Papi Pressure May Have Been Sox Turning Point

AP Photo

Everyone just assumes that the Muddy Chicken (Dustin Pedroia) is the new de facto "captain" of the Boston Red Sox. But, a report by Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports suggests that it was David Ortiz who stepped up and took a leadership role in a volatile players-only team meeting on May 11th. The Big DH reportedly challenged the pitching staff to take personal responsibility for their performance.The result?

Since the meeting the Red Sox have won eight of ten. This is the type of leadership that was so sorely lacking at the end of 2011—maybe the new "captain" can right the Good Ship Bobby V. and sail into the post-season after all.