Ian Desmond May Be On Red Sox Off-Season Radar

(USAToday Sports)

Add another intriguing name to the list of free-agents being considered by the Red Sox this off-season. Multiple reports now indicate that Ian Desmond is seriously being looked at by the brass on Yawkey Way. While Desmond spent most of his career as a shortstop, he played the outfield almost all of the past season for Texas Rangers. And what a season he had! Over 156 games in 2017, Desmond hit .285 with 22 HRs and 86 RBIs—making the All-Star team. Over his eight-year career, he's a .267 hitter, averaging 20 HRs and 77 RBIs. And, this past season, he played a more than credible OF—mostly in center-field. Most think Desmond could reasonably sign for four years and $64 million. All of this, of course, gives some credence to other rumors that Jackie Bradley, Jr. may be headed out of town in a deal for a starting pitcher. Stay tuned!

POLL: Huge Majority Want Red Sox To Sign Encarnación

Early results to our latest FenwayNation Poll show that an overwhelming majority of readers (73%) prefer that the Red Sox sign Edwin Encarnación to replace David Ortiz for the 2017 season. As the chart shows, both José Bautista and Yoenis Céspedes trail badly at just 9% support each—followed by Mark Trumbo at only 7%. A scant 2% want some other free-agent than the four we listed in the question. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

POLL: Who Should Be Big Papi's 2017 Replacement?

If they could only sign one, which free-agent player should the Red Sox sign to replace David Ortiz?

José Bautista

Yoenis Céspedes

Edwin Encarnación

Mark Trumbo

OTHER (Specify in notes)

 

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The Best Reason To Pull For Tito's Tribe In World Series

by Ernie Paicopolos, Editor-In-Chief

Clearly, Red Sox fans can rationalize rooting for either the Indians or the Cubbies in this World Series. Both teams are laden with former Boston player and management personnel. Terry Francona, Mike Napoli, and Andrew Miller can make the case for pulling for the Mistake By The Lakers. Theo Epstein, Jon Lester and David Ross could make you root for The Sons Of Steve Bartman. It's a win-win, right? Wrong. There is one compelling reason to tilt toward the Tribe: the Cubs and their fans just haven't suffered enough. Think about it. While Red Sox fans endured an 86-year World Series Championship drought, we were in four great Fall Classics after 1918—losing all four in excruciating Game Sevens. That's true suffering. Even the Indians have had crushing World Series losses since their last ring in 1948—falling in 1995 to the Braves (after beating the AL East Champion Red Sox—sound familiar?) and in 1997 in seven games to the Marlins. We're talking some serious angst here. And what about the adorable little Cubbies? They haven't even sniffed the World Series in 71 years—let alone lose it painfully. Since the end of World War II, there have been no gut-wrenching World Series losses—snatched from the jaws of victory. None. They need to experience more suffering in the Fall Classic to merit redemption. Go Tribe!

'Joey Bats' Expresses Interest In Coming To The Red Sox

(Getty Images)

Jose Bautista has rejected the qualifying offer from the Blue Jays ($17.2 million) and has reportedly expressed interest in coming to Boston. Multiple reports suggest that the 36-year old will seek a multi-year deal in free agency, and might be a great fit with the David Ortiz-Free Carmine Hose (along with his teammate Edwin Encarnación). In 66 games, Bautista has launched 24 HRs at Fenway—with an OPS of .972. Bargaining starts five days after Tito's Tribe wraps up the World Series tonight. Stay tuned!

Indians Re-Create A Babe Ruth Performance From 1918

Last night, Terry Francona's Tribe took a two-games-to-one lead in the World Series with a 1-0 victory. The last time the Cubbies were shutout 1-0 in a World Series game? Some Red Sox pitcher named George Herman 'Babe' Ruth turned the trick in Game One of the 1918 World Series. You can't make this stuff up, folks. The Bambino hurled a complete game shutout that day—although he did go 0-3 at the plate, with two Ks. He got better offensively.

VIDEO: Twelve Years Ago Tonight—End And Beginning

Elijah Jerry 'Pumpsie' Green Turns 83 Years Old Today

Elijah Jerry 'Pumpsie' Green

On February 8, 1956, the Red Sox purchased the contract of Elijah Jerry Green. He would be the first African-American player to don Carmine Hose—nearly ten years after the Dodgers made a similar transaction for Jackie Robinson. The Red Sox were the last MLB team to integrate their roster. As you may recall, Robinson famously tried out for the Red Sox at Fenway on April 16, 1944. The manager didn't show up to watch him. The switch-hitting Green—knick-named 'Pumpsie'—turns 83 years-old today. Green's first at-bat at Fenway Park was a triple off the Monster, but he never really made a big impact in Boston. In four seasons with the Red Sox, he played in 327 games—hitting .244. He was traded to the Mets—along with pitcher Tracy Stallard—in 1962 for Felix Mantilla. Happy birthday, Pumpsie!

David Ortiz Wins '16 American League Hank Aaron Award

Former Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz was named the recipient of the 2016 Hank Aaron Award for the American League. The award is emblematic of the best hitter in each league—with the National League award going to the much younger Kris Bryant of the Chicago Cubs. Said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, "David created an extraordinary legacy with the Red Sox. Fans will never forget his consistent excellence at the plate and his performances on the game's greatest stages." Ortiz finished his final season with the following astonishing numbers: 315, 38 HRs, 127 RBIs. Congratulations Big Papi!

Dombrowski: Drew Pomeranz Will Not Need Surgery

Drew Pomeranz

According to President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski, Red Sox left-handed starter Drew Pomeranz will not need surgery to repair forearm and elbow issues. Said Dombrowski, "He has seen the doctor, the doctor looked at him. I can't really disclose totally everything that was done, but the doctor said no surgical procedure and the doctor feels he will be ready for next spring training for us." Boston sent elite pitching prospect Anderson Espinoza to the Padres for Pomeranz near the trading deadline. The team then learned that San Diego had not fully disclosed medical records for the pitcher—which resulted in suspension of the Padres GM and could have negated the whole deal. But, for some reason, Boston backed down on any challenge to the trade.

Torey Lovullo More Likely To Be D'Backs New Manager

Torey Lovullo

UPDATE: Torey to interview
According to multiple reports, it seems almost inevitable that Red Sox bench coach Torey Lovullo will be named as the new Arizona Diamondbacks manager. The announcement is expected to come as soon as the World Series ends—the latest date of which would be November 2nd. With multiple front office types fleeing Yawkey Way for Arizona, the Lovullo defection is a logical follow-on. New D'Backs GM Mike Hazen has long been a booster of Lovullo. As Dave 'Captain Queeg' Dombrowski moves to further consolidate his power base, many are questioning what exactly team leadership will look like in 2017. Currently, there are a lot of "assistant-GM" Indians (no pun intended) and one chief (DD himself). We can hear the marbles clicking from here. And, where are the strawberries?

Yoan Moncada Sidelined With Injury To Left Thumb

UPDATE: Moncada Shut Down With Thumb Sprain
The number one prospect in all of Major League Baseball injured his left thumb last week during play in the Arizona Fall League. Red Sox farmhand Yoan Moncada did not suffer any broken bones, but he will miss at least a couple of games before retuning to the lineup. The 21-year old Cuban had a left hand injury last year in the Instruction league as well. The Red Sox are hoping that the AFL action will restore Moncada's confidence after a dismal—strikeout-laden—end to his 2016 major league stint (which started out hot).

Tribe Win Reminds Us Of Dumb Home-Field Formula

With the Indians first win in the World Series, it brought to mind again how utterly dumb it is that we award World Series home-field advantage via a single exhibition game in July. For a long time, we have advocated for a far more representative way to decide the issue. First, we already have at least one cross-league game played every day. That creates a pretty big sample size—roughly 300 games in 2016. As it happens, the AL—once again—whupped the NL's butt this year—winning about 56% of the contests. In fact, the AL has had the clear advantage since 2004. So, here's how it should work: whichever league wins the season-long inter-league schedule gets home field advantage in the World Series. Simple. Each inter-league game takes on more meaning. And the All-Star Game can go back to being what it should be: a pure exhibition of baseball talent. Earth to Rob Manfred!

Yoenis Cespedes Will Likely Opt-Out Of Mets Contract

(Getty Images)

The great "Replace Papi World Tour" may have another candidate soon. Reports out of New York make it unclear whether former Carmine Hoser Yoenis Cespedes wants to remain with the Metropolitans or not. He has an 'opt-out' clause in his three-year pact after one season—which is now. Most observers think it would be foolish for the 30-year old Cuban not to test the free agent market. After all, he clouted 31 HRs last season (while also hitting a decent .280). He would likely fetch a contract in the $200 million neighborhood—not a bad zip code. Cespedes would be an intriguing choice for Boston—he's been here before, is younger than other options, and offers the flexibility of playing the OF or DH-ing. Stay tuned!

Sox Head Into Off-Season 'GM-Free', Appoint Romero

Eddie Romero

In case you had any delusions about who's in charge in the Red Sox front office, this bit of news should straighten you out. The tram announced the appointment of Eddie Romero as assistant general manager—to go along with their other assistant general manager Brian O'Halloran. Get it? Romero is in his 11th year in the organization, moving up from vice president of international scouting. Reportedly, he was instrumental is the signing of #1 MLB prospect Yoan Moncada. So, with no actual General Manager, the S.S. Carmine Hose is solely under the captaincy of one David Dombrowski. The next few weeks will tell whther that leadership takes on a Captain Queeg-like feel—as bodies continue to flee Yawkey Way for sunny Arizona. Stay tuned!

Amiel Sawdaye May Spurn Sox For D'backs Or Twinkies

Amiel Sawdaye

In our recent FenwayNation Poll, most readers wanted the Red Sox to pick an 'outside-the-box' GM—not one of the five main contenders being considered. This morning, it appears that one of those contenders—Amiel Sawdaye—has the inside track on the job if he wants it. Hall Of Fame reporter Peter Gammons says Sawdaye is "weighing" whether to accept the Sox job—or an assistant GM position under departed Mike Hazen in Arizona. There is also the wildcard—according to Gammons—of Sawdaye fleeing to the Twins is some capacity. Sawdaye (currently the VP of Amateur Scouting for the Red Sox) was chosen by only 13% of readers in our poll—but apparently has the eye of President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski. Stay tuned!

POLL: Tribe Holds Surprising 'Rooting' Lead Over Cubs

Results to our latest FenwayNation Poll show that a majority of readers (54%) say they will be rooting for the Cleveland Indians when the 2016 World Series begins on Tuesday night. This compares to 46% who say they will pull for the Chicago Cubs. Clearly, the multiple Boston connections on both squads is tugging at the rooting heartstrings of Red Sox fans. This classic "Clash Of The Curses" should be an extremely entertaining series. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

POLL: OK, Red Sox Fans, Who Are You Rooting For?

OK, Red Sox fans, who are you rooting for?

Chicago Cubs

Cleveland Indians

 

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'Battle Of Curses' World Series Has Clear Boston Flair

(Reuters)

Well, it happened. The Cubbies and Indians are in the Fall Classic starting on Tuesday night. We won't burden you any further with the bevy of Boston connections in this World Series—just that two of the most consequential people ever in Red Sox management history will face off—Theo Epstein and Terry Francona. Who can forget their embrace after the 2004 sweep of the Cardinals—with the burden of curses lifted forever? Now, they battle again to rid franchises of more curses—the Cubbies 108-year drought and the Tribe's 68-year hiatus. For Red Sox fans, either outcome would be a good one. Play Ball!

Ugh! Wally And Tessie Throw Halloween Party At Fenway

Tessie (L); Wally (R)—We Think

Hey, the kids like it. Nevertheless, the Red Sox announced today another in the endless line of goofy events around their twin mascots—Wally The Green Monster and his little sister, Tessie The Green Monster. (Editor's Note: We're trying real hard not to lose our lunch while writing this). On Sunday October 30th, between 11 AM and 2 PM, the Kid's Concourse will be open to a "Halloween Party"—with things like mini-pumpkin painting, trick-or-treating, and...whatever. The event is free (there's a shocker!). Perhaps the best line in the team's press release, though, was this: "Costumes are encouraged." As they always should be.

Scar Tissue Was Real Cause Of David Ortiz's Foot Pain

(Getty Images)

In a fascinating article by WEEI.com's Rob Bradford, former Red Sox coordinator of sports medicine services Dan Dyrek reveals the extent and nature of David Ortiz's foot-related injuries over the years. While it was always described as an "Achilles" issue, it was actually much more complex. Said the 63-year-old Dyrek, "The pain was at the insertion of the Achilles, but that in a sense was a secondary diagnosis. The primary problem was really the scar tissue in the joints, ligaments, capsules, muscle and even his skin affected on two different bones in the area." Ortiz's battle started in July of 2012 and the rigorous treatment routine lasted right through the 2016 season. Dyrek made it clear how difficult it was, "There was no question he was pushing. He felt an obligation to the fans. He would say, 'People come to see me play so I want to get out there and keep playing.' But eventually it took its toll. He had to have treatment essentially every day because the problems that were in there you can't resolve them 100 percent. He was never 100 percent pain-free. He had days of no pain, but over the course of every week there were always a few days he had pain." So now, in addition to having witnessed a Hall of Fame career, we now know about the hard work and pain that went into creating it.

Cubbies Should Welcome Home Scape-"Goat" Bartman

Let's see, a 3-2 NLCS series lead. Returning back to Wrigley to win just one of two games to advance to the World Series. Where have we seen this before? Oh yeah, 2003! What was that guy's name? Imagine what Steve Bartman must be thinking right now. Banished from his home town (presumably, since he's fallen off the face of the Earth), unable to attend games of his beloved team, and scorned by millions. That is the life of The Bartman. We've seen various writers call for a big "forgiveness" party if the Cubs advance to The Fall Classic. We disagree. Theo Epstein and the Cubs organization should reach out now, today to heal the Bartman rift. Give him a prominent seat in the owner's box tomorrow night. Have him throw out the first pitch—to Moises Alou, of course. Something! Give this poor dude his life back! And, all that good karma will surely propel the Cubbies to ultimate victory—ending that 108-year drought.

POLL: Most Readers Want 'Outside-The-Box' GM Choice

Continued voting shows that FenwayNation readers reject all five prominent choices for new Red Sox GM. As the chart shows, almost half of respondents (49%) want someone else other than the most-often mentioned candidates. While we made the suggestions of Jason Varitek or John Farrell for that "other" category, there's no way for us to know any other suggestions (except through the poll's 'comments' section). Among the known contenders, current Assistant GM Brian O'Halloran leads with 26%, followed by VP of Amateur Scouting Amiel Sawdaye (15%), Sr. VP of Baseball Operations Frank Wren (5%), Dir. of Professional Scouting Gus Quattlebaum (3%), and VP of International Scouting Ed Romero (2%). You can still vote in the poll HERE.

Reserve That Jersey Number Ten For Edwin Encarnación

From all accounts, Red Sox honcho Dave Dombrowski will have around $30-$40 million of John Henry's spare change to spend this Winter. Of course, Henry might decide to spend some of that on fake injury training for his foreign soccer team. Even so, let's say 'DD' has 'only' $30 million—we all know where he's going to spend most of it, right? The vast hole in the lineup created by the departure of 40-year old David Ortiz needs to be filled. The most logical candidate is soon-to-be 34-year old Edwin Encarnación. He's clearly sent signals that he wants to be here—and he worships Papi. Plus, he must salivate at the prospect of lining up The Green Monster 81 times a year. So, let's dispense with the charade and just measure Edwin for a number ten Red Sox uniform jersey (his number in The Great White North). I don't think Andover High School's Ryan Hanigan (the current #10) will mind—if he's still here on Opening Day.

Red Sox 2011 'Choke-Pocalypse' Impacts 2016 Playoffs

(Getty Images)

As CBSSports.com's Mike Axisa rightly points out, the fallout from the epic 2011 Red Sox collapse directly led to a bevy of moves that impacted the MLB playoff picture five years later. OK, take a deep breath and try to remember the Robert Andino walk-off hit that (along the the Rays walk-off over the Empire) eliminated The Carmine Hose from the playoffs in Game 162. Amazingly, with just 29 games left to play, Boston had enjoyed a nine game bulge in the Wild Card race. Pure and simple, they blew it. The meltdown resulted in the departure of Theo Epstein, Terry Francona, and Adrian Gonzalez (who, among others, fled Boston the following August). All three have been important reasons why their clubs—Theo's Cubbies, Tito's Tribe and A-Gons's Trolley Dodgers—are still in the championship hunt this year. Epstein patiently crafted a five-year plan—that actually came to partial fruition in year four. It may propel the Cubs to their first World Series Championship in 108 years. Francona has taken a listing Indian ship and turned it into a confident, winning ballclub. They could eliminate a 68-year championship drought. And, Gonzalez has been the steady, consistent team leader on a weird Dodger ballclub that last won it all in 1988—a 28-year hiatus. (As an aside, it seems astounding that the Dodgers have only won 6 World Series titles—two fewer than the Red Sox). In any event, despite the Red Sox early departure from the 'tournament', there's plenty of Boston-connected baseball left to watch.

Iconic Kenmore CITGO Sign May Still Be Removed

Well, a story we reported on last July is back in the news. Boston University appears to be moving ahead with plans to sell the building upon which the iconic Kenmore Square CITGO sign sits. As we said last Summer, we have no love for the socialist thugs who run the state-owned CTIGO oil company in Venezuela. Every decent person should boycott their stations and their products. But the sign is a decades old symbol of Boston, Fenway Park and the Red Sox. It needs to be saved. Click HERE to add you name to a petition (now almost 6,000 strong) to save the sign.

Mauricio Dubon Finds His Way In Arizona Fall League

(Photo By Richard Shiro)

Early on, the top Red Sox performer in this year's Arizona Fall League was Yoan Moncada (still hitting .333). But, after last night, a new prospect may be emerging—one Mauricio Dubon. Normally a shortstop, Dubon has been playing the outfield recently, and came through with a big night on Wednesday—with three hits and two steals. He also scored the winning run in the 2-1 victory for the Surprise Saguaros. Dubon is now hitting .318 on the AFL season and is looking to hone his skills further. Said the 22-year old, "I trust what I'm doing. I felt good at the plate. I did the same thing I've been doing, I just saw the ball a little better." Keep an eye on this kid!

Cubs, Bucs, Cards, Phils Make Fenway Stops In 2017

Well, we might as well look ahead to 2017. In addition to the moronic World Baseball Classic (March 9-22), we will have another year of idiotic inter-league intrusions at Fenway Park in 2017. The Chicago Cubs, Pittsburgh Pirates, Philadelphia Phillies and St. Louis Cardinals will be searching for some marginal bench player to be 'DH' for a few games when they wander into Boston. Similarly, the Red Sox will lose the services of their new DH when they traipse to the National League cities on their schedule. Dumb. Dumb. Dumb. Please, Commissioner Manfred, end our long 'national pastime nightmare' and ditch inter-league play!

POLL: Tito's Tribe Surging As FN Readers' Favorite Team

Early voting in our latest FenwayNation Poll shows that Terry Francona's upstart Indians are passing the Cuddly Cubbies as the favorite remaining team in the MLB playoffs. As the chart shows, fully 65% of our readers pick The Tribe as their new rooting target, followed somewhat distantly by the Theo Epstein-led Cubs at just 29%. Only 6% say they are now fans of the Dave Roberts-skippered Dodgers. You can still vote in this poll HERE.

Sox, Texas, Empire Likely Spots For Edwin Encarnación

'Flap-Down' At Fenway In 2017?

Multiple reports suggest that the Red Sox are the likeliest landing spot for free-agent Edwin Encarnación. Now that the Blue Jays failed to match Boston as the only team to recover from a 3-0 deficit, the real speculation can begin on the potential new Carmine Hose DH. According to TodaysKnuckleball.com's Jon Heyman, it looks as if The Evil Ones and the Texas Rangers are the main competition for Encarnación. Given his closeness with David Ortiz, and his positive comments about Boston, it would not be a shock to see the soon-to-be 34-year-old at Fenway soon.

POLL: Which Remaining Team Are You Rooting For?

Which ONE of the remaining heavily Boston-connected teams are you rooting for?

Chicago Cubs

Cleveland Indians

Los Angeles Dodgers

 

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Curt Not Happy With 'Bloody Sock'/Bauer Comparison

(Getty Images)

If case you wanted to engage Curt Schilling in some banter about the similarities between his 'Bloody Sock' game and Trevor Bauer's "DroneGate"—fuggedaboutit! Schilling does not like the comparison, tweeting, "Please don’t tweet at me about Bauer. He cost himself a start, likely more, AND his teammates, and fans, (messing) around with a drone. #stupid." Exactly twelve years ago today, Schilling took the mound at Yankee Stadium in Game Six of the 2004 ALCS with a leaking torn tendon sheath that soaked blood through his white sock. He hurled seven innings with the injury—giving up just one earned run for the victory.

POLL: Majority Still Support Trading For LHP Chris Sale

Results to our latest FenwayNation Poll show that readers continue to support the idea of trading away up to three Red Sox players for left-handed pitching ace Chris Sale. As the chart shows, a majority (55%) favor the transaction (sending Jackie Bradley, Jr., Yoan Moncada or Rafael Devers, and Eduardo Rodriguez to Chicago in exchange for Sale. On the other side of the ledger, 45% oppose the deal. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

Don't Forget About Boston's Pitching Prospect Pipeline

Groome (L); Kopech (R)

With all the emphasis on position player prospects Yoan Moncada, Rafael Devers and Andrew Benintendi (who may be beyond prospect-level now), it's easy to forget about Boston's lurking stating pitching prospects. Specifically, they have two 'studs-in-waiting'—port-sider Jason Groome and righty Michael Kopech. Groome, you may recall, was stolen with the 12th overall pick in last year's draft—after being rated as the #1 overall choice a few months earlier. After some haggling, he was signed for a sizable bonus. He is compared to Madison Bumgarner because of his sick fastball-curveball repertoire. Kopech—taken late in 2014's first-round, has topped out at 105 MPH in the minors. He has a troubling "Ebby Calvin 'Nuke' LaLoosh"-type personality, however, that's already gotten him in trouble. With any luck, though, he could become the wackiest Red Sox pitcher since Bill Lee. In any event, there are two blue-chip starting pitching prospects not far away from Fenway—which could allow Dave Dombrowski to be a little bolder in his off-season mound-related moves.

POLL: Who Should Be The New Red Sox GM?

Which ONE of the following candidates should be the new Red Sox GM?

Brian O'Halloran (Asst. GM)

Gus Quattlebaum (Dir., Professional Scouting)

Ed Romero (VP, International Scouting)

Amiel Sawdaye (VP, Amateur Scouting)

Frank Wren (Sr. VP, Baseball Operations)

OTHER (e.g., Varitek, Farrell)

 

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Red Sox Could Take A $25.6M Arbitration Hit In 2017

According to an estimate by MLBTradeRumors.com, the Red Sox will have 11 players that are arbitration eligible at a projected total cost of $25.6 million in 2017. Of the 11, five are pitchers (Fernando Abad, Robbie Ross, Jr., Joe Kelly, Brandon Workman and Drew Pomeranz); three are infielders (Josh Rutledge, Brock Holt and Xander Bogaerts); two are catchers (Sandy Leon and Bryan Holaday) and one is an outfielder (Jackie Bradley, Jr.). Obviously, a few (if not many) of these 11 will be gone by Opening Day (are you listening, Fernando?), but it's instructive to see what the total salary hit could be in 2017.

Curt Schilling Has Decided To Take On Elizabeth Warren

Schilling (L); Warren (R)

If you like the 2016 Presidential Election, you are going to love the upcoming 2018 U.S. Senate race in Massachusetts! Today, Red Sox icon Curt Schilling announced that he will, in fact, take on incumbent Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren. Just as Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton are among the most unpopular Presidential candidates in history, Schilling and Warren will certainly be among the most controversial Senate combatants in the state's history. Warren (who beat then-incumbent Scott Brown by just 238,000 votes in 2012) has gotten a reputation (by some) as a kind of 'do-nothing' solon—with a worldview that smacks of class warfare. Schilling, of course, can't refrain from posting controversial items os social media—to the point that he's been fired from multiple sportscasting positions. One can just image the debate insults flying back and forth—from 'Fake Indian' charges to 'bankrupt businessman who soaked Rhode Island taxpayers'. Buckle up!

Study Shows Fan Intensity Is Best Predictor Of Revenue

A study by Eli Ben-Porat of HardballTimes.com takes a look at a range of factors that could predict revenue for MLB teams. Statistical indicators like Census Metropolitan Areas, state size, and fan engagement (via social media) are all put into a regression model 'blender' to see what comes out. Not surprisingly, it appears that fan intensity (Facebook, TWITTER  interactions) is the best predictor of increased revenue—no matter whether the team is in a "small market" or a "big market". As Red Sox fans, we sort of get this intuitively—as John Henry and the boys pull in a ridiculous amount of revenue (upwards of $400 million a year) from a relatively "small" market. Anyway, it's an interesting article from a guy who works for the Rogers Empire in Toronto. Pity him, his guys are on the way out soon.

Boston's Role The Last Time The Indians Won It All

1948 World Series Game One At Braves Field (Getty Images)

A little over 68 years ago (October 11, 1948), the Cleveland Indians won their second (and, to this point, last) World Series title. Since they began their 2016 post-season run against the Red Sox, it's somewhat fitting that their 1948 victory was over another Boston baseball franchise—the Braves. The Tribe won the Series in six games—the final one at Braves Field (the remnants of which are now on the campus of Boston University). There were 40,103 loyal Braves fans in attendance to watch the Indians capture the title with a 4-3 win. In just five more years, the franchise would flee to the backwater of Milwaukee, before settling in Atlanta. In the final game,  some memorable names showed up. For the Tribe, Larry Doby (the first African-American to play in the American League) went 2-4. Lou Boudreau and Joe Gordon each had a hit and an RBI. And Bob Lemon pitched 7.1 innings for the win. For the Bravos, Tommy Holmes went 2-5 and both Alvin Dark and the be-speckled Earl Torgeson had a hit apiece. Warren Spahn pitched two innings of relief in the loss. Could Cleveland's 68-year drought be ended by going through another Boston team? Stay tuned!

Ex-Sox Send Tito And Tribe To Brink Of World Series

Call them the 'Idiots-By-The-Lake'—or something like that. A bevy of ex-Red Sox players are making huge contributions to Terry Francona's Indians as they close in on a World Series berth. After last night's 4-2 win, the Tribe are now just one win away from a chance at their first Fall Classic win since 1948 (during the Truman Administration). On Monday, the following former Carmine Hosers chipped in: Mike Napoli (2-3, 2B, BB, HR), Coco Crisp (a dazzling catch in LF) and Andrew Miller (1.1 innings pitched, 0 ER, 1 H, Save). Looks like it could be Boston (CLE) Vs. Boston (CHC) pretty soon!

VIDEO: Happy Dave Roberts Day, Everyone!

Twelve Years Ago Today—The Red Sox World Changed

(Getty Images)

If you were lucky enough to be in attendance at Fenway Park on October 17, 2004, you witnessed the nascent stages of a Red Sox re-birth. On that night, in Game Four of the ALCS, The Carmine Hose (down three games to none) forged a comeback against The Evil Ones that would ultimately lead to their first World Championship in 86 years. The four catalysts of the re-birth were: a ninth-inning walk by Kevin Millar, an epic steal of second-base by his pinch-runner Dave Roberts, a game-tying single by Bill Mueller and a 12th-inning game-winning HR by David Ortiz. Nest stop—DuckBoats in RingVille. Twelve years ago today—savor it!

POLL: About Six In Ten Favor A Trade For Chris Sale

Early voting in our latest FenwayNation Poll shows that almost six in ten readers (59%) are in favor of a rumored trade that would send Jackie Bradley, Jr., either Yoan Moncada or Rafael Devers, and (possibly) Eduardo Rodriguez to the White Sox for left-handed ace Chris Sale. As the chart shows, around four in ten (41%) readers oppose the possible transaction. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

POLL: Favor Or Oppose Trade For Chris Sale?

Would you favor or oppose the following trade: Jackie Bradley, Jr., Moncada or Devers, and Eduardo Rodriguez for Chris Sale?

Favor

Oppose

 

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Revived Talk Of Trade To Bring Chris Sale To Boston

Chris Sale

During the 2016 July trade deadline, there was much discussion about a trade of left-handed starter Chris Sale—sending him from the White to the Red Sox. Now, that discussion is being revived by multiple reports that an off-season trade may be brewing that would bring the port-sider to Fenway. Any talk begins with center-fielder Jackie Bradley, Jr. heading to The Wind City—a player The Pale Hose have long coveted. Beyond JBJ, a top prospect would needed to be added to the package—most likely either #1 MLB prospect Yoan Moncada or highly-touted third-base youngster Rafael Devers. Even a third player might be needed—with Eduardo Rodriguez being mentioned. This, of course, would be a major transaction for both teams—no matter what the particulars are. The White Sox would get one or two elite-level prospects, and/or one or two established major leaguers. Boston would get one of the best elite young starters in baseball—who will be just 28 on Opening Day 2017. Moreover, Sale's contract is amazingly team-friendly—giving the lefty "only" $7 million next year, $8.85 million in 2018 and team options in 2019 ($10.5 million) and 2020 ($11.5 million). Sale went 17-10 with a 3.34 ERA in 2016—with six complete games. Stay tuned!

POLL: Slightly More Support For Kimbrel/Jansen Deals

With nearly 400 votes cast so far, it's still a close call on whether the Red Sox should trade current closer Craig Kimbrel and sign free-agent Kenley Jansen. As the chart shows, the spread is a little wider than we saw previously—with a 54% majority now supporting the moves, and 46% against the transactions. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

Frank Wren Seen As Likely New Sox General Manager

Wren At Fenway

Just as we suspected, it appears that the Red Sox will name an old-school has-been as their new General Manager. Multiple reports suggest that Frank Wren (fired by the Braves and Orioles) will ascend to the lofty GM berth sometime soon. Yes, the man who—while running Atlanta—thought it was a good idea to shell out $75.25 million to Melvin Upton, Jr. will be running The Carmine Hose. While Red Sox President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski will continue to be the real string-puller, Wren will have the same advisory input (at least) as departed GM Mike Hazen. These are all very bad omens for Boston.

Sox GM Mike Hazen Scooped Away By Diamondbacks

Former Red Sox GM Mike Hazen

He started working for the Red Sox a decade ago, and has survived a lot of palace intrigue—not a small feat in this back-stabbing organization. Mike Hazen—Boston's GM since last September—was hired away today as the new General Manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Look for a follow-up move that results in Sox bench coach Torey Lovullo being named as the new manager of the D'Backs. This is a big loss for The Carmine Hose, as Hazen was the only person in management who didn't engage in John Henry-like double-speak. Now the likely successor as GM will be one of two old-school hacks Allard Baird or Frank Wren. Hazen is local, smart, honest and plain-spoken—all disqualifiers for the out-of-towner NOG (New Ownership Group). Best of luck in a sane environment, Mike!

Don't Panic! Just Stock Up On The 2017 FN Calendar!

Halloween is just around the corner. Before you know it, it will be Thanksgiving. Then, the panicked three weeks until the really big holidays. What are you going to get for your Red Sox-obsessed friends and family? It's easy. Just get them the new 2017 FenwayNation Calendar. It's chock-full of brand new exclusive FenwayNation photos from the 2016 season—photos of the park, the team and the ambiance that is the Red Sox experience. You can stock up early for your holiday giving by ordering the calendar now online. Get one for every Sox fan on your list! It's just $14.99! Check the free preview and ORDER HERE NOW (where you can also get a free previews of the photos)

POLL: Division On Dumping Kimbrel And Signing Jansen

Response to our latest FenwayNation Poll has been brisk—and the results show a serious division on whether to dump Craig Kimbrel and sign free-agent reliever Kenley Jansen. As the chart shows, it couldn't get much closer. A bare majority (51%) support trading the current Red Sox closer and signing Jansen—with almost as many (49%) opposed to the idea. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

POLL: Should Sox Sign Jansen And Trade Kimbrel?

Favor or Oppose: Sox signing Kenley Jansen and trading Craig Kimbrel?

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Your Honor, He's Guilty With Or Without A Yankee Hat

Marbury v. Madison, Plessy v. Ferguson,  Roe v. Wade—and now, U.S. v. Yankee Hat Guy. Some Rhode Island guy wearing a Yankee hat allegedly committed bank fraud and was ultimately convicted and sentenced to five years in the 'hoosegow'. On appeal, he claimed that he could not get a fair trial from a bunch of jurors who were Red Sox fans. A Federal appeals court recently set the record straight—stating that a jury full of Sox fans can indeed be fair-minded (even to a felonious Yankee fan). Said the US Court of Appeals for the First Circuit,  '[Defendant] argues that a handful of references to his wearing a New York Yankees baseball cap prejudiced the jury (which he assumes to have been composed of Boston Red Sox fans) against him. As an initial matter, all but two of the cited references occurred during defense counsel's cross-examination. In any event, this testimony, like the references to luxury vehicles discussed above, was relevant to the witnesses' knowledge of [the defendant] and his appearance. Any possibility of unfair prejudice was ameliorated when the district court explicitly instructed the Rhode Island jury not to hold [the defendant's] wearing of a Yankees hat against him.' Which we're sure they did.

Sox Players To Appear At November Memorabilia Show

A whole host of former Red Sox players will appear at an upcoming Sports Memorabilia Show at The Shirner's Auditorium in Wilmington, Massachusetts. Organized by SureShot Promotions, it's the Greater Boston Sports Collectors Club's  31st Annual Sports Card and Memorabilia Show. For three days (November 4th, 5th and 6th), the following players are scheduled to appear: Rico Petrocelli, Doug Mirabelli, Jody Reed, Gabe Kapler, Ferguson Jenkins, Joe Lahoud, Sonny Siebert and Ben Olgivie. In addition, other MLB greats include Hall Of Famers Frank Robinson and Reggie Jackson. Other sports are represented, too. Notable Boston stars include: Ray Bourque, Cam Neely, Patrice Bergeron, Tory Krug, Rick Middleton, Paul Silas and Dave Bing. Admission is just $8.00 for adults, and kids and seniors get in free! You can get more information on the event by clicking HERE.

Muddy Chicken Had Left Knee Surgery On Wednesday

'The Muddy Chicken Hop'

Dustin Pedroia underwent arthroscopic knee surgery yesterday. The operation was on the Red Sox second baseman's left knee and should not impair his readiness for Spring Training next February (any doubt he'll be ready?). Pedroia had one of his best seasons since his MVP campaign in 2008. The Laser Show delivered a .318 batting average, with 15 HRs and 74 RBIs in 154 games played. He had a .376 OBP, .449 slugging percentage and an .825 OPS. The 33-year old will earn $15 million in 2017—and is signed through the 2021 season.

Yoan Moncada Rebounds In Fall League With Big Debut

Yoan Moncada

You might remember the kid—nine straight strikeouts in The Show (after a very promising first few games). Well, now Yoan Moncada is playing in the Arizona Fall League—after a brief detour to Fort Myers. In his first game yesterday for the Surprise Saguaros, Moncada went 3-5, with a solo HR and a double. The 21-year old switch-hitting infielder also scored three runs and knocked in two. Not a bad beginning. Said Moncada, "I only played in a couple [Florida] games, but still got to see a lot of live pitching. It helped to keep my swing consistent and kept me focused before coming here." At Spring Training, Moncada will likely be in the third base mix—along with Pablo Sandoval, Travis Shaw and Brock Holt. Stay tuned!

POLL: Still Strong Support To Pick Up Clay's Option

Continued voting in our latest FenwayNation Poll suggests that readers remain supportive of the Red Sox picking up the $13 million 2017 option on Clay Buchholz. As the chart shows, just over six in ten voters (63%) choose this option, while just under four in ten (37%) think Boston should cut their ties with the tall Texas righty. You can still vote in this poll HERE.

Remembering Ortiz: The '13 ALCS Game Two Grand Slam

While his 2004 ALCS Game Four HR to beat the Empire is clearly the #1 highlight of David Ortiz's post-season career, there's another iconic HR that comes in second. In 2013's ALCS Game Two at Fenway Park, the Red Sox were trailing the Tigers 5-1 in the bottom of the 8th inning with two outs and the bases loaded. Detroit was already up one game to none, and Boston was in danger of heading to the Motor City down two games. Ortiz, who knew exactly what Joaquín Benoit would throw him, launched a game-tying grand slam into the Boston bullpen—millimeters out of the reach of his good friend Torii Hunter. How different things might have been!

VIDEO: David Ortiz's Good Buddy Maverick Schutte

D'Backs, Braves And Rockies After Lovullo For Skipper?

(Getty Images)

Red Sox bench coach Torey Lovullo is likely to attract considerable interest from multiple teams seeking to fill managerial openings. Arizona, Atlanta and Colorado are the most obvious landing spots for the talented Lovullo—who has garnered a tremendous amount of respect for his work in Boston. With John Farrell definitely coming back for 2017, losing his right-hand assistant would be a blow—but the team would certainly grant him the ability to advance his career elsewhere. Said Red Sox President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski, "I hope he stays with us but I also understand that if people come asking to talk to Torey, we would be open to granting that request." Stay tuned.