The Boston Baseball Heads Show

Rice Knocks on the Door of the Hall of Fame -- OPEN UP!

2009-07-24T00:41:00.003-04:00

Jime Ed Rice is IN -- Coopestown to Welcome Red Sox Left Fielder.

Boston Red Sox
He did it his way

By Steve Buckley Jim Rice often gets written up as this aloof, hard-to-get-to-know tough guy, and rightly so. He was, after all, known to be short and abrupt with some of the sportswriters during his playing days, and, yes, there was a memorable runway confrontation with then-Red...

Move over Babe, Yaz, Splendid Splinter, Willie, Mickey - Make room for big Jim Ed...he is knocking at the door. let him IN!

John Updike Poetry on a Rainy Monday!

2009-06-29T06:22:00.003-04:00

By John Updike: "Baseball"

It looks easy from a distance,easy and lazy, even, until you stand up to the plateand see the fastball sailing inside, an inch from your chin,or circle in the outfield straining to get a beadon a small black dota city block or more high,a dark star that could fallon your head like a leaden meteor.

The grass, the dirt, the deadly hopsbetween your feet and overeager glove: football can be learned,and basketball finessed, butthere is no hiding from baseballthe fact that some are chosenand some are not—those whose mittsfeel too left-handed,who are scared at third baseof the pulled line drive, and at first base are scaredof the shortstop's wild throwthat stretches you out like a gutted deer.

There is nowhere to hide when the ball's spotlight swivels your way,and the chatter around you falls still,and the mothers on the sidelines,your own among them, hold their breaths,and you whiff on a terrible pitchor in the infield achievesomething with the ball soridiculous you blush for years.It's easy to do. Baseball wasinvented in America, where beneath the good cheer and sly jazz the chance of failure is everybody's right, beginning with baseball.

"Baseball" by John Updike, from Endpoint and Other Poems. © Alfred A. Knopf, 2009. Reprinted with permission.

TOM is Baaaack!!

2009-05-27T23:44:00.002-04:00

New England Patriots QB/QT Tom Brady is this week’s Sports... + read more

(Photo by Sports Illustrated (courtesy)

SRPING FOOTBALL IS BACK IN NEW ENGLAND AND SO IS MR. FOOTBALL -- TOM BRADY. REMEMBER --- HE IS THE KING. UNTIL PROVEN OTHER-WISE. HE IS PREPARED TO LEAD THE BEST DAMNED OFFENCE IN THE NFL TO ANOTHER SUPER BOWL IN 2010!

Rocky Was A Fan's -- Fan! We wiss miss ya!

2009-05-15T03:29:00.003-04:00

John J. ''Rocky'' O'Connell (right) at Eire Pub in Dorchester with friend Jimmy Dennis and Red Sox World Series trophy.

John 'Rocky' O'Connell -- Fan of Dorchester and Sox

The word "faithful" was invoked often at Rocky O'Connell's funeral Mass yesterday. The Catholic Church celebrates that virtue, but he applied it just as religiously to his home and his home team.

"He was a loyal person," said his daughter, Catherine of North Weymouth. "Loyal to his family, to his friends, to Dorchester. He didn't quite get why people left Dorchester."

He didn't get a few other things, too, like why anyone would consider switching the channel to golf at the Eire Pub when a Red Sox game was on. For years, he perched on a bar stool at his favorite haunt in Dorchester's Adams Village, watching season after season as he waited for the championships only the faithful were sure would someday come.

"Everybody knew him here," said Martin Nicholson, the pub's head barman. "He's a big loss to us here at the bar, he is, because you always expect to see him walking in the door, and now he won't."

A short walk from the pub, more than 100 people gathered in St. Brendan Church to bid farewell to John J. O'Connell, who died of congestive heart failure May 9 in Carney Hospital in Dorchester. At 78, he had lived, tipped a few with his buddies, died, and was mourned, all within a few blocks in Dorchester.

A fan's fan, Mr. O'Connell developed his own coterie of admirers. At the pub, where he sat squarely in front of a TV for Sox games, he was part of an extended family of regulars who preferred a bar with no jukebox and plenty of camaraderie.
"Rocky was the best," said Bobby Mullen, who repaired to the Eire Pub with many others after the Mass.

"He was always with the thumbs-up," Mullen said, lifting his fists, thumbs cocked upward. "When the procession went by, we all went outside and saluted him with a thumbs-up. It was pretty cool - there were about 30 of us."

Said Nicholson, "People loved him for what he was, a natural guy."

Mr. O'Connell, a longtime member of Utility Workers Union of America Local 369, spent decades working for Boston Edison and was "a great union man," Bill Mooney said at the pub. "I'm in there now, and I liked the way Rocky took me under his wing."

More than just a father figure to coworkers and buddies at the pub, Mr. O'Connell became a single father when his wife died of cancer at 36. He had met Helen Tewksbury in Dorchester High School and married her in 1955. When she was gone, no other woman would do.

"He used to say: 'She was gorgeous; I don't know how I landed her,' " said his son, Jack of Boston.Continued...

After she died in 1968, "people would say, 'You're young, get married,' " said Mr. O'Connell's best friend, Jimmy Dennis of Quincy. "He said, 'You'll never see me married again.' "

"He would say no one could hold a candle to my mother," Mr. O'Connell's daughter said.

His children were 12 and 9 when their mother died, and he took over all parental responsibilities.

"We were everything to him," his son said.

"He was honest, loyal, and reliable," Mr. O'Connell's brother, Bill of Dorchester, said during the funeral Mass. "No matter what, you could count on him."

Born in Boston City Hospital, Mr. O'Connell was the youngest of four siblings, and no one's quite sure when and how he picked up the nickname Rocky.

He graduated from Dorchester High School in 1948 and did a tour of duty with the Air Force, stationed first in the Philippines and then in South Korea, where he developed a lifelong distaste for cold temperatures.

Mr. O'Connell met Dennis when the two played on opposing Catholic Youth Organization baseball teams. They did the same a few years later in a city league. The friendship lasted after the competitions ceased, and in retirement, they traveled to Florida each year to watch the Red Sox for a few weeks of spring training.

They had barely begun their Florida sojourn this year when Mr. O'Connell took ill with the pneumonia that led to his congestive heart failure.

At one point, just before Mr. O'Connell died, his health seemed to rally. Family and friends attributed the respite not to an act of God, but to the fall of Manny. When Ramírez, the former Red Sox slugger, was suspended for using a banned substance, Mr. O'Connell was relieved, even in the depths of illness.

"The one guy he did not like - he hated him, actually - was Manny Ramírez," Nicholson said. "When this drug thing came out, Rocky died in peace."

Mr. O'Connell never thought Ramírez was a team player. Being part of the team meant a lot to Mr. O'Connell, whether the team was his immediate family, his friends at the pub, or the baseball players whose colors he proudly wore. Indeed, he thought everyone should share his clothing tastes, which always included at least one item from the Red Sox.

"Every Christmas, every birthday, he'd ask: 'Catherine, do you want a Red Sox jacket? Do you want a Red Sox cap?' I'd be in my 40s, and he would be asking me that," his daughter said, smiling at the recollection.

So much did Mr. O'Connell's friends identify him with the Red Sox that the sport was on their minds as the funeral Mass ended.

"We all came over here after the Mass, and we all said, 'They should have played 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game' in church," Mullen said as he stood in Eire Pub. "As they were playing 'Ave Maria,' we were all thinking, 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game.' "

© Copyright 2009 Globe Newspaper Company.

2009-05-14T06:48:00.001-04:00

By Cassidy Dover: "Mother's Day" Jimmy Scott's High & Tight
Source: www.jimmyscottshighandtight.com
Mother's Day, from a baseball wife's perspective (and baseball mother too).

Manny is Bagged!

2009-05-07T16:41:00.002-04:00

A day after Manny Ramirez helped lead the Dodgers to a record 13-0 home record to start the season, Los Angeles was rocked by the news that Manny had been suspended for 50 games for a positive drug test.

Just another act in the Manny sideshow - The Boston Globe
Source: www.boston.com
If any baseball superstar is capable of taking a medication in all innocence, and then finding out that something in it is included on Major League Baseball's banned list of substances it is Manny Ramírez. It certainly fits the profile.

Rem Dog Recovering with Cancer!

2009-05-06T23:40:00.003-04:00

Remy taking indefinite leave after cancer surgery

Posted by Michael Vega, Globe Staff May 6, 2009 07:12 PM

New England Sports Network has announced Jerry Remy, the beloved color commentator of NESN's Red Sox telecasts and president of Red Sox Nation, will be taking an indefinite leave from the broadcast booth to recover from cancer surgery, which he underwent late last year.
"I want to focus on completing my recovery,'' Remy said in a report posted on NESN.com, "so that I can return to work without distractions or interruptions.”

Remy joined NESN in 1988 and has teamed with play-by-play announcer Don Orsillo since 2001. Red Sox studio analyst and Hall of Fame pitcher Dennis Eckersley will join Orsillo in the booth during the remainder of the team’s current homestand against the Indians, while studio analyst Dave Roberts, the former Red Sox outfielder and postseason hero, will provide color commentary during the team’s West Coast road trip May 12-17.

There has been no decision about Remy's replacement in the booth beyond that date.
"Jerry is beloved, and on behalf of everyone in Red Sox Nation, I want him to know that he is in our thoughts,” Red Sox chairman Tom Werner said. “We will sorely miss him in the broadcast, but the most important thing is that he takes all the time he needs to recover.”

A former smoker who underwent surgery for lung cancer late last year, Remy had expected to return to the booth this season, but an infection and a subsequent case of pneumonia forced him to miss most of spring training.

“I hope that disclosing my bout with cancer will reinforce the dangers of smoking to every member of Red Sox Nation, especially children,” Remy said.

UMass Boston Baseball on Tournament Roll

2009-05-05T00:43:00.003-04:00

BASEBALL TRAVELS TO SOUTHERN MAINE FOR LITTLE EAST CONFERENCE BASEBALL FINAL FOUR

5/4/09 - BOSTON, MA - The fourth-seeded University of Massachusetts Boston baseball team will travel to Gorham, ME to take on top-seeded University of Southern Maine in the first game of the Little East Conference double-elimination tournament on Thursday, May 7 at 12:00 p.m. at USM Baseball Stadium. The Beacons advanced to the second round of the LEC playoffs after winning the first two games of a best-of-three series with fifth-seeded Rhode Island College in a doubleheader on May 2, winning the first game, 10-5, and the nightcap, 7-5. (MORE)

Sox Continue to Rock 'n Roll in Cleveland

2009-04-30T06:21:00.003-04:00

Jonathan Van Every hits first MLB Home Run.

Sox have a blast

Jonathan Van Every (above) hit his first major league home run in the 10th inning, giving the Red Sox a 6-5, comeback win over Cleveland. (Boston Globe)
On baseball

New guy struck a blow for Everyman

It doesn't always have to be Ortiz, Pedroia, Youkilis, Bay, or Drew. During the course of 162 games, it can also be someone named Van Every. And last night it was. (Boston Globe)

Red Sox notebook Smoltz goes with changeup
globe 10.0 Has Bay made you forget about Manny?
more red sox coverage

Baseball Heads View: this is the 2nd game in a week where the sox were down and almost out. They trailed the yankees at fenway on Saturday 6-0 and were down after a poor start by Lester last night 5-0. The plucked away and tied things up - went to extras. BUT - it would never happen without the best bull pen in baseball. Great work boyz. Keep on rockin.

Jim Rice Hall of Fame Caravan

2009-04-29T06:06:00.003-04:00

The Jim Rice Road to the Hall will interpret the phrase "Road to the Hall of Fame" literally. Boston baseball fans and Jim Rice supporters will convoy from Boston, MA to Cooperstown, NY for a one-of-a-kind event during Induction Weekend. Only 1,000 spots are available.

This is an officially licensed event by the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Jim Rice is actively participating. The Lowell Spinners (Boston area) and Oneonta Tigers (Cooperstown area), both members of the NY-Penn League, will co-host.

When:Induction Weekend: July 25-26, 2009
Where:Boston to Cooperstown, New York

Event Details:See Jim Rice at his Hall of Fame Induction. And much more at this unprecedented event!

See the Activities Schedule.

Reserve your tickets now -- space extremely limited.

Sox & Yanks - No Pitcher's Duel Today!

2009-04-28T05:59:00.013-04:00

Saturday (April 25) - I attended my 4th Red Sox home game of 2009. It seemed as though I was attended a pitching duel between Josh Beckett 7 AJ Burnett at the old ball yahd. Well -- I was wrong. The Yanks took an early 6-0 lead, but thanks to some great sox hitting 7 the Grand Slam by Jason VTeck the Sox tied it up and went on to a 16-11 old barn burner win.

The Red Sox won their 9th game as their prime rivals look like a team in shambles. Sans - AROID - the Yanks lineup is disjointed and leaderless. Te bull pen is a joke. It looked like the old Yawkey league - Chelsea National Team that won only one game in their cup of coffee in the league a few years back.

It is a long year and the Yanks will come around, but until ARoid returns and they get HELP in the pen!

Sox Sweep is Sweet at Fenway.

2009-04-23T07:52:00.039-04:00

No words just pics!

The Sox swept the Twins at Fenway on April 22. My friend Kathy Murphy and I waited with 37,000 nuts the night before when the game was washed out. We were treated during a 12:35PM start of the double header to a Tim Wakefield masterpiece and a 10-1 Sox victory. here are some of the pics I took. CLICK on the PIC for a larger image. ENJOY!

I AM WICKED PISSED AT THE RED SOX!

2009-04-22T00:16:00.000-04:00

I am PISSED off at the Sox! You are our man on the inside and I hope you can make these facts clear.

The fweather in Boston was awful today. The Twins game that was delayed and not called off until 8:15PM should have been PPD at noon.

This is school vacations week. Families are being blocked out of Fenway by HUGE ticket prices and HUGE scalping on the streets and internet. I spoke to many fathers who were irate that they were forced to go to Fenway and wait for a game that was never going to be played. they paid for parking - food and memorabilia.

Many have to work at NOON today. Thus, they and their kids lose the opportunity to be a part of the Fenway Experience. FOR THEIR ONLY TIME in 2009.

Shame on The Red Sox. Money is the root of all evil and the Sox have been forced to forget their fans and care more about the almighty buck.

I attended 10 Spring Training games at City of Palms Park in March. I hold tickets for 21 Sox games in top priced seats for this season.

I defend the Sox and promote them every day on my Blog in my person and on TV. BUT - not tonight! Shame on the TRIO. They need to be more sensative to FANS not MONEY!

Support Mini-Fenway Project

2009-04-20T03:26:00.002-04:00

Congratulations --- BU Hockey!

2009-04-16T00:28:00.003-04:00

White and red confetti floated through the air today as a jubilant crowd celebrated Boston University's NCAA hockey championship. BU came back from a 3-1 deficit to beat Miami University (Ohio) for the title on Saturday.

ANOTHER Name Change at North Station!

2009-04-16T00:18:00.002-04:00

TD Garden

On April 15, 2009, owner and operator Delaware North Cos., together with TD Banknorth, announced the arena will be officially renamed "TD Garden" in July.

The name change comes as TD Banknorth prepares to re-brand their New England operations to TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank, in fall 2009.

The OLD and the NEW Gahden - sit aside on another.

First Pooch on White House Lawn

2009-04-14T23:32:00.003-04:00

OK - this is a sweet First Family Pic taken on the White House Lawn. The lawn is US Government property. I gather BO as he has been called by the Obambums - POOPS! Is it now a dog park...can I bring Sachamo The Wonder Husky for a romp with Bo? There is a pooper scooper law in DC! NOW, none of these people pick up that POOP...I GUARANTEE. Who is the poor soul who carries the CVS bag around and scrapes the dog-dirt up? It better not be anyone assigned to distribute any "stimulus money" and it better not be a poor Marine assigned to protect the Prez. AND - I hope it is not a Secret Service Agent...he/she could be bending over when someone is taking aim at our Commander In Chief. This is a serious dilemma that needs to be addressed.

Bryan Duffy Runs for Parks

2009-04-14T07:50:00.004-04:00

Yawkey League

BRYAN DUFFY

Harbor Point -- Player Manger

Runs Boston Marathon

Donates proceeds for Fund for Parks in City

In 6 days, on April 20th, I will be running the Boston Marathon! I wanted to say thank you to everyone who has supported my fund raising and training efforts. So far I have raised over $600, which is a good start to provide one young man or woman a chance to have an internship this summer at a company that will provide a great start for a promising career. It's my very own mini "Duffy" job stimulus plan! If you don't already know, this is my 3rd marathon in 2 years, and my second attempt to raise money for this outstanding charity.

I am running in support of The Fund for Parks and Recreation, which is a charity that focuses on providing teens with summer internships. Remember your first summer job? Studies indicate teen employment plays a critical role in keeping youth off the street, developing life skills and self-confidence, and preparing them for future success. With your help, we can open up a world of new opportunities for even more local youths by supporting The Fund for Parks and Recreation.

If you want to read more about the foundation, here is the link: http://www.jhmarathonfundraising.com/ .

If you have not donated yet and would like to, there are two ways you can donate:

1) Visit my Boston Marathon fund raising website:

http://www.firstgiving.com/bryanduffy2Donating through this website using a credit card is simple, fast and totally secure.

2) If you prefer to send a check, checks should be made payable to The Fund for Parks and Recreation and mailed to:

Bryan Duffy, 714 E. 4th St. Apt. 1, South Boston, MA 02127.Also, please let me know if you have used a company match, as I can add the match to my fund raising totals.

Many thanks to all of you for your help, and if you're not going to make it to the course on Patriots Day next Monday, you can track me at the B.A.A. website, and my bib number is 24128:

http://www.bostonmarathon.org/

Bryan*** About donating online *** It's very easy to support Bryan online - visit: http://www.firstgiving.com/bryanduffy2 to make a donation. It takes a matter of minutes, is totally secure and you can even leave a message with your donation.

Another very sad Day in Baseball!

2009-04-14T03:19:00.003-04:00

Mark Fidrych died Monday at the age of 54. The "BIRD" as he was called was a local (MA) kid who made good with the Tigers. Those of us who were privileged to see him during his 5 year MLB career remember him stalking around the mound; talking in his glove and making comments to the baseball. All these antics seemed to make the "kid" more comfortable on the bump.

Phillies Hall of Fame announcer Harry Kalas died at 1:20 p.m. today just before he was to do the Play by Play for today's Phillies game in Washington. Kalas is a very familiar voice of NFL Films and MLB Phillies over the years. A great talent and a very easy on the ears.

We baseball heads morn their loss today!

Support - Sgt. Adam P. Kennedy Scholarship

2009-04-13T01:06:00.006-04:00

www.sgtadamkennedy.com

This scholarship is both in tribute and loving memory of a man of outstanding valor and honor, Army Sergeant, Adam Kennedy 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division. Adam was killed in action while defending his country during the Iraq War. He will be remembered as a loved son, brother, friend, and as a proud and dedicated soldier in the United States Army.

The Memorial scholarship will be awarded to a student each year that displays a similar drive, character, and sense of honor to Adam's, along with an interest in pursuing a military career. The Sgt. Adam P. Kennedy Memorial Scholarship will help to extend Adam's legacy as a true American Hero who believed, above all else, in the value of honor, loyalty, and service to ones country.

We're interested in hearing from you!

Please get in touch!

Just click this address to send us e-mail:
Email us

Or you can reach us at our mailing address:

Sgt. Adam P. Kennedy Scholarship

P.O. Box 100

Norfolk, MA. 02056

A GREAT Baseball Story!

2009-04-11T14:00:00.002-04:00

Evan Kazmouski, Dwight Evans and Mike Kazmouski

Those of us who were associated with Mike Kazmouski during his amateur baseball career know that he had a favorite player - Dwight Evans. Kaz love for Evans as an athlete spanned Dewey's Red Sox Hall of Fame career. Kaz wore #24 and pattened himself after Evans tracking down long fly balls in the Yawkey Baseball League in RF.

It was not shock when Kaz and Jill brought their son into the world that EVAN would be named after #24.

EVAN & Mike Kaz had an opportunity to meet Dewey on Wednesday night at Fenway Park. Evans signed a ball for Evan (I think Dad may have scoffed that pea) and they posed for this tremendous and memorable picture.

Tragedy Strikes the Angels

2009-04-10T06:33:00.003-04:00

Nick Adenhart of the Los Angeles Angels baseball team.

Tim Bogar didn't know Nick Adenhart well, but in July 2006 at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Adenhart was on the roster of the US Futures team for which Bogar coached. So when he heard of Adenhart's death yesterday morning in a hit-and-run car crash in Fullerton, Calif., a couple of hours after the 22-year-old Angels righthander had shut out the A's for six innings, it evoked myriad emotions.

Not only did he feel for Adenhart, his family, and the two other passengers who were killed, but the tragedy conjured memories of two former teammates Bogar considered close friends who died all too young.

"Darryl Kile and Ken Caminiti were very close friends of mine," said Bogar, the Red Sox first base coach, whose major league career brought him to Houston from 1997-2000. It was there he met Caminiti, who was into his second tour of duty with the Astros. It was also there where during the 1997 season he befriended Kile and remained close to him until his death June 22, 2002 from coronary disease.

Another Cardinals and Red Sox farmhand, Josh Hancock, died in a car accident April 29, 2007, while drinking and talking on his cellphone.

"When I heard about Nick, you know, you just start thinking about things and, really, the wonderful things about Darryl and Ken that kind of pop into your head. But at the same time, it's just very difficult to think that they're no longer with us and [neither is] Nick Adenhart, obviously a wonderful kid and a very talented kid who was up in the big leagues at age 22, and the world of potential he had. It's just devastating."

Bogar didn't know Adenhart well mostly because his job was to work with infielders. Adenhart spent his time with the pitching coaches on the Futures squad.

"Everyone spoke so highly of him. A kid from a nice family who was rising fast and had all the tools," said Bogar. "Obviously, he's in the Angels' starting rotation at a young age, so you know what kind of ability he must have had and how far he'd come."

And so the trip out West for the Sox was quite emotional.

"It'll be tough," said Brad Penny, who pitched for the Dodgers last year. "But not as tough as it is for that family right now. My heart goes out for them. What a tragedy."

The Red Sox had observed a moment of silence before the game in memory of Adenhart.

YES - Bruins will play at Fenway! You are not dreaming...

2009-04-10T06:25:00.002-04:00

The Bruins, lobbying for months to bring the NHL's Winter Classic to Boston, have been given the go-ahead by commissioner Gary Bettman's office to host the game Jan. 1, 2010, despite mild, perfunctory protestations from Causeway Street that plans for the popular New Year's Day game have yet to be finalized.

Pending a last-second hiccup, the game will be staged at the near century-old Fenway Park, with its iconic Green Monster serving as the backdrop to the boards, Plexiglas, and 85- by 200-foot sheet of ice. The league gave the Bruins the official go-ahead Wednesday night.

According to a source familiar with negotiations involving the NHL, players, and the Bruins, Boston likely will host either the Washington Capitals or the Philadelphia Flyers. It has long been rumored that the next Jan. 1 game would include a Canadian-based team, with the Montreal Canadiens the probable partner for a game in the Hub of Hockey.

But a number of sources indicated it is highly unlikely the Habs will be part of the show, and the likely partner will be the Capitals, whose playoff-bound roster includes superstar winger Alexander Ovechkin, the game's most exciting player and No. 1 goal scorer the last two seasons.
Provided the game is at Fenway, there is little doubt it will sell out, no matter the opposition. It is expected the Bruins early next week will confirm the game, its venue, and the process for purchasing tickets, which could be tougher to obtain than tickets to recent World Series games at Fenway.

According to a source familiar with the negotiations, if contractual details can't be worked out at Fenway, the game might be at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. NHL officials in recent months toured both venues extensively, eschewing the opportunity to review Harvard Stadium, and came away suitably impressed by both.

Gillette, which seats 68,756 for the Patriots games, would offer far greater seating capacity than Fenway, with its seating of some 36,000 for Red Sox games. However, Fenway is the hands-down winner for history, intimacy, and its downtown location, a short jaunt up Storrow Drive from the Bruins' home on Causeway Street.

Gillette also could present a quirky fit for a Jan. 1 game because of potential conflicts with the Patriots' regular-season schedule and the playoffs. The NHL needs upward of two weeks to set up its portable outdoor rink, then another week to tear it down - possibly a tight fit for the perennially successful Patriots.

Opening Day Ceremonies at Fenway Park

2009-04-08T00:09:00.003-04:00

As game time approached, the Red Sox held a number of ceremonies on the field before the season opener began.

Following the national anthem, the 104th Fighter Wing from the Barnes Air National in Westfield soared over Fenway Park.

Beckett dominant in opener

Josh Beckett gave up just two hits and had 10 strikeouts against the Rays in seven innings, leading the Red Sox to a start-to-finish, 5-3 win over their American League East rivals on Opening Day.

Click below for:

Galleries Game Pregame ceremonies Scene
Extra Bases Notes and analysis from Fenway
Video Watch the players gather in the stands for intros
Video Beckett and Francona postgame comments

Kennedy throws out first pitch in pregame ceremony
Francona will be careful with 'pen in early going
more red sox coverage

Back in Time - April 7th

2009-04-07T13:06:00.005-04:00

1979 - Adrien Beltre was born on this date. 2000 - The Devil Rays retire the No. 12 uniform in honor of Wade Boggs. Although the former Red Sox and Yankee third baseman only spent two years with Tampa Bay, he hit the franchise's first home run and became the 23rd member of the 3,000-hit club as a member of the team.

1984 - With a 4-0 shutout against White Sox in Comiskey, Jack Morris becomes the first Tiger since Jim Bunning, who accomplished the feat in 1958, to toss a no-hitter.

1969 - At Washington's RFK Stadium, Ted Williams makes his managerial debut in front of President Nixon and a crowd of 45,000.

OPENING DAY --- 2009! A Wash......

2009-04-06T23:51:00.003-04:00

The only "action" at Fenway Park on Opening Day 2009 was the work of the grounds crew and some warm up action on the sidelines by both teams. Red Sox V Rays on April 6 would have to wait for another day. Opening game was re-scheduled for 4PM on Tuesday. Hope for warm weather and clear skies. RIGHT!

My New Seats at Fenway Park

2009-04-06T02:19:00.003-04:00

The Red Sox did a huge rehab of the stadium bowl during the off season. They removed and replaced every BOX SEAT in the yard. They also made an effort to improve sight lines in the box seats and point them more towards the action. The best improvement was they lowered the walkaway that paved around the park in front of the 2nd tier of box seats.

MY Seats (20 games) are located right next to the ramp behind the 3rd base Visitor's Dugout. They are in the 2nd row. The seats are wider (thank you Larry) and the path is now clear. Our sight lines in a perfect seat will never be blocked again.

I can not wait for Wednesday's game with the Rays!

Bean Pot @ Fenway Park

2009-04-02T00:36:00.005-04:00

For the 20th consecutive year, this traditional baseball doubleheader will be hosted at Fenway Park, America’s Most Beloved Ballpark, and will feature the varsity baseball teams from Boston College, Harvard University, Northeastern University and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.This one of a kind event is a great way to enjoy baseball at Fenway Park!

Tickets for the Baseball Beanpot, which will take place on Monday, April 13, 2009, will go on sale at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, February 25, 2009.

To purchase tickets, fans can log on to www.redsox.com/beanpot or call (877) REDSOX-9 starting from 12:00 noon on Wednesday, February 25, 2009. Fans with disabilities may call (877) REDSOX-9 to purchase accessible seating (while supplies last). The Red Sox' TTY number for hearing-impaired fans is (617) 226-6644. All tickets are general admission and are priced at only $5.00. Additionally, official citizens of Red Sox Nation will be beneficiaries of a 2-for-1 promotion.

Players from the participating schools will be on hand for autograph sessions, and there will also be appearances by the school mascots and Wally the Green Monster. All fans will have the opportunity to have their picture taken with the World Championship trophy as well. The day will begin at 2:05 p.m. with the consolation game followed by the Beanpot Championship game at 5:05 p.m.

OK --- The first April Fools Joke is OUT!

2009-04-01T03:19:00.002-04:00

Hanley Ramirez Returning to Boston
http://www.realbostonsportsfans.com/

With just 5 days to go before their 2009 season opener, sources close to negotiations have confirmed that the Red Sox have brought former prospect Hanley Ramirez back to Boston. In exchange the Sox will send starting centerfielder Jacoby Ellsbury and top pitching prospect Daniel Bard to the Florida Marlins. Boston originally traded Ramirez to Florida in November, 2005 in a multi-player deal in which the Sox obtained Josh Beckett and Mike Lowell. In his 3 full major league seasons the 25-year old has hit .308 with 79 HR, 207 RBI and 137 SB. Although he has been a shortstop throughout his career it is believed Ramirez will be replacing Ellsbury in centerfield for Boston. It is unknown where he will bat in the Boston lineup, but it is likely he will either hit first or second (with Pedroia moving to leadoff). He has 6-years, $70 million remaining on his current deal and the trade is clearly a cost-cutting move for the fiscally conservative Marlins. Although Ellsbury will be missed, and Bard has amazing upside, it's almost impossible not to love this deal. The Sox are currently finalizing a second prospect to send the Marlins and a press conference is expected sometime tomorrow.

Posted by DK at Wednesday, April 01, 2009

BASEBALL HEAD VIEW:

Whoever wrote this is on SKAG!!!!!

This story is all a bunch of BS! The Marlins can not and will not trade the only drawing card they have left. Instead of 2,000 people they will have 500 and they will be family and friends of the players in the stands.

THE ABOVE ARTICLE WAS TAKEN FROM REAL BOSTON SPORTS FANS.COM

VACATION TIME --- OFF TO FLA

2009-03-01T08:06:00.002-05:00

I WILL NOT BE POSTING FROM MARCH 1 THRU 26. GOING TO FLA TO SEE SPRING TRAINING AND COLLEGE GAMES IN FT. MYERS, SARASOTA, PORT CHARLOTTE AND WINTER HAVEN. WILL HAVE MANY PICS TO POST AND STORIES TO TELL UPON MY ARRIVAL HOME.

TAKE CARE AND BE WELL!

From: Where Is he Now?

2009-02-27T01:04:00.004-05:00

YES - That IS --- Our Old Pal --- Billy Carey of the Brighton Black Sox. Bill played and coached on two Yawkey Baseball League Champs "back in the day". He is now playing over "something" ball, but looks to be in great shape afield and on the bump. Bill and his wife Mary and kids were always around the YBL circuit, until they moved to the far reaches of the Center of the Commonwealth.

I stole these pics from the Carey Face Book Wall in hopes of keeping folks up-to-date on a YBL Good Guy!

2009-02-26T14:21:00.003-05:00

BC Baseball NotThe Red Sox kicked off the Grapefruit League season with a game at City of Palms Park in Fort Meyers, Fla. against Boston College, allowing BC student manager David Hasebroock a chance for some souvenirs.

(Jim Davis/Globe Staff) from Ft. Myers

To members of Boston Amateur Baseball Network

The Red Sox kicked off their Spring season today with their annual game against the Boston College Eagles. Josh Beckett had a strong start for the Sox, throwing two perfect innings and striking out two.

For BC, Geoff Oxley got the start, pitching one scoreless inning and walking two. Prior to the game, Boston College players assembled along the first base line to watch their home team players such as Mike Lowell and David Ortiz take batting practice.

It wasnt until one BC player was brave enough to approach the batting cage and not get stopped by security that the rest of the team felt they could get away with it, too. The whole team moved off the line and crowded the cage to watch Julio Lugo take BP.

It was there we found Mike Augustine, first baseman for the Boston College Eagles, who is not new to playing against the Red Sox. He played against them last year, too, and had the opportunity to face Beckett. According to Augustine before the game, even though the guys normally root for the Sox, today, the players treat this just like every other game. He stated that stepping into the batter's box against a local star is a "big addrenline rush, a different feeling" and that it is "more fun than normal" and "not intimidating."

Apparently so, as Augustine later knocked out the first BC hit of the game against Sox prospect Kris Johnson in the fourth inning - a hit that helped set the stage for Mike Belfiore who later that inning broke a scoreless tie with an RBI single.Alongside Augustine was BC pitcher JB McDonald of Danvers, MA. His goal after school is to play baseball at the next level. He's already received letters of interest from 5 or 6 Major League teams to play after college. Since NCAA players are not allowed to have agents, these inquiries are something he needs to manage himself. What will he do after school if he doesnt play baseball? "Let's just say I'm not interviewing for jobs right now," McDonald stated. Can you blame him? His Eagles were about to play the Red Sox when asked. Meanwhile, Jeff Lozer was suited up for the Eagles by the dugout steps taking it all in. If you dont recognize Lozer's name from the BC roster, that's because it's not on it.

Jeff played college ball with BC skipper Mikio Aoki at Davidson back in the day. At a recent coaches convention, Mik offered Jeff to coach third base against the Red Sox as a Christmas present. Really? Anybody reading, feel free to stuff my stocking with that come December.While the Red Sox ultimately defeated BC for their 17th straight year, BC led the game, 1-0, going into the 5th inning. Had it rained, a BC win would have been official. As it is, the game lasted just 1 hour and 30 minutes.

That's what no televsion commercials will do to speed up a game. That, and the fact that the annual game lasts just 7 innings. Northeastern University is the next college team in line to play the Red Sox this Saturday.

Tune in. (Photos to come to www.bostonbaseball.com)

Brett Rudy wrote this article from his perch at City of Palms Park in Ft Myers

Twins 5 Sox - 2 (Split Opening Spring Games)

2009-02-25T23:44:00.001-05:00

Twins 5, Red Sox 2
(Globe Staff / Jim Davis)
Twins Top Wakefield - Sox

Time Wakefield's knuckleball isn't always a welcome sight for hitters getting their swings into form, but the Twins didn't have much trouble tonight, topping Wakefield (right, with Kevin Youkilis) and the Red Sox 5-2 in their exhibition opener. (AP)

Sox 7, BC 1 Sox rally to beat Boston College
Report: Dodgers make Manny two-year, $45 million offer
gallery Red Sox vs. Boston College photos
Sox-BC box score MLB scoreboard
Shaky start for Matsuzaka in WBC tuneup
globe 10.0 Evaluating the Red Sox rotation
A-Rod homers in spring debut

SOX SPRING TRAINING BEGINS!

2009-02-25T00:26:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow's lineups and pitchers

The Red Sox play their first games of the spring season, opening with a 1:05 p.m. contest against Boston College at City of Palms Park and capping the day with a 7:05 p.m. game against the Twins at nearby Hammond Stadium.

Below are the probable lineups and scheduled pitchers.

Red Sox vs. BC (1:05 p.m.)
1. Julio Lugo, SS
2. Rocco Baldelli, LF
3. David Ortiz, DH
4. J.D. Drew, RF
5. Chris Carter, 1B
6. George Kottaras, C
7. Jonathan Van Every, CF
8. Nick Green, 2B
9. Angel Chavez, 3B

Scheduled pitchers: Josh Beckett, Clay Buchholz, Kris Johnson, Junichi Tazawa, Felix Doubront and Daniel Bard

Red Sox vs. Twins (7:05 p.m.)
1. Jacoby Ellsbury, CF
2. Dustin Pedroia, 2B
3. Kevin Youkilis, 1B
4. Jason Bay, LF
5. Brad Wilkerson, RF
6. Jed Lowrie, SS
7. Jeff Bailey, DH
8. Josh Bard, C
9. Gil Velazquez, 3B

Scheduled pitchers: Tim Wakefield, Justin Masterson, Manny Delcarmen, Javier Lopez, Ramon Ramirez, Billy Traber and Dustin Richardson

IN MEMORY - DAN TARPEY

2009-02-24T01:43:00.002-05:00

ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY

IN MEMORIAM

MARCH 1

BASEBALL TOP DOGS

AL THOMAS PICTURED WITH HIS BEST BUDDY

THE LATE DAN TARPEY

OUR COMMISSIONER

IN LOVING MEMORY
OUR COMMISSIONER
DAN TARPEY

One year ago - March 1, 2008 - the Thomas A. Yawkey League lost its best friend.

No man exemplified the ideals of our League better than Our Commissioner - Dan Tarpey. For many years Dan dedicated himself to promoting quality amateur baseball in the Junior Park and Yawkey League. He was a great husband, father and friend to so many across the area. Dan served as a teacher/coach at English High school. So many were touched by this kind and gentle man.

We will never forget you Dan! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family each and every day.

Our players and coaches continue to dedicate themselves to high standards that you set for us throughout the years.

May Dan Rest in Peace!

YAWKEY LEAGUE ALL STARS V US MILITARY STARS

2009-02-24T00:49:00.006-05:00

US MILITARY ALL STARS V YAWKEY LEAGUE ALL STARS
JUNE 5, 2009
Historic Holman Stadium

67 Amherst St.Nashua, NH 03064

(603) 883-2255

RedWhiteBlueTour@aol.com

HUSTLE, THINK, WIN!

www.americandefenders.us

The US Military All Star Team will invade New England once again in June for their annual Red White and Blue Barnstorming Baseball Tour. The Thomas A. Yawkey League has been invited to participate once again in this historic tour. We have been privileged to play the Military Stars since 2007. The Military Team & Yawkey Stars have split in their two exciting games.

Bill Stewart Diamond in Roslindale and Adams Field in Quincy have been the locations of the first two games. 2009 will present a new twist in the rivalry. Historic Holman Stadium in Nashua, NH will be the location for this year's Baseball War. The Military Stars will hold up at Holman for a few games before they turn their sights on the Cape Cod League All Stars.

More information on this great event will follow.

Save the date and come up to see the best amateur baseball has to offer on June 5, 2009 - Holman Stadium at 7:35PM.

The Worst Break Ups in Red Sox History

2009-02-21T12:07:00.004-05:00

BREAKING UP IS HARD TO DO....

For every player who is unconditionally adored by teammates and fans even after leaving Boston, there's another who can't seem to get out fast enough. Red Sox history is littered with players, coaches, managers, and front-office types who refused to go quietly. With the advent of free agency in 1976, the past 30-plus years have been particularly contentious.

CLICK ON THE LING BELOW FOR THE STORY AND PICS:

http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/gallery/02_13_09_OT_worst_breakups/

February 20th in Sports History

2009-02-20T10:40:00.004-05:00

2000 -- Garth Brooks (left, with Mike Piazza) begins spring training with the New York Mets.

1974 -- Gordie Howe comes out of retirement to play for the Houston Aeros with his two sons.

1963 -- After leading the Giants to the pennant the previous season, Willie Mays signs a $100,000 contract to become the league's highest paid player.

My Favoorite A---Roid Headline!

2009-02-20T07:43:00.002-05:00

This Date in Baseball History.....

2009-02-20T07:37:00.003-05:00

Born on this Date: Dave Stewart (1957)
Commissioner Bowie Kuhn announces that effective April 1st, Tiger pitcher Denny McLain will be punished with a 90-day suspension for his alleged connection with bookmakers.

After being hit by enemy fire during a Korean combat mission, Ted Williams safely crash lands his Pather jet.

A-FROD IS GAY!

2009-02-19T08:13:00.003-05:00

Another great ARod mystery has been revealed. ARod IS GAY! Here he is pictured with his secret man-love in a secluded location in Central Park, NYC! Rumor has it - that Jeter is suing for false promise and love damages. Johnny Damon was rushed to a local Tampa Hospital for HIV Testing after this picture was revealed. More film at 11PM.

JD Drew Reports to Ft Myers

2009-02-19T08:11:00.003-05:00

JD Drew was at Ft Myers in "EXPECTED Condition" yesturday!

A-Roid Comes Clean? Kind of.......

2009-02-18T06:38:00.008-05:00

The celebrated Roid Head from the New York Yankees - - A-Frod came clean -- kind of yesterday in a nationally televised news conference. He admitted he did roids from 1991 to 1993 and was "a stupid kid' for doing so.

I do not know if anything he said was true, but it was a small step in the right direction for a man who has all the money in the world and all the baseball talent a person could hope for. A-Roid will face the music in every MLB venue from now until he quits the game he has disgraced. fans will give him the Brox Cheer from Boston to Tampa - LA to Chicago. Kids who emulated him will drop the name jerseys and posters in their bedrooms.

BUT - A-Rod will play baseball in 2009 and for many years to come. the 30 year old third baseman for the Yankees - will hit field well and hit more homers than any player to put on a jock in the MLB. Once his career is over - he will be a member of Cooperstown's Hall of Fame, but not right away. he will have to wait a long time for the writers to place him in the Shrine.
Let's say this --- I am sick of A-Rod, The Rocket and all the other negative entities who have plagued the Game WE love. Let's move on and JUST PLAY BALL!!!!!

FISHER COLLEGE BASEBALL

2009-02-13T00:15:00.008-05:00

FISHER COLLEGE BASEBALL

Eddy Delcarmen, Dave McKay, Arlen Showstack, Tom Englehart & Coach Scott Dulin

Eddy Delcarmen, Tom Englerhart & Coach Scott Dulin with Dave McKay

Fisher College players and head coach join Dave McKay on the Boston Baseball Heads Show.

The 2005, 2006, and 2007 Baseball teams won the Sunrise Conference and Region X Titles to place them in the NAIA Super-Regional Tournaments. The 2006 team was ranked 25th in the nation.

Fisher College players and head coach join Dave McKay on the Boston Baseball Heads Show.

The 2005, 2006, and 2007 Baseball teams won the Sunrise Conference and Region X Titles to place them in the NAIA Super-Regional Tournaments. The 2006 team was ranked 25th in the nation.

Over the past three seasons, individual and team accolades include 44 All-Conference Players, 7 Conference Rookies of the Year, 6 Conference Coach of the Year Awards, 5 Conference Players of the Year, 3 Team Sportsmanship Awards, and a Coach of Character Award.

Guests on the Show:

Head Coach: Scott Dulin (8th Year) Scott Dulin is entering his eighth year at Fisher College as Director of Athletics and Head Baseball Coach. Dulin has been at the helm of the Fisher College Department of Athletics since its inception in 2001.

In 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 Dulin was named the Sunrise Conference and NAIA Region X Baseball Coach of the Year. In 2007, Dulin earned the esteemed honor as the NAIA Region X Coach of Character. He was also awarded the 2004 and 2005 Sunrise Conference Director of Athletics of the Year. He has coached numerous All-Conference and All-Region Players, as well as three Rookies of the Year and two Players of the Year. During the 2006 season, Coach Dulin reached 100 career wins and 100 wins for the Fisher Baseball program. Dulin was part of the 2005 Class that was inducted into the Fisher College Athletics Hall of Fame. Before starting the Baseball Program at Fisher, Dulin was the Head Coach at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy for two years.

Prior to that he was the Assistant Coach at his Alma Mata, The University of Maine at Farmington. Coach Dulin holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from UMF where he was a 4-year starting infielder and a two-time captain. In 2004, he served as a Major League Baseball Envoy to Costa Rica. Dulin also serves as the Sunrise Conference President.

#14 - Tom Englehardt is a Senior -- Third baseman from Bradford, MA. Tom played High School baseball in Haverhill.

He plays for the Malden Bull Dogs in the summer. He is the reigning 2x Sunrise Conference Player of the Year and is a Pre-Season All-American.

#4 - Eddy Delcarmen is a Senior -- Pitcher/INF from West Roxbury, MA. Eddy attended North Florida CC before joining the squad. he is the younger brother of Boston Red Sox bull-pen opitcher Manny Delcarmen. Manny is a West roxbury HS grad, who signed out of high school with the Sox. Eddy played summer ball in the Boston Park League last year.

2008 Rookie of the Year
After coming off a very strong Freshman season, Edwin Pena was acknowledged by being named to the 2007 All-Conference and All-Region team, Sunrise Conference Rookie of the Year, Sunrise Conference and Region X Gold Glove Catcher. With his great defensive skills and strong arm, this young man from Union City, New Jersey is looking forward to helping lead the 2008 Fisher Baseball team to the NAIA Tournament for the fourth straight season. A graduate of Emerson High School, Edwin is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management.
Posted by The Boston Baseball Head at 12:15 AM 0 comments

TOP DAWG

2009-02-11T18:12:00.003-05:00

BEING A DOG OWNER/LOVER - I AM PLEASED TO PRESENT THE #1 DOG OF 2009!Stump, a 10-year-old Sussex spaniel, became the oldest Westminster champion, and he did so in style. After nearly dying with a bacterial infection in 2004, the floppy-eared pooch came out of retirement to win the crown.

Boston Has an Impact on New YANKEE Stadium

2009-02-10T06:40:00.004-05:00

John Luciani and ARod in new Yankee Club House

Boston born and educated architect John Luciani had a great opportunity the past few years. he was assigned the job of being the site architect for the NEW Billion Dollar Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, NY. John attended Wentworth Institute in Boston with my brother Mike. he played his baseball in Boston based leagues during his youth and 20's.

John is a fine guy. i am very pleased that such a baseball head from Boston had an opportunity to impact baseball history by helping to build the new Cathedral of baseball in the Bronx.

We are all proud of you John and look forward to beating the Yankees many times in their new ball park in 2009!

John Luciani AIA
HOK Sport
Architect Site Representative New Yankee Stadium
Tishman Speyer/Consultants Trailer
20 East 164th Street

A-----ROID!

2009-02-07T12:21:00.004-05:00

The Greatest Modern Day Baseball Player - AROD - Alex Rodriquez has been named in a news report this morning as another member of the Balco Club. The highest paid - most talked about player in modern history is a sham. Just like Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens and Jose Cansenco...ARod used steroids. The report filed on the MLB Network and blazing thru the talk show airwaves from Boston to Osaka say that the celebrated New York Yankee, Texas Ranger & Seattle Mariner SS/Third Baseman was tested positive in 2003.

ARod is another bold faced liar! He lied in a 60 Minute Interview after MLB released its report about the wide-spread use of performance enhancing drugs that he, "NEVER used or was tempted to use steroids".

I am not shocked, but I am upset that Arod was given a free ride while other recent baseball immortals were thrown under the bus by media, teams, fans and the League. Now it is his turn to face the music. The next six months in ARods life are very important. What he does and how he handles this matter will determine how people remember him.

I say -- fess up BOI! Tell the truth and shame the devil. Come out today and say -- yes, I did steroids. Yes, I lied on 60 Minutes. AND -- I am sorry for the negativity I have brought to the Game, the Yankees and the loyal fans in New York.

Holy Cow! What a tangled web we weave when we practice to deceive....this man must be made accountable. He is being paid hundreds of millions of FAN & Advertisers dollars to play kids game. He along with others have brought great shame to a cherished institution. I for one feel that ARod needs to be suspended for at least a year without pay. An example needs to be made of this man and others who follow in his footsteps.

Listen - The Rocket and Barry are NOT playing today because they have been black balled by the MLB. ARod should not be treated any differently.

Here is a report filed on MLB.com related to the above story:

Report: A-Rod tested positive for steroids in '03
Alex Rodriguez tested positive for two anabolic steroids in 2003, Sports Illustrated reports. Rodriguez won the AL home run title and the AL MVP award in '03 with the Rangers. More >

Cheerleaders to Warm Your heart on a COOOOOLD Day!

2009-02-06T17:15:00.005-05:00

GOD BLESS 'EM EVERYONE!

The BIG part of the BIG DAVE sign Kelly holds in her heart!

Meet Kelly, a University of Minnesota grad student and proud Gophers cheerleader.

A Free Fall from Glory?

2009-02-04T08:22:00.003-05:00

OOOOOPS!!!!!!

HOW COULD I BE SO FRIGGIN STUPID? MAN!!!!!

So Michael Phelps likes to take bong hits between training and throws back a few with the boys. Who cares? Knowing Phelps and his savvy promotional team, I'm sure they'll parlay this into a couple more endorsement deals and the cover of High Times next month.

Great Charity - Great Discount offers for Baseball Heads!

2009-02-04T00:56:00.004-05:00

http://www.gripclub.com/

2009 Club Cards Available Today!

The Grip N' Rip Club gets you through the season with savings at indoor baseball/softball training facilities, sporting goods stores and driving ranges throughout New England.
For just $29.99, your annual membership includes:

A charitable donation to Kevin Youkilis Hits For Kids
Deals and discounts at 46 sports businesses

Subscription to our monthly 'Blast' with exclusive offers and local sports news

It's simple...
* Purchase a membership online
* Receive your Club Card in the mail
* Present your card at local businesses for the benefits

The Boston Baseball Head endorse this great opportunity for Players and fans to obtain great discounts on local sports related industries. There are 46 partners in this enterprise that helps you and Kevin Youkilis' Hits for Kids Charity!

State Police captain laid to rest

2009-02-03T00:04:00.003-05:00

BRADFORD -- They came from as far as California and Oregon to pay their respects. Hundreds of police officers from around the state, the region, and beyond stood today in silent salute to mourn the death of State Police Captain Richard J. Cashin, the highest ranking state police officer to die in the line of duty.

IT was a Supah Bowl!

2009-02-02T16:45:00.002-05:00

Super Bowl XLIII
Santonio Holmes

After getting behind the Cardinals but failing to haul in a touchdown reception on the previous play, Holmes got behind the defense in the opposite corner and held on for the decisive score in the Steelers 27-23 victory.

It was a Super Bowl of historic proportions. This viewer reluctantly tuned in to the festivities. A hard nosed Pats Fan - who is still scorched that a team with an 11-5 record was shut out of the play offs by a STUPID out of date system. Oh well -- that is past. The Super game was a real test for both teams and their fans.

A tremendous game for a sport widely loved - world wide.

Tek is BAAAAAAAAKKKKKK!

2009-01-30T18:28:00.000-05:00

Dunn Deal for SOX?

2009-01-29T05:40:00.002-05:00

Hoping for A Dunn Deal

click here for full story

Adam Dunn in a Sox uniform -- why the hell not! he is a strong left handed batter with huge slugging stats over the years. he is an insurance policy IF Papi & Lowell break down. He also is a huge role player on a Championship calibre team. I say -- sign him. Adam comes cheap (in current baseball mad money) $6 - $7 million a year.

I feel this might be a puzzle piece the Sox might need in this summer when two of their middle hitters are still recovering from major injuries that hampered the Sox down the road to the World Series.

Sign away - Theo -- Sign away!

Back In Time - Happened on January 28!

2009-01-28T16:53:00.004-05:00

1980

Red Holtzman & Red Auerbach

New York Coach Red Holzman (pictured here with Red Auerbach) wins his 600th game, only the second coach at the time to reach that plateau, as the Knicks defeat Golden State, 107-103.

1958

Roy Campanella

Brooklyn Dodgers catcher Roy Campanella is seriously injured in an auto accident in New York. He would never return to play again.

The "Mayor" Retires

2009-01-27T23:02:00.003-05:00

Friendly 1B Sean Casey Retires After 12 seasons

CINCINNATI — During his 12-year career, Sean Casey’s most endearing trait became his most enduring.

Fellow major leaguers dubbed him "The Mayor" because he seemed to know everyone he met. He chatted up runners at first base, making the game’s luminaries smile by respectfully calling them "Mr." before offering a compliment.

When he retired on Tuesday to move into broadcasting — a career that fits his gift for gab — the 34-year-old Casey remained proud of his reputation as baseball’s Mr. Congeniality.

BASEBALL HEAD VIEW - ALL AROUND GOOD GUY. HE KNEW WHEN IT WAS TIME TO GET OFF THE FIELD. MR. MAYOR WILL FIND A PLACE IN BASEBALL!

The NEGATIVE FACE of baseball in 2009!

2009-01-27T22:39:00.002-05:00

The Chief Jack Ass of Baseball - Scott "I am a greedy bastahd" Boros. This man makes the Grinch look like The Blessed Mother! It makes me sick that the young men who play a young boys game and get paid outrageous money to do so - trust this money monster!

Boros is demolishing any real love I have for the players. I have NO sympathy for them at all. they can sugar coat their lives and say they are making a contribution to the community and are real role models. NO they are not1 they are the reflection of their agents. Boros is the prime suspect in this disease that is going to eventually destroy our nation pastime.

The Red Sox Captain's disaster is a real example of how one man and his greed has thrust a team against a beloved player. More money - more years --- MORE! MORE! MORE!

In an era when people are rubbing pennies together to make nickles - these guys do not have a clue.

Boros should be banned from Fenway and every bastion of the love affair between towns and their teams. It is about time that the real fans of Red Sox Nation stand up and be counted.

Sox Anderson top 10 MLB Prospects according to SI!

2009-01-26T16:03:00.003-05:00

Lars Anderson - 1B - Boston Red Sox

Baseball America once called this lefty the best power-hitting prospect in Boston's organization. He's batted .304 in two minor league seasons, and posted a .526 slugging percentage in a brief stint at Double A in 2008.

UMass Beacons Play in Winter Haven

2009-01-26T04:00:00.004-05:00

The UMass Boston Beacons Baseball team will travel to Winter Haven FLA for a slate of games in march. Many Yawkey League -- McKay Club Beacons will play on the '09 UMass Roster.

Here is the early schedule for the harbor Campus ball club:

UMass Boston FLA SCHEDULE

03/13/09
vs. Mcla
Lake Myrtle Field - Winter Haven, FL
9:00 a.m. ET

vs. Mcla
Lake Myrtle Field - Winter Haven, FL
12:00 p.m. ET

03/14/09
vs. Trinity (Conn.)
Lake Myrtle Field - Winter Haven, FL
10:30 a.m. ET

vs. Trinity (Conn.)
Lake Myrtle Field - Winter Haven, FL
1:30 p.m. ET
03/15/09

vs. Anderson
Chain Lakes Field - Winter Haven, FL
3:30 p.m. ET
03/16/09

vs. Endicott College
Chain Lakes Stadium - Winter Haven, FL
9:00 a.m. ET
03/18/09

vs. Hope College
Polk Community College - Winter Haven, FL
12:00 p.m. ET

vs. Hope College
Polk Community College - Winter Haven, FL
3:00 p.m. ET

03/19/09
vs. McDaniel College
Lake Myrtle Field - Winter Haven, FL
1:00 p.m. ET

vs. McDaniel College
Lake Myrtle Field - Winter Haven, FL
4:00 p.m. ET
03/20/09
vs. Fontbonne

The Boston Baseball Head will attend some of these games and scout present players and some prospects while on his Spring Training Baseball junket!

VTeck Time to Make a Decision!!!!!

2009-01-25T23:55:00.004-05:00

Formal offer to Varitek
Sox factor in his desire for 2d year
By Tony Massarotti
Globe Staff / January 25, 2009

Roughly three months after the end of their 2008 season and fewer than three weeks before the start of spring training, the Red Sox have made a formal proposal to catcher and captain Jason Varitek that could end a winterlong stalemate.

One way or the other.

According to a baseball source, the Sox have formally presented an offer to Varitek's agent, Scott Boras, that could appease the catcher's desire for a second guaranteed season. While the precise value or term of the proposal was unclear, the Sox could ensure Varitek a second year by guaranteeing it outright or making it attainable through an option.

In the latter scenario, Varitek could trigger the option through reachable incentives (like at-bats or games played), or the club could grant him a player option for the 2010 season. Another possibility would involve a dual option, first giving the Sox the choice of bringing back Varitek next season (at a higher number) and, subsequently, Varitek the right to return of his own volition (at a lower number than the team's option).

In 2006, former closer Keith Foulke had a contract with a dual option. The Sox declined to exercise their option ($7.5 million) before Foulke similarly declined his ($3.75 million) and opted for free agency.

Varitek earned $10 million last season in base salary and a prorated share of his signing bonus, an amount he almost certainly will not reach this offseason in a one-year deal. From the beginning of negotiations, multiple sources have indicat ed that Varitek has wanted at least a two-year deal, something that helps bring into focus many of the happenings over the last few months.

In December, for instance, Varitek and Boras rejected the Sox' offer of salary arbitration, a process that might have earned Varitek a $10 million-$12 million salary in 2009. According to sources, Boras and Varitek discussed accepting arbitration with the hope of then using the process to negotiate a two-year contract, but they decided against it for an assortment of reasons.

For starters, according to one source, Varitek was insistent upon getting a two-year commitment from the club without having to leverage the team via arbitration given his longstanding relationship with the club (he came here via trade in 1997). Second, there was some concern Varitek could end up with a nonguaranteed contract if the matter reached a hearing.

All arbitration awards are nonguaranteed, meaning a player could be released in spring training and end up with only a fraction of his potential salary.

It should be noted that during general manager Theo Epstein's six-plus years with the Sox, no player ever has gone to an arbitration hearing. In the case of Varitek specifically, it is highly likely the club and Boras would have negotiated a guaranteed settlement rather than go to a hearing given Varitek's history and status with the organization.

It also seems highly unlikely the Sox would release a player of Varitek's stature at any point during spring training because of the PR damage it could do.

The current offer to Varitek was made within the last 3-4 days, a source said, and it was unclear whether Varitek and Boras faced a deadline of any kind.

The Sox currently have a group of inexperienced or relatively unaccomplished catchers that includes Josh Bard, George Kottaras, Dusty Brown, and Mark Wagner. The club has been discussing trade options throughout the winter - most notably for Miguel Montero (Arizona) and Jarrod Saltalamacchia (Texas) - though those discussions are largely independent of the Varitek talks.

According to multiple sources, in fact, the Sox made it clear to Varitek and Boras immediately after the season that they foresaw at least a slightly reduced role for their captain, who will be 37 April 11. Varitek caught 131 games last year and has caught at least 125 games in eight of the last 10 seasons, the two exceptions in 2001 and 2006, when he suffered significant injuries.
In those same discussions, according to sources, the Sox indicated a willingness to begin the transition to a younger catcher and their desire to have Varitek serve as a mentor. That request is part of the reason Varitek is seeking a two-year deal, a source said, and was something Varitek stressed to owner John Henry during their meeting Jan. 16.

Tony Massarotti can be reached at tmassarotti@globe.com

Patriots celebrate 50 years - From Fenway to Gillette

2009-01-23T06:44:00.001-05:00

Patriots Unveil 50th Season Logo
New England Patriots

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - The New England Patriots will be celebrating their 50th season in 2009 and are already preparing for another exciting year. Today, the team unveiled an anniversary logo that will be used throughout the year to brand all of the team's anniversary activities, publications and press announcements in 2009. The anniversary logo will be utilized throughout the year on the Patriots' many media platforms and will commemorate each of the season tickets issued in 2009.

The red, white and blue logo contains the text "New England Patriots" and "50 seasons." It features both the original "Pat Patriot" logo as well as the current "stylized minuteman" trademark that was introduced in 1993. The words "50 seasons" and the "Pat Patriot" logo are centered and rest atop the Patriots' current logo. Six stars in the design represent the six New England states.

On Nov. 16, 1959, the Boston Patriots became the eighth and final original AFL franchise. During the 1960s, the Patriots played home games at stadiums throughout Boston, including Boston University Field, Fenway Park, Harvard Stadium and B.C. Alumni Stadium. A year after the AFL-NFL merger in 1970, the franchise moved to the newly-constructed Schaefer Stadium in Foxborough, Mass. and the team was renamed the New England Patriots.

The franchise enjoyed only moderate success in its first 34 seasons (1960-1993), appearing in one AFL title game in 1963 and one Super Bowl in 1985, both losses. In the last 15 seasons, coinciding with Robert Kraft's purchase of the team in 1994, the Patriots have claimed three Super Bowl victories, five conference titles and eight division championships. Their 173 victories in the last 15 years are the most in the NFL.

New England is currently in the midst of a remarkable run of sustained success as the only NFL team to have a winning record in each of the last eight seasons. The Patriots are one of just two teams in NFL history to win three Super Bowls in a four-year span, and in 2007 became the only team in NFL history to complete a regular season with a 16-0 record. The team now plays its home games at state-of-the-art Gillette Stadium, a 68,756-seat facility that opened in 2002. Patriots fans are among the most loyal and passionate fans in the country, selling out each home game since 1994. In 2008, the team unveiled The Hall at Patriot Place presented by Raytheon, a cutting-edge, 36,000-square-foot experience showcasing the tradition of the New England Patriots, providing a home for the team's hall of fame and exploring the history of football in New England.

The Hall at Patriot Place presented by Raytheon will host a number of alumni events that will allow fans to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the franchise with Patriots past and present. Fans will also have an opportunity to help the organization select a number of the most memorable moments and events in franchise history through a series of online voting initiatives that are planned in 2009.

PITCHERS AND CATCHERS REPORT TO FT MYERS IN 20 DAYS BABY!

2009-01-22T23:50:00.002-05:00

Teck Talks Lag.....

2009-01-22T23:47:00.003-05:00

Varitek talks moving slowly

Posted by Tony Massarotti, Globe Staff January 22, 2009 12:38 PM

Representatives for the Red Sox and Jason Varitek are continuing to talk in the wake of the catcher's meeting with owner John Henry last week, but the sides appear no closer to a deal than they have been for weeks.

But the nearer we get to spring training, the more likely that will all change.

Though the Sox are not believed to have increased their offer to Varitek following the meeting between their captain and owner last week, the club is believed to have a proposal on the table for the catcher. Agent Scott Boras's negotiating history suggests that he would not accept any proposal until negotiations fully run their course, and the only deadline facing Varitek is the start of spring training.

Even then, Varitek could resist being in camp from the start, though that would go against some of his general principles and philosophies. In the past, Varitek has taken great pride in maximizing time with his pitchers during camp.

Red Sox pitchers and catchers are due to report to Fort Myers on Feb. 12. Physical exams are scheduled for Feb. 13 and the club's first organized workout is slated for Feb. 14.

According to one source familiar with the negotiations, Varitek has not given up hope of securing a two-year deal, though that outcome seems unlikely. The challenge for the team and player now comes in finding a deal that will satisfy all parties in the wake of the decision by Varitek and Boras to forgo salary arbitration, a process that likely would have earned the player a one-year deal worth $10 million-$12 million.

At the moment, with arbitration no longer an option, Varitek has little leverage and could be looking at a deal for a fraction of that amount.

Three Sox Prospects to watch this Spring

2009-01-22T00:08:00.005-05:00

Dan Bard

Age: 23 Born: June 25, 1985 Charlotte, NC

Height: 6-4 Weight: 200 Bats: Right Throws: Right

Drafted: 1st round, 2006; 20th round, 2003 by NYY

How Acquired: DraftCollege: North Carolina High School: Charlotte Christian (NC)

ETA: late 2009

Scouting Report: Live arm with a smooth delivery, although he needs to work on keeping a consistent release point. His fastball looks effortless, and consistently hits 97-98 with decent command but minimal movement. When he reaches back, he can apparently hit 101 mph on the gun. Two-seamer shows a bit more break and sits in the low-to-mid 90s. Secondary pitches are decent, but need a lot of refinement, including: (1) a high 80s cut fastball; (2) an 84 mph slider; and (3) a circle change with some downward movement. Previously Bard's breaking pitch was a high 70s slurve, but it was converted to a slider with more velocity in mid-2008. Needs some improvement on keeping all of his pitches down in the zone. Struggled through major control issues throughout the entire 2007 season, particularly with his slurve Has a strong frame and a mature demeanor, but has some confidence issues. Bard took well to a bullpen role in the Hawaii League in 2007, and was converted to a full time reliever in 2008. He changed his delivery by lowering his arm slot prior to the 2008 season, adding a little bit of life to his fastball.MLB Comparison: Kyle Farnsworth

Michale Bowden

Age: 22 Born: September 9, 1986 in Aurora, Ill

Height: 6-3 Weight: 220 Bats: Right Throws: Right

Drafted: 1st round, 2005

How Acquired: Draft - High School: Waubonsie Valley HS (Ill)

ETA: mid-2009

Scouting Report: Bowden is a big righty starter with a top-of-the-rotation ceiling, presently projecting as a solid third starter at the major league level. He is an advanced pitcher for his age, but there's some room for improvement. He has an arsenal of three pitches that could be big-league caliber: a 90-93 mph four-seam fastball that tops out around 95 mph, a very good 12-6 hard breaking curve, and an excellent circle changeup with plus potential. His main pitch - the four-seamer - has a late, heavy sinking movement, and he generally keeps it down in the zone. Bowden can also work in a two-seamer that is a few mph off of his four-seamer, with a bit more movement. His deceptive changeup sits in the low 80s, about 10 mph off of his fastball, with action moving away from lefties. His mid-70s curve is pretty sharp and he keeps hitters at bay with it. However, he can telegraph his curve on occasion. Secondary stuff is really coming along in 2008. Overall, Bowden has an excellent command of the zone. One aspect that should come with more experience is improved pitchability against advanced hitters. His mechanics are somewhat unconventional in that his delivery is quite compact and he doesn't pull back with a lot of torque. Relies more on arm strength than leverage. But he's able to maintain consistent arm action throughout his outings, so the Sox haven't messed with it. Bowden is said to be a workaholic and just loves to pitch - another player who just lives and dies for baseball. Very athletic and competitive

LARS ANDERSON

Age: 21 Born: September 25, 1987 in Oakland, CA

Height: 6-4 Weight: 210 Bats: Left Throws: Left

Drafted: 18th round, 2006

How Acquired: Draft - High School: Jesuit (CA)

ETA: late 2009

Scouting Report: Large, powerful slugger with a great hitter's frame, excellent present power, and an elite power ceiling. Extremely smooth and fluid swing. Impeccable batting eye with very good patience at the plate, he actually could stand to be a little more aggressive. Hits especially well to the opposite field, but also can pull the ball on occasion. His swing is tailor-made for Fenway. Still strikes out a little bit too much, particularly against off-speed stuff from more advanced pitchers. Athletic for his size, plays a pretty good first base. Digs throws in the dirt well. Makes some nice diving plays, but still can look awkward at times. Mediocre range. Not a stolen base threat, his speed is about average for a big 1B. Takes instruction well and learns fast. Strong work ethic. Intelligent and confident. Likely would have been a supplemental first round pick in 2006 if not for high bonus demands. Anderson spent significant time in left field in high school (but has yet to play there professionally), so it's not out of the question that he could spend some time in the outfield in 2009 in case his path is blocked at 1B in the Red Sox system.
MLB Comparison: Justin Morneau

Bull Pen Security!

2009-01-21T01:39:00.005-05:00

Red Sox
A new deal
Closer Jonathan Papelbon agreed to a one-year, $6.25m contract with the Sox, avoiding arbitration.

Papelbon, Lopez sign one-year deals
Posted by Chad Finn, Globe Staff January 20, 2009 02:58 PM

Rice will always be HIS Hero!

2009-01-20T01:55:00.002-05:00

Jim Rice rushed badly injured Johnny Keane to the ambulance after he was struck in the head and bloddied by a foul ball at a April 1 ,1983 game.

Jim Rice Forever His Hero

Fan still grateful for slugger’s quick-thinking aid 27 years later
By Dan DugganTuesday, January 20, 2009

Jim Rice evokes many different kinds of memories.

One generation of Red Sox [team stats] fans remember the 382 career home runs and the MVP season in 1978. A younger sect of Sox followers may know him primarily as a NESN studio analyst. Most recently, Rice became a Hall of Famer, after he secured 76.4 percent of the Baseball Writers Association of America’s votes last week.

But even given all of these roles, the 55-year-old has found one moment that has resonated as much as any home run he ever smashed over the Green Monster.

On Aug. 7, 1982, four-year-old Jonathan Keane of Greenland, N.H., was sitting with his father, Tom, in the second row along the first base line at Fenway Park [map] when he was struck in the left temple by a foul ball of the bat of Red Sox first baseman Dave Stapleton. Rice sprung from the dugout, lifted the bloodied boy into his arms and raced him through the clubhouse to an ambulance.

“There’s a big reaction from that,” Rice said. “People always say, ‘What happened to the kid?’ ”
The “kid” is now 31 and living in Raleigh, N.C., where he works for an Internet company. While Keane suffered a fractured skull and was hospitalized for five days, he had no lasting effects from the incident. For that, he thanks Rice’s quick reaction.

“What he did saved my life,” Keane said. “In those types of situations, most people freeze. He was really quick to react. That’s heroic in my eyes.”

Rice downplays his response as something he’d like to think others would do if his children were in the same situation.

“I had two kids at the time. It was just a reaction,” Rice said. “It wasn’t anything where you could sit there and plan or anything like that. I knew doctors were in the ballpark. Why not pick the kid up and bring him in the clubhouse where he could have medical attention?”

Rice is reminded of the moment every time he’s at Fenway.

“That picture is in a collage upstairs (in Fenway Park). When I go upstairs, I see that picture,” Rice said. “When I come to Fenway Park, every time I look at the park . . . that’s the thing I think about the most.”

Keane was too young to have vivid memories of the day, but a small scar on his forehead serves as a reminder of his injuries and how Rice responded. With that in mind, the Keane family was thrilled to see Rice finally get voted into the Hall.

“I think it’s about time,” Keane said. “My whole family was hoping he would get in every year and we never knew if it would happen. We’re really happy that it did.”

Rice fondly recalled a letter Keane sent eight years ago after he graduated from North Carolina State, but aside from that the two haven’t had much contact. But that one moment 27 years ago was all Keane needed to form his opinion of Rice.

“I think what he did speaks volumes about his character,” Keane said. “He really did save my life. There’s no question about it.”

danduggan@bostonherald.com

This Day In Baseball History......

2009-01-19T14:51:00.001-05:00

After an 80-day departure, Theo Epstein (pictured here at the 2007 "Hot Stove, Cool Music" festival in Boston) returns to the Red Sox in a yet-to-be named capacity. The youngest general manager in baseball history, who assembled a World Champion team in 2004, had left Boston on Halloween Day, saying the position was not "the right fit."

Supah Fans on Baseball Show

2009-01-16T06:33:00.003-05:00

Stu Sklaver, SUPAH FANS Founder - Kev Krueger and The Boston Baseball Head - Dave McKay are pictured here. Kevin is a Yawkey League All Star who played for T's Pub of Brighton and the Brighton Lincoln Sox. He grew his love of baseball into a very successful outer wear business. Kevin was an interesting guest, who brought many samples of his products to display.

The VOICE OF RED SOX NATION on Baseball Heads Show

2009-01-16T06:06:00.006-05:00

Cuz Stu Sklaver, Carl Beane and Dave McKay on the Boston Baseball Heads Show.

Comcast Crew surround Carl Beane the Voice of Red Sox Nation.

Stu Sklaver, Carl Beane - The Voice of the Red Sox, Arlen Showstack, Fran Morello and Dave McKay at Comcast Studios on Sherman Street in Cambridge. the taping of the February Show was a thrill for staff and crew. Carl was amiable and informative. His presence was a land mark for the Community Access Show. A class act and a great interview will be seen the first two weeks of February on CH 12 in Boston & Brookline on Comcast.

Tom to Wed!

2009-01-14T07:57:00.002-05:00

Well, it's official. Tom Brady and Gisele are finally engaged. After rumors flew (and were denied) that the Patriots quarterback proposed to the super model before Christmas, he actually popped the question last week. It's amazing. Even when he's not playing, Brady finds a way to win this time of year.

Jim Rice IN The Hall of Fame!

2009-01-12T23:42:00.004-05:00

Red Sox legend Jim Rice (above, at a press conference at Fenway Park this afternoon) was elected today to the Hall of Fame on his final time on the ballot. Rice gave Carl Yastrzemski credit for teaching him how to play Fenway's left field.

Rice through the years Massarotti: Wait over for Rice
VIDEOS Shaughnessy, Cafardo react Mazz on Rice

It is a done deal - Jim Rice was elected to the MLB Hall of Fame and will accompany Rickey Henderson into Cooperstown this July. It took 14 years for #14 to make it -- but who cares. he is there. Only one percent of the players who put on the uniform make it to the Hall and Rice is Happy - Red Sox Nation is Happy!

Congratulations to Jim Rice - #14 will be mounted on the Right Field facade after all!

Additional Jim Rice News:

Click on the UNDER LINED area and get additional news, pics and viseos on Rice election to HOF:

Save the best for last: In final shot, Rice makes Hall
In his 15th and final time on the ballot, Jim Rice's patience was rewarded as he was elected to the Hall of Fame along with Rickey Henderson on Monday. Full story > Hall calls Rice Rice reacts Highlights • Photos: Career Reaction
Photo: Jim Rice spent his entire career with the Red Sox. (Brita Meng Outzen/MLB.com)

Rice speaks about his election to the Hall of Fame
Rice talks to MLB Network after being elected into the Hall

Rice to the MLB Hall at 2PM today!

2009-01-12T05:40:00.003-05:00

Jim Rice gets into the MLB Hall of Fame today. That is final. i have a very good feeling that the left fielder who dominated baseball in all MLB batting categories from 1975 to 1986 MUST be called to the Hall by the Baseball Writers of America in his last year of eligibility.

Rice was never loved by fans and writers enough to get to the hall before today. Listening to the crap I heard from many writers online and on national TV these last few days amazes me. There is a huge problem. many of the guys who have a vote -- NEVER saw Jim Ed play baseball.

That is wrong. That is unfair and stupid! Just as stupid as an 8-8 team getting a chance to play for the AFC Championship in the NFL next week. Rules are rules and the writers have the vote. BUT<>

I can just see Bob Ryan, Tony Maz and Sean McAdam stand up to the [plate as Rice did many years ago. Mush mouths all! Each "reluctantly" voted for Rice this time out. Assholes all - especially Ryan. A long-time idiot, who gets paid to speak his opinion about sports. most of the time his opinion stinks like a baby diaper! Maz is not far behind and McAdam is the only one of the 3 who speaks clearly.

Rice was squelched by many issues. he did not have the long time years that Yaz had and others. Years where they beefed up their stats and over all numbers. Rice fell flat at the end of his career. he also fell into a trap of being so quiet and sometimes surly to the press that he made enemies who stand until today.

Rice also jammed with Joe Morgan in front of 32,000 fans and on TV at Fenway. he was pinch hit for after going 6-43 twice by Morgan. Jim took offence to being dragged out of the batters box and grabbed Morgan and dragged him into the run way to the Club House and beat the day lights out of his manager. That antic stays in the mind of many who saw it as a signature negative in the rice Career.

Forget his not reaching 500 HR's. Forget the Morgan situation. Forget his lack of love for the media. All of these issues are erased by the fact that Jim Rice played 16 years for the same team and dominated baseball like no other player from 1975 to 1986!

There will be good news in the Rice House today at 2PM. Boston will see 14 added to the right field facade in April and we can root for our newest red Sox in Cooperstown!

SOX MAKE MOVES

2009-01-09T06:09:00.007-05:00

John Smoltz -- John Andrew Smoltz

Bats Right, Throws Right Height 6' 3", Weight 210 lb.
Debut July 23, 1988 Born May 15, 1967 in Detroit, MI
Drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the 22nd round of the 1985 amateur draft. Player signed September 22, 1985. (All Transactions)
About biographical information Minors.B-R: Minor League Stats BR Bullpen: Find or enter more info for this person (what's this?)Oracle: Find all of this player's teammates.

Rocco Baldelli
Boston Red Sox — No. 5
Outfielder

Born: September 25, 1981 (1981-09-25) (age 27) Woonsocket, Rhode Island
Bats: Right Throws: Right
MLB debut -- March 31, 2003 for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays

Career statistics(through 2008 season)
Batting average
.281
Home runs
52
Runs batted in
234

Bradley Wayne Penny

Birth Date -May 24, 1978
Birth Place - Blackwell, OK
Weight: 260 lbs. Height: 6-4
Bats: Right Throws: Right
Experience - 8 years
Salary -- 2008: $9,250,000

Smoltz to Red Sox; Baldelli, Penny will join him
By JIMMY GOLEN, AP Sports Writer

BOSTON (AP)—John Smoltz and Brad Penny are on their way to the Red Sox. Rocco Baldelli was already in Boston, holding up his new jersey.

After missing out on Mark Teixeira, the biggest free-agent prize of the offseason, the Red Sox were poised to make a series of smaller deals that would essentially complete their roster. They announced Baldelli’s signing on Thursday night at the annual dinner of the Boston Baseball Writers Association, with more news expected soon.

“I think you’ll see us now turn to players who we can take chances on, players who represent potential impact players,” Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein said. “We still have some things going on.”

Epstein would not confirm the deals for Smoltz or Penny, but as he spoke Penny was on his way out of Boston after completing his physical. The two-time All-Star, a native Oklahoman, was off to watch the Sooners play in the Bowl Championship Series title game against Florida.

Smoltz, who spent his first 21 years with the Atlanta Braves, reached a preliminary agreement with the Red Sox on a $5.5 million, one-year contract, according to a person familiar with the negotiations who spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal had not been announced. The person said Smoltz will have the chance to earn another $5 million in performance bonuses based largely on how much time he spends on the active roster.

For example, the pitcher would get $125,000 if he’s on the opening-day roster and $500,000 if he’s on the roster on the final day of the regular season.
The deal is contingent on Smoltz passing a physical, which was scheduled for Monday.

“I was going to withhold comment until the announcement of my signing with a new team,” Smoltz said in a statement issued through his agent, “but I now feel the need to clear up any misconceptions and inaccuracies about the contract negotiations between myself and the Atlanta Braves. There were large discrepancies between the offer from the Braves and offers from other teams.”
The Red Sox are also negotiating with Mark Kotsay to return as a backup first baseman and outfielder. They are also pursuing a catcher, while holding out the possibility that Jason Varitek could return or be replaced by a platoon that played at Triple-A last year.

The Red Sox agreed to pay Baldelli $500,000 for 2009, taking a chance on a player who spent most of last season on the disabled list for the AL champion Rays. The 27-year-old batted .263 with four home runs and 13 RBIs in 28 games after being diagnosed with a mitochondrial disorder that causes chronic muscle fatigue.
Further tests, however, and a recent visit to the Cleveland Clinic led to what Baldelli called a “refined” diagnosis of channelopathy, a protein irregularity considered more treatable and less severe.

“The results were positive,” he said. “It was something I was definitely excited about for my personal health and for my career.

“I think once I get to spring training and get to my feet again, I’ll know a lot more,” said Baldelli, who received the Tony Conigliaro Award on Thursday for overcoming adversity with courage and determination. “I anticipate being able to do more than I did last year.”

A Rhode Island native who homered against Boston in the Rays’ Game 3 victory during the AL championship series and had a go-ahead single in the seventh game, Baldelli can earn $7 million in bonuses.

“I didn’t like him so much when that ball went over the Green Monster,” Red Sox manager Terry Francona said. “If there are some risks, it seemed like it was kind of worth it from our side because he is so accountable as a player and as a person.”

Penny is 94-75 in nine years for the Florida Marlins and Los Angeles Dodgers, going 16-4 with a 3.03 ERA in ‘07 and finishing third in voting for the NL Cy Young Award. But he was 5-9 with a 5.88 ERA in 15 starts last year for the Dodgers before going on the disabled list with shoulder tendinitis and bursitis.

His deal could be announced as early as Friday.

But Smoltz could be the biggest splash for a team that lost out in pursuit of Teixeira. The rival Yankees spent $423.5 million on contracts for Teixeira, CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett after missing the playoffs last season.

“They spent a lot of money,” said Francona, who joked near the end of the season that the Yankees would spend $1 billion in the offseason. “I was like half right. They spent a lot of money and they got a lot of good players and it doesn’t make our job easier. But we’ve gone toe-to-toe with them really well.

“Our division is a monster. We beat up on each other and we will continue to do that. And our job didn’t get easier but that doesn’t mean we can’t win.”

The only pitcher in baseball history with 200 wins and 150 saves, Smoltz is coming off major shoulder surgery that sidelined him for most of last season, but feels healthy enough to pitch at least one more year.

Smoltz, 41, who prefers to finish his career as a starter, would join a rotation that already includes Daisuke Matsuzaka (18-3), Jon Lester (16-6), Josh Beckett (12-10) and Penny. The Red Sox also have Tim Wakefield and Clay Buchholz for the rotation if Smoltz or Penny aren’t ready at the start of the season.

In this April 27, 2008 file ph… AP - Jan 8, 12:07 pm EST

A minor leaguer when he was acquired from Detroit in 1987 for Doyle Alexander, Smoltz was the cornerstone of Braves teams that won a record 14 straight division titles from 1991-2005, including a World Series championship in ‘95.

“I have always loved the city of Atlanta, and it will always be my home,” Smoltz said in his statement. “I will cherish my 21 years with (manager) Bobby Cox and all my Braves’ teammates. I continue to wish the Atlanta Braves nothing but success in the future.”

Braves general manager Frank Wren declined comment when reached by e-mail.
Smoltz won 24 games and the NL Cy Young Award in 1996, but elbow problems led him to shift to the bullpen to relieve the stress on his arm. He set an NL record with 55 saves in his first full season as a closer in 2002.

After three years finishing games, Smoltz went 47-26 in his second run as a starter. But shoulder pain cut short his 2008 season after only six appearances.

BOSTON, Massachusetts - Rocco Baldelli, who suffers from a rare disorder hastening muscle fatigue, signed a one-year Major League Baseball contract with the Boston Red Sox on Thursday.

The 27-year-old outfielder was hit by a series of injuries until he was diagnosed with a condition that tires him quicker than normal.

Baldelli hit .263 with four home runs and 13 runs batted in over 28 games last season for Tampa Bay, but went 4-for-20 with two homers in the playoffs as the Rays reached the World Series before losing to the Philadelphia Phillies.

In five major league seasons all spent in Tampa Bay, Baldelli has a .281 average with 52 homers and 234 runs batted in over 447 games.

Baldelli figures to be a top reserve and pinch-hitter, filing the role left when Coco Crisp was traded to Kansas City.

MLB & NHL Ring in 2009!

2009-01-04T13:44:00.003-05:00

The Detroit Red Wings and the Chicago Blackhawks play out in the cold at Wrigley Field during the NHL Winter Classic on New Year's Day.

Blackhawks netminder Cristobal Huet wears a Wrigley Field painted goalie mask for the Winter Classic.

Drag out the OLD & Ring in the NEW YEAR!

2008-12-31T05:56:00.003-05:00

I have mixed feelings about 2008. As a sports fan and a fan of our Boston Sports teams - I feel great. We as Bostonians and New Englanders were treated to one of the greatest years in our history.

I started with the '08 Sox back in Spring training and had an opportunity to view 15 games at Fenway and 3 on the road in Houston. I also saw them clinch a play off spot and the spot to go to the ALDS. The only downer was my visit to Fenway when Wake and the Sox got jocked big time in Game 4 of the ALCS.

Our Sox went to the ALCS. An injured team - beat up at times - always found a way to win. they cam two runs and one game short of the world series as Tampa won a thrilling 7 Game ALCS at home 3-1.

The Sox got rid of a scar on the franchise. Manny did himself in and got dumped at the trading deadline. His antics brought gloom and doom into the club house. His BS about not being appreciated by management was a boring way to send a message that he just did not care for Boston anymore. remember, this man was paid almost $20 million every year to play a kids game. He was loved and well paid. he was sent to the plate every at bat with a standing ovation from fans, who paid him WELL for his services. he left this great city in disgrace. Manny - Being Manny was fun --- but it got smelly like an old pair of sneakers after a while.

The Sox need to accomplish a bit in order to stay in contention in the next five weeks.

1 - The captain must be signed or a TOP back Stop must be found to replace him.
2 - A final decision needs to be made about the future of Julio Lugo in a Sox uniform.
3 - A True #5 Starter must be determined to back up the top 4 men who will lead the Sox to the post season once again. Beckett, DiceK, Lester and Wake are fine.
4 - A strong left and right handed bench bat needs to be found.
5 - Big Pappi and Mike Lowell need get 100% healthy now and into Spring Training.

Otherwise, the Red Sox of 2009 are just fine. They will compete and win 90 to 93 games this year. I see a hot competition for the AL east. Tampa is the team to beat and the Sox are right behind them. NY did make adjustments and added some pop at the plate and mound-stars. BUT, the Yanks have not won anything in years and are stuck in a MONEY RUT that is disintegrating their franchise. I see them as a Wild Card pic at best. Mark the words now!

In all 2008 was a fun year for a baseball fan in Boston.

COUNT DOWN TO THE NEW YEAR!

http://www.timeanddate.com/counters/newyear.html

(CLICK HERE AND SEE HOW MUCH TIME IS LEFT IN 2008.)

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas!

2008-12-24T06:31:00.007-05:00

Good Day!

It is my hope that all of you enjoy a Happy Christmas and Honukkah!

Today and tomorrow we gather with family and friends to celebrate the warmth and importance of togetherness. Our efforts as a baseball league bring us together in warmer weather - when the sun shines longer and you can see grass. I am sure we all miss those days and pine for spring and the new year.

We in the Yawkey Baseball League in Boston celebrate the brotherhood that brings us together in baseball! As we see the greed and discontent of major league players develop into outrageous proportions -- our love of the game is PURE!

At these times we remember those who we lost this past year. Our beloved Commissioner - Dan Tarpey; our dear friends Steve George and Bill Cunningham all went to their rest in 2008. All of these men will be remembered by our baseball family for their contributions to the league and to the community they loved.

We also celebrate at this time the accomplishments of our new League Champion the Blue Fish Baseball Club! Congratulations to Sean McCarthy and his mates for winning the championship held by Somerville for so long.

Also, I want to take this opportunity to announce the 2008 Yawkey Baseball League Award Winners. It has become a league tradition to announce our winners at Christmas. it is our hope all the winners know how proud we are of their accomplishments. They make our organization stronger by their involvement. Their efforts to promote quality amateur baseball in Greater Boston is much appreciated.

Here are the winners announced by league Secretary - Dave Treska:

OK, for all of those who have been waiting for these they are now ready. My 6 day Jury Duty stint, along with my planned week vacation had pushed this off longer then we had planned. So again thanks for waiting so long and thanks for all of your help with info and voting that made this all happen. All the winners are listed; we have decided to hold off on the "all rookie team" from my email yesterday. We felt that we are rushing it and may not have the best plan to do this in place. At the next BOD meeting we will discuss a plan and get it right. So we are still doing that, just in a few weeks.

So with all of that said, here is the winners for the 2008 season. Congratulations to all of the players/teams for their honors.

Have a Happy Holidays and take care,
David Treska

Gold Glove

P - Shaun Farrrar
C – Andy McAllister
1B – Scott Rodgers
2B – AJ Bucciarelli
3B – Marc DesRoches
SS – Buddy Hanley
LF – Ted Tracy
CF – Jay Shatto
RF – Sal Mendonca

Silver Slugger

P – Max Warren
C – Tony Iafolla
1B – Mike Debiase
2B – Johnny Cunnigham
3B – Marc DesRoches
SS – David Scioli
LF – Bill Reichmann
CF – Chris Santosuosso
RF – Al Becker
DH – Justin Crisafulli

Nokona Offensive Hitter of the Year
Tony Iafolla

Carl Yastrezmeski - MVP
Chris Santosusso

Cy Young - Pitcher of the Year
Adam DelRio

Johnny Pesky - Rookie of the Year
Max Warren and Ned Coffee( tie )

Tony Conigliaro - Comeback Player of the Year
Dan Jalbert

Barbara Medeiros - Manager of the Year
Skip McCarthy

Dan Tarpey - Gentleman of the Year
David Treska

Bill Stewart - Umpire of the Year
Alberto Collata

Franchise of the Year
Bluefish Baseball Club

Steve George Exec of the Year
Kevin George

Take care all and we will meet in early January to set a plan in action for the 2009 YBL Season. Merry Christmas to all and to all a GOOD DAY!!!!

David J. McKay
President - Thomas A. Yawkey Baseball League

Boros = Grinch Who Stole Christmas for Red Sox Nation!

2008-12-23T18:05:00.002-05:00

The deal is DONE! Yes -- the Evil Empire did it to US again. Yankees, Marc and Boros became the Grinch Who Stole Red Sox Nation's Christmas tonight. Teixeira signed for the Bronx Bombers for 8 years and a reported $180 Million. YIKES!

Boros is a total unadulterated asshole - who is destroying baseball. The deal the Yanks signed can not be blamed on them. They were in the back ground (as usual) waiting to see what the Sox, O's and Nats would do to sweeten the pot for the talented first basemen.

Boros was there whispering like the Devil in the ear of Yankee ownership as they "other" teams beat each other out of the All Star/Gold Glover.

So, once again -- NYC wins out. Great team on paper. Now these guys must WIN. They are favorites to run the table in the AL East and AL for a 27th World Championship.

BUT, this must happen between the white lines.

MARK TEIXEIRA

A switch-hitter with prodigious power, Mark Teixeira also has impeccable timing. His first foray into free agency coincided with the Yankees' vacancy at first base, and nobody spends like the Yankees. The Bronx Bombers reportedly have agreed to terms with the former Angels slugger who has hit 203 career home runs and won't turn 29 until April 2009.

What Ever Happened to Vick's Dogs

2008-12-23T11:05:00.006-05:00

Zip's posse (clockwise from left): Vanessa, Berenice, Jesse, Francisco, Eliana.

Wilson makes sure Sweet Pea has a great new home away from that maggot Vick and his monster Gang of Dog Killers!

BAD RAP's Reynolds and Racer are vetting a family for Grace.

Stirling won Jasmine's trust by climbing into her kennel with her.

Teddles revels in the hands-on attention he gets from his adoptive owner, Cindy Houser.

This happened on Dec 22....way back in time!

2008-12-22T16:19:00.006-05:00

1974 --- Boston's Phil Esposito becomes the sixth player in NHL history to score 500 goals.

1980 --- The Red Sox mail Fred Lynn and Carlton Fisk (pictured) their new contracts two days after the Basic Agreement deadline of Dec. 20. Boston's inaction make their all-stars eligible for free agency.

The Grinch Makes a Tommy Point

2008-12-21T17:11:00.002-05:00

The Grinch paid a visit to Celtics broadcaster and NBA Hall of Famer Tommy Heinsohn before Monday's Celtics game.

Christmas 1980 -- OHHH I AM GETTING OLD!

2008-12-19T10:39:00.002-05:00

WOW -- here is a pic that was posted on Facebook. Yes, the "old man" dressed in red is me. I was a teacher at St. Ambrose School in Dorchester at the time - 1980. We had a Christmas Festival and I was conned into being Santa. The ladies do not look too happy to be there tho. Those were very happy days. I miss the class room and all the great young men and women who I taught over the years. Facebook has brought me back in contact with many of those young people as adults. I am a very lucky man. That picture is a riot!!

Sox Say to Greedy Tex GOOOOBYE!

2008-12-19T05:24:00.002-05:00

Henry: Sox 'not a factor' for Teixeira
By Lyle Spencer / MLB.com
Red Sox Headlines

Henry: Sox 'not a factor' for Teixeira
Click here for the story

It is official: Tex is Greedy just like the rest of them!

Good Bye and a fond farewell to Mark and his arsehole agent, who destroyed the dream deal of bringing the hard-hitting - solid gloved first baseman to the red Sox. it is OVAH and OUT!

Tex was offered a rich 8 year -- $23 million deal. One would think that is plenty - enough. But not Scott Boros. 10% of that money is a kewl bit of money. Scott and Tex must think their is another lunatic in MLB who is willing to cough up a wild amount of money for the services of the talented young player.

GOOD MOVE -- the TRIO have proven they can not be held hostage by Boros and his greed.

CUMMON MARK -- knock off the Bull Shite!

2008-12-18T17:13:00.002-05:00

Red Sox seen in lead in Teixeira derby
Boston may have edge over Angels; O's could increase offer
By Lyle Spencer / MLB.com

According to reports, Mark Teixeira has not received a 10-year contract offer from any of his suitors. (AP)

Red Sox Headlines
Red Sox seen in lead in Teixeira derby
Bauman: Red Sox could counter with Tex
Red Sox extend offer to Teixeira
Beckett expected to pass on Classic
Lowe looking to find the right home
More Red Sox Headlines
MLB Headlines
Yanks introduce CC, Burnett to New York
Orioles remain in running for Teixeira
MLB releases Spring Training schedule
Putz formally introduced by Mets
Chipper, McCann join Team USA
More MLB Headlines

The Red Sox are in the lead heading down the stretch, no club is going as high as 10 years and the Orioles could increase their offer.

If the latest reports are accurate, this is where the Mark Teixeira derby stands as the owners and general managers go to their fiscal whips.

In a Boston.com story by Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, a general manager not associated with any of the Teixeira contenders is quoted with the view that the Red Sox are the horse, or team, to beat.

"I think they're in the lead and ahead of where everyone else is right now," the GM said. "I'm not sure who's bidding against them at this point."

Asked if he thinks the race is almost over, the GM replied, "You just never know where Scott Boras and the Red Sox are involved." He added that he didn't think any team would go to 10 years on a Teixeira contract.

Boston's biggest challenges appear to be from the Angels and Nationals at the moment. The Yankees haven't yet gone all in or even extended a proposal to Boras for Teixeira.

The Orioles, meanwhile, could be out of the picture unless Teixeira, a Maryland native, agrees to a home discount from the 28-year-old slugger who grew up cheering for the Birds.

On ESPN.com, Buster Olney has a source who said, "The Orioles are out of it, unless Teixeira really, really wants to play there."

However, Orioles team president Andy MacPhail says that not only does he not consider his club to be out of the running for Teixeira, but there remains a possibility that they could bump up their offer.

"If they came back to us and told us what it would take and we thought that it made sense for us, then [the offer could increase]," MacPhail said.

The Nationals reportedly have an offer of $160 million for eight years on the table, while the Angels extended an eight-year offer at an undisclosed amount at the Winter Meetings in Las Vegas for the player they acquired two days before the Non-Waiver Trade Deadline from the Braves.

According to the Boston Herald, the Red Sox will not go to 10 years, Boras' original target.
Principal owner John Henry, in an e-mail response to a question, left that impression when he wrote, "The Red Sox effectively had a 10-year deal with a player determined not to live up to his contract. A lot can change over 10 years, for both sides."

The Red Sox had two option years left on Manny Ramirez's eight-year deal when they sent him to the Dodgers at the Non-Waiver Trade Deadline in a three-team deal that brought Jason Bay to Boston from Pittsburgh.

Ramirez could trigger a turf war between the Dodgers and Angels for his free-agent services if the Angels lose out on Teixeira. But Angels general manager Tony Reagins maintained his stance on Tuesday in an interview with MLB.com that prospects of signing Ramirez are "slim."

Lyle Spencer is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

New McKay Club Mascot?!

2008-12-18T06:27:00.003-05:00

Halloween can bring out the "wild-side" of many folks. Our rookie left fielder/pitcher out of Emerson College - Peter Karl donned this outfit. Now it seems that every sports franchise in the world has its own mascot. Is PK willing to serve as the McKay club beacon mascot for 2009? That remains to be seen.

I am BAAAAACK from FLA!

2008-12-17T00:10:00.002-05:00

THE BOSTON BASEBALL HEAD IS WELCOMED TO THE ANIMAL KINGDOM BY AN OLD PAL - PLUTO!

I am Back from a 7 day junket to that Magic Place in Central FLA. Sea World, Disney and Universal wore me out. Not only did the Theme Parks, but the night-life exhausted the baseball Head. But, I am refreshed and back at work. Snow tonight after wading in the pool in 83deg temps this morning.

ROCKETS POWER DANCERS! Some EYE Candy on a Snowy Boston Sunday

2008-12-07T11:08:00.008-05:00

OJ in the Hall of Fame of LOOSAHS!

2008-12-06T12:00:00.003-05:00

Football Hall of Fame running back O.J. Simpson after being handed a lengthy sentence when he was found guilty of armed robbery, kidnapping and several other charges. Pay back is a biatch -- JUICE! The Law caught up with you and your lie-filled life. The only pure thing you ever did was on the green fields around the NFL. Now that will be all forgotten as you enter a life in prison. Good BYE!

2008-12-02T00:11:00.003-05:00

Jim Rice's 406 total bases in 1978 were the most by an AL player since Joe DiMaggio in 1937.

2009 MLB Hall of Fame Ballot

Here are the names that will appear on the MLB Ballot for Cooperstown in 2009. Click on the name for detail about each of the candidates:

2009 candidates• Harold Baines• Jay Bell• Bert Blyleven• David Cone• Andre Dawson• Ron Gant• Mark Grace• Rickey Henderson• Tommy John• Don Mattingly• Mark McGwire• Jack Morris• Dale Murphy• Jesse Orosco• Dave Parker• Dan Plesac• Tim Raines• Jim Rice• Lee Smith• Alan Trammell• Greg Vaughn• Mo Vaughn• Matt Williams

Jim Rice MUST make it this year or his candidacy goes to the Veteran's Committee. There is a good chance the boston slugger will enter Coopwerstown and follow Yaz and TW as red Sox life-ling left fielders in the Hall.

YES - You can Buy a Red Sox Casket!

2008-12-01T06:09:00.002-05:00

Sox Fans Can Now Show Undying Loyalty
(Click on the above link for the full story.)

The first officially licensed Red Sox casket arrived at Rockland's Magoun-Biggins Funeral Home last month, with a suggested retail price of $4,499. (Boston Globe)

Video Logo gear for the die-hard Red Sox fan

Now this is a GREAT IDEA! Death sucks, but if ya gotta go -- ya might as well go in a Red Sox casket. This is not morbid -- it is one of the best ideas i have seen in years. the price is right as well. I am sure there will be many baby Boomers who croak that will be planted in this stylish box over the next twenty to thirty years.

Cheerleader of the Week!

2008-11-28T17:19:00.003-05:00

A Great SI Invention - Cheerleader of the Week. This is a tremendous diversion while the Boys of Summer rest!

Meet Dana, a proud Georgia senior and Bulldog cheerleader. When Dana's not watching 'The Count of Monte Cristo,' she's dreaming about eating peanut butter and chocolate, having dinner with Brady Quinn or being able to sing. Want to find out more? Click on the 20 Questions link below.

Photo: Courtesy of Bruce Yeung/Yeung Photography
20 Questions with Dana
Nominate a Cheerleader of the Week
Cheerleader of the Week index

McGovern Sports Training

2008-11-28T10:32:00.002-05:00

Click on posting for larger image.

Good Day!

I hope you all enjoyed a Happy Thanksgiving. Now it is back to Smart Ones and Lean Cuisines!

I have a very good friend, Dr. Kevin McGovern. Kevin is an expert in Sports Fitness and he is running a trmendous Sports Training Program. I would like to endorse this program and Kevin's efforts to provide such a qaulity opportunity.

If you, your players or friends want to participate - please take a moment to look at the piece I have attached. Kevin's contact info is also provided below.

Take care.

Dave McKay
The Boston Baseball Head

HOW TO CONTACT KEVIN:

Dr. Kevin J. McGovern, PT, CSCS
President

McGovern Physical Therapy Associates
“We Get Results”

www.mcgovernpt.com

SI Sportsman of year Nominee and Ours

2008-11-26T15:10:00.002-05:00

The 2008 World Champion Boston Celtics

"The 2007-08 Celtics are my Sportsmen of the Year because they embraced the least respected and most valuable quality of NBA millionaires: humility. Each sought to play not for himself but for the team."

Baldelli - Does he have a role with the Sox?

2008-11-26T00:37:00.003-05:00

Possible role for Baldelli with Sox?

Rocco Baldelli could have a role with Sox, writes Nick Cafardo: "The Red Sox are doing due diligence on free agent Rocco Baldelli, who could be in the mix as a fourth outfielder after the team dealt Coco Crisp to the Kansas City Royals last week for reliever Ramon Ramírez. According to major league sources, Baldelli, from Cumberland, R.I., met with the Red Sox at Fenway late last week to discuss his future and the effects of the mitochondrial disorder that limited him to 80 at-bats with the Rays last season." ... Writes Amalie Benjamin: "The Crisp trade leaves the Sox with a hole in their outfield rotation. They will explore deals for a righthanded bat off the bench who can protect them in center field. Most of the Red Sox prospects are lefthanded hitters. One possibility the Sox are exploring is Rocco Baldelli, the Rhode Island native and former Rays outfielder/DH." The Rays in April declined to pick up options on Baldelli's expiring three-year, $9 million deal. A former Scott Boras client, the 6-foot-4, 200-pound 27-year-old represented himself when negotiating with the Rays.

DLowe Return?

2008-11-26T00:33:00.002-05:00

Mets don't expect to outbid Red Sox, Yankees for Lowe

The Mets "don't expect to outbid either the Yankees or Red Sox for (Derek) Lowe, if it comes to that, especially with agent Scott Boras putting out the word that he's looking for a five-year deal in the $15 million-$16 million a year range," according to the New York Daily News. ... According to Boras, numerous teams have contacted him about Dodgers free agent pitcher Lowe, writes the Globe's Adam Kilgore. "There is a very aggressive market for Derek," Boras said. "A widespread number of teams are interested. Certainly, when there is a pitcher in this free agent market who has established a pattern of durability he has for four years in Los Angeles, that's going to be there. ...From FoxSports.com's Ken Rosenthal: "[Scott] Boras, according to executives with two different teams interested in Derek Lowe, is telling clubs he wants 'a Zito-type contract' for the free-agent right-hander. That's Zito, as in Barry Zito, as in seven years, $126 million... Boras could not be reached Tuesday night, but he has called Lowe 'the safest bet' of any free-agent pitcher." ...While confirming the team's offer to C.C. Sabathia, Yankees co-chairman Hank Steinbrenner also said his team was prepared to make offers to Derek Lowe and A.J. Burnett. "Yes," Steinbrenner said when asked if an offer was made to Sabathia. "And we're prepared to make offers to Burnett and Lowe."... According to the Globe's Tony Massarotti, Derek Lowe is among the most probable targets for the Red Sox and the team has already asked agent Scott Boras about the 35-year-old righthander: "With regard to this year's [free-agent] market, in particular, a major league source has confirmed that the Sox have inquired with agent Scott Boras about Lowe, interest deemed sincere enough that Boras has equipped the Sox with one of his famed marketing portfolios, or 'books,' on the player's value." Massarotti writes that Lowe "has never has been shy about declaring his fondness for Boston and East Coast baseball -- largely because he is the safest and most reliable option, assuming the Sox can get him for what they would term "value." (Nonetheless, he won't come cheaply -- plan on at least $15 million a year.)" Lowe has made Boston his No. 1 preference according to the Globe's Nick Cafardo. More from Lowe's agent Scott Boras via WEEI.com's Alex Speier: "A lot of New York teams hope to be there. Boston teams hope to be there annual. When you sign players, I think the caveat there is that you’ve really got to look hard at the postseason resume to determine if those players will be beneficial." ... Cafardo also reported that the Mets are going after him strong and have the resources to land him. The Mets also employ Lowe's personal trainer, Chris Correnti, but Lowe, who wants to play for a winning organization in a place where he's comfortable, may not see the Mets fitting his criteria. St. Louis, Atlanta, Milwaukee, and Detroit might be better fits, writes Cafardo.

Top Japanese Prospect Heading to Sox?

2008-11-26T00:27:00.001-05:00

Reports: Tazawa will likely choose Sox

(click above for full story)

Reports coming out of Japan today indicate that the Red Sox are the choice of coveted amateur pitcher Junichi Tazawa, a 22-year-old righthander who idolizes Daisuke Matsuzaka. (11:22 a.m.)

Baseball Heads December Show Feature Brett Rudy

2008-11-23T16:39:00.004-05:00

Boston MABL Marketing Director, Brett Rudy, recently made an appearance on the Baseball Heads Show to promote current baseball charitable initiatives and ways to bring ballplayers across the Boston Baseball community closer together. Topics discussed with host Dave McKay included Winterball, 100 Innings of Baseball and the Boston Amateur Baseball Network. Those living in Boston or Brookline can tune into Comcast, Channel 12.

In this photo: Brett Rudy and Dave McKay - Host of Boston Baseball Heads Show

Co Co WILL Be Missed

2008-11-20T00:01:00.003-05:00

Photos Did you see the catches Coco made?

Click on the highlighted area for more details & pics.

The Red Sox parted ways with one of the classiest kids they ever had in their uniform today. Co Co Crisp ran into walls and made catches in the out field that many other guys would never be able to make. The Sox have a HUGE 'prospect'! They gave up on Crisp because he had sub-par offensive seasons and they made an economic decision to move him before he would become a huge money bench player.

Baseball business aside -- I loved to see this young man run the green grass at Fenway. If Iwas in the tight box seats or in a more comfortable setting in Dorchester (at home or in the gin mill). We Sox Heads were treated to nothing less than 100% dedication - hard play and balls!

I hope Co Co hits 30 homers and steals 30 bases in 2009! he is going to a more relaxed market and may become a super star at 29. he won a ring and almost delivered another to us in '08! Good luck and have fun doing what you do best --- PLAY BALL & PLAY HAHD!

Bye Bye Co Co!! Kansas City Here You Come!

2008-11-19T12:27:00.003-05:00

Ramon Ramirez

Click here for Ramierez Stats

Crisp traded to Royals

Posted by Chad Finn, Globe Staff November 19, 2008 10:23 AM

The Red Sox have traded center fielder Coco Crisp to the Royals for righthanded relief pitcher Ramon Ramirez, a major league baseball source confirmed to the Globe's Nick Cafardo this morning. The Red Sox formally announced the deal at noon, and general manager Theo Epstein has a conference call scheduled for 1 p.m.

Ramirez is an interesting acquisition for the Red Sox -- his arrival would suggest that the ball club is at least considering using Justin Masterson as a starter. Reports say the 27-year-old throws in the low 90s, with an outstanding curveball and a changeup that acts like a splitter. A scout who saw Ramirez pitch six times in person this season offered this analysis to Cafardo:
"Likes to challenge hitters . . . Definitely a setup man with potential to be a closer down the road . . . Plus fastball, plus slider, has a splitter or something that resembles a splitter . . . Average command . . . Deceptive delivery makes it hard for righthanded hitters to pick up his fastball."
Ramirez is coming off a very good 2008 season, having posted a 2.64 ERA in 71.2 innings this year while striking out 70. He allowed just two home runs, and held righthanders to a .153 average in 137 at-bats, the lowest in the AL and third in majors among pitchers with at least 50 games. Only the Cubs’ Carlos Marmol (.103) and Philadelphia’s Brad Lidge (.105) ranked higher. In his career, Ramirez has held righties to a .198 clip with an OPS of .586. He was particularly effective in September, allowing just one earned run and four hits in 9.2 innings (0.93 ERA).

Ramirez, who originally signed with the Rangers at age 15 in 1996, debuted in the majors in 2006 with the Colorado Rockies after he was acquired from the Yankees for pitcher Shaun Chacon. He posted a 3.46 ERA in 67.2 innings over 61 appearances as a Rockies rookie, and did not allow a run in his first 15.1 innings.

He struggled with an elbow injury in '07, going 2-2 with an 8.31 ERA in 22 games and was not on the Rockies' World Series roster against the Red Sox.

Crisp, 29, batted .283 -- .315 in the second half -- with seven homers, 41 RBIs and 20 stolen bases in 361 at-bats last season, his third in Boston. An excellent fielder, started 98 games in center field while sharing the job with rookie Jacoby Ellsbury.

Trading Crisp clears a chunk of payroll for the Red Sox -- he will earn $5.7 million in 2009, with a club option for 2010 for $8 million or a $500,000 buyout.

The deal was first reported this morning on Kansas City sports radio station WHB 810 by Brian McRae, a former Royals outfielder who is a part owner of the station.

During an on-air interview with WHB 810 earlier this morning, Royals senior adviser Mike Arbuckle would not confirm that the deal was complete, but said he liked Crisp as a player.

"I would say Coco is a good player and we're always interested in getting good players," said Arbuckle, who recently joined the Royals after working in the front office of the World Champion Philadelphia Phillies.

Mark this Day - I Agree with Callahan!

2008-11-19T05:34:00.003-05:00

THE BOSTON BASEBALL HEAD IS ON A CAMPAIGN TO "BRING MARK TO BOSTON" IN THIS WINTER OF ANOTHER WORLD SERIES MISS. WE NEED HIS BAT. WE NEED HIS BASEBALL ATTITUDE AND LEADERSHIP AS A NUMBER FOUR HITTER BEHIND BIG PAPPI! DO THE DEAL AND WORRY ABOUT WHERE EVERYONE ELSE PLAYS AFTER THE DEAL IS DONE. I AGREE WITH THIS ARTICLE WRITTEN BY MUTTEN HEAD -- GERRY CALLAHAN OF WEEI AND HERALD FAME-- MARK THAT DAY ON YOUR BLOTTER.

Signing 1B Mark Teixeira worth chaos for Boston Red Sox
By Gerry Callahan Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Boston Herald General Sports Columnist

In a perfect world, he would be the perfect player, a cleanup hitter who beats up on opposing pitchers and keeps his hands off the hired help. He would command $20 million a year, but unlike the last Red Sox [team stats] player who pulled down that kind of dough, the team would get more than a good bat for its buck.

The Sox also would get some leadership, pride and respect for others in the organization. His teammates wouldn’t feel like they were living with Lindsay Lohan for eight months a year. The manager wouldn’t feel like he had 24 ballplayers and one Saudi prince in his clubhouse. The owners wouldn’t feel like chumps for forking over $3 million a month to a guy who doesn’t tip clubhouse kids.
In an ideal world, Mark Teixeira would be the ideal free agent pickup for the Red Sox. General manager Theo Epstein would be on him like John Kruk on a Marriott Burger. A switch hitter, a good OBP guy and a Gold Glove first baseman who won’t turn 29 until April, Teixeira is as close to a sure thing as Epstein will find on the free agent market.

The Sox need someone to hit fourth. They want to get younger. They have the money. They have a good relationship with Teixeira’s evil agent, Scott Boras. The Sox would give the player a chance to win his first World Series. And they would put him closer to his home in Maryland (although not so close that he’s forced to play for the Baltimore Orioles).

The Red Sox have everything Teixeira could want in a ballclub, except, of course, a job opening. The Sox have a first baseman, and he will finish in the top three in the MVP race today (something Teixeira never has done). Kevin Youkilis [stats] could slide over to third base, but the Sox also have a third baseman.

Mike Lowell was the MVP of the 2007 World Series (something else Teixeira never has done).

So the Sox easily could take a pass on Teixeira, focus on their catching situation, save themselves about $150 million and go to battle next season with essentially the same team that just won 95 games and beat Teixeira’s Angels in the American League Division Series.

They could sit back, do nothing and fill every seat in their lyric little cashbox next season. But here’s a prediction that’s about as bold and gutsy as a Colin Powell endorsement:

The Sox will do something. It’s the way they operate. It’s how they roll.
Sometimes it leads to foolish moves, such as signing Julio Lugo [stats] to a four-year, $ 36 million contract or trading for Eric Gagne. No Sox fan, however, could ever accuse Theo and the Trio of standing pat and settling for the status quo.

The Red Sox front office looks at its players the way NASCAR drivers look at their wives: Hey, there is always room for an upgrade.

Which is why we expect Epstein to make an all-out effort to sign Teixeira and to unload Lowell. It will be messy, it will be complicated, it will create some dissension among Sox players, but no one can deny that the addition of Teixeira would make the team better.

Lowell is universally admired by teammates, management, fans and media, but the longer Epstein has been on the job, the less he has allowed sentiment to affect his decision-making. He is not a Son of Sam Horn anymore. He is a Son of Bill Belichick, a cold, cunning, ruthless, relentless GM who cares only about putting the best team on the field.

In the past, Epstein traded Nomar Garciaparra and Manny Ramirez [stats] and let Johnny Damon and Pedro Martinez walk away as free agents. But this offseason, he will have to tap into his inner Belichick like never before: Jason Varitek [stats], who turns 37 in April, appears to have priced himself out of a job. The catcher’s agent, Boras, compares him to Jorge Posada but leaves out one minor difference: The Yankees catcher still can hit. Anything more than two years for the Sox captain will be money for nothing, and Epstein knows it.

Last year at this time, Philadelphia was offering Lowell four years, and the Sox held the line at three. Lowell decided to forgo the extra year and stay because he was comfortable here. He’s probably not so comfortable anymore.

If the Sox were to sign Teixeira, they most likely would try to move Lowell, who has two years and $24 million left on his contract. Of course, Lowell is recovering from October hip surgery, which will make it difficult to deal him until he proves he can play. That means if the Sox ink Teixeira, they would be forced to bring all three players (Lowell, Youkilis and Teixeira) to spring training.

And you know what? It’s worth the chaos. Signing Teixeira is a rare opportunity for the Sox, a star player who would be a rock in the middle of their lineup for years to come. You don’t pass on that because Mike Lowell is a class act.

It’s not easy for those NASCAR guys either, but have you seen their wives? Sometimes you just have to bite the bullet and go for the upgrade.

Pedroia MVP!

2008-11-18T23:44:00.005-05:00

Boston Red Sox Second Baseman - Dustin Pedroia won the AL MVP today.

This young man has burst on the baseball scene with abandon. He won a World Series Ring and the Rookie of the Year in 2007. Dustin came very close to winning the batting title in '08 as well. He is a gutsy baseball head, who is everything he is on the field off the field. He also was a Gold Glover at 2B in '08!!

Pedroia is a budding superstar. Loved by fans and team mates alike, Dustin won the MVP voting by a land slide. Team mate, Kevin Youkilis garnered third place behind Justin Morneau of the Twins.

The Sox may not have won the World Series in 2008, but proved that they will be a solid threat with their young talent for many years to come.

Congratulations young man and here's to a long a fruitful career in Boston!

PEDROIA IS AL - MVP!

LOCAL MEDIA COVERAGE (CLICK ON HIGHLITED AREA FOR MORE ON DUSTIN)

Photos Red Sox MVPs
Photos Short sports stars
Video Youkilis on Pedroia's MVP win
Dallas writer leaves Pedroia off his ballot Vote count
Mazz: For Pedroia, size mattered Video anaylsis
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