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Letters to the 2008 Red Sox

October 24, 2008 · 2 Comments

One week ago, I wrote to the 51 Red Sox Nation governors and asked them, “If you could write a 100-word letter to any Red Sox player, coach, or front office person (or the whole team) about the 2008 season, and you knew that that person would read your letter, to whom would you write and what would you say?” Below are the letters I have received so far. Please contribute your own brief letters in the comments section.

Dear Jon Lester,
Thank you for being the most inspirational story in all of baseball. 27-8 to start your career with two postseason wins, a World Series ring and a no-hitter under your belt already. You are quickly becoming one of the most elite pitchers in the game before our very eyes and it is players like you that make me proud to call myself a Red Sox fan. So to you Mr. Lester, I sincerely thank you for being such an inspiration to me as well as the rest of Red Sox Nation. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for you.
– Jared Carrabis, Red Sox Nation Governor of Massachusetts (www.soxspacenews.com)

Dear Justin Masterson,
Congratulations to the Red Sox for a successful season and to you, Justin, for a totally outstanding rookie year. When you came up to the show last April it appeared that the Red Sox had another ace.  Winning your first four starts at Fenway Park was incredible.  So, it was difficult to understand why you were sent down to become a relief pitcher.  Does Terry know baseball or what? Your return to the Red Sox as a stopper was truly sensational.  The poise and confidence you exude spreads throughout the team. Special congratulations for topping off the season by winning one of the greatest comebacks in baseball history.
– Hank Larsen, Red Sox Nation Governor of Oklahoma

Dear 2008 Red Sox,
Thank you for making my days rock! Your hard work and dedication didn’t go unnoticed and your determination inspires me to do my best at my job every day. You fill a void that nothing else can.  You don’t realize it fully, but you unite a whole lot of people that would otherwise have nothing in common. You DO create a NATION of sorts and for that reason, you are AMBASSADORS of goodwill!  Since I cannot write each player individually, I will ask the skipper, Terry Francona, to deliver that message for me.  And while he’s at it, he should give himself a pat on the back, too!
– Lety Haynes, Red Sox Nation Governor of Arizona

Dear Theo Epstein,
Thank you for working to bring a winner to Boston every year. The list of aggressive moves is long: claiming Millar off waivers before the 2003 season which kept him from Japan; putting Manny on irrevocable waivers; spending Thanksgiving with the Schillings; dealing Nomar; admitting mistakes like the Renteria signing; letting the 2006 team struggle because there was no quick fix; bidding on Matsuzaka; drafting good but expensive young players; and trading Manny. So, now the offseason is upon us and we get to watch you play. That you take calculated risks makes rooting for the Red Sox a year-round joy.
– Ben Crawford, Red Sox Nation Governor of Virginia

Dear Kevin Youkilis,
Thank you for giving us such a tremendous season of baseball. I really appreciate the way you play the game. I love baseball. It’s fun. And we can learn so much from baseball about life. You demonstrate those lessons every day. You play with your whole heart. You are engaged with every pitch. You run out every hit ball, often turning outs to hits. You chase any ball that comes near you. You’re a good team player. Even when the team is down 7-0, you never give up. You are an inspiration to all of us, to live each moment to the fullest, to do our best, and to never, never give up. With deep appreciation,
– Eleanor LeCain, Red Sox Nation Governor of Washington, D.C.

Dear Mike Lowell,
I just wanted to thank you for playing the game the right way. It was clear to the most casual observer that you were far from 100% for most of the season, but you still gutted it out to the best of your ability.  It was actually painful for me to watch you during September and October but I never heard you complain. I look forward to a healthy Mike Lowell and another World Series title in 2009. Have a restful and rejuvenating winter. Sincerely,
– Jud Barber, Red Sox Nation Governor of Alabama

Dear Dustin Pedroia,
Nice job this year.  You showed all of the characteristics that make me proud to be a Red Sox fan. Take care of your fingers; you will need them to be in good shape for all those rings you will be winning in the next few years. GO SOX!
– Drew Jackman, Red Sox Nation Governor of Tennessee

Dear Jason Varitek,
You’ve been an integral part of this team and the city of Boston for a long time, and I want you to know that I appreciate your efforts over these years.  I am sure that no one is more disappointed than you to be watching the Series rather than playing in it.  While it’s true I cursed your struggles in the post season, I respect how you wore your C with pride and gave all you had for your teammates and your team.  I hope that you and the Red Sox come to an agreement that keeps you in Boston; but should you decide to part ways, please do so with positive memories and the knowledge that the fans of Boston appreciate your sacrifices and constant professionalism. Go Sox!
– Nathan Emerson, Red Sox Nation Governor of Wyoming

Dear Red Sox,
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for such an exciting season! The crazy, impossible catches from Youk, the exhilarating hits from Pedroia, Drew, and Bay, Tito’s great love of Double Bubble (also my fav!), I could go on and on. It was a truly stand-up performance this season by everyone. The way you pull together in the worst of times and the precision with which you all play is the best. You show us by your example what a “team” really is. That is why we love you so much. 2009 here we come!
– Niki Gallagher, Red Sox Nation Governor of Nebraska

Dear 2008 Red Sox,
Thank you for what you gave and taught my family this season. For teaching my sons they are as important to you as grownups are through Kids Nation. For tickets in Conigliaro’s Corner around which we planned a vacation that will be remembered forever! For playing in Minnesota, which gives us our only chance to enjoy a game in the Metrodome. For putting team ahead of player and trading Manny and reminding us that hustle matters! For teaching us you go to work even when you need surgery. Lastly, for Game 5, which taught us to never, ever give up! Thank you,
– Bob Boucher, Red Sox Nation Governor of Minnesota

Dear Mr. David Ortiz,
I know it was a difficult postseason for you, but I have faith that you will be able to get back to the high caliber player you were in 2004 and 2007. You showed us a glimpse of that Big Papi with the 3-run HR in Game 5. However, maybe during the off-season you can work on hitting or bunting the ball towards 3rd base/left field to beat the shift. That way, next time there is a hit and run and Pedroia is trying to steal 2nd, you can prevent the strike out/throw out double play. A “little” hit in that situation could have made the difference in getting those pesky 2 runs we desperately needed in game 7. Sincerely,
– Heather Mascuch, Red Sox Nation Governor of New Jersey (http://redsoxnationgovnj.mlblogs.com/)

Dear Jason Varitek,
I realize that you’re probably still dealing emotionally with the Red Sox’s recent Series loss in Tampa Bay.  I hope in a short time (if not already) you will feel very proud about the great 2008 Boston Red Sox team and all that was accomplished. There were of course many obstacles put in the team’s path for another championship and I for one feel that the team overcame adversity admirably well, particularly under your leadership as Captain. Considering there is mounting talk about your future with the team (something that¹s certainly out of the fans’ control), I felt that this was a good time for a huge fan such as myself to let you know what your inspiring performance and leadership has meant to me over the years. Jason, you have truly been the heart and soul of this team and worn the “C” on your uniform with style and class.  To me you are the type of player that all athletes should strive to be: honest, very hard working, focused, and a true team player. No matter what happens in the future, I and most Red Sox fans will always wish you well and remember what a true member of the Red Sox you have been and will forever be. Best wishes always,
– Chris Porter, Red Sox Nation Governor of Washington

Dear Red Sox Organization,
On the field, the players and coaches were amazing and so professional. Off the field, you were even more inspiring. The amount of time that everyone spends with their different charities is unbelievable. So many times you see pro athletes that only care about how much they get paid and then do not give back to their local communities or their fans in general.  Being out in South Dakota, it is fun and interesting to hear players on radio streams, such as Kevin Youkilis on WAAF. Whether you win or lose, I am proud to be a Red Sox fan and to be a part of all the great things you are accomplishing and all the lives you change off the field.  Thanks for being such an inspiration and not being like every other typical athlete.
– Sara Brusseau, Red Sox Nation Governor of South Dakota

Rob, since I represent the members of the Nation from here in North Carolina, I put the word out that there might be an opportunity to submit a 100-word message to the Sox. Our members came up with some nice work. The best are below; I’ll let you choose.

Dear Dustin Pedroia,
There is something magic in every game you play. I really admire your determination, guts, and spirit, which all shine through. I enjoy watching the team play, but to me you are the shining star. I always say that I wish they would pay you what you are worth. I also loved your “dancing” video. I have to assume the guys gave you a hard time because you are a fun person at heart. It just made me admire you even more. You will always be the MVP in my book. Thanks for making watching baseball so great for me!
– Kim R., North Carolina

Dear Terry Francona,
You did an amazing job this season, given all that went on. We had a superstar who quit, injuries to major players, rookies in important positions, and YOU need back surgery! This is a lot for one man to put up with, but you did a great job keeping us in the race and leading the Sox to yet another playoff berth. Here’s to the best manager in MLB! Get well soon!
– Mike D, North Carolina

From me, a simple thanks to all the fellas for that incredible Game 5 comeback - it will live with me forever. Thanks for reminding me to never give up, and for making me so proud to be a Sox fan.
– Sean Bunn, Red Sox Nation Governor of North Carolina

Dear J.D. Drew,
I would like to thank you for coming through so strong so many times this year.  I was proud to see that you were recognized for your toughness and professionalism, because I think in the past (with the Cards) you were given a bad rap and inappropriately accused of not caring or not being tough.  I would also like to point out a great moment, one that not many people may have noticed. In the ninth inning of game 2 against the Angels, you hit your two run homer (which everyone noticed) but I saw something that actually made me happier and pointed out to my son who so looks up to the players.  When you sat down in the dugout, the camera caught you with the biggest smile cracking your usual calm exterior, and you looked like a kid having the best time of your life. I thought that was truly special - it’s what the game is all about. Thanks,
– James Fletcher, Red Sox Nation Governor of Arkansas

Dear Red Sox team, coaching staff, and front office personnel:
I would like to congratulate every one of you for the tremendous effort this season. With many adversities this year, ranging from the exhausting travel schedule beginning this season, injuries to key players, and personal changes in the middle of the year, this season was nothing less than a miracle. To make it into the playoffs and get to Game 7 of the ALCS is incredible. If you had told me in spring training everything that would happen to this team, I would have told you there was no way we would be in the playoffs. I’m holding my head up high, proud to be part of Red Sox Nation.
– Jim Silva, Red Sox Nation Governor of Hawaii

Dear Kevin Youkilis,
Thank you for a fantastic season. I want to tell you how much I appreciated your talent and athleticism. Your ability to take over 3rd base (and do it well) was so important to the team’s success this year. The Red Sox organization is always touting its philosophy that it’s a team of guys and not a bunch of individuals on ego trips, and your flexibility exemplifies this attitude. Enjoy the winter break and see you in Fort Myers in the spring.
– Kelly Thompson, Red Sox Nation Governor of Idaho
p.s. Loved the shout out to your “fiance and the little one” - as a female fan I like to see a glimpse of the personal side of the players.

Dear 2008 Red Sox,
As the Governor of Red Sox Nation for the state of New Hampshire I would like to not only thank the entire Red Sox Team, Terry, and the coaching staff for a phenomenal season but also to acknowledge my appreciation for the hard work you all put into playing each and every time you take the field. I have been a Red Sox Fan my entire life and I think I can speak for the members of Red Sox Nation in NH in saying we will keep believing in you and look forward to the 2009 seaon. Thanks again for a GREAT YEAR!!! GO SOX!!!
– Janice Page, Red Sox Nation Governor of New Hampshire

To the Red Sox:
It was great season and a great game 5 comeback. We’re looking forward to the 2009 campaign.

To Terry Francona:
I want to thank you, Tito, for being who you are….the best Red Sox manager in my lifetime and probably in the history of the club. You are a remarkably strong, thoughtful and caring man. I cannot say how much you are admired here in Red Sox Nation.
– Eric Weisman, Red Sox Nation Governor of Kentucky

Dear Coco Crisp,
Congratulations on a wonderful season! You not only proved to be the best center fielder on the Red Sox roster and one of the best in the league, you also asserted your rightful to claim to being one of the five best centerfielders in Red Sox history. And you did this while fighting for the “job” and against the wishes of a substantial portion of the fan base. But you hung in with maturity and poise and proved them all wrong. Have a great off-season, and I look forward to seeing you in centerfield for the Sox in the spring of 2009. My wife Phyllis and I sat close by to your wife and daughter at spring training. You are a lucky guy to have such a beautiful family rooting for you.
– C. Ted Schmidt, Jr., Red Sox Nation Governor of Rhode Island

This is for Mr.Epstein:
You have done a super job over the years. Now we need a BIG BAT and a pitcher of Beckett and DiceK quality, but my main question is, are you looking for a catcher that can throw out runners out and hit more then .220 and run well? Maybe it is time to let one of our young catchers step up. Do you agree these are the three concerns? Maybe Lowrie as utility man and get a shortstop somewhere. Thanks.
– Phil Price, Red Sox Nation Governor of Delaware

Dear Red Sox Players, Coaches, and Front Office,
Being a loyal fan of the Boston Red Sox has been an exciting and rewarding journey, and 2008 was yet another example. Since 2000, we have not had a repeat World Series Champ, but this year we were so close to achieving that. Through many injuries, this team battled to make the playoffs, and that says a lot about their dedication. I can speak for all of the members of Red Sox Nation in Illinois when I say, thanks for another great season, and enjoy your off-season. See you in the spring. Sincerely,
– Brendan Mulcahy, Red Sox Nation Governor of Illinois

Dear Manny Ramirez,
I want to thank you for your time and service in Boston. Your bat can never truly be replaced, and even your antics (some) will be missed. There is no doubt that you were an integral part of our first two world championships in 86 years. Nothing will take that away. You earned $160 million while here, plus several playoff/world series shares. Your award bonuses alone would be enough for most Americans to retire on. I’d like to think that the satisfaction of your team’s accomplishments, and the knowledge of what these titles meant to the fans of Red Sox Nation, are equally valuable… but that’s probably a stretch. Having said all that, given all that you’ve done, please don’t think for a minute that what you did to us in the end will be forgotten. I can understand in part why you blame the media, but the fact is that you quit on your fans and your team. The very people who’s small but hard-earned paychecks gave you your large ones. Your sudden NL production was no fluke and we all know it. It’s a terrible thing you did to us. I can’t even bring myself to think of the “what ifs” had you decided to play your heart out for us as you did for them. I’ll never boo you Manny. (Excluding a pinstripe appearance.) I will rise in a standing ovation upon your return, but alongside goofy, you will now always be remembered as selfish, greedy, shallow, unfaithful and untrustworthy. Thanks for something and nothing,
– Glen Jardine, Red Sox Nation Governor of Vermont
P.S. How dare you make me agree with Tim McCarver on something. Not cool man.

Dear Theo Epstein,
The 2008 season was dramatic, exciting, and fulfilling for Red Sox fans - even without a World Series appearance. At the same time, it begs the question: what has to change in order for the Sox to repeat as world champs in 2009? Good luck in your quest to determine the answer to that most difficult question.
– Karen Kupiec, Red Sox Nation Governor of Connecticut

Dear Jason Bay,
I appreciate how you filled some shoes that were not easy to fill. Manny was a big part of the Red Sox team, but you gladly filled that spot, overlooking the pressure that you might have felt.  I am so grateful that you quickly adjusted and helped us reach the postseason. Your presence on the team made a big impact on team dynamics; I could tell that other players enjoyed playing with you, and that you enjoyed being in Boston. Thank you, Mr. Bay, for a great first season with the Red Sox!
– Melissa Rehon, Red Sox Nation Governor of Utah

Dear Jason Varitek,
Thank you, the team and the entire organization for one of the most incredible Red Sox baseball seasons ever!  Starting with early morning games from Japan, through watching some team players achieve record milestones, stealing first place form the Rays prior to the All Star Break, making the playoffs, and playing some of the most inspiring and captivating baseball ever even with injuries and adversity. I also want to personally thank you for your perseverance and always performing as the ultimate professional and Team Captain.  It is this type of example, which helps us all get through these tough times and believe as long as we have a chance and perform as hard as we can we can win at anything! For the Glory!
– Bill Moore, Red Sox Nation Governor of Pennsylvania

To the Boston Red Sox,
Thank you for the excitement you bring to our household. We thoroughly enjoy every minute of your 162 game schedule, the post season, and even action that takes place in the off season. Watching the Red Sox brings our family together in the evenings and gives us conversation fodder at the dinner table. You have provided us with so many lasting memories over the years. Thanks again for the great jobs everyone does throughout the year, we appreciate it.
– Bob Lever, Red Sox Nation Governor of North Dakota

Dear Red Sox Players and Coaches,
We would like to thank each and everyone of you guys in the dugout this year. There were so many reasons to make excuses. From flying halfway around the world for Opening Day, all the injuries to deal with and personal discord (just to name a few). But you fought through all of it and you were still only one game away from the series. You never gave up, YOU NEVER MADE EXCUSES and you should all be proud of that. I know we are. So go back home and enjoy some well deserved personal time off. For Mikey, Papi, Josh and of course Tito … Get well soon. And if you make it to Texas this off-season, let us know .. we would like to shake your hands and say THANKS!!
– John Mathews, Red Sox Nation Governor of Texas

Dear Theo Epstein,
Thanks for keeping such a great team together who are so dedicated to the Red Sox and the members of Red Sox Nation. The signing of Jason Bay was a great addition to the team and he quickly won the hearts of the Fenway Faithful and RSN. Your continued dedication has helped the Red Sox put together the best run of seasons in nearly a century. Red Sox Nation thanks you for your continued hard work and dedication to the Red Sox! Best,
– Megan Berlo, Red Sox Nation Governor of Indiana

Dear Terry Francona,
First of all, thanks for a great season in 2008. The team played great right to the end and we are very proud of what they accomplished this year, especially with all the adversity and injuries we had to play through. How do you keep the team focused during the off-season and build on this momentum heading into the 2009 campaign? Thanks again. West Virginia loves the Sox!
– Todd Barrett, Red Sox Nation Governor of West Virginia

To the team:
Thank you for the effort, heart, strength and dedication you all showed throughout the season. You make us so proud to be Boston Red Sox Fans. We’ll forever remember game 5 in the ALCS and the incredible feeling we had witnessing a historic comeback that will never be duplicated or taken away from us. What a magnificent battle! Francona giggling after the win was sweetness defined. (Unless you were an owner of the Dubble Bubble Company.) Truly, a great season. Cannot wait for ‘09. Thank you again. Sincerely,
– Karen Doherty, Red Sox Nation Governor of California

Dear Red Sox Players, Coaches, and Staff,
Even though as fans we always want our team to go all the way, we know it is not always easy. Making it to the postseason and being on top as one of the two best teams in the American League while other teams were playing golf is more than enough to make us proud. There are days when you get up in the morning and things aren’t the way you had hoped they would be. Sometimes winning is not all that matters, it’s the footprints you leave while playing the game, and you guys did that in game 5. History and being part of that history sometimes is worth more than a win. Thank you for a great year and I hope to see all of you back as part of the Red Sox in 2009. WE ARE VERY PROUD TO BE RED SOX FANS.
– Alexa Jimenez, Red Sox Nation Governor of Florida

Categories: Baseball · Red Sox Nation · Sports
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A Day In The Life of a Believer

October 20, 2008 · 5 Comments

I have two minutes to write before getting my kids ready for school, and myself ready for work. Here’s what I have to say today.

I will run into and hear from scores of people who will either say out loud, or with their eyes and body language, ”I was right to doubt them — they couldn’t pull it off after all,” or, “Turns out you were wrong to believe the Sox would come all the way back, eh? “ My response to them is the same today as it would have been if the Sox had won game 7:

“Believing isn’t about being right or wrong, it’s a way of life. And life’s a heck of a lot more fun when you expect the unreal.”

Categories: Baseball · Red Sox Nation · Sports
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How Red Sox Nation Is Watching, Far From Fenway

October 18, 2008 · 2 Comments

Prior to the ALCS, I polled the 50 governors of Red Sox Nation, plus our one mayor of D.C., asking them how many games they expected the ALCS to go, and how they prefer to watch Red Sox playoff games if they can’t be at Fenway. Now, as we head into GAME SEVEN versus the Rays, it seems fitting to highlight a few of those governors who predicted a 7-game series, and to visualize how fans across the country will be watching the game on Sunday night:

1. How many games do you expect the Red Sox will need to win the series with the Rays?

4 games - 2 votes (5%)

5 games - 10 votes (25%)

6 games - 18 votes (45%)

7 games - 10 votes (25%)

“The Sox will win in 7. We like the dramatic wins. The downside is we’ll wear out our fingernails. The upside is we get to watch more baseball before the snow falls!” — Eleanor LeCain, Washington, D.C.

“I’m thinking it’s gonna take 7, and the full 7 at that.  Seems like no game is over against these Rays until the last out is recorded. Great team, fun to watch but we’ll take ‘em!” — Nathan Emerson, Wyoming

“This will take 7.  I am really hoping we don’t face 3 or 4 elimination games again.” — Ben Crawford, Virginia

“It’s going to go all 7 and its going to be THE most dramatic, emotional rollercoaster ALCS in a long time.” — Niki Gallagher, Nebraska

“This one’s going to take 7.  Gonna be a dogfight.” – Lynn Kimball, Louisiana

“A gut-wrenching seven.” — Evan Welch, Colorado

“This series will go 7…This is turning into a great rivalry. The Rays are the real deal and have proven that they are not intimidated.”
– Ben Maciariello, Oregon

2. If you can’t be AT the game, how do you prefer to watch Red Sox playoff games?

“Watching at home on my big screen TV, drinking root beer and praying!” — Eleanor LeCain, Washington, D.C.

“Since many of the games are on very late during the work week, I end up watching most of them in my bed in a Red Sox shirt and shorts. However, on the weekends, I prefer to watch the Red Sox games at a local bar with my family and boyfriend. I usually wear my “The Best Girls Root For Boston” shirt or one of my many other Red Sox shirts while drinking a Sam Adams Octoberfest. — Heather Mascuch, New Jersey

“If I’m not AT the game, I have the same seat at my house that I’ve sat in for postseason games since ‘99. It’s superstition that my mom stays upstairs for the ALCS and can only come downstairs to watch the
World Series with my dad and me. Call us cruel but hey, if it works, it works.” — Jared Carrabis, Massachusetts

“I prefer to be at home wearing my Yaz t-shirt underneath my Papi jersey with the hat I bought just before the all-star break in ‘04. I have a 12 pk of Dr. Pepper and a couple of New Castles handy with salt
and vinegar chips and hot dogs. I normally don’t sit because I am constantly pacing the floor with my hands on my head. And I carry around something I like to call the “Mojo Stick” (read about it on my Sawxheads under blogs or rsnksgov.mlblogs.com) — Jonathan Sherman, Kansas

“Either in my living room on the edge of my sofa, with my good luck charm Masha my wonder dog close by, wearing my lucky Boston Red Sox apparel, drinking various Octoborfest beers, and eating a loaded sausage sandwich OR hosting a Boston Red Sox Party at either of two incredible Bosox Friendly Establishments: Bridge Street Cafe (soon to be Zack’s & Rocco’s) or at Revello’s Cafe, both located in Old Forge.” — Bill Moore, Pennsylvania

“I have an awesome 92″ screen at home, complete with comfy recliners, a cooler full of chilled adult beverages, and a souped up remote. I worked hard for this perk and I enjoy it to the max with friends and family!! HD makes you almost feel like you are there.” — Lety Haynes, Arizona

“Here in Texas, it’ll be walking into the Fox and Hound here in Houston (Westheimer) with “The First Lady” of RSN, TX by my side. I wear number 9 and the First Lady wears 33. Shaking hands with the manager on duty on the way to our section. Making sure the sound is throughout the place and all the TV’s are set to the Sox game. We make sure everyone has chips and salsa, spend time meeting all the old and new Sox fans that have come out to join us from all over the U.S., and make sure everybody is well taken care of, AND THEN LEAD BY EXAMPLE !!! And don’t forget to take care of your servers …. that goes a long way…” — John Matthews, Texas
“I prefer watching the game with a few close friends (people that can handle me yelling at the TV).  I like to turn up the volume VERY loud, and sit about 6 inches from the screen - that way there is absolutely NO chance I’ll miss something. I also need to be holding onto something (especially if the game is close) like a pillow - and of COURSE I have to be wearing my Red Sox hat.” — Melissa Rehon, Utah
“Since I live in Honolulu and can’t ever make it to the game, I LOVE to sit on my couch in the living room, get one of my many Red Sox t-shirts on, get my orignal Wally Beanie doll (the first one they gave away at Fenway) down off the shelf in his adirondack chair (same one that Jerry Remy has), put Wally on the coffee table, turn on the surround sound, pour myself a Coke classic, watch NESN pregame, get pumped up, and then it’s game on!” – Jim Silva, Hawaii
“Because I live in Tampa, I have the luck, honor and opportunity to attend the game live, so I will be at Tropicana Field watching games 1 & 2. I will watch game 3 & 4 at a local bar name KD’s Bar & Grill, with my Red Sox gear on baby!!!” — Alexa Jiminez, Florida
“On the couch with my husband and also all three dogs on the couch - it brings the Sox luck to have all three dogs on the couch - unfortunately they don’t always know that! Go Sox!” — Karen Kupiec, Connecticut
“Since 2004, my outside layer is always a red t-shirt that says “Fenway Park“. I wore it to Yankee Stadium for Game 7 of the ALCS and for every postseason game since then. I usually find myself watching these games alone with a glass of water and a phone nearby for brief conversations between innings. Honestly, I don’t have a preference as to where I am, as long as I can watch EVERY PITCH. I pretty much block out everything/everyone else while the game is on, taking time between innings for brief conversations with others who are also watching.” – Benjamin Crawford, Virginia
“I will have to make runs back and forth between my two favorite sports bars, Mulligans and Home Team Sports. I’ll be wearing my favorite Red Sox hat, my 1986 Red Sox WS Pin, and holding my Ted Williams bat.” — Bill Grogan, Lt. Gov of Virginia
“Lying on my couch while my gorgeous wife Alice massages my back, refills my beers, does Red Sox cheers between innings, and the only thing she says is Yes my Governor.…” – Marty McLoughlin, Michigan
“Any great Vermont pub will do as long as I’m with friends, but if it’s a high pressure game where the Sox possibly face elimination, I tend to hide out at home where I don’t necessarily have to pay for anything I might ‘accidently’ break.” — Glen Jardine, Vermont
“In my family room, with my wife Kelly and our two members of Kid’s Nation, Marin and Reed, eating popcorn and drinking Dr. Pepper.” — Bob Boucher, Minnesota
“It would depend on the situation. The more stressful/meaningful the game, the more I prefer to watch at home, alone on my couch so if something happens and I start to get nervous, I can flip away for a few
moments before tuning back in. If it’s early in the series, I would prefer to go to a friend’s house or out to a local restaurant/bar and watch the game with a small group of people.” — Rachel Yacouby, Maine
“On my couch. I don’t have lucky slippers but I do have boxer shorts that are starting pitcher specific. For Dice-K I have a pair with sumo wrestlers on them.” – Judson Barber, Alabama
“At Nic n Dinos Tripoli Tavern surrounded by 100 screaming Red Sox fans with a line of Jameson as far as the eye can see after each win.” — Brendan Mulcahy, Illinois
“My living room is set up as a great place to watch a game with a good group of friends and other fans. I like to pack my three couches with people, grill some burgers, and make some chili dogs. Throw in a few plates of BBQ nachos and you can’t find a better place (away from Fenway) to watch the Red Sox.” — Garreth Blackwell, Mississippi
“I like being in my recliner with my PJ’s on and my lucky charm (my wife) a cold one (Bud) with a bag of pretzels. GIT-R-DONE SOX.” –  Phil Price, Delaware
“I prefer to watch at home alone on the big screen in HD wrapped up in my Red Sox rally blanket, decked out in Red Sox gear, drinking mojitos. That way I can throw my temper tantrums and shed my tears in private when things don’t go our way.” — Niki Gallagher, Nebraska
“I prefer to watch the games in my “man cave” surrounded by Red Sox paraphenalia with my girl friend and my dog and my curious good luck rituals.” — Nathan Emerson, Wyoming
“In any series I watch half the games at home and half out at a bar so when at home I really like to be left alone and not talked to, sitting on the floor, drinking a Michelob Ultra Amber or Bud Light, wearing Red Sox gear and yelling and cheering at the TV.  When at a bar I usually go to Middleton Sport Bowl and drink taps of local Capital Brewery or Bud or Coors Light.  When I am out I like to talk and hang out with whoever might be joining me.” – Kellie Hernandez, Wisconsin
“Whether it’s at home or at the bar, I gotta have some buffalo wings!” — Bob Lever, North Dakota
“Home alone (with a couple beers to take the edge off the nervousness) so I can be really fidgety and yell at the TV (or the FOX broadcasters, but that never happens….)” — Lynn Kimball, Louisiana
“At home, with my 3 sisters and my nephew Jacoby - the newest member of Red Sox Nation - and celebrating a win by cranking the Dropkick Murphy’s on the iPod!” — Misty Haungs, Missouri
“I’m usually too nervous to sit so I meander back-and-forth from the kitchen to the living room, peeking out from around the kitchen cabinets so my wife and friends can’t see how anxious I am. “Jonny Bravo”usually comes over wearing his winter Patriots hat (regardless of the temperature inside or out), we make some wings, salsa con queso, or other homemade bar food. This year, the beverage of choice will be Sam Adams Boston Lager as it was my good luck charm against, and source of constant harassment from, Rockies Fans last year.” – Evan Welch, Colorado
“I prefer to watch the games in the throng of Sox fans in New York City whooping it up and celebrating like only an expat community can. The scope of knowledge and passion among the fans of New York that seek out the best place to watch games behind enemy lines is astounding.  I’m constantly amazed at all of the experts, celebrities, and everymen (and everywomen) here that share the Red Sox as their
common bond.” — Chris Wertz, New York
“I like to watch the playoff games with my son and a couple of friends.  Everyone comes over and we have a great party with drinks and food that my wife makes.  Might not get the thrill of being there, but we cheer like we are.” – Justin Robertson, Montana
“In my media room … recliner/HD satellite….Hey, Brenda …. grab me a beer.” – Hank Larsen, Oklahoma
“Alone in my basement recliner in front of my 65″ HDTV, clutching and swinging my black Commemorative “Crowing of a Champion” Sox bat from ‘05, wearing my authentic home #24 jersey (Dewey and Manny!) and fitted blue Sox cap purchased from Twins, and sipping Coors Light from a bottle, frequently.” — Jason Downie, Maryland
“At a place that feels like home at this point, Raleigh’s “Fenway South,” aka Fox & Hound in Raleigh’s North Hills, drinking Octoberfest with my buddies from the Triangle Red Sox Nation. Wait, didn’t we all just do that last weekend? Well, why mess with a good thing?” — Sean Bunn, North Carolina
“On the weekends, I like to watch the game at the Charleston Beer Works on King Street in Charleston. I feel like I’m back in Boston when we watch there. (A HUGE thank you to Tim, the owner, for getting in Fenway Franks last week. I never thought I would see a top split roll in the South!) If there is a game during the week, I am parked on the couch trying to take minimal bathroom breaks. I am 6 months pregnant. If I have to be out of the house or away from the Beerworks, I am tuned into my XM Radio. No matter where I am, I have my Sox gear on.” — Traci O’Rourke, South Carolina
“My favorite place to watch the game: with my dad at the ranch after a day of wiffle ball at Fenway West. Gotta be wearing my Sox hat and standing behind the couch pacing and powerstancing. I would also say the one advantage of being a West Coast Sox fan is that the games start at 5:30pm and even if they go extras I can watch NESN post game and still be in bed by 11 o’clock.” – Ben Maciariello, Oregon

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Expect The Unreal

October 17, 2008 · 2 Comments

This morning, while walking my children into their school, a friend of my 6 year-old’s told me, “My dad was at the Red Sox game last night, but he left after the top of the seventh inning.”

Then, at the coffee shop, the guy at the cash register (observing the B on my sweatshirt) said to me, “I assume you stayed up to watch that game. I turned it off after they went down, 5 to nothing. But what a comeback. That was unreal.” Then another woman in line said, “What, they WON? I was there but I left after the fifth inning. They WON?”

Yes, I was at the game last night, and I could write pages and pages about what I saw and what I felt. But the morning after the greatest comeback in League Championship Series history, I’ve gotta write about Yogi’s profound quotation, “It ain’t over ’til it’s over.”

The whole reason to attend a baseball game is to see the seventh, eighth, and ninth innings. If you are leaving a game before it’s over, or turning off your TV before the game ends, you haven’t yet evolved to the point of understanding what baseball IS ALL ABOUT. (Or, you fell asleep on your couch after a long day at work…. regrettable, but understandable.)

I know that there are many reasons to attend a baseball game besides seeing great comebacks. The festive atmosphere, majestic home runs, phenomenal defensive plays, spending quality time with a child or sibling… but the core point of baseball is to remind us all that, in life, anything CAN happen, and anything WILL happen. And the decision to stop watching a game before it’s completely over nullifies a fan’s potential to personally experience this amazing truth in all its glory.

Now, I must say that only about 10% of Fenway’s seats were empty when J.D. Drew smoked that game-winning line drive over Gabe Gross’s head in the wee hours of the morning. It turns out that most of the fans who ventured out to the game last night were the kind who always stay ’til the end, and based on the LOUD noise they made when Pedroia drove in the first run of the comeback (to make it 7-1 Rays, still a bleak situation), they were a fervent band of believers. They “get it” about baseball.

To suck all the juice out of being a baseball fan, you must become A BELIEVER. You must resist the tug of logic that lectures to you, “This game is over, there’s no way they can come back and win.” You must ignore the mature voices in your head that advise, “If you leave now, you can beat the crowd and be asleep in your bed by midnight. After all, big day at work tomorrow.” To be rewarded with all that baseball has to offer, you must bet the house every game. Truly expect something spectacular to happen, and sacrifice convenient home-bound transportation, sleep, and even your reputation as a grounded human being to the Diamond Gods. Have faith in the unreal.

People who leave games early have their feet planted firmly in “reality,” and in “rationality,” and in “the odds are…”, and in “being smart,” and in avoiding life’s (and baseball’s) sublime exquisiteness! People who leave Red Sox elimination playoff games early …. well, they just haven’t learned yet that you don’t do that, despite the lesson of Dave Henderson in 1986, and the lesson of Dave Roberts in 2004, and the many other startling lessons from recent Sox history (some happy memories, some not).

“The Rays haven’t lost a game all season when leading by 4 or more runs”…. “no team since 1929 has overcome a 7-run deficit in an elimination playoff game”…. “the Red Sox are slumping and the Rays are at the peak of their game”…. all of these “facts” scream at us to “face reality,” give up, and go home. But reality doesn’t exist until it unfolds before us, and over and over again Red Sox fans have learned that in postseason play, the reality that unfolds is usually shocking!

A friend came into my office this morning and said, “Watching those hits by Coco, Papi, and Drew — it was like a DREAM.” Not only was it LIKE a dream, it WAS a dream. Reality and rationality and the odds and being smart go right out the window when the Sox have their backs against the wall. Red Sox playoff games - indeed, ALL baseball games are dreams that we get to participate in with eyes wide open. And you don’t leave dreams early.

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The 2008 Season Starts Today

October 16, 2008 · 3 Comments

It’s fascinating to see how many people have given up hope for the 2008 Red Sox. Hello, don’t you realize that the season doesn’t even BEGIN for the Red Sox until they have their backs against the wall? And have you forgotten that the Red Sox have won 7 straight elimination games in the ALCS? To win those games, they had to defeat guys like Mariano Rivera, Kevin Brown, Mike Mussina, C.C. Sabathia, and Fausto Carmona. Is it really that unthinkable to add Scott Kazmir and James Shields to this list?

And it’s fascinating to me to hear people say, “Yeah, but this time, IT’S DIFFERENT.” Really? So, when the Sox were down 3-0 to the Yankees in the 2004 ALCS (after getting pounded in game 3), you had more faith in their potential to come back? And when they were down 3-1 to the Indians in the 2007 ALCS (after getting pounded in game 4), you had more faith in their potential to come back?

Look, when the Sox are down in the ALCS, their mojo turns around. Mark Bellhorn was 1 for 12 in the first three games of the 2004 ALCS, then he went 4-14 with 2 huge home runs in games 4,5,6, and 7. Johnny Damon was 1 for 18 in the first four games, then he went 5 for 17 in the next three games, with 2 huge home runs in game 7 in Yankee Stadium. I know, these guys aren’t even HERE this time around… but it’s the same uniform, and mojo carries over from year to year.

More evidence that the Rays are about to implode came over the newswire when we learned that Joe Maddon has decided to over-manage by switching up his rotation to pitch Scott Kazmir in game 5. MISTAKE. He has just messed with his team’s mojo and he’s about to learn a valuable lesson — don’t mess with your team’s mojo.  With Kazmir pitching batting practice at Fenway tonight, we’ll win game 5 and head to the Trop with momentum. The fear we saw in the Rays’ eyes in game 1 will be back for games 6 and 7, and Beckett and Lester don’t lose big games. Good luck next year, Tampa Bay.

Am I the only one who is predicting the Red Sox will win their next three games? Are people so worried about their reputations, so obsessed with statistical probabilities (the chances of winning three in a row against an equal opponent is one in eight), so ignorant of what REALLY matters (mojo) that they have truly jumped ship?

Red Sox Nation, history has shown that Boston baseball memories don’t begin to be manufactured until TODAY, when the Red Sox MUST win. Buckle your seatbelt. If you can get a ticket, get your butt to Fenway. The 2008 Red Sox season is about to begin.

Sox in 7, then it’s bring on the Phillies. Ah, the poor Phillies.

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And then there were four….

October 9, 2008 · 2 Comments

Here are my thoughts as we gear up for the ALCS:

1) The day that the Mets lost and the Brewers won, on the last day of the season (breaking their first place tie), was one of the most exciting baseball-viewing experiences I’ve had in the last few years. My son and I were watching the Mets game on the TV and the Brewers game on MLBtv (Internet), and even though I’m not a Brewers fan, I could feel their hunger to make it to the postseason (for the first time in 26 years). Sabathia pitched like a God. And the pain that Mets fans feel, having lost the division on the last day of the season TWO YEARS IN A ROW, might be their payback for games 6 and 7 of the 1986 World Series. What comes around goes around…

2) The Cubs’ problems were clearly mental. You don’t finish the season with the best record in MLB and then drop three in a row in the Division Series unless you’re psyched out. And you don’t make three errors in one inning with your ace on the mound unless you’re psyched out. What did the Red Sox do after game 3 of the 2004 ALCS (down, three games to none) to gain the momentum they’ve had ever since? They didn’t suddenly get BETTER. Something clicked in their heads. Oh, what would the Cubs give for the formula for that “click?”

3) I enjoy watching the NLCS games almost as much as I will enjoy watching the ALCS games. It’s baseball. Playoff baseball. Every at bat, every pitch is one of the most important in each player’s career. This is what these players dreamed about, playing wiffle ball in their driveways growing up. The thousands of hours of practice, the hundreds and thousands of games they have played in their lives, have all led to playing in baseball’s “final four.” Every starter, every bench player, every relief pitcher, even the managers and third base coaches could be part of a moment that will define their careers — and it could happen at any time. Plus, these are great players, many of them future hall of famers — Howard, Utley, Rollins, Hamels, Lidge, Ramirez, Furcal, Maddux, Lowe, and of course, Joe Torre.

4) I sent out a new poll to the Red Sox Nation governors this evening. Here are my answers to my own questions:

a) I expect the Red Sox to win the ALCS in four games. That’s right, a sweep of the mighty, precocious Rays. Yes, it’s hard to really imagine sweeping, but I have difficulty imagining a Red Sox loss — in fact, I refuse to imagine that. So, I predict a sweep.

b) The National League team that I would prefer to face in the World Series is the Dodgers. Why? Boston-L.A. is a raucous rivalry, and it would be a blast to “beat L.A.” twice in one year. It would be a classic battle of coasts, a battle of cultures, a battle of climates, a battle of styles. It’s two teams with incredibly rich baseball traditions.  It would be a reunion of the 2004 Red Sox, with almost as many members of that Red Sox team on the current Dodgers squad (Manny, Lowe, and Nomar, though Nomar was only on the Sox for the first half of 2004). You know they’d show lots of highlights of the ‘04 Series if the Dodgers were our opponent — and that would be fine with me. Even the Manny highlights. I still love the guy and what he brought our team.

c) When I can’t be at Fenway, my preferred mode of watching the Red Sox in a playoff game is to watch in my living room, sitting half the time and pacing the other half of the time, drinking a Polar Orange Dry soft drink, either alone or with my nine year-old son. (I’m not the best company during a Red Sox playoff game…. “anti-social” would describe me well during these three hours….)

5) I love that Francona is showing such faith in his pitching staff by keeping them in order… Daisuke, then Beckett, then Lester, with Tim Wakefield thrown in for good measure.

Trop time!

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The Sleepless Veep

October 7, 2008 · No Comments

I wish I had the energy to write everything I’m thinking about the last two games of the Sox-Angels series, but like most of Red Sox Nation, I am operating today on about 5 hours sleep (and that’s the TOTAL amount of sleep I’ve gotten over the last TWO nights), and like most of Red Sox Nation, I have a full-time job that continues to demand my time and brain power regardless of how late I’m staying up, and I have a slew of young children who claim every other waking minute, around the clock. Suffice it to say, WHAT A BALL GAME LAST NIGHT. And what a gutsy call by Angels manager Mike Scoscia is for trying the suicide squeeze with one out in the ninth in a crucial playoff game that’s tied. And will the Red Sox please re-train Jon Lester to think like a nine-inning pitcher? Or at least an eight-inning pitcher? He CAN’T come out of that game. GO SOX!!

Gotta go.

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11 Straight Wins, and 4 Straight Change-Ups

October 5, 2008 · 1 Comment

More evidence that the Red Sox “own” the Angels mentally: K-Rod throwing four consecutive change-ups to J.D. Drew when: a) K-Rod’s fastball is devastating, and b) J.D. Drew has played irregularly over the last month, has a stiff back, and should, theoretically, not have his timing at 100%. When K-Rod is AFRAID to throw his fastball to J.D. Drew with the go-ahead run on second base, a Red Sox win is a foregone conclusion. It’s like hoisting a white flag.

Now, I wouldn’t be saying this if K-Rod had an off-speed pitch as baffling as, say, Trevor Hoffman’s change up. But his change up is simply above-average, and he pinned his team’s hopes on that pitch.

I find this as incomprehensible as Mike Scoscia not pinch hitting for Howie Kendrick in the bottom of the ninth with two outs. The guy is clearly psyched-out at the plate and has no chance of getting a big hit in this series. You can see it in his eyes. He doesn’t think he belongs here. He has watched several fastballs buzz down the center of the strike zone without swinging, and has waved his bat at pitches that aren’t close. Advantage: Boston.

Red Sox fans’ reaction to the fly ball hit by J.D. Drew that turned out to be a two-run homer on Friday night was the SAME as the crowd’s reaction to the fly ball hit by J.D. Drew that turned out to be a grand slam in last year’s postseason. Off the bat, it looked like a routine fly ball, and even as the outfielder went back, back, back, we still expected it to be caught. Then, suddenly, it was in the seats, and it took literally a full second to believe our eyes - on BOTH home runs. J.D. Drew is truly the king of the “shocker home run” — shocking because of their timing, and shocking because of the rocket launchers that seem to kick in when the baseballs reach the apex of their flight. They just keep going, going, going…. gone!

How valuable is Kevin Youkilis? He moved over to third base to take the spot vacated by the injured Mike Lowell and proceeded to make TWO stellar plays at third base — a barehanded, running, Mike Schmidt-type stab of a grounder followed by a rocket throw to first base, and a long-armed, reach-over-the-railing catch of a pop-up that was ticketed for the camera dugout to make the peunultimate out of the game.

It’s difficult to imagine how diehard Cubs fans feel today….. because it brings back a memory that I really don’t like to relive….

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Ten Straight

October 2, 2008 · 1 Comment

I know Jon Lester is a lefty, but tonight he reminded me of Roger Clemens during his Red Sox days. From his poise on the mound to his velocity (regularly hitting 96mph) to his mastery of the hitters, I felt like I was looking at the Sox’s next dominator.

I love Jason Bay (how can you not love him?) and his homer tonight was a shocker because Lackey was methodically ripping through the Sox lineup. I’m glad everyone’s happier with the team’s chemistry and that Tito’s blood pressure has been eased by the trade. But tonight, Manny’s absence in the lineup was extremely noticable. That doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate Jason Bay. I want both of them.

Ellsbury’s speed was huge tonight: two stolen bases, an infield hit, taking third on the ground out to the pitcher, the great catch in the 8th. This is the guy who will haunt Mike Scoscia’s nightmares over the next several days. He’s got game-changing speed.

This makes TEN consecutive postseason victories for the Red Sox over the Angels. The chances of this kind of a streak, given that the teams are basically equal, is one in 1,024. (That’s the probability of flipping a coin ten times and getting “tails” every time.) So I guess our teams aren’t equal. And it’s the intangibles that make us better. We own them mentally.

The Angels now have to win three out of four to take this series. The likelihood of THAT is remote. The Angels will have to get through Matsuzaka, Beckett, and Lester (again), as well as TWO games at Fenway (and that’s only if they’re lucky enough to win game two or three). Not going to happen.

I thought about Dave Henderson about ten times tonight.

YES!!

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Voices of the Nation on Postseason’s Eve

September 30, 2008 · No Comments

Last week, we announced the full slate of governors for Red Sox Nation — 51 in total, including a mayor of Washington, D.C. Today, I emailed all of them to say congratulations, and to poll them prior to the Division Series vs. Anaheim. So far, 45 governors have responded. Here are the very interesting results:

1) Who do you expect will be the Red Sox’ MVP in the Division Series vs. Anaheim? (some governors picked two MVPs)

Pedroia - 23 votes. “He has had an MVP season and there is no way he is slowing down.  I just keep having images of that first at bat in the World Series last year when DP towered one into the Monster seats.  He is absolutely voracious at the plate and is going to be a wrecking ball throughout the playoffs.” – David Brescia, Alaska

Youkilis - 13 votes. ”Expect Youk to pull a Todd Walker circa 2003 and have 2-3 home runs in this series with his fair share of RBI.” – Jared Carrabis, Massachusetts

Lester - 7 votes. ”Lester is a very real option for Series MVP. If the Sox and Angels go 4 or 5 games then he will probably pitch twice on short rest and have the chance to seal the series victory. He has been arguably the most consistent pitcher on the staff this season.” – Jonathan Sherman, Kansas

Drew - 2 votes. “Back to work!” -- Karen Kupiec, Connecticut

Bay - 2 votes. “After battling some nerves early, Jason Bay will make good on his 1st Post Season opportunity and take home MVP honors.” – Evan Welch, Colorado

Ellsbury - 1 vote.

Beckett - 1 vote.

Ortiz - 1 vote.

2) How many games do you expect it will take the Sox to defeat the Angels (3, 4, or 5)?

3 game sweep - 2 votes.

4 games - 26 votes.

5 games - 17 votes.

3) Other than the Major League Baseball playoffs, what are people from your state thinking about as we enter October?

Alaska, David Brescia: “Let’s just say…there’s an Alaskan Governor who’s getting a little more attention then I am right now.”

Arizona, Lety Haynes: “Arizona is gearing up to enjoy the incredible weather this time of year; this is when we play outdoors while many states are heading indoors!”

Oregon, Ben Maciarello: “Oregonians are talking college football, with the Beavers knocking off the #1 team in the country in USC last week and the Ducks being 4-1 and ranked 23rd in the nation, the fall means college football in Oregon.”

Massachusetts, Jared Carrabis (SoxSpaceNews.com/blog): “Nothing. Tom Brady is out for the season, so nothing.”

Hawaii, James Silva: “Most people in Hawaii are thinking about the University of Hawaii Warriors Football team, and wondering if they can get back to their winning ways. Go Warriors!”“

Connecticut, Karen Kupiec: (http://ctrsn.mlblogs.com): “Isn’t everyone thinking about the economy?  Seconded by the election?  Something unique to CT is the death of Paul Newman (a CT resident) but that’s a tad morbid, so finally, are pumpkin prices really that high due to the wet summer?”

Virginia, Ben Crawford: (http://rsnvagov.mlblogs.com/): “The biggest issues for Virginians, though not at all unique to Virginia, are the economy and the presidential election, as Virginia is very competitive right now. For members of RSN, outside the playoffs, we are looking forward to welcoming the Red Sox’ new minor league affiliate in Salem, which starts play next spring.”

Georgia, Bobby Donlan: “Big worry about gasoline shortages on top of the economy.”

Florida, Alexa Jiminez: “To be honest all they are talking about is the Tampa Rays, nothing else. They are so excited that they made the playoffs.”

New Jersey, Heather Mascuch (http://redsoxnationgovnj.mlblogs.com/): “People are thinking about the Jets and Giants, who both play in the Meadowlands of NJ (despite their NY namesakes) or are spending time with their families at one of the many farms in The Garden State that offer pumpkin, apple, and berry picking.”

Minnesota, Bob Boucher: “After having a wrestler for a governor, will we have a satirist for a senator?”

Michigan, Marty McLoughlin: “Lions FINALLY got rid of Millen!!!!”

Alabama, Judson Barber: “The same thing they were thinking about entering August and September (or any month for that matter): Crimson Tide football (except the Auburn fans who are thinking about hanging themselves at this point).”

Tennessee, Drew Jackman: “We’re just happy we have gas again right now!”

Maryland, Jason Downie: “Maryland, particularly the heavily-populated DC suburbs, is a particularly politically involved state, so folks here are generally very jazzed about the upcoming presidential election.”

Mississippi, Garreth Blackwell (http://alongtosstoFenway.blogspot.com): “Ole Miss just knocked off number 4 Florida. Hotty Toddy!”

New York, Christopher Wertz: “The people in New York are thinking about one thing: the financial crisis. Like most states the current situation has an effect on all walks of life, but here in the belly of the beast so many people are directly tied to the companies that are failing and in the forefront of the crisis that conversation can’t help but revolve around the financial future of our country.  I think they would all be a lot more content if they just became Red Sox fans.”

Rhode Island, Ted Schmidt, Jr.: “RI folks are terribly concerned about plans to replace tokens with EZ Pass on the Newport Bridge.”

Illinois, Brendan Mulcahy: “It is very difficult for people in Illinois to be thinking about anything other than their two beloved baseball teams.  Tonight the White Sox attempt to put themselves in the playoffs along with their crosstown other-league contingents.  We have a rally at noon today in Daley Plaza for the Cubs, and the Bears just pulled out a shocker against Philly on Sunday night.  If sports are removed from the equation, then it all comes down to politics, with Obama being a Chicago resident.  Also the situation with the economic crisis, and the frantic state of the markets right here downtown. Honorable mention to the wonderful fall weather which ushers in great restaurant dishes such as Pumpkin Ravioli, and wonderful seasonal beers.”

Washington, Chris Porter: “The upcoming governor’s race (the one for the State House).  It’s a close one in Washington, just like the Presidential race.”

Vermont, Glen Jardine: “Enjoying the fall foliage and preparing for a cold and (hopefully) snowy winter.”

North Dakota, Bob Lever: “Who is going QB the Vikes to a victory?”

South Dakota, Sara Brusseau: “Pheasant, goose, and deer hunting.”

Indiana, Meg Berlo: “Hoosiers are looking forward to the start of the college basketball season for their favorite team(s) and the continuing NFL season.”

Colorado, Evan Welch: “As the days get increasinly shorter, the evenings get a bit cooler and people are amazed by the brilliant golden colors produced by the aspen tree’s changing leaves, there are really only two colors on the minds of most Coloradans…Denver Broncos Blue and Orange.”

Wisconsin, Kellie Hernandez: “26 years is a long time for the Brewers without a playoff appearance so congratulations to them. With football season in full swing the talk always turns to the Packers and the Big Ten Wisconsin Badgers!!!”

Louisiana, Lynn Kimball: “In Louisiana, the prevailing thought is the same as it is every October: LSU Football!!!!!!!!!!”

Nebraska, Niki Gallagher: “For Nebraskans, as always is this time of year, The Huskers and Bo Pellini are on our minds.”

Iowa, Peter Lamoureaux: “Everyone here is hoping for a Cubs/Red Sox World Series.”

Delaware, Phil Price: “Cost of Living and heating bills.”

Nevada, Alejandro Martinez: “The Jaycee State Fair.”

Kansas, Jonathan Sherman (http://sawxheads.com/profile/3638): “The Kansas City Chiefs won a game!? And it was against the Broncos!” (Not my personal sentiment).”

South Carolina, Traci O’Rourke: “Who will have the better record this year, USC or Clemson?”

West Virginia, Todd Barrett: “In West Virginia, people are thinking about football on all levels, fall hunting season, trout fishing, Christmas shopping, and our economy.”

Pennsylvania, Bill Moore: “Penn State Football challenging for the Big Ten Title and BCS National Championship Title.”

Texas, Johnny Matthews: “Finally looking forward to cooler weather in Texas…the summers down here can be a bit toasty! And of course in the Houston/Galveston area, further recovery from Hurricane Ike.”

New Hampshire, Janice Page: “Enjoying fall foliage and EVERYONE is gearing up for the the elections!”

Ohio, Kristi Blausey:  “When fall sets into Ohio, there’s one thing on our minds – The Ohio State University Buckeyes football program.”

Kentucky, Eric Weisman: “Folks here in Kentucky are thinking about the economy and the rising cost of “petrol,” bourbon, fried chicken, and bourbon (wait I already said that)…”“

Oklahoma, Hank Larsen: “Will the Oklahoma Sooners remain # 1 in the college football rankings?”

North Carolina, Sean Bunn: “So many deadly serious subjects are on peoples’ minds (the current $700 million bailout controversy, the election, an inability to get gasoline in many parts of our state over the last few days) that normal distractions like the upcoming Autumn Festivals like the Annual State Fair (or sports-related distractions like NASCAR or college football or the start of the Hurricanes’ NHL schedule) aren’t providing their typical level of excitement.  More than ever, I realize that people like you and I help people focus on “The Toy Section” of life during difficult times.  That can be an important part of what we do.

As an aside, part of the reason for my slight delay is that this afternoon I found out that my girlfriend lost her job.  Her small Raleigh-based company downsized as a result of the bloody mess on the stock market the last few days, so I went to be with her for a while.  Today I heard the same type of news from two friends who work for Wachovia Bank here in North Carolina.  In times like these, it’s nice for people to have something that’s fun and upbeat and simple on which to focus, and I’m finding that my local energy level for all things Red Sox can really help people more than I thought it could… the ability to help people make social connections through the Sox can not only help them personally… it is also helping professionally, right now, in difficult economic times.  That makes me feel good about what we do.”

California, Karen Doherty: “Counting the days until spring training.”

Missouri, Misty Haungs: “I am biased this time of year about what people are thinking about because I work in politics, but it is undeniable that a lot of people are focused on the presidential race – here in Missouri it is looking like McCain will be victorious.  More locally, the current Congressman (Kenny Hulshof) from where I live is running for Governor, so everyone is working hard for him.  Meanwhile, the race for who will replace him in Congress is close and starting to heat up.  And neither the Cardinals nor the Royals made it to the postseason, so everyone I know can watch the Red Sox games with me!”

Utah, Melissa Rehon: “College football- two teams from Utah are in the top 25- BYU (go Cougars!) and the University of Utah (the rival…).”

Wyoming, Nate Emerson: “Did you get your elk yet?”

4) What one word or phrase describes how you feel as the Red Sox gear up for the playoffs?

Alaska: “Those freakin’ Rays!”

Arizona: “I am thrilled and ready to support them!”

Oregon: “Nervous, confident, apprehensive, excited.”

Massachusetts: “Excited/optimistic.”

Hawaii: “We’re going to win, HEY!”

Connecticut: “Optimistic - I’m a Sox fan.”

Virginia: “Caffeinated.”

Georgia: “Excited about the possibility of a third World Series.”

Florida: “Thrilled, excited, and proud.”

New Jersey: “Ecstatic!”

Minnesota: “Let’s get ready to rumble!”“

Michigan: “Dynasty baby!”

Alabama: “Anxiety.”

Tennessee: “If they can pull it off this year… it will be an unbelievable accomplishment!”

Maryland: “Heal that oblique, Josh!”

Mississippi: “Wicked pissah!”

New York: “Gravy.”

Rhode Island: “I feel calm that the inevitable defeat of Anaheim is a foregone conclusion.”

Illinois: “As usual, my mind is jumping from critical work deadlines to, ‘What time do I need to meet friends at the bar?’“

Washington: “My favorite time of the year!”

Vermont: “Cautiously optimistic.”

North Dakota: “Excited.”

South Dakota: “Ecstatic.”

Indiana: “Fired up!”

Colorado: “Good things come in threes. 2004: Sox 3, Angels 0. 2007: Sox 3, Angels 0. 2008: No reason to mess with tradition.”

Wisconsin: “Ecstatic and confident.”

Louisiana: “We won it all as the Wild Card team in 2004, we will do it again in 2008!”

Nebraska: “Anxiety!”

Iowa: “Relief that immersion in the great game brings (from floods, politics, and economic earthquakes).”

Delaware: “Let’s-Git-R-Done Sox, win in 11 straight!”

Nevada: “It’s showtime.”

Kansas: “Intrepid.”

South Carolina: “WICKED PISSAH!”

West Virginia: “Very concerned if we don’t have Lowell’s and Drew’s bats in the lineup.”

Pennsylvania: “Resilient.”

Texas: “Thank God we have depth.”

New Hampshire: “Stay positive and Go Sox!”

Ohio: “Optimistic.”

Kentucky: “Empty - no game to watch tonight and no Don and Jerry for another four months.”

Oklahoma: “Confident.”

North Carolina: “Anxiety and hope.”

California: “FIRED UP!”

Missouri: “Bring it on!”

Utah: “Anxious and excited.”

Wyoming: “Cowboy confident.”

And finally, here are my own responses to my four questions:

1) Ellsbury. He will pick up where he left off in the 2007 World Series.

2) 3 games. Have I ever expected them to lose? No.

3) October baseball in Boston - nothing else matters!

4) My heart is in my throat. I live for this. Let the sleepless nights and yawning days begin!

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Who’s Got Mojo?

September 27, 2008 · 1 Comment

If you’re known to many as a serious Red Sox fan, you’ve probably heard the following questions several times the last few days: “How do you think the Sox will do in the postseason?” and “Do you think the Sox can win it all even if Lowell and Drew are hurt?”

I would be a terrible sportscaster for a national network, because my heart and my brain always tell me that the Red Sox are going to go all the way. This was true even before 2004. And the heart overwhelms the brain when it comes to predicting the future. I can find plenty of rational reasons to pick the Red Sox to win the 2008 World Series (the best top-three starters in Beckett, Lester, and Matsuzaka and their incredible home field advantage top the list), but my feeling of expectation is purely a gut feeling, purely my genetic programming, purely a belief that the Red Sox uniform possesses more magic than any other uniform.

And I don’t put much stock in all of the analysis of different teams when trying to predict a World Series champion. Who has the best bullpen, which team is battling the most injuries, whose offense is most powerful….  Sure, it’s fun to read all of the comparative information and it makes watching the games more enjoyable to know each team’s strengths and vulnerabilities, but when it comes to the postseason, only two things really matter. If you’re thinking, “pitching, and pitching,” you’re right, but perhaps even more important are mojo, and getting hot at the right time.

Whichever team wins the 2008 World Series, it won’t be because of things you can analyze ahead of time. This is why the postseason is such a remarkable ride. We really, really, really don’t know what’s going to happen — but we DO know that several players will step up like they never have before, and several will step up like they always do. (And, unfortunately, goats will emerge, as well.) And watching human beings perform like gods on the diamond in front of a national audience of millions of people in the biggest games of their lives provides a feeling of admiration, awe, and excitement that’s unmatched.

If the Red Sox win the World Series, it will be because of a clutch grand slam by Jason Varitek… it will be because of a stunning barehanded play by Jed Lowrie with two outs in the ninth… it will be because of four innings of scoreless relief by Paul Byrd in the 11th, 12th, 13th, and 14th innings… it will be because of a perfectly executed hit and run by Alex Cora… it will be because Jason Bay bats .500. None of these things is what’s being written about by those who are picking the Sox to take home the trophy, but deep down we all know that it’s mojo — both team mojo and individual mojo — that will separate the winners from the losers this postseason.

I’d prefer to have Lowell and Drew in the starting lineups, but if they’re not there, it simply means an opportunity for two other guys to rise to the challenge and define their careers by their performance in 11 victorious contests.

Analysis schmanalysis. Let the drama begin!

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It’s October Again (well, almost)

September 23, 2008 · 1 Comment

Here we go again. Another long season full of ups and downs ends with a trip for the Red Sox to the ultimate professional baseball tournament. No, it doesn’t get old. No, none of us in Red Sox Nation takes this for granted. Every season is like a separate lifetime — yes, we won the World Series in previous lifetimes (2004, 2007) but this feeling of anticipation, while vaguely familiar, is always fresh and new.

The leaves are changing, it’s October again. Back to school night, it’s October again. Pumpkins on neighbors’ front steps, it’s October again. The Red Sox carry millions of the Nation’s hearts with them into the American League Division Series, it’s October again.

Which players will surprise us with their heroics? Will Lowrie hit .450 in the postseason? Will Casey get a huge pinch hit? Will Kotsay make a game-saving catch? Will Ortiz continue to be the greatest clutch hitter in history? Will Masterson throw 10 scoreless playoff innings? Will Coco Crisp steal a base that we’ll compare to the Dave Roberts theft of 2004? Will Beckett be Beckett? This much we know — winning the World Series will require some “unlikely” heroes, a-la Dave Roberts and Mark Bellhorn in 2004, and Jacoby Ellsbury and J.D. Drew in 2007. Who will step up this year? I can’t wait to find out.

The last two championship teams had future hall of famers Manny Ramirez and Curt Schilling. Will we miss them? Time will tell if there’s enough magic in the bats, gloves, and arms of the current roster to carry on the tradition of winning that Manny and Schill helped to instill here. Perhaps Jon Lester and Jason Bay are at the front-end of postseason careers that will, in the end, compare to those of Ramirez and Schilling. Does that sound crazy? Well, it should. But hey, anything is possible, even the impossible. It’s October again.

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Favre Being Favre

August 12, 2008 · 3 Comments

Green Bay Packers tradition. Kinship with the NFL’s most storied fans. Going out on top of his game. Legacies.

Brett Favre left this all behind. Because in the end, these are not what Brett Favre is all about. In the end, these ideals are created by the media. In the end, none of these things are what fuels Brett Favre’s engine. In the end, football is a game, and Brett Favre is a kid who loves to play. That’s it. He loves to play. Don’t you love that about him? I do. I can relate.

I remember failing to make the cut for Dartmouth College’s varsity baseball team for the third year in a row at the beginning of my junior year and realizing, “That’s it, I’ll never make varsity now, my baseball-playing life is over.” Everyone knew the Junior Varsity program was for freshmen and sophomores, so I didn’t even consider playing baseball that spring. Other players in the baseball program would have looked at me funny. “Don’t you get it, Crawford?” they would have asked. “They’re sending you a message. You and your 80 mph fastball are not varsity material. There’s no point in playing anymore. The dream is dead. Just walk away.” And that’s what I did.

But the following winter, I realized that I had let my obsessive goal of “making varsity” mask the real reason I play baseball - because I love to play. That’s it. I love to play. So senior year, I dug my cleats out of the closet and went out for the baseball team again.

I had no illusions of making a varsity team that included future major leaguers Mike Remlinger, Mark Johnson, and Brad Ausmus. I just wanted to play baseball. The coaches looked at me funny. The other players talked about me behind my back. Yet I was the happiest player at those tryouts. I made the JV team. They gave me a uniform and a locker. And I was content. (Please don’t mock me for comparing myself to Brett Favre. I realize that the only thing we have in common is our passion for playing. And I realize that his passion dwarfs mine.)

The Packers’ offer to Favre of $20m to “stay retired” was doomed from the start. A person’s heart can’t be bought out. Favre’s motivation for playing football this year was “love for the game,” not another fat paycheck. I started writing a letter to Favre warning him that if he took the $20m, he’d wake up the next morning with the same itch to play, and he’d beg the Packers to take back their bribe. I guess he figured this out on his own.

The sports fan public said to Favre, “Don’t you get it, Brett? The Packers are sending you a message. You’re no longer the guy they want to lead their team. You’re 38, you’ve broken all the records, you have your Super Bowl ring. You have one of the greatest single-team legacies in the history of sports. There’s no point in playing anymore. Just walk away. The Packers coaches looked at him funny. The other players talked about him behind his back. But Favre’s heart could not be contained. He knows what makes him happy: playing quarterback in the NFL and striving to win games. It’s not about being a Packer. It’s about competing. That’s who he is. That’s what he does.

The new letter I’m composing to Brett says, “Never retire voluntarily. Play until you get cut. Then go to the Canadian Football League at age 45 and win a couple MVPs there. Play until no pro team on the planet wants you as their third-string QB. Relentlessly be who you are.”

Yes, Favre’s will to play is even greater than his desire to sustain his priceless identity as…. Brett Favre. But he’s cultivating a new identity that’s even more appealing. His brand is no longer, “Legendary starting quarterback for the Green Bay Packers,” it’s “No one has more passion for playing.” Don’t you love that about him? I do.

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No More Manny

July 31, 2008 · 4 Comments

In Theo I trust.

If he thinks this trade will help the Red Sox win another World Series ring, then I guess it really is time for Manny to go.

That said, it’s hard to fathom that the Boston Red Sox just let one of the greatest right-handed hitters of all time — a guy who helped the team win two World Series rings — walk out the door in the middle of a pennant race. The Yankees love this trade. Their fear of the Red Sox vanished at 4:20pm yesterday. Oh, and Joe Torre went to bed last night with a BIG smile on his face.

I am a fan. I am an emotional fan who loves Manny’s joyful, teddy bear personality, his majestic presence in the on-deck circle and batter’s box, and the way he wrecks pitches in the strike zone. I acknowledge that he was not the perfect competitor during his years in a Red Sox uniform. His jogging to first base sometimes drove me crazy. But in the same way a parent keeps loving his kids no matter what they do, nothing Manny ever did or said made me dislike the guy. It wasn’t blind affection. It was eyes-wide-open appreciation for a marvelous player I “knew” better than any other.

I will miss Manny and I will root for him as a Dodger. I hope he finds peace in L.A. and that this trade ends up being a great thing for him and his family.

Time to turn the page on the Manny years, one of the most amazing chapters we’ve ever experienced in Red Sox Nation. It’s Jason Bay time. The 2008 World Series MVP.

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The Truth About Manny (If Only It Were That Simple…)

July 31, 2008 · 1 Comment

Is the following quotation from a book review that will eventually be written about the events that finally led to Manny Ramirez’s brilliant Red Sox career ending in a ball of flames?

“The story examines the variations a mistruth can go through when filtered through person after person and illustrates how different people can have multiple perceptions and interpretations of the same event. The various points of view the reader sees provide insight into the story that none of the individual characters possesses.”

No, this is an excerpt from a review of the book, Nothing But The Truth, by Avi, which is one of the books I read with my class when I was a 9th grade English teacher. But the lessons of this profound book apply directly to this whole Manny Ramirez situation. All of you who have read this book understand that there is NOT “one truth” in the drama that has played out over the last week — and over the last eight years. There’s Manny’s truth. There’s Manny’s wife’s truth. There’s John Henry’s truth. There’s Theo’s truth. There’s Francona’s truth. There’s each teammate’s truth. There’s Dan Shaughnessy’s truth