POLL: Swihart Has Slight Edge In Catcher Preference

Further voting in our latest FenwayNation Poll indicates that Blake Swihart has a slight edge over Christian Vazquez in reader preferences—although it's still close. As the chart shows, 45% now choose Swihart as the catcher the Sox should hang on to, while 41% take that view for Vazquez—essentially a flip from our last reading. About the same number as last time (14%) opt for keeping Sandy Leon over the other two catchers. Interestingly, a poll on MLBTradeRumors.com (with a much bigger sample size) shows somewhat similar results: Swihart 49.9%, Vazquez 34.5%, Leon 15.6%. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

POLL: Dead Heat On Which Young Sox Catcher To Keep

Early voting in our very latest FenwayNation Poll shows that readers are pretty divided on whether to keep Blake Swihart or Christian Vazquez safe from trade interest. As the chart shows, 45% think Vazquez is the one the Red Sox should "definitely hang on to", while nearly as many (41%) think that way about Swihart. About one reader in seven (14%) thinks Sandy Leon is the catcher to protect. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

POLL: Which Red Sox Catching Option Should Stick?

Which ONE of Boston's three catcher options should they definitely hang on to?

Sandy Leon

Blake Swihart

Christian Vazquez

 

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D'Back's GM Hazen Showing Interest In Swihart/Vazquez

(AP Photo)

Current Arizona (and former Red Sox) GM Mike Hazen is looking for catching. His current tandem is old and not that good. He's considered free-agent Matt Wieters, but he's apparently not that interested. Enter Blake Swihart and Christian Vazquez. Multiple reports indicate that Hazen has expressed interest in both Boston backstop prospects in a possible trade with his old boss Dave Dombrowski. Either Swihart or Vazquez could stabilize Arizona's catching corps for years to come. The word is, however, that Boston has no desire to part with either one—at least for now. Stay tuned!

Delusional Girardi Sees Empire Fighting For AL East

Has someone shown poor Joe Girardi the 2017 Yankees roster? Apparently not, since this is what the skipper of The Evil Ones told the New York Daily News, "I think we’re a club that is fighting for our division. That’s who I think we are." While The Bronx Embalmers did make some decent moves—Aroldis Chapman and (36-year-old) Matt Holiday—their overall club pales in comparison to the Red Sox and Blue Jays. The Pinstriped Posers finished nine games behind Boston last year—and the Red Sox added Chris Sale. As for the balance of the Yankees squad—beyond Masahiro Tanaka and Gary Sanchez—they are AAA quality. As we have said here before, Girardi is a great manager—consistently getting the most out of mediocre teams—but this claim is just silly.

POLL: Whopping Four In Five See '04 ALCS Game Tops

Well, it looks as if a pretty solid consensus has developed on which of our Editor-In-Chief's personally attended games is tops. As the chart shows, fully 81% pick 2004's ALCS Game Four as the one that should be most "cherished". We're sure that Dave Roberts would agree. As the chart shows, just 10% select the famous 2001 'Tuck Rule' game—the final contest in the old Pats stadium. And, just 5% each think the 1999 All-Star Game or 2007 ALCS pennant-clincher are the best games. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

Oops! Eduardo Rodriguez "Tweaks" Knee In Winter Ball

OK, maybe that "wicked deep" pitching staff isn't so deep after all. Word from Venezuelan winter ball is that left-handed starter Eduardo Rodriguez "tweaked his knee"on Tuesday. Now, the crack Red Sox medical staff (and you know their history) says the injury is "minor" and "not serious". Right. You may recall that E-Rod's 2016 season was torpedoed by a Spring Training knee injury. Yeah. So, our #4 starter is already potential damaged goods. Great!

Red Sox Icon-(oclast) Bill Lee Turns Seventy Today

(Getty Images)

Your humble scribe actually played against 'Spaceman' Bill Lee in a game at 1992 Red Sox Fantasy Camp in Winter Haven, Florida. Luckily, I didn't have to hit against his famed 'blooper' pitch. I did get a chance to schmooze with him in the outfield during batting practice. Suffice it to say, it was an experience. Previously, I made a bet with a fellow camper that Lee was supporting then-and-present California Governor Jerry Brown for President. Sure enough, when I asked him in the outfield that day, he won the bet for me. He was, in fact, supporting 'Governor Moonbeam'. Of course! We tell you all this because the inimitable Lee turns seventy years-old today. It's almost too much to comprehend, since he will always be that 22-year rookie who first graced us with his duende way back in 1969. He won 94 games in Carmine Hose before being shipped off to The Great White North for the immortal Stan Papi. Happy birthday, Spaceman!

Both Vazquez And Castillo Performing Well In Winter Ball

Vazquez And Castillo (AP Photo)

Red Sox fans can rejoice in two positive reports from Winter Ball in Puerto Rico. Both Christian Vazquez and Rusney Castillo are hitting well in the Roberto Clemente Professional Baseball League on the island. According to SoxProspects.com, Vazquez reached base five times in twelve trips to the plate last week, while Castillo went 4 for 11 (hitting .360 on the Winter), with a double, a walk and a stolen base. Both players need to make positive impressions on Carmine Hose brass to force their way into Spring Training competitions. These early signs indicate they could be more than ready for the challenge. Stay tuned for more updates on both players!

POLL: Which Game Should Be Most Cherished?

Of these four games attended by FenwayNation's Editor-In-Chief, which ONE should he cherish the most?

1999 All-Star Game—Pedro whiffing everyone

2001 AFC Divisional Playoff—Pats vs. Raiders 'Tuck Rule ' game

2004 ALCS Game Four—Sox survive, beat Yankees

2007 ALCS Game Seven—Sox win Pennant at Fenway

 

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Deep Discount On '17 FenwayNation Calendar ($12.99)

Well, only if you consider two dollars off a "deep" discount. We do. Lots of these calendars were bought at the incredibly reasonable price of $14.99—now you can scoop up one (or more) for the low, low price of just $12.99! Each month features a brand new, exclusive photo of Fenway Park—an image you can't get anywhere else but in the FenwayNation calendar. This is clearly the last time you can get this unique product! You can order the calendar (and get a free preview of each month's photo) HERE.

Top Five Reasons Why 2016 Wasn't So Bad After All

There's been a lot of hand-wringing lately about what a horrible year 2016 has been. Really? Well, it's already December 28th and the sky isn't falling and the beaches of south Florida are not underwater (this is aimed at you, Al Gore). Moreover, your 2016 Boston Red Sox were a pretty exciting ball-club. After two last place finishes—and three out of the last four seasons as cellar-dwellers—The Carmine Hose roared back and captured the AL East crown. So, here are the Top Five Sox-Related Reasons To Look Back Fondly On 2016 (in no particular order):

• David Ortiz delivered one of the most astonishing walk-off seasons in MLB history. First, on bad wheels, 40-year-old Ortiz played in 151 of Boston's 162 games. He hit .315, with 38 HRs. He led the league in doubles (48)—as well as RBIs (127), slugging (.620) and OPS (1.021). These are ridiculous numbers for any player in their prime, let alone an aging star. Five years from now on his HOF enshrinement, this epic season will seem even more amazing;

• Rick Porcello rebounded from mediocrity to the Cy Young Award. Porcello's transformation was astounding. The 28-year-old righty went from 9-15 in 2015 to 22-4 in 2016—from minus 6 to plus 18. He threw 223 innings and led the league in strikeout-to-walk ratio (5.91);

• The Killer B's All Became Bonafide Stars. Mookie Betts, Jackie Bradley, Jr. and Xander Bogaerts had stand-out seasons together. All three hit 20 or more HRs (Betts had 31) and each had an OPS over .800. Moreover, on the horizon was a fourth Killer B (Andrew Benintendi);

 • Dustin Pedroia got his MoJo back. Last season, we once again saw The Laser Show we all know and love. Largely injury-free, The Muddy Chicken played in 154 games—and John Farrell needed a restraining order to keep him out of those other eight games. Pedroia hit .318 with 15 HRs and 74 RBIs—to go along with 201 hits (the first time he's done the latter since 2008). He compiled a .376 on-base percentage and knocked out 36 doubles. He's back;

• Hanley Ramirez became a clubhouse and on-field plus. Who'd have thunk it? Not only did Hanley play a more-than-acceptable first base, he hit well and was Mr. Wonderful to the press and teammates. His 30 HR and 111 RBIs almost went unnoticed in the robust Red Sox offense. But we noticed.

So, there you have it, the Top Five Reasons to go celebrate the year that was 2016.

David Ortiz Is Finally "Kickin' It In The Caribbean"

For all those who still want to bring David Ortiz (and his 40-year old heels) out of retirement, please think again. In an Instagram post over the Christmas holiday, Big Papi showed us all just how much he's enjoying his first truly 'stress-free' off-season. Basically, he's luxuriating on a boat off the coast of his Dominican Republic homeland. Said Papi in his posting, "Life is good ... my beautiful country, the Dominican Republic." Good for him! Good for his aching heels! Leave this poor guy alone!

Red Sox Seek Yet More 'Panda Insurance' With Plouffe

(USAToday Photo)

Matt Dominguez, Rafael Devers, Josh Rutledge, Brock Holt—and now (possibly) Trevor Plouffe. The Red Sox are rumored to be seeking even more 'Panda Insurance' at 3B by feeling out Plouffe's availability and cost. The 30-year old former Twin was let go by Minnesota after an injury-riddled 2016. Despite a professed "commitment" to Pablo Sandoval at The Hot Corner—nobody really believes it. The Panda's track record in Boston is not good—so Sox honcho Dave Dombrowski (who has no skin in the Sandoval game)—is likely to have a very short leash on the Panda in 2017.

Ninety-Seven Years Ago Today 'The Curse' Began

On December 26, 1919—exactly 97 years ago today—Harry Frazee became the biggest villain in Boston baseball history. The Red Sox owner sold the rights to a young player who not only pitched brilliantly but had just set the single-season HR mark at 29 in 1919. He also knocked in 113 runs, while starting 15 games and delivering a 2.97 ERA in '19. Ah, what the heck, dump him to your biggest rival. So, George Herman 'Babe' Ruth was sold to the soon-to-be Evil Ones for a mere pittance ($100,000). Over the next 15 seasons, Ruth hit .349 with 659 HRs. Nice goin', Harry!

Blimey, Guv'nr: Red Sox And Yankees To Play In London!

Thanks to the new Collective Bargaining Agreement—and some behind-the-scenes negotiations between John Henry and Hal Steinbrenner—the Red Sox and Yankees could meet in London in 2018. It could actually be a Boston-New York series—which makes us wonder why fans of each team should have to sacrifice some valuable tickets in order to make even more money for billionaires. Now, we know there are many Red Sox fans in the UK (some actually read this blog), but something about this plan doesn't seem right. This is not the NFL—most Brits will probably politely show up and make snide comparisons to cricket or rounders. Said Yankee President Randy Levine, "There have been some meaningful attempts to do so, and we are hopeful and confident that we can play there soon. Playing the Red Sox in London would be a unique and special event." Ah, who needs it?

Manny's Wife Says He's Training Hard For Comeback

Way back on December 2nd, we reported that 44-year-old Manny Ramirez was likely to play for an independent pro team in Japan (the Kochi Fighting Dogs). Now, apparently, part of this news has reached the mainstream media (if you can call TMZ mainstream). They quote Manny's wife Juliana thusly, "He is training extremely hard. Batting, CrossFit, Orange Theory. He never stops. I told him, 'Go for it!' Baseball is the love of his life other than his family and I totally support him 100% ... 'cause I know how much it means for him." Somebody please tell Harvey Levin to just read FenwayNation every day—that way he can get his scoops a lot earlier.

POLL: Sox Are Only The Fourth Most-Hated Franchise

A new online poll suggests that the Red Sox are just the fourth most-hated MLB franchise. So far, a sampling of 7,425 people have responded to the survey in just the last three days. Not surprisingly, The Bronx Embalmers take the top "most-hated" spot—garnering fully 21.6% of the vote. The San Francisco Giants come in second at 16.3%, followed by the Los Angeles Dodgers at 13.5%. Then come your own Carmine Hose—pulling in 11.5% of the total vote. You can still vote in this poll HERE.

The Great 'Pesky Pole' Disappearance Mystery Solved

(Boston Globe Photo)

If you happen to be walking around Fenway Park these days, you might have a nagging feeling that something just isn't right. Wait! Where the heck is the Pesky Pole? Boston Globe reporter Stan Grossfeld recently had that sinking feeling. So, he asked. Turns out that the venerated mast is undergoing "repair" at an iron works in South Easton, Massachusetts—leaving a pathetic stump down the right-field line. The pole is being straightened, strengthened, re-painted and given a new lighting feature. Next month, the refurbished pole will re-take its rightful place as an iconic element of Fenway Park.

Are Curt Schilling's Politics Hurting His HOF Chances?

Curt Schilling

Back in the 1950s, it was called 'McCarthyism'—blacklisting people for their views and associations. Today, it's apparently the new normal—as the case of Curt Schilling's Hall of Fame status suggests. According to Ryan Thibodaux's Hall of Fame tracker—which complies all the publicly-announced voting—Schilling is getting 58.5% of the vote as of today. That's up some from last year—but nowhere near the 75% he needs for enshrinement. The question is: are Curt's well-known political views hurting his chances of getting into the Hall? It would seem so. No matter what you think of his positions on the issues of the day, the idea of punishing an athlete for his personal views should be appalling to every American. Of course, baseball writers are denying the linkage, but—to us—it's pretty damn clear what's going on. Shameful!

Steph Curry Embraces Cashman's Comparison To Sox

Papi And Curry

We already knew that Steph Curry was a big Red Sox fan. It all started when he was growing up in North Carolina and his brother chose The Evil Ones to root for. Being a competitive brother, of course, Steph chose the Red Sox. That fandom of The Carmine Hose has endured—even as Curry attained super-stardom in the NBA. When Yankee GM Brian Cashman recently compared the re-stocked Red Sox to Curry's Golden State Warriors it caused a bit of an uproar. Curry was OK with it, though, stating, "I like that comparison because the Red Sox are my favorite team. They obviously made some splashes during the offseason, and when you play an exciting brand of baseball and you're about winning -- because that's what we're about -- I like the comparison." I guess he likes the comparison.

Sunday Night Baseball Has Two Early-Season Sox Games

At least two 2017 'early season' Red Sox home games will be televised nationally on ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball. Both the April 30th game against the World Series Champion Cubs and the July 16th game against The Evil Ones will be broadcast by 'The World Wide Leader'. Both telecasts will be start at 8:05 PM Eastern time. Returning to the broadcast will be play-by-play man Dan Shulman (his seventh season)—along with analysts Aaron Boone, Jessica Mendoza and Buster Olney. Not surprisingly, the Cubbies will make five appearances in this 'early-season' window. Also not surprisingly, The Bronx Embalmers will make four appearances during this period. This will be the 28th season for Sunday Night Baseball.

Encarnación Received Multi-Year Offers From Six Teams

Encarnación

According to his agent (probably not the most credible spokesperson in the universe), free-agent slugger Edwin Encarnación has gotten multi-year contract offers from six teams. Despite the denials from Yawkey Way, you have to think the Red Sox are one of those teams. There are fewer than 14 possible AL clubs (aside from the Jays) who can use a DH like Edwin, so there's almost a 50% chance that the Sox are in it—at least to some degree. Now that they have room under the luxury tax threshold, it would only make sense to go after him. Stay tuned!

Help Support A Boston Park In Honor Of Martin Richard

POLL: Division On Whether Sox Spend Now Or Later

Early voting in our very latest FenwayNation Poll suggests a sharp division among readers on whether the Sox should spend now to get a player or wait until the 2017 Trade Deadline to make a move. As the chart shows, a slim majority (52%) think that—considering that the current payroll is under the luxury tax threshold—the team should make another acquisition now. Nearly as many readers (48%) take the opposing view—that the team should wait until next Summer to add a player. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

Pomeranz And Wright Likely to Have 'Swing' Roles In '17

Now that Clay Buchholz will be toiling in the City Of Brotherly Love, the make-up of the 2017 Red Sox rotation is much clearer. Chris Sale, David Price, Rick Porcello and Eduardo Rodriguez should be the four locked-in starters. E-Rod has no real experience in a relief role—while both Drew Pomeranz and Steven Wright do. As Paul Swydan of FanGraphs.com points out, the latter two have performed either better in the 'pen (Pomeranz) or about the same as in their starting roles (Wright). While the career sample sizes are relatively small for both, the fact remains that they at least have been relievers before. Of course, this is an extremely positive situation for manager John Farrell—he can 'mix and match' Pomeranz and Wright as fifth starters whenever the circumstances dictate. And, if Boston does make it to the post-season, they will have three formidable starters to go into a short series in Sale, Price and Porcello.

POLL: Should Sox Add Player Now Or At Trade Deadline?

With the Red Sox payroll well under the cap ($182M), should they go out and get someone now or wait to add a player at the 2017 trade deadline?

Go out and get another player now

Wait until the 2017 trade deadline

 

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Clay, We Most Definitely Knew Ye—Wicked, Wicked Well!

The 2007 No-Hitter

He was picked by the Red Sox in the first round of the 2005 draft—the 42nd pick overall. But almost from the first moment, there was controversy surrounding Clay Buchholz. Stories emerged about his possible involvement in purloined laptops at his Texas high school. But that was quickly forgotten as he made his MLB debut in the 2007 Championship season—just three days past his 23rd birthday. And, in just his third MLB start he pitched a no-hitter. The future was extremely bright for the tall Texas righty. But, then, he had sub-par seasons in 2008 and 2009—with injuries limiting him to just 15 and 16 starts, respectively. Doubts began to emerge, and Clay never really overcame those doubts. And yet, he had a huge bounce-back 2010 season—finishing sixth in the Cy Young voting with 17 wins and an All-Star berth. Then another All-Star season in 2013—but only 16 starts due to more injuries. His final three seasons in Boston were 'up and down' at best. In the post-season, he pitched well in the 2009 ALDS and the 2013 World Series—but overall, his playoff performances were as spotty as his regular season ones. That's probably what what we'll all remember—the potential, but also the injury-plagued disappointment. We wish him the best in Philly!

Who The Red Sox Are Getting Back In Joshua Tobias

(Picasa Photo)

Joshua Tobias, the infield prospect Boston got back in the Clay Buchholz trade, is a bit of a conundrum. The guy can hit, but his fielding is not exactly Brooks Robinson-like. Primarily a second baseman in the Phillies system—he played third base in college at the University of Florida. He's generally ranked as the third-best 2B prospect in the Philadelphia organization—so they are not exactly giving up a lot. Tobias did hit .321 in his first minor-league season and was named the MVP of the Williamsport Crosscutters. The 5'9", 195-pound switch-hitter then hit a combined .291 in 2016 at two levels in the Phillies system. He likely projects as a bench/utility player in the big leagues.

Red Sox Trade Clay Buchholz To Phillies For 2B Prospect

Multiple sources now confirm that the Red Sox have traded away long-time pitcher Clay Buchholz to the Philadelphia Phillies for a prospect. Boston will get second-base prospect Josh Tobias in exchange for the tall Texas righty. Buchholz—drafted by the Red Sox in the first round of the 2005 draft—hurled ten seasons in Carmine Hose. He compiled a 81-61 mark and a 3.96 ERA. It's reported that the Phillies will be responsible for all of Buchholz's $13.5 million 2017 salary. The 32-year-old seemed to recover some of his early form in the second half of last season. Tobias is a 24-year-old infielder, who has hit .301 in 188 minor league games.

A Great Red Sox Book For Holiday Season Giving

If you've already bought your quota of 2017 FenwayNation Calendars (thank you!), but you still need more gifts for your Sox-obsessed friends, fear not! We'd suggest scooping up a few copies of Greg Pearson's terrific book, 'Fenway Fanatics: 50 Boston Red Sox Fans Tell Their Stories'. Only part of the reason we recommend this fine tome is that there's an entire chapter on our Editor-In-Chief. And, he also authored the Foreword to the book. As a reviewer says, Pearson "has collected half a hundred of them who told their tales of the Bambino's curse, Bucky Dent, Bill Buckner and that history-making championship season: 2004. For these fans, the Red Sox are all tied up with family history, romance and the meaning of life." So, if you want a really cool way to while away the rest of the off-season, get this book! You can purchase it on Amazon HERE.

December 20, 1980: A Date That Will Live In Sox Angst

Thirty-six years ago today, Red Sox GM Haywood Sullivan made one the biggest blunders in team history. Instead of mailing out Carlton Fisk's new contract offer by the contractually-mandated December 20th deadline, he waited until the next business day. Less than two months later, an arbitrator did not buy Sullivan's excuses and set Fisk free to pursue employment with any team. The Red Sox continued to talk brave—insisting that Carlton would return "home" to Fenway. Amazingly, the six-time All-Star was making $210,000 at the time—and was offered only $2.5 million over four (un-guaranteed) years by The Carmine Hose. The Pale Hose offered five guaranteed years and $2.9 million. Upon signing the new deal, Pudge said, '"To make an understatement, I had to make a monumental decision to leave Boston. It's been very trying and rough on the entire family. A few months ago, I never could have visualized this scene taking place here today." A truly dark day for Boston sports.

POLL: Majority Think The Panda Will Last All 2017 At 3B

Early results to our latest FenwayNation Poll show that a majority (55%) of readers think Pablo Sandoval will never be displaced from third base during the 2017 season. As the chart shows, 16% think The Panda will be gone from the Hot Corner by the All-Star Break, another 14% think he will be replaced by mid-June and 7% pinpoint his departure as "sometime" in May. Four percent each peg mid-August or September 1st as the date when either Matt Dominguez or Rafael Devers take over at third. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

POLL: Exactly When Will 'The Panda' Yield 3B In 2017?

At what point in the 2017 season will either Matt Dominguez or Rafael Devers take over 3B from Pablo Sandoval?

Sometime in May

Mid-June

The All-Star Break

Mid-August

September 1st

Never

 

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Red Sox To Pay $4.5M Luxury Tax For The 2016 Season

Only The Denizens Of Chavez Ravine ($31.8M) and The Bronx Embalmers ($27.4M) will shell out more luxury tax penalty cash than your own 2016 Carmine Hose ($4.5M). As offenders for the second straight year, the Red Sox have to pay up at a 30% rate. The Evil Ones are forking over the penalty for the 14th straight year—contributing $325 million over that time period. A record six clubs have to pay the piper this year—at a total contribution of $74 million.

Mariners Reportedly Have Interest In Drew Pomeranz

Multiple reports indicate that Red Sox left-handed starter Drew Pomeranz is on the trade radar of the Seattle Mariners. Also sparking interest in StarbucksLand is Cincinnati righty Anthony DeSclafani. Red Sox President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski is supposedly more interested in dealing away Clay Buchholz, but Pomeranz has generated far more interest so far. With regard to who might come back to Boston in a trade, most of Seattle's top prospects are outfielders or not that great. One possible target could be Seth Smith (who made the final out of the 2007 World Series for the Rockies). He's a proven bat that could fill-in against righties at DH—and play the outfield. Stay tuned!

Fenway's Foul Ground Shrinks, Henry's Wallet Expands

Fenway Park currently has the second-smallest amount of foul territory in all of major league baseball. That foul ground will decrease even more, as the Red Sox are adding 124 new premium luxury seats "between and beyond each dugout". The only thing that will increase in this effort is John Henry's wallet. In their never-ending quest to squeeze every penny out of Fenway's 104-year old infrastructure, the NOG (New Ownership Group) are again pandering to the "beautiful people" elite—who are the only fans that afford these accommodations. And, this shrinking of the playing field means longer games—hello, Commissioner Rob Manfred! Of course, the City of Boston Landmarks Commission—as it always does—rolled over for the Red Sox and rubber-stamped the plan in October when nobody was looking. We're not sure, but this bold new project is probably not 'carbon-neutral'. Someone get Al Gore on the horn.

Nobody Born Today Has Ever Played For The Red Sox

At least according to Baseball Reference (and they are the ultimate authority on these issues), not a single MLB player born today (December 16th) has ever suited up for The Carmine Hose. That's pretty ridiculous. Regular FenwayNation readers have probably noticed that we highlight one Red Sox player birthday every day—and usually there are multiple choices. For example, yesterday (December 15th), we had our pick of Mo Vaughn, Haywood Sullivan and George Stumpf. Today, however, stands alone among the other 364 days. How can this be? What type of cosmic forces came into play to allow for this oddity? Historically, the Red Sox did sign both Mike Cameron and John Lackey on December 16, 2009. But that wouldn't explain anything. It's a mystery!

ESPN Fuels Conspiracy Theory On A Big Papi "Return"

(Exclusive FenwayNation Photo)

How many times does the poor guy have to say it? Red Sox legend David Ortiz is retired, kaput, done. His feet have tormented him for years, and—at age 40—he simply can't take the punishment of the MLB travel schedule. Let him be! But, nooooooo, ESPN's Buster Olney just can't resist fueling the silly speculation that Big Papi still might, just might return after his epic final season. Olney points out that Ortiz blows away the field in terms of final season rankings by Hall Of Fame players. His 5.1 WAR is #1 all-time—only Roberto Clemente at a 4.8 WAR is even close (but, of course, he tragically died in a plane crash at the peak of his career). But come on, why torture the guy with this stuff? His health and his family are more important than strapping it on one more time.

Junichi Tazawa Signs Two-Year Deal With Miami Marlins

(Associated Press)

Multiple sources are reporting that former Red Sox relief pitcher Junichi Tazawa has signed a two-year, $12 million contract with the Miami Marlins. Tazawa has been a mainstay in the Boston bullpen for quite some time now—after signing as a free agent out of Japan in 2008. Over seven seasons in Carmine Hose (the last five in a substantive role), Tazawa has gone 17-20 with a solid 3.58 ERA. He's pitched a total of 312 innings in 302 games for Boston. He was brilliant in the 2013 post-season—going 1-0 with a 1.23 ERA over 7.1 innings—including 2.1 scoreless innings in that year's World Series. We wish Junichi the best of luck in Miami!

Premier Screening Of New 'Patriots Day' Movie In Boston

(John Walker Photo)

The premiere screening of the new 'Patriots Day' movie took place yesterday in Boston. A host of celebrities and survivors were there to commemorate the horrific events that took place on April 15, 2013. However, the movie is also intended to celebrate the inspirational wave that overtook the region in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombings. The movie—co-produced by Dorchester native Mark Wahlberg—will open in Boston, New York and Los Angeles on December 21st. Nationwide release of the film will be on January 13th. The movie will be associated with the "Patriots Day" Charity Campaign, a nonprofit initiative, to help all of the organizations in Greater Boston that honor or provide services for the first responders, medical professionals and survivors of the terrorist attack.

Research: Sox Fans Would Never Root For The Yankees!

A new research study out of the University of Illinois reveals that an overseas American traveler—pining for a connection to home—can sometimes cleave to a distinctive cultural group (even if it's not one they identify with). In other words, a Seattle Mariners fan might root for the Yankees in the World Series—connecting to the 'home' culture of baseball in general and the American League in particular. But, interestingly, the research also found that when inter-group rivalries are present, you can throw that 'connectedness' crap right out the window. Said the study's author, Carlos J. Torelli, "It's very common for groups to share common cultural roots or geographical boundaries - but chances are, they also share some rivalries. And these rivalries might reach the point of complete animosity." So, would a die-hard Red Sox fan working in Japan root for the Yankees in the World Series? Not bloody likely. In fact, according to the study, "a denigration and rejection of products or brands associated with a related cultural group" takes hold. Like, we needed an academic to tell us this?

Curse-Slayer: How Theo Made History For Sox & Cubbies

In the Winter of 2004, when Sports Illustrated approached Theo Epstein about a story on his baseball 'ops' bungalow in Florida, he simply said, "We haven’t done anything yet." That motley, frat-like crew—known as Phi-Sign-A-Playa—did slay the 'Bambino' curse just a few months later. Now, after also taking down a goat-based curse, SI is back with an enlightening article by the great Tom Verducci. The key attribute that led to Esptein's three World Series rings is—according to Cubs manager Joe Maddon—empathy. What Maddon means is Theo understands people. Of course, he also has a rare eye for talent—which he used to bring in just the right mix of players to win. The article offers real insight into why Theo has been so good at such a young age. You can read it HERE.

Former Sox Catcher David Ross Writing Book On Career

Tie-Breaking World Series Double (Getty Images)

All you need to know about David Ross is contained in a story from the 2013 Red Sox Championship season. After missing 65 games with multiple concussion issues, Ross was urged by his family to shave off his beard during the long recovery period. Said Ross, "But I knew I couldn't walk into the locker room. Those guys wouldn't let me back in if I shaved it." Ross was one of the original three "Band Of Bearded Brothers" (along with Jonny Gomes and Mike Napoli) who willed the 2013 team to a 'Boston Strong'-themed ring after the terrorist bombings at the Marathon. Now, after capturing another championship with the Cubbies, Ross is writing a book about his long career. Titled, "Teammate: My Life in Baseball", the book will be published in May. It will deal a lot with his heroics in Game Seven for Chicago—but surely will also touch on his clutch play in the 2013 World Series as well. We still love 'ya, Rossie!

"Hit Dog" Mo Vaughn Turns Forty-Nine Years Old Today

(Getty Images)

Maurice Samuel "Mo" Vaughn turns 49 years old today. In his eight, great seasons with the Red Sox, Mo put together a .304 average, 230 HRs and 752 RBIs. In 1995, he was the AL MVP and led the league with 126 RBIs. He was beloved by Red Sox fans young and old—sort of a 1990s version of David Ortiz. With his determined stare and vicious upper-cut left-handed swing, he was was one of the most feared hitters of his era. And, he was a slick defender at first-base. When he left town as a free-agent in 1999 it was a shock—although he never really regained his Boston form in Anaheim or Flushing. We wish The Hit Dog a very happy birthday!

Chris Sale Trade Cuts Red Sox World Series Odds In Half

The Red Sox acquisition of left-handed ace Chris Sale has certainly affected the betting markets. According to Covers.com, bookies have slashed Boston's odds of winning the 2017 World Series from 10/1 (before the trade) to 5/1 (today). This puts The Carmine Hose in the second spot on the list—behind only the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs at 3/1. You will all be happy to know that The Bronx Embalmers emerged from the Winter Meetings with longer odds than when they went in. The Evil Ones now stand at 30/1 to win the 2017 Fall Classic—up from 25/1.

Owners And Players Sign New Collective Bargaining Pact

Major League Baseball owners and players signed-off on a new Collective Bargaining Agreement—which was just a formality after the broad outlines were agreed to earlier this month. Interestingly, the players voted unanimously to approve the pact, while one single owner voted "NO". Not surprisingly, Stuart Sternberg, owner of the moribund Tampa Bay Rays nixed the deal saying, "Twice a decade, the bargaining process provides an opportunity to address the extraordinary and widening competitive gap that exists on-field between higher and lower revenue clubs. I feel that opportunity was missed here." Hey, Stu—how about tearing down your joke stadium and giving fans a real venue to enjoy baseball? Maybe your franchise would become viable! The newly-ratified CBA will run through the 2021 season.

The "Wicked Big" Achilles Heel Of The 2017 Red Sox

Call it what you will: 'the elephant in the room', the 'thing that shall not be named'—whatever. But the one really scary 'Sword of Damocles' hanging over the 2017 Carmine Hose is replacing the offensive production of one David Américo Ortiz Arias. Apparently, neither Edwin Encarnación nor José Bautista is walking through that door—so we are left with cobbling together pieces from Hanley Ramirez and Mitch Moreland. Yeeesh! Now, pitching and defense are clearly the more important facets of winning baseball teams—and Boston will field a team superior on both counts. But, where will Big Papi's 38 HRs and 127 RBIs come from? That's a big slice of the Red Sox offense.

Former Red Sox 1B Bill Buckner Turns 67 Today

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With three World Series titles in the past twelve years, Red Sox fans have pretty much given up the ghosts of our tortured past. No more Bambino curses, no more pulling Jim Willoughby for a pinch-hitter, no more Mookie (the evil one, that is). So, in that spirit, we celebrate the tremendous career of one William Joseph Buckner—who turns 67 years-old today. 'Billy Buck' played 22 seasons in the big leagues—compiling a .289 average, while knocking in over 1,200 runs. He was a pure hitter—and a damn good one. And, until one play in 1986, he was regarded as a top-notch defensive first-baseman. He played a total of five years in Carmine Hose—hitting .279 with 48 HRs and 324 RBIs. He was a solid contributor—for example, playing 162 games in 1985 while hitting .299 (all with gimpy knees). Buckner was a fierce competitor—famously scaling the left-field fence to try and rob Hank Aaron of his 715th record-breaking home run. Happy birthday, Bill—and thank you for being a great player throughout your outstanding career.

More 'Panda Insurance' As Sox Sign 3B Matt Dominguez

You think the Red Sox are uneasy about putting all their eggs in one "Panda" basket? Today, Boston has reportedly signed free-agent 3B Matt Dominguez to a minor-league deal—with an invite to Spring Training. Dominguez was a highly-touted player when he was drafted, but has drifted through the majors and minors since 2007. He is a career .231 hitter.

3B Bobby Dalbec Sits Just Outside The Red Sox 'Top Ten'

Dalbec Connects On HR

Kevin Youkilis, Will Middlebrooks, Travis Shaw, Yoan Moncada—all former Red Sox third-basemen and all gone. Pablo Sandoval, our Nation turns its lonely (and wicked scared) eyes toward you! Assuming The Carmine Hose Hot Corner can survive until 2018, the 'cavalry' will be right around the corner. Most pundits are talking about Rafael Devers—and well they should. The now #2 prospect in the Red Sox organization looks like the real thing. But there is a guy just outside the Top Ten ranking (#11) that might be just as good—Bobby Dalbec. In fact, the 21-year old third-sacker may have more power potential than Devers. In limited 2016 action at Single A Lowell (34 games), the 6'4", 225-pound Dalbec hit .386 with 7 HRs and 33 RBIs. In fact, he captured two New York-Penn League Player Of The Week awards in his short stay in The Canal City. Keep an eye on him!

'Killer Bs' Outfield Is A Huge Strength For '17 Red Sox

The Killer B's (AP Photo)

The fact that multiple off-season transactions have left Boston's young outfield intact should pay huge dividends for The 2017 Carmine Hose. Having Andrew Benintendi in left, Jackie Bradley, Jr. in center and Mookie Betts in right will give Boston (arguably) the most complete and athletic outfield in all of baseball. Aside from the offensive prowess that all three should show in 2017, their collective defensive skills will make an already impressive starting rotation even tougher to beat. If, as an opposing hitter, you happen to square-up a gap shot against—say—Chris Sale, chances are that one of the three 'Killer B's' will track it down and send you back to the dugout. The disappointing three-and-out playoff "run" last year should serve to make this David Ortiz-free squad even hungrier for hardware. The core of young outfield stars will not hinder that quest.

José Canseco Lobbies To Become Next FED Chairman

Just when you thought 2016 could not get any weirder—enter José Canseco. The former Red Sox slugger (for two seasons, anyway) has gone on Twitter to induce President-Elect Donald Trump to appoint him as Chairman of The Federal Reserve Bank. You can get up now. Hey, if Bobby Valentine is qualified to be Ambassador to Japan, why can José play, too? Oddly, Canseco has been known to weigh-in on world economic issues in the past—he's even appeared on CNBC to spout his opinions. Since current Fed Chair Janet Yellen is safely in her spot until 2018, Canseco is also putting himself in-line for another post—Ambassador to Cuba. Again, folks, you just can't make this stuff up.

MLB Bans Stupid Rookie Hazing Female Dress-Ups

Major League Baseball took a big step into the 21st century by banning some completely ludicrous rookie hazing practices. For some reason, veteran MLB players thought it was "fun" to dress up rookies in women's clothing (or other inappropriate garb) and force them to traipse through airports that way. Apparently, the new rule just eliminates female outfits—so vets can still humiliate rookies with other garb. This kind of stuff is disgraceful enough on college campuses—but for grown men to engage in this is just flat-out dumb. Kudos to Commissioner Rob Manfred for stepping up and addressing this issue head-on—but he should have eliminated the practice entirely.

Rusney Off To A 'Hot Start' In Puerto Rican Winter Ball

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The so-far highly-disappointing Rusney Castillo is off to a pretty good start in his Winter League stint in Puerto Rico. According to MassLive.com's Christopher Smith, Castillo is 6 for 14, with a double and four RBIs for Criollos de Caguas. You may recall that Rusney is inked to a seven-year, $72.5 million contract. Let's just say that—so far—he hasn't quite earned his keep. Hopefully, the 29-year-old Castillo will finally hit his stride—and earn his way back onto the Red Sox 40-man roster. Stay tuned!