOUGHT THE TEAM AND THEO BECAME GENERAL MANAGER, THE SOX HAVE BEEN IN THE PLAYOFFS IN FIVE OF THE SEVEN YEARS, WON TWO WORLD SERIES (UNLIKE THE OWNERSHIPS OF THE PREVIOUS 86 YEARS), MADE FENWAY A FRIENDLY DESTINATION, AND GIVEN US LOADS OF ENTERTAINMENT. FANS COMPLAINED WHEN PREVIOUS MANAGEMENT DECISIONS WERE BASED NOT ON FACTS BUT ON EMOTION AND NOW WHEN WE FINALLY HAVE OWNERS WHO ARE MAKING DECISIONS THAT ARE CREATING SUCCESS, IT STILL ISN'T GOOD ENOUGH. AFTER PUTTING UP WITH HARRINGTON AND DUQUETTE FOR ALL THOSE YEARS OF FAILURE, ANYONE WHO IS UNHAPPY WITH THE CURRENT OWNERSHIP AND GENERAL MANAGER PROBABLY JUST HAS A MISERABLE LIFE AND NEEDS SOMETHING TO BITCH ABOUT. I, FOR ONE, WOULD LIKE TO THANK THEO AND THE OWNERSHIP FOR ALL THEY HAVE DONE FOR THE FANS AND THE RED SOX DURING THEIR STEWARDSHIP. I TRULY BELIEVE THAT WITHOUT THEM AND THE TEAMS THEY PUT TOGETHER, WE WOULD STILL BE LOOKING FOR THAT ELUSIVE CHAMPIONSHIP. THANK YOU THEO, LARRY, TOM AND JOHN. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK!!!
Ortiz, Varitek and Mark Kotsay were major offensive disappointments in the playoffs, especially in the ALCS. Tampa Bay doesn't have a weakness in their lineup and each Bay batter posed pressure for Red Sox pitchers. One third of the Boston lineup struggled and were near automatic outs. That's why they lost. I can't believe Epstein would actually talk about re-signing Varitek, and not mention the weak hitting, or lack thereof, of Ortiz and Kotsay (who did a wonderful job at first base, by the way). Varitek may handle the pitchers well and he may be an inspiration to his team in the dugout and off the field but he has lost his offensive fire power. Big "Popeye" either needs surgery on the wrist or a good pair of contact lenses because he was pretty poor at the plate.
Timlin Casey Kotsay and Cora will be gone. Veritek will probably be gone too because he has satan as an agent and will be looking for too much money. Gotta trade Ellsbury and a pair of their prospect pitchers (Buchholz) for jake Peavey. Try and sign Texeira and somehow make a trade of either Lowell or Bay to try and get a bat to hit in front of Ortiz so he gets some pitches to hit. Andruw Jones?
With all the offense we already have its ok for Tek to be a sub par hitter. During clutch situations is when it gets most aggravating but no one calls a better game then the RED SOX CAPTAIN. You heard me "THE RED SOX CAPTAIN". There is a reason he is the captain. He is exactly what baseball should mean. I hope your back Tek. We in Worcester,MA want you back as our catcher. Theo make this happen. You might get a better bat than Tek's but you wont come close to getting a better,harder working player. We had 2 rookie pitch no-hitters and that was because Tek's brilliant ability to call a game. Theo, BRING THE CAPTAIN BACK!!!!!
How about Wakefield?? I'm tired of having a walk turn into a double or triple because of a sreal, or wild pitch, or passed ball!! Also I'm tired of watching his meatballs fly out of the park!!!
I don't know if it was the injury or a 1 year abomination but if Papi can't do better than this year we need a new DH. The capt. is a backup and I hope he knows that. One of the Texas catchers would be great.
Take a look back five years - or even four - and it is astonishing the empire that Theo and the others have built. An amazing farm system is the key to long-term success. On the other calls there will be some which work out better than others. Matt Clement was not a shining signing, but JD Drew has come up big in some big spots. Yeah, I agree - Trust in Theo and look forward to next year.
Teixeira is the bat they NEED! How it plays out with Youk and Lowell in the fold I don't know but Teixeira needs to be in a Sox uniform next season. With out Bay they move Youk to left but with Bay and Drew there is no room in the outfield for Youk. I'm not sure who would/should be moved If they will/can sign Teixeira
Varitek this year has been all catch and no bat. Yet he's invaluable for his pitch calling and pitcher-mentoring. Give him a non-playing three year contract at moneys befitting a coach. Let him mentor the young pitchers and the up & coming catchers, while calling the pitches from the dugout. The best of two worlds ... salary cap room and use of Tek's years of experience and leadership.
I definitely think the loss of Mike Lowell hurt the Sox in this postseason. Mark Kotsay is a very solid player, but is he an everyday player? Also, people NEED to get over the whole Manny mess, because there was no way in you-know-where he would have played, and it was evident, he was a cancer in the clubhouse.
Whatever Theo decides, you can be sure the Sox will take a lot of time and effort into their decisions. Hey folks, this isn't Dan "The Geek" Duquette, John Harrington,et al, running this club anymore. That's why we have two World Series trophies over the past five years. This year, we just lost to a better club, and
injuries to key people took a HUGE toll.
EMH
Albany, NY
injuries to
What is the contract status for Lugo?He should be moved and Cora retained,Casey, Timlin and Kostay should not be offered contracts.Still had Lowell been healthy Red Sox could have beaten Rays.
I think you need to resign Varitek at any cost and for as many years as he wants. He is far too valuable to the pitching staff. I would also bring back Timlin as the set-up guy as that is where he florished in his career. Lester is far to inconsistent as is Dice-K and they should be put on the market to see if they can obtain a player like Mussina and/or Maddux/Glavine. ...........................Are you kidding me not pinch hitting for Varitek! Vegas odds on a strikeout in that situation was 1:10. I just don't get it. someone please explain how he could hit there? Please. Anyone..... you can't
Due respect Joe Shom........... No wait, the hell with that, what is wrong with you. I'm not the type of fan who won't criticize my players. I have been all over many for years, but Dumping on Tek like that? This guy has given his heart and soul to the team. Tell me right now that the Sox would be a better team without him. I'm praying he stays. Something is not quite right with alot of you psuedo sox fans. I actually heard Papi getting booed during game five. Are we really turning into Yankee fans? Think of all the things these two guys, Tek and Papi have done for this franchise. Is nothing sacred. These guys, TEK especially, are the sox. Boston wouldn't have sniffed the playofffs this year without Varitek. He is almost definetely the most respected player in the game. I pray that TEK comes back to Boston. He should be welcomed with open arms. It has been a joy to watch him play for the sox and I don't think he's done yet.
Theo has always made the big move after coming up short (Schill, Foulke prior to 2004 - Beckett, Lowell Drew prior to 2007). With Manny/Schill gone, Papi on back side, Tek and Wake diminished roles, this is is now Pedroia and Youk's team. Now's the time to bring in Texiera (he will anchor lineup for next 5-7 years). Sox management LOVES him. Youk to left for 2 years (if Manny can play LF, Youk sure can). Youk to 3b when Lowell contract up. Solid player, but Bay's value will never be higher (can get top C prospect /solid arm in return). Ellsbury, Pedroia, Ortiz, Texiera, Youkilis, Drew, Lowell, Lowrie, C... Sox can win big with that lineup for 2-3 years.
Would like to see Timlin and Wakefield retire. No Wakefield, no more Cash. Sign a better offensive catcher than Tek. Tek would be the backup.
Hope Cora stays as a backup. They have $ to sign someone big since Manny is gone.
Franconia is still in my doghouse for the horrible management of game 2. Win that game it would have been 4-2 Sox Series Win.
You know we've turned a corner here when all is not doom and gloom. Getting to a Game 7 in the ALCS is a major accomplishment, and I want to thank the team for a very exciting season and am looking forward to spring training !
I believe Tek should be brought back, maybe for a 3-yr deal with an option for a 4th. His value is intangible and not just purely on offense. With him around, I think Lester and Dice-K may become 20-game winners next yr along with a healthy Beckett.
Theo's remarks likely indicate they will not go all-in to trade for a bat. The approach is the same, maybe sign another reliever or two or even three who can help out the core in the pen -- especially with Timlin possibly retiring.
The approach this year was good enough to get within a game of the World Series. I don't see a panic move to shake up things.
These new bandwagon fans need to stop expecting the World Series every year!
We are not the Yankees, we should be proud that we advanced this far.
It hurts, yes, but although I am as not as long in the tooth as some of my fellow fans I still remember the years where they got bounced out early, or didn't even make the playoffs at all. This is a top notch organization now, one that has a great chance to make the playoffs every year. I'm still not quite used to that. But the quickest way to kill the team, as the Yankees did, is to build around winning a World Series EVERY year by picking up expensive free agents and blowing the farm system
sox did better than most folks dare to expect. like with the pats we have become victims of our own success and adjusted our season ending hopes much higher in recent years. they could ve laid down in game five but they were all professionals until the season end last night shortly before midnight. we can rest well as our hot stove season begins in earnest.
timlin gave us his very best over the years and we certainly wish him all the best in the future. tek is a tough call. you can t simply give up on your captain after the heart he has displayed over the years but we need more than a hometown discount for him to stay. he should drop boras and cut his own deal this time.
too many infielders? too many outfielders? not enough pitching?
these are good problems to have. the corners are strong. up the middle is uncertain. what value could lugo or coco bring back to next year s team? bay is a keeper. justin is a gamer. and beckett will be back.
theo has shown that he can balance business with the emotional needs of the locker room and the fickle nation. tito has earned our admiration as a player s manager. let s enjoy our off season. watch the celtics. take a peek at the bruins. and tolerate the pats without number twelve.
most importantly number ninety nine and his hair do will continue to be someone else s headache next season.
Tim, Wake, ,Shill, Casey,Cora, Lugo, Tek, all have to go or retire! Let's face it, Tek can't hit anymore and Papi must be trade baite! End of story, and Ep has to work his tail off to get another reliever and power hitter!!!
"I only wish Tito would pinch hit for him when
it's near the end of the game and in a critical situation"
Like the other day when Casey struck out PHing for Varitek?
timlin lougo jason have to go
I'm not so sure Theo is going to just make minor adjustments here and there this offseason. Actually, I really doubt it. There are probably 3-5 players who are truly untouchable (Pedroia, Ellsbury, Lester) but the rest could be dealt or left astray. The Youk-Lowell situation doesn't feel settled at all, especially with Teixeira out there. Crisp is good as gone now that he's shown his mettle; Bay could be packaged to land Holliday or another slugger; and the Sox will surely deal Buchholz, Bowden, Masterson or some other young arm who shouldn't be in the minors. Does anyone think Lugo will be back? Only if they need to showcase him a little to get his trade value back up. And who knows what Ortiz has got left in the tank, or if he'll be able to stay off the DL.
Timlin had a great run, but Masterson is ready to inherit his spot. I would like to see the Sox take the Wakefield approach with Tek. Bring him back on a year by year basis. When both sides agree he's done - move him into the coaching ranks. They're aren't many good free-agent catchers and the Sox haven't really developed anyone. He's an institution in Boston. Cora was great too, but Lowerie is a solid fielder and also hit the series clinching hit in the divisional round. The Sox look solid for years to come. How about PEAVY in that rotation?
It too bad Francona wasn't let go in either of the last 2 seasons. We could have had Joe Torre or Lou Piniella. As bad as Francona is at in-game decisions, I'm not sure if there's anyone clearly better than him available right now.
I still can't believe he hit and run with Pedroia on 1st and Ortiz at the plate with 2 strikes and with Garza starting to struggle. He completely bailed Garza out of his most laborious inning. Francona costs the Sox 5-12 games/year with bad decisions. His unwillingness to bunt in bunting situations and take out his starter before he losses it is puzzling.
I
Theo has a perfect plan -- continue to spend more than any other organization and coast on two championships. Please. Sean Casey was his big move? How about wasting more money on Julio Lugo-type failures? Is he out from under paying for the last SS and now he has to buy out another? The amount of errors this guy has made over his tenure in Boston would have sunk any other team but the Yankees. But, he earns his keep by making sure the pack dog mentality of the media is not focused on the owners.
There's nothing out there for catchers, so let's keep Tek for a year or two, and hope (pray?) that Papi will be healthy and productive again. Casey and Tim are probably done, and we bid thee farewell. I'd love a front line starter - Dice is always uncomfortable, no matter how well he pitches, and Beck is up and down for his career. Who knows about Clay, and we'll pencil in 12-12 for Wake. Johnny Les is way over career high innings, so who knows there, as well. Go Sawx! Hey, anyone for drinks with Joba?
It's time for a change, Keep Tek as a Coach!! We love you Jason. But 1 HR in the post season does not diminish the fact, it does not look like you can hit anymore.
Sign CC to Add too Beckett, Dice K, Lester & Masterson. Trade Bucholtz, Coco and Lowerie for Joe Mauer.
No mention of Tito? Did he resign and I missed it? Tek is great, but you have to wonder if his legs aren't giving up on him. God knows how anyone can do that job day in and day out successfully, which is why a great catcher is sooo rare. Best to keep him, but shop for a good back up. I don't think Cash is it either. Find a young talent, give Tek two years with incentives, and have him start grooming his replacement. Then give him the Portland job. Cora, nice to know you and you were very great as a back-up. Casey, you deserve more. Tim, great knowing you and I look forward seeing you shoot turkeys on the Outdoor channel. Theo and Tito have change me from SoxSkeptic to Soxoptomist.
Great season, start to finish: exciting & competitive. Theo & Terry are the best. Yes, I wish Terry had pinch hit for Varitek in game 7 with the bases loaded. Nevertheless, sign Varitek for 2 yrs & look for catcher of the future. Trade Lugo, Crisp or Ellsbury, & Del Carmen with $$ to San Diego for Jake Peavy. Rather than Burnette or Sabathia (very expensive), bring up one more arm from the minors. Lowell & Ortiz to return healthy. Question: Can Lowry grown into a Pedroia-like star? Justin Masterson is a keeper. Great bullpen with Okajima, Masterson & Papelbon. Release Timlin & Schilling. Wakefield, too? The rest is tweaking. Drew, Bay, Youkhlis, Pedroia, Ortiz, Beckett, Lester & Dice-K : very, very solid.
I agree with Everett above. Varitek holds great importance for the pitching staff still. If the FO can acquire a better back up, one that can hit better than Cash, and Tito does the smart thing and pinches for Tek when he should, then 2 more years of Tek at optimum is fine. Wakefield is becoming a liability because of how his presence demands a catcher who can handle his pitch. He's still a great alternative as a starter but someone with a better bat has to catch for him, and catch perhaps a bit more often during the week - and learn Varitek's work ethic. Not an easy thing to make happen, but key nonetheless.
Signing CC is a waste. Too much money, to much body weight. Not going to happen.
Timlin's time is up and I salute him. A total gamer who earned his stay no matter how ineffective he was at the end.
Timlin is done, that is for sure. Tek is a tough call because there ain't a lot of options out there, seemingly. I think he comes back under a 2-year deal at fewer dollars per. Kotsay would be nice to have back because of his versatility. Casey is gone for sure. Cora? Meh. I assume Lugo will be back and so that will have to be dealt with, with Lowrie developing pretty well.
CC, no way he's worth it. But Wake really faltered this year in the late going and injuries are mounting for him. And he always seems to get crushed in the playoffs. Hopefully Clay B. will have figured out a few things and can make it back to the bigs. But the starting rotation doesn't need a CC. Maybe bring back Derek Lowe as like a fourth starter??
Love to have Texiera but the only way we sign him is if we trade Lowell and Youk moves over to third. I hate the idea of moving Lowell but Texiera is a monster, both on offense and defense, and Lowell's injury creates uncertainty.
Bring back Manny!!!!!!!!!!!!
in Theo we trust... absolutely! They outperformed my expectations after all the injuries. As one commentator (can't remember who) said, a lot of teams would LOVE to have the ability to replace Lowell with Youk and have Casey/Kotsay/even Papi in a pinch at first. That means Theo has more than done his job.
Thank you Sox for a fun playoffs (no one does comebacks like our Red Sox). It is time for Timlin to retire and for Tek to take less $ -- so glad Bay will be here next year. How many days until pitchers and catchers report? Get some rest guys -- we'll be waiting for you in February : )
Mike Timlin has been a lot of fun to watch with this team, but is clearly through here. Great guy. Middle relief is a clear concern, though Masterson looks promising. Lots of possibilities for Theo to consider.
I think Tek stays for 2 more years and works with Cash and another younger catcher. I like Kotsay better than Casey and I think Cora needs to go, along with Timlin. Sox need another option for a set up man...Bird is old, and Timlin way too old. Trade Lugo!!!
Do we really need Texeiria? I just think that 20mil a season will be better spent elsewhere? Youkilis is a terrific 1st basemen,hopefully Lowell comes back healthy then you will have 2 excellent corner infielders. Varitek if he wants to come back 2 years 8-9 mil a season. Reward for his great catching skills and leadership.
Varitek, Schilling, Cora, Casey, Kotsay, Timlin, & Lopez are all gone. Two of the three of Bay, Lowell, and Lugo will be traded. Ortiz and Beckett will be put on offseason conditioning programs. Time to retool the old, white, Red Sox.
Sign Tek to a 3 year deal....Make a package deal for Peavy. Jacoby, Clay, and another good prospect. Sox need another big bat....Maybe make a move or texeria.....First, make a good move for Peavy....Starting rotation will be....Dicek, Beckett, Lester, Peavy, and Masterson....Deadly 5 there....
Sign Varitek to a 1 year deal with a club option for next year. Trade bowden and Lars anderson for Jake peavey or one of those prospects for Lair/saltilamacchia from the rangers. If we get Peavery our rotation would be by far the best in baseball with him, Lester, Beckett, Dice-k, and either Wakefield, Byrd, or Masterson. If we can get a young catcher to platoon with Varitek that would be best for the club. If theres a possibility that we can do a deal to trade J.D. Drew to open an outfield spot why not move Bay to right field, Youk to left, then sign Tiexiera and put him at 1st. That would be the dream off season for the Sox. Maybe add another arm to the bullpen and theyre will not be a team that will be able to compete with them.
Although losing to the Rays was for sure disappointing. I'm not sure we're talking about being a game away from a third World Series in five years if the Manny act doesn't get the hook. Great job, Theo and Co. for making the 2nd half of the year Sox a Band of Brothers that play hard everyday and more importantly together as a TEAM.
Anything less than an MVP for D.P. is a crime !! Can't wait for 09' to start.... solidify the starting rotation with one more horse and we'll be there no doubt.
They should go after Manny Ramirez. I wonder if there's any interest on both sides. Yeah...thats the ticket....Manny Ramirez.
I think 08 sox just did'nt have the clutch hits when we needed them. Papi was a disapointment at the end. We have a GREAT team and think just need some minor adjustments. Bring back Derek Lowe, go after Burnett. Maybe a strong arm in the pen and a power hitter. Tek could stay if he settles for less (2 year deal 15million)and we trade for Saltamacchia. I think if we rotate the two catchers we would fair well. Stick with Lowrie, Cora, and Pedrioa up the middle. Try to trade Lugo and get a decent 1b/3b back-up. GO SOXX IN "09"
GIVE CREDIT WERE CREDIT IS DUE, RAYS ARE A GOOD TEAM! YOUNG GUNS!!
I think Buchholz will be a nice addition to the rotation next year (he's pitching much better in the fall league) and Beckett should be over whatever is ailing him, so why trade prospects for an expensive starter? Instead, go for a productive hitter, offering Crisp and others. But with weak hitting at catcher, SS and even (gasp) DH, hitting should be the priority, not pitching.
Isn't the modern age of computers and communication great! Everyone has the right to an opinion and the right to express their opinion. As do I....... The Red Sox exceeded my expectations this year! Winning back to back championships in this day and age are exceptionally tough!! The Red Sox were playing off of last years momentum. Small nagging injuries, career ending injuries, and individual potential not met are just a few reasons for incomplete success this season. Baseball is a marathon. The Red Sox stole more bases this year than any year in memory. The Red Sox cut a cancer from their team. The Red Sox picked up solid individual baseball players to finish the season. The Red Sox are on the right track to compete for the title next season!! Go Red Sox!
I agree that Tek has often been great -- but it's the toughest day-to-day position in the game, and the wear and tear has been showing for a while now. Nobody's got more heart, but there comes a time to call it a career (see: Timlin, Mike). Dustin Brown would be an interesting choice; he's done well in P-tucket and would probably thrive in Fenway. Tek will be a great bench coach. Great year, on the whole. 2004, 2007... let's not get greedy. I'll settle for great baseball and maybe 2010 or 2011. If it hasn't happened by 2012, THEN I'll start bitching. It's hockey season anyway....
Here's my offseason plan. First trade Bay and Buchholtz to Colorado for Matt Holliday. I love Jason Bay but Holliday is a special talent that doesn't come around very often and would provide the needed protection to hit behind Ortiz. The second thing that i would address is the starting rotation, I would get into the bidding for CC Sabathia just to drive up the price on the Yankees. I would insert Bowden into the rotation as the fifth starter if we can't obtain CC. Then you have to take a look at the shortstop position and decide what to do with Lugo and if Lowrie can handle a full season. Lastly you need to address the pen. I think we should keep Masterson there, he seemed to get more comfortable there later in the season. With Okie and Pap around all we need to do is obtain a couple reliable free agent relievers. I would love to see Lars Anderson contributing to this team sometime in August or September as a big bat off the bench or a spot starter to give a break to Lowell or Youkilis.
Props to Theo and Francona for yet another fun season, I wish it could have lasted longer but it was great none the less. There are a lot of other good teams that got out the golf clubs earlier than we did.
IT'S TIME TO SAY GOODNIGHT to Timlin, as well as Wakefield,,,,,the only guys in the pen we should keep are Masterson and Okijima. I really like Tek and hope we find a way to keep him around for a couple more years. Tek may not be hitting well but he keeps the pitching staff grounded. I was really impressed with Kotsay in the post-season, but he probably doesn't fit well next year. We really need a bullpen and we really need good health next year. I would like to see Ellsbury stay but he could be great trade bait if the right situation presents itself.
Thanks Sox for a great season, I can't wait until next year!!
Make Varitek bat right-handed (abandon switch hitting) and I'd keep him. If he can't recognize that his left-handed life is over, let him go.
Sign Varitek, he had a tough year, not just at the plate but in his personal life, it's hard to play your best when your distracted, he is the team leader, we missed Lowell in the line up, I think Josh missed Schillings support. Would love to see them land one more top starter, add a middle reliver or two, we missed a productive shortstop and we will be back next year. The Sox are the most exciting team in sports, I hope they move their spring training to Sarasota.
Timlim, Wakefield, Cora, Casey have to go ......................
It's pretty funny when some fans scream about the Rays and their young talent, and in the next breath scream for Theo to trade the farm and/or sign every free agent on the market.
They'd be insane to trade Buchholz, who's got world-class talent, or Bowden, or Masterson. These kids are the foundation the Sox are going to build upon for the next several years. A judicious free agent signing here and there to fill a significant need is fine, but building your entire team on free agent stars (as the Yankees have demonstrated) is not the way to go. Building a solid farm system is.
Why wasn't Pedoria bunting with first and second and nobody out in the eight inning or trying to hit the ball to right field. The chances of him successfully moving the runners into scoring position for Papi and Yokolis were far greater then him hitting a three run homer.
sign tek cheap. and go after texiera, even if you have to trade lowell (which might be tough). i think the bigger concern is ortiz. historically guys like him don't last too long. i'm talking big guy, big gut body types (these guys seem to last forever in middle relief). check out these guys:
boog powell - last decent season at 33, done at 35
john mayberry - last decent season at 31, done at 33
"boomer" scott - last decent season at 33, done at 35
cecil fielder - last decent season at 33, done at 34
mo vaughn - last decent season at 34, done at 35
i figured a decent season was minimun 300 at-bats and an ops (on-base plus slugging) above league average. all of these guys were slow first basemen/dh's and all faded hard and fast. ortiz will be 33 this november...
there are some big guys who had longer careers. dave parker was big but he was a gold glove outfielder who ran okay. he played until he was 40. frank thomas is a big first base/dh but he played tight end in college and carries his weight like one. he's 40 now (and probably done). willie mccovey, joe carter, eddie murray were big but pretty thin. mccovey played until he was 42, carter until he was 38 and murray until he was 41.
adam dunn, ryan howard and prince fielder are the new big guys/big guts. prince is the youngest but he's also the heaviest and the shortest. he could be the first of the three to go.
a couple of exceptioins would be "pops" stargell and a guy named babe ruth (although ruth was a pretty slim young man who ate and drank himself fat). i will say ortiz looks thinner this year than last. let's hope he's one of the exceptions.
//Trade bowden and Lars anderson for Jake peavey//
First of all, Peavey has a no-trade and is on record as saying he prefers to stay in the NL. The guy's no fool. And check his home/away splits sometime. The Sox would be insane to trade either one of those guys; Bowden is ticketed for the rotation within a couple of years and Anderson has a monster bat and is only 20 years old.
As the Rays showed, you don't trade your best prospects for over-the-hill stars.
Remy needs to go, too. I'm tired of the constant self-promotion and fleecing of our Nation. Merloni would do a much better job as analyst/color man. Give REmy a game show and get him off our tvs.
Tek needs to go. He coasted along this season on the fans' good will for previous years. It will real ugly is he signs for big bucks and has another stinker of a year. The "C" will stand for "Choke." Anyway, he has Heidi W. want else does he need.
Also we need to pick up Tex - he is the real deal. Put him at first and Youk at third. Does anybody really think Lowell will return to form?
Bost
Theo should trade all the Sox players to the Rays for all the Rays players. If the Rays balk, throw in Don Orsillo and Jerry Remy. If the Rays still resist, make Amalie Benjamin the manager and move Papi to shortstop. AC/DC November 9.
WE LOVE YOU GUYS!!!! YOU ALL ROCKED IT THIS YEAR DESPITE ALL THE TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS. YOU SHOULD ALL BE PROUD OF YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS. YOU GAVE IT YOUR ALL AND I THINK THE FANS UNDERSTAND THAT. YOUR TIME WILL COME AGAIN.
XOXOXOOX KEEP ROCKIN!!!!
Here are my 2 cents worth ...
Kostay was a good fill in for the end of the year but there are greener pastures out there for him out there. Which is fine because he may have showed us he is in over his head in post season play. I'd like to see Chris Carter make the big club in the spring. I don't think the Sox want to eat another short stop contract so get ready for some shuffling and whining at the 6 position.
Good bye and good luck to Cora, Timlin, Varitek, and Casey.
{edroia has to be the lead off hitter (remember Rose lead off and Morgan, the base stealer, batted second.
#67 ..Mike. Hit and run? Bitching and moaning about Francona? You've enjoyed two World Series championships when just a short time ago , you were wondering if you would ever see them win it in your lifetime. This is a great team to watch and is a wonderful reflection of their manager. We are lucky to have him lead our team and I feel he is one of the best in the game. Great thing about being a fan in Boston...onto the Celtics, Patriots and Bruins..no complaints here.
Outfield of Bay, Ellsbury, Drew backed up by Crisp; infield of Lowell (if he is at 100%), Lowrie, Pedroia and Youk, Ortiz as DH - Bailey, Van Every and Carter as factors somewhere perhaps...leaves Lugo, Kotsay to depart...Cash, if Wake goes, to leave as well - give Kotteras or Brown a chance to develop? I guess keep Vtek for one more year...staff of Beckett, Dice K, Lester, Buchholz and/or Bowden...goodbye Wake and Byrd and Timlin - pen of Masterson, Delcarmen, Oki, Paps - Lopez perhaps (but Delcarmen is iffy, I know)...maybe package a few of the Bailey/Carter types for another starter or reliever - or for another big bat (Holliday or Texeira)...no matter what, I think that they will be fine next year.
Tampa's starters are going to become expensive - wonder if Jackson or Sonnanstine may become available??? Jackson has great potential, I think.
1st of all JOE SHOM is an idiot how you going let Vtek leave I think Veritek problem was not having his contract and thinking to much. Catchers that can hit in the bigs is weird look at the dodgers catcher his the best in the national league and he blew it batting after manny. Tek is the heart of that team his are captain I want to see him retired as a sox if they let him go I'll be pissed. I also agree with Harv we would of won with out Manny Tito made alot of dumb moves on this one J.D Drew throws like a girl we lost 2 games cause of him game 2 and 7. Also we would of won if Mike Lowell was playing cause i know Mike Lowell would of atleats brought 5 runs out of the 20 kotsay left. Also Beckett was injured
Would the Sox be interested in Derek Lowe? He's a solid pitcher. He was clutch for the Sox, was good in LA, is a proven playoff pitcher and seems to be the type of starter the Sox need right now. They don't need a #1 or #2 type guy, don't need to throw a lot of cash at CC or Sheets, but they really do need to add a proven, reliable starter to their rotation next year. Lowe fits that role, solid pitcher that isn't going to command top money or be expected to come in and take over the staff. The only issue would be the Sox pretty much running him out of town in 2004 and not wanting him, but I'd full support having him back. I wouldn't mind them bringing in AJ Burnette either, as he also ills that solid 4/5 starters role but I think his price tag will be a bit too high this off season for what the Sox need. Bottom line is I think they should add a solid starter to the rotation, drop Wakefield to the pen or all together, and give the 5th starter role to Masterson or Clay.
Wow I just cant get over the ungratefulness and forgetfullness of some Red Sox fans. I put it this way....if you ever diss David Ortiz like a couple guys above have done, you are in no way a RedSox fan. After all the games he has won in the clutch in the last 5 years and all that he has done over the years? He has a torn tendon sheath in his wrist and over a full season he still would of averaged 34 homers and 135 RBI's?!?! And you want to get rid of him because he played hurt for most of the year? Ridiculous. Embarrassing to even hear it.
Anyone remember how the RedSox won the 2004 World Series? It started with a Jason Varitek Alex Rodriguez fight....the clubhouse rides on Varitek's leadership. He had a bad year, I agree, lets get another catcher in the mix and a bat off the bench to pinchhit for him next year but lets not forget chemistry in the clubhouse.
The breaks didnt go our way...we could of won game 2 and we had our chances in game 7 and we could be headed to the World Series....yet some fickle fans want to break up the whole club.
a) Would love to get texiera...have to figure out the chessgame of where to put him though
b) Peavy wont come here...wants to stay in NL
c) we have alot of trade value and Theo will put it together
d) Still cant get over any RedSox fan who EVER puts down Ortiz after all he has brought to the table......hang your head in shame.
First, let me say this...THANK YOU TO THE RED SOX! It was an exciting year. To Mike Lowell, get well soon. We definitely missed your leadership, defense and bat.
To the guy who wants to know if we can get Vlad Guerrero...ARE YOU INSANE? He has absolutley no discipline at the plate and makes Manny look like a base-running GENIUS! AND he actually has bum knees. Seriously, I don't think the Angels ever bothered to train him because he's UNTRAINABLE.
Sign Texieria or a first class 1st base, move Youk to short, (Lowery backup) Lowell at 3rd.
Keep Kotsay as a replacement for first, at any time you can switch those 4 players in case of injury.
Sign a first class pitcher and if you can- a good reliever (not a must) you're done.
Two observations:
1) why didn't Pedroia steal with Garza pitching & Papi up instead of a hit & run???!! Garza threw to 1st ONCE the ENTIRE SEASON....should Pedroia steal second, it changes the shift on Papi & if Papi still doesn't come through, it's only 2 outs .. . . not 3 on a hit & run.
2) I agree w/ the person who asked why didn't they replace Papi w/ Ellsbury on 2nd in the 8th? (Not that it mattered in the end) . . . but that makes sense!!! IT'S OUR LAST GAME of the season---pull out all the stops to try to make that not true.
Okay---I lied-- - I have one more.....on Monday, in the Globe, V-tek (who I love) is quoted as feeling "betrayed" by being pinch hit in previous games.....HELLO! YOU ARE THE CAPTAIN...you lead---the hearts and souls of the team follow you & you come out with a negative like that? What's going on in that clubhouse....LEAD, my friend, lead - - for the betterment of the team. TEAM. The comeback rally was more like an afterthought----HEY---maybe we CAN do this!!! It was in the moment...no "idiots" or "cowboys" or any other collective team belief/spirit. Shame on Tek for being negative & self concerned. Could that be why Francona didn't pinch hit for him last night....when he CLEARLY should have. Unless Francona was ensuring Boras has to STFU on a lot of contract demands....
Random thoughts . . . .
I wouldn't be too happy if they signed CC...he clearly is better fit for the NL and apparently CAN'T pitch in the playoffs when his team needs him to come through. We need another bottom of the order bat because that's where we hurt the most. I'm not sure what Theo thinks is the best way to go about that but I'm sure he could figure it out. The Varitek situation is tough. He's a great leader for the team and the young pitchers but his bat is pretty much gone. Theo is going to have to weigh his options, does he want a better hitting catcher or a better game managing catcher.
Tek - Sign him for 2 - 3 years and make him a coach at the end of his contract. We need him to help groom next catcher
Big Bat - Get Texeiria... no brainer. Fits right in and will protect Ortiz
Lowell/Youk - Can Youk play shortstop? Move Lowerie and Coco for a big name starter. If Youk can play short then the 2009 Line up - Ellisbury CF, Pedroia 2B, Ortiz DH, Texeiria 1B, Youk SS, Drew RF, Bay LF, Lowell, 3B, Tek C. That's not bad. Once Lowell retires then put Youk back at 3rd and hopefully bring up the next SS prospect.
Can Schill or Pedro be a number 5 starter? I like the idea of bringing Lowe back. Beckett will recover. Rotation: Beckett / Dice K / Lester / Lowe / Pedro or Schill with Bucholtz waiting to fill in.... move wakefield to the long rfelief role.... i don't know that looks pretty good
The biggest needs right now are: 1) A young catcher who can take over for Varitek in a year or two. Texas has three of them -- deal for one and let the transition begin. 2) We need six potential starters going into April next season and Wake and Byrd aren't the answers. Get back-end rotation guys as free agents and try Buchholz again next year -- maybe the third time is the charm. 3) There's nothing wrong with the bullpen. Okie, Delcarmen, Masterson and Papelbon can do the job IF the offense doesn't force them to do it for six or more innings, as happened a lot down the stretch. 4) I love Mark Teixeira too, but unless you're convinced Papi and/or Lowell are done, it's not cost effective. You can't pay $20MM for a guy who forces you to sit an All-Star every day. And Lars Anderson is coming soon. 5) Lowrie was a rookie this year and held his own. No way he's not the SS next year. 6) Given that Drew is hurt for part of every season, why would you let Coco go? Assuming Jacoby progresses (remember, this was his first full season), you've got a great OF along with a terrific backup.
In sum, the farm system Theo et al have put together has given us Pedroia, Youkilis, Papelbon and Lester (all now at All-Star level) plus Lowrie, Ellsbury, Delcarmen, and Masterson -- all of this in the last 3-4 years. Be patient, folks. These guys know what they're doing.
Sure, I was dissapointed like everyove else that the Sox didn't go to the WS but Theo has done a great job. We were 2 runs away from probably another title DESPITE all the injuries, Lowell & Colon being done for the season. I can only assume the team will be at least as good, if not better, next season.
How about getting an outfielder who can throw the ball? Sox have none. Trade JD, he disappears half the year anyway. D Lowe would be a good addition, but that will never happen.