Sox and Pinstripes | Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees – The Greatest Rivalry in Baseball

Allowing Nomar to retire with the Red Sox is a classy move

Five-time All Star. American league Rookie of the Year in 1997. Runner-up in the 1998 AL MVP voting when he hit .323 with 35 home runs and 122 RBI. It never looked right to see Nomar Garciaparra in a Cubs, Dodgers or A's uniform. He was the face of the Red Sox from 1996 through the day he was traded in 2004. Today, "Nomah" announced his retirement at Red Sox spring training camp in Ft. Myers. He signed a one-day minor league contract with the team so he cold retire as a member of the Red Sox.

It was a classy move by the organization and by Garciaparra, who fell out of favor with the ballclub in 2004. Ironically, the trade of Garciaparra is partially responsible for the team's 2004 World Series title. The shortstop did not appear to be happy in Boston - Terry Francona said Garciaparra was "Bostoned out" - and he was shipped to the Cubs in a deal that brought Orlando Cabrera to the Red Sox from Montreal. Cabrera injected lift into a sluggish Red Sox team, helped the ballclub secure the wild card berth and the rest is glorious Red Sox history.

Sox and Pinstripes regulars know that I am a Theo Epstein enthusiast. I applaud the way he has developed the farm system and I appreciate that he does not make player personnel decisions based on sentimental reasons. It was the right move to trade Garciaparra in 2004 just as it was the perfect choice to allow him to retire as a Red Sox.

Wakefield's knuckler is a dancin'

We'll have to start a pool here on Sox and Pinstripes about when the Tim Wakefield tenure in Boston will reach an end. It appeared that might happen late last season, when he was suffering from extreme back pain and walked with a limp. Now, after recovering from surgery, the 43-year-old Wakefield is healthy again and is making his case to earn one of the final two spots in the rotation.

Yesterday, Wakefield tossed three scoreless innings against the Marlins, allowing two hits. He did not walk a batter. With Daisuke Matsuzaka's spring training work limited with a back strain, chances are Wakefield could open the season as the No. 4 or No. 5 starter, depending on where the Sox slot Clay Buchholz. It is uncertain what the team will do if Wakefield, Dice-K and Buchholz are all healthy. However, it is a position every other major league team wishes it was in.

The upper-level prospects are doing just fine, thank you

Remember in the off-season when even some of the Red Sox brass said that there would be little help from the farm system (in terms of call-ups to the major league team) in 2010? I didn't agree with that opinion then, and I certainly don't concur now.

While it is true that the three prospects who will likely make the greatest impact - future ace Casey Kelly, five-tool outfielder Ryan Westmoreland and Cuban shortstop phenom Jose Iglesias - will not likely get a taste of the majors until 2011 at the earliest (probably 2012 for Westmoreland), the Sox can get significant help, if needed, from outfielders Josh Reddick and Ryan Kalish, and pitchers Michael Bowden and Junichi Tazawa, in 2010. You can even throw in left-hander Felix Doubront, who will make his Triple-A debut this year but could earn a September call-up.

In his first season of professional baseball anywhere, the 23-year-old Tazawa posted impressive numbers at Double-A Portland and Triple-A Pawtucket last year and even delivered a strong start against the Yankees, but he readily admitted that he was worn down by the time he made his major league debut. After off-season conditioning, Tazawa is better prepared for the rigors of a full season of American baseball. With his vast arsenal of pitches, and his poise on the mound, Tazawa will be an asset, whether he helps the Sox this season as a starter or his more probable role as a call-up to the bullpen. With Bowden and Tazawa, plus the six starters Boston already has, there is ample starting pitching depth. Unlike last season, when the Sox relied upon Brad "Five Innings" Penny and a past-his prime John Smoltz, Boston's rotation will give the team enough innings where the bullpen will not be taxed. That will help in August and September.

As for the outfield, I am comfortable with the thought of Reddick and Jeremy Hermida seeing time if an injury arises to J.D. Drew or Mike Cameron. Kalish is certainly opening eyes in his first major league camp, but Reddick will get the first call from Pawtucket, if needed.

What about Mikey Lowell?

Mike Lowell is expected to make his spring training debut in the near future. Will he remain with the Red Sox on opening day as the backup corner infielder, or will a team develop a need for a starting third baseman or DH and approach the Red Sox for a deal?

I will reiterate that I hope Lowell remains with the Sox this season. He would be ideal insurance in case Adrian Beltre or Kevin Youkilis get injured. The Sox don't have an appealing corner infield major league ready prospect at Pawtucket - though Jed Lowrie can play third. If Lowell is traded, who will serve as the backup first baseman? Victor Martinez? Bill Hall can play first base. After all, he is a jack of all trades who can play just about every position except pitcher and catcher. It will be more comforting, though, to have Lowell on the roster.

More thoughts and observations:

• Joe Nathan's season-ending injury certainly impacts the American League Central race. Minnesota can never be counted out because of the way the Twins play the game, but Nathan's injury gives added hope to the White Sox and the Tigers. Chances are, the Indians and Royals will not be a factor.
• I'm giddy over the Red Sox minor league catching situation. Dusty Brown is not a top prospect, but he will likely be a quality backup catcher at the major league level because of his defense. He could help the Sox this season, though he will open the year at Pawtucket. I've previously written about Mark Wagner, Luis Exposito and Tim Federowicz. The Sox believe Exposito might have the most raw power of any right-handed batter in their system. He is solid behind the plate, too. Suddenly, not trading for Jarrod Saltalamacchia or Miguel Montero looks like a wise decision.
• Daisuke Matsuzaka is 29, and he told the media that he wants to pitch in the majors for 10 more seasons. Obviously, with the myriad of top pitching prospects in Boston's system, and the likelihood that Josh Beckett will be signed to a contract extension joining John Lackey and Jon Lester for the long term, there is no guarantee that Dice-K will remain with the Sox beyond his current deal, which expires after the 2012 season. Regardless, I believe that 2010 will be Dice-K's breakout season. He is in better physical shape - though he is recovering from a back strain - and he has a lot to prove after a disappointing 2009 season. The bottom line is that Dice-K has several plus pitches, and he knows how to win. Look for him to pitch deeper into games and give the Sox at least 15 wins this season.

A call for Red Sox writers

Fret not, Red Sox Nation on Sox and Pinstripes. Vince has not executed a hostile takeover and transformed the site into a haven for the Evil Empire alone. My daily coverage of spring training is forthcoming. In addition, it is our mission here at Sox and Pinstripes to increase the traffic of Yankees fans. In the previous three seasons, the site has been more Red Sox heavy than Yankees heavy. We would like to achieve a nice balance of readers from both sides of the rivalry.

I will continue to provide game previews and recaps, and columns about the Sox, baseball in general and the Red Sox farm system. However, just as Vince has expanded the roster of Yankees writers on the site, I am doing the same for Red Sox writers. If you would like to become a contributor of Red Sox-related columns to Sox and Pinstripes, send an e-mail to me at jeff@jefflouderback.com.

You don't have to be an experienced journalist, though some formal journalistic training would help. There is no pay involved, but the opportunity does allow you to gain writing experience and showcase your passion for baseball, the Red Sox and what I firmly believe is the greatest rivalry in sports.

If you are interested in becoming a contributor to Sox and Pinstripes, or if you know of someone who might be interested, drop me a message. I would like to add a couple Red Sox writers to the roster before opening day.

Top Red Sox prospects are opening eyes early in spring training

This afternoon's walk-off win over St. Louis in Ft. Myers was a microcosm of Boston's spring training season so far. The organization's top prospects are showing why there is so much excitement about the future. The Sox grabbed an 8-7 victory today when Josh Reddick crossed the plate with game-winning run on Che-Hsuan Lin's base hit.

You likely know about Reddick, who is regarded as the organization's top major league ready outfield prospect. Notice I said "major league ready prospect" because Ryan Westmoreland and Ryan Kalish are just as highly regarded as Reddick, but they are not yet primed for the bigs. Reddick was 2-for-3 today with a double, a triple, two RBI and a run scored. Lin, who will likely open the reason in Double-A Portland's outfield and possesses tremendous speed and a cannon arm, had a base hit, a walk and a run in two plate appearances.

Last week, I wrote that spring training numbers mean little for established veterans, but they carry a lot of weight for prospects in major league camp and veterans striving to make the opening day roster. Here are some players making a favorable impression in the early part of the spring training schedule:

• Josh Reddick - If he is not included in a package for Adrian Gonzalez this summer, Reddick could become the eventual replacement for J.D. Drew in right field. Reddick is above average in the outfield, has a strong arm and a powerful bat. After today's 2-for-3 line against the Cardinals, he is batting .385. It is probable that Reddick will make a contribution with the Red Sox at some point in 2010, especially with the fragile Drew on the roster.
• Jose Iglesias - The Cuban phenom is dazzling the Sox with his defensive play at shortstop. That was expected. He is also showing that he can hit. Today, he belted a three-run home run. He is hitting .286 this spring.
• Casey Kelly - Those Yankees fans - and subsequent Casey Kelly haters - are going to suffer a tremendous disappointment if they think the kid is overhyped. he is called a phenom for a reason. Likely the team's future ace down the road, Kelly is impressing Sox officials, teammates, opposing players and umpires alike with his pitching and his poise. Sure, Kelly has just pitched a scoreless frame against a college team and two scoreless innings against the Orioles, but the recently turned 20-year-old right-hander is undoubtedly not intimidated by his first major league camp. He is one of several reasons why you should monitor Double-A Portland in 2010.
• Felix Doubront - The 22-year-old Venezuelan left-hander is less heralded than guys like Clay Buchholz, Michael Bowden, Junichi Tazawa and Casey Kelly, but he has excelled at every minor league stop. He tossed two scoreless innings in his major league spring training debut against the Rays and is slated to open the season in Triple-A Pawtucket's rotation. He could use a full season of Triple-A experience - and he should get it since the Sox have depth with Bowden and Tazawa also at Pawtucket so there is no need to rush Doubront to the bigs before he is ready. Doubront has emerged as one of my favorite Red Sox pitching prospects.
• Mark Wagner - Over the weekend, Wagner ripped a game-winning home run. Like iglesias, the 25-year-old Wagner is best known for his defense. He is one of three very promising catching prospects along with Luis Exposito (who has impressed the Red Sox brass at spring training) and Tim Federowicz. In two years, unless one of them is traded, the Sox catching duo could be Exposito and Wagner.
• Boof Bonser - I must admit that I was not excited upon learning that the Sox acquired Bonser from the Twins during the off-season, but the Sox are solid talent evaluators, and they envisioned Bonser not as a starter, but as a long reliever. So far, Bonser has looked impressive in four scoreless innings. If all six starters (Lester, Beckett, Lackey, Dice-K, Wakefield and Buchholz) are healthy, and Papelbon, Bard, Ramirez, Okajima and Delcarmen are also healthy, that leaves one opening in the bullpen. It appears that Bonser is separating himself from the competition.

Spring training numbers matter for these Red Sox players

For many veteran players, spring training stats mean little. How they perform has no bearing on whether they will make the team or have to seek employment elsewhere. Dustin Pedroia won't be in jeopardy of losing his job to Tug Hulett if Pedroia hits .086 this month while Hulett bats .386. Still, spring training games do have value for prospects and veteran minor leaguers and major leaguers looking to make an impression.

Hulett is a prime example. Likely, you paid little attention during the off-season when it was announced that the Red Sox acquired the 27-year-old infielder from Kansas City for a player to be named later or cash considerations. And why would you? After all, Hulett is not a top prospect, and he has tasted just two cups of coffee in the majors, hitting .224 in 49 at-bats with Seattle in 2008 and .111 in 18 at-bats for Kansas City last season. Yet the 14th round draft pick out of Auburn in 2004 by the Texas Rangers could emerge as a valuable contributor to the Red Sox in 2010.

The Sox believe that Hulett has the potential to become a solid utility infielder at the major league level. He is proficient at second base, shortstop and third base; has hit for average in the minors (.291, 11 home runs, 53 RBI in 374 at-bats at Triple-A Omaha last season); showcases plate discipline and possesses intelligence on the basepaths. Likely, Hulett will open the season at Triple-A Pawtucket, but with a strong spring training, he could win a spot on Boston's opening day roster if the team trades Mike Lowell and decides to give Jed Lowrie regular at-bats as the starting shortstop at Pawtucket.

Spring training numbers matter to Hulett. Here are some other players who will benefit from an impressive showing this month:

• Boof Bonser - Bonser was a first round pick of the Giants in 2000, and he seemed to have a bright future as a starting pitcher, but he never realized that potential with the Twins (the team with which he reached the majors). The Red Sox believe he can serve as an effective long reliever. With Tim Wakefield or Clay Buchholz slated for the bullpen (if all six starting pitching candidates are healthy), there appears to be just one open spot in the pen. Bonser is a possibility. He is out of options, so he needs to have a solid spring training to make the Red Sox roster or attract the attention of another team is he is released.
• Scott Atchison, Brian Shouse and Joe Nelson - These veteran right-handers were brought in to compete for bullpen spots. Chances are, unless injuries arise to the ballclub's projected relievers, Atchison, Shouse and Nelson will open the year at Pawtucket, giving Boston tremendous bullpen depth. it would appear that, since the Sox might prefer a second lefty in the pen, Shouse has the best chance of these three to make the big league team out of spring training. All three could be edged out, though, by Bonser, if Bonser shows he can consistently retire hitters in a relief role.
• Jed Lowrie - Jose Iglesias (see below) is undoubtedly Boston's shortstop of the future, but Lowrie still has a future in Boston as a super utility player, or he could eventually start at shortstop for another ballclub. The key for him is staying healthy and showing that his wrist has healed. Lowrie can hit, and he is a above average in the field at second, shortstop and third. Ideally, Yamaico Navarro will reclaim top prospect status (he can hit and play seocnd, shortstop and third) and Lowrie will stay healthy and prove he belongs in the majors so the Sox can use him in a utility role or perhaps package him in a deal for Adrian Gonzalez (the Padres can use help at shortstop and second base).
• Jose Iglesias - If the Cuban phenom hits under .200 this month, it won't lead to his demise. After all, his only professional baseball experience was gained in last year's Arizona Fall League, where he hit well, thank you. Yet it will greatly benefit Iglesias if he shows he can hit major league pitching. The Red Sox and the media are already raving about the 20-year-old's defensive wizardry at shortstop, his professional demeanor and his charisma in the clubhouse. He does not appear to be intimidated by his surroundings. Iglesias already has Gold Glove caliber defensive skills. It would be nice if, dring these spring training games, he looks more like Orlando Cabrera at the plate than Rey Ordonez. It seems like the Sox have finally found their shortstop of the future, and the future could arrive as early as 2011.
• Lars Anderson - Enough of the "Lars Anderson is not what he was projected to be" talk. The guy had one disappointing season - when he hit .233 with nine home runs and 51 RBI - at Double-A Portland last year. One of the game's top prospects last year, when he was expected to possibly make his major league debut in September, Anderson instead has plummeted in the prospect rankings. Remember, he is just 22, plays above average defense at first base and hits for power and average. I firmly believe that Anderson will have a productive major league career, whether it be in Boston or elsewhere (since the Sox have Anthony Rizzo in the system, too). Anderson can quiet the skeptics with an impressive spring training.
• Daisuke Matsuzaka - Last season was a waste for Dice-K. He was out of shape, worn down from the WBC and limited by shoulder issues. And his lack of communication with Red Sox staff about his injury didn't help his reputation. Yet there is no doubt that Dice-K is a winner on the mound. He is accustomed to success, and he wants to redeem himself. I think Matsuzaka will be a No. 4 starter with numbers that are better than many teams' aces this season. it all starts with a productive March.
• Dustin Richardson - The organization's top left-handed relief prospect, Richardson was impressive with the Red Sox last September. In his major league debut, he tossed 3.1 scoreless innings in three appearances after strong numbers at Double-A Portland and Triple-A Pawtucket. Last year was the first for Richardson as a reliever. The fifth round pick in 2006 out of Texas Tech has a chance to make the team as the second lefty out of the pen, as long as he posts outstanding numbers this month. Even if he opens the year at Pawtucket, chances are Richardson will help the Red Sox bullpen at some point in 2010.

How should the Red Sox construct the back of their bullpen?

I've never understood teams that spend excessive amounts of money on building a bullpen. After all, many relievers are unpredictable from one season to the next. This is why I like Theo Epstein's forrmula for creating the 2010 pen.

Undoubtedly, Jonathan Papelbon is the anchor. A team cannot win a World Series without a reliable closer. Though the outspoken Papelbon is a sure bet for uttering annoying quotes about how much thinks he should be paid, when he enters it is rare that he does not shut down opposing batters.

Of course, a lights out closer is less valuable to a ballclub when he does not get the chance to earn saves. This season, the Sox will have a solid core of set-up men with Daniel Bard, Ramon Ramirez and Hideki Okajima. The wild card in the pen is Manny Delcarmen. Will the version who posted a 3.27 ERA in 2008 appear this year, or the up and down pitcher who struggled to a 4.53 ERA in 2009 appear? Delcarmen battled shoulder fatigue in the second half of last season, which accounts for his elevated ERA. Since the Sox have Bard, Ramirez and Okajima, they don't have to rely upon Delcarmen in key eighth inning situations. Delcarmen is most effective when he is not "the" set-up man.

The bullpen spots beyond Papelbon, Bard, Ramirez, Okajima and Delcarmen are uncertain. What will the Red Sox do with their rotation? If Jon Lester, Josh Beckett, John Lackey, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Clay buchholz and Tim Wakefield are all healthy, who will join the pen? Terry Francona has said that the team is preparing to use Wakefield as a starter. Buchholz has made just two relief appearances in the minors and one in the majors. Obviously, Lester, Beckett, Lackey and Dice-K are not going to move to the pen.

The most logical solution seems to involve Wakefield serving as the long reliever and spot starter. With this rotation; however, there will be few games when a long man is needed out of the pen. What about a six-man rotation, you ask? Most starting pitchers prefer a routine, and the routine to which they are accustomed is getting the ball every five days.

Injuries have a way of surfacing during spring training, so perhaps one of the aforementioned six pitchers will land on the disabled list on opening day. If not, all six will make the opening day roster, leaving one remaining bullpen spot, which will likely be filled by one of these relievers:

• Boof Bonser
• Brian Shouse (LH)
• Dustin Richardson (LH)
• Ramon A. Ramirez
• Joe Nelson
• Scott Atchison
• Michael Bowden

Until a recent article in the Boston media, I never considered Bowden as a potential bullpen member, but since the Sox rotation is well-stocked, it makes sense that Bowden's immediate major league future could be as a reliever. Chances are, though, he will open the 2010 season in the Pawtucket rotation and serve as insurance if one of the Red Sox starters suffers an injury.

If Francona prefers a second left-hander in the pen, the veteran Shouse is a viable candidate. So is Richardson, the Red Sox farmhand who had an effective albeit brief major league debut last September. The Sox are reportedly intrigued by Bonser as a reliever, but he is out of options and would likely not clear waivers. It would seem that, if all six rotation candidates are healthy - and Bard, Ramirez, Okajima and Delcarmen are fit for opening day - Bonser would be the odd man out and would not make the team.

Who is your choice to complete the Red Sox opening day bullpen? Wakefield as the long man and a second lefty like Shouse or Richardson? Stick with just one lefty (Okajima) and give the final spot to a veteran like Nelson or a converted starter such as Bowden? My preference is Wakefield in the pen and Richardson as the second lefty (as long as he proves himself in spring training).

Notes and observations:

• I've written it before and I'm writing it again. Don't give up on Michael Bowden. Sure, he had a rough introduction to the majors last season, but he is only 23, has a diverse arsenal of pitches and has the potential to serve as a No. 5 starter for the Sox in the near future. I've never understood why baseball pundits and fans alike are so quick to give up on top prospects. I think Bowden has a bright major league future. Ditto for Lars Anderson, who had a disappointing 2009 but is still a promising part of the Red Sox' future.
• I still like the idea of keeping Mike Lowell as the backup corner infielder and DH, using Bill Hall as the backup shortstop and giving Jed Lowrie regular at-bats as the starting shortstop at Pawtucket. Lowell would provide palatable insurance in case Adrian Beltre or Kevin Youkilis spends time on the disabled list.
• Jason Bay was an integral part of Boston's lineup, but Theo Epstein was right to forego resigning him without clauses in the contract to protect the Red Sox in case of injury (like the team did with J.D. Drew and John Lackey). I'm tired of reading quotes from Bay saying that he only wanted to return to the Sox on his terms. With the plethora of promising outfield prospects in the Sox farm system (like Josh Reddick, Ryan Kalish, Ryan Westmoreland and Reymond Fuentes), and the team's financial resources to sign a power-hitting outfielder if needed, it was wise to move on from Bay rather than sign him to a five-year deal and pray that he doesn't break down in the fourth and fifth years.
• Count me as one person who is excited about the Red Sox' 2010 commitment to pitching and defense, and also count me in as someone who firmly believes this lineup will score around 875 runs. They will just score their runs in a fashion reminiscent of those late 90s Yankees teams that did not have a potent power source, but featured an array of guys who hit 20 home runs. I do believe that David Ortiz will lead the team in home runs and eclipse 30 dingers and 100 RBI, but the Sox have 20 home run sources in Kevin Youkilis, Victor Martinez, Adrian Beltre, Mike Cameron and J.D. Drew. Dustin Pedroia has the potential to hit 20 dingers.

Developing the farm system and using it wisely is a key to Boston's current and long-term success

There are two significant myths about the Boston Red Sox.

The first being that, before they won the World Series in 2004 and followed that with another title in 2007, the ballclub was mired in futility. Any student of baseball knows that, though the Sox had their share of subpar seasons over the last several decades, they also tasted a lot of success. Before the wild card existed, Boston finished second to the New York Yankees multiple times, only since the wild card was not there, the Sox did not reach the playoffs. Of course, Boston's post-season heartbreak over the years is widely known - good, but not good enough; close, but not close enough. So heartbreak, yes; futility, no. The Red Sox have a history of winning. They are not the Chicago Cubs or the Cleveland Indians. Now THOSE are franchises mired in futility.

Thanks to the current ownership regime, the front office headed by Theo Epstein and the on-field management led by Terry Francona and his heir apparent, John Farrell, the Red Sox are no longer a team that contends for a World Series title one season and then hovers around .500 the next year. Thus there is no longer a debate about whether or not the Sox will be legitimate World Series contenders. The argument now stems around whether or not they will win the World Series.

This brings me to the second myth - that the Red Sox are like the New York Yankees - buying up free agents without regard to payroll. True, Boston is not a small market team. This year's payroll is closer to that of the Yankees, though there is still a wide gap in between. The Red Sox are now perennial World Series contenders because of the ballclub's commitment to developing a deep and talented farm system through the draft and through international free agent signings.

The projected opening day roster will feature names like Jonathan Papelbon, Daniel Bard, Manny Delcarmen, Jon Lester, Clay Buchholz, Jacoby Ellsbury, Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis. Jed Lowrie could make the team as a utility infielder, and left-handed relief prospect Dustin Richardson could claim the final spot in the bullpen. Though Delcarmen has been up and down most of his young career, Lowrie has not had a chance to show what he can do because of a wrist injury and Richardson has just tasted a cup of coffee in the bigs, the rest of these names play significant roles. No other World Series contending ballclub has as many players from its minor league system who are as critical to the team's success as the Red Sox.

When considering free agent signings, Epstein draws a line in the sand that he will not cross. Jason Bay was not retained because the team outlined his worth - and the length and terms of a contract it would be willing to offer - and Epstein did not budge when Bay's camp did not find the offer acceptable. It is reminiscent of how the ballclub dealt with Johnny Damon and Pedro Martinez. Epstein can afford to not cross that line in the sand because of the team's success in developing its own players.

Today, Papelbon told the media that he would like to retire in a Red Sox uniform. Yet there is a strong possibility that the Sox will determine that it is not worthwhile to give the closer a contract that could near or top $20 million a season when Daniel Bard is under affordable team control and can fill Papelbon's role.

I am not advocating that the Red Sox should refrain from signing free agents and making trades. The Red Sox are not the Cincinnati Reds or the Kansas City Royals. There are expectations, and rebuilding years are not acceptable in Red Sox Nation. Thus the reason the ballclub did not give Jeremy Hermida a chance to prove himself in left field or see if Josh Reddick is ready for a full-time role in the majors. Having a deep and talented farm system, though, allows the front office to be more selective in signing free agents and making trades. It also gives the Sox trading chips to acquire difference-making veterans.

The Red Sox roster will look different by 2012. The tenures of Mike Cameron and J.D. Drew will likely conclude. If Jacoby Ellsbury is not included in a package for Adrian Gonzalez, he will probably return to center field. Or will he? The Red Sox are loaded with top outfield prospects in the minors. By 2012, five-tool phenom Ryan Westmoreland could be ready to make his major league debut. One of Reddick and Ryan Kalish will probably be traded, but the other has a chance to claim a spot in the Red Sox outfield.

How about first base? If the Sox don't acquire Gonzalez, Lars Anderson has a chance to serve as the first baseman of the future. If he does not realize his potential, Anthony Rizzo is a highly regarded first base prospect, too.

What about the rotation? Jon Lester, John Lackey, Daisuke Matsuzaka and Clay Buchholz could compose four-fifths of the rotation for at least the next two seasons. Josh Beckett could join them if he signs an extension. Then there is Casey Kelly, who appears to be every but the prospect Lester was. There are many other names who are promising - such as Michael Bowden, Junichi Tazawa, Stolmy Pimentel, Roman Mendez and Manny Rivera. If the Sox retain Beckett, they may not have to go outside the organization to find a starting pitcher for the foreseeable future.

The starting pitching depth, the availability of Bard as the future closer, and the plethora of promising outfield prospects allows the Sox to concentrate their efforts on free agent signings and trade acquisitions in other areas. Victor Martinez will likely receive a contract extension, but catcher is an area that needs to be addressed if top prospects like Mark Wagner and Luis Exposito do not realize their potential in the majors. The shortstop quandary could be solved with Jose Iglesias, who is destined for numerous Gold Gloves as long as he can hit more like Orlando Cabrera than Rey Ordonez.

I have been accused of overvaluing Red Sox prospects. The numbers; however, don't lie. It is not the volume of homegrown players on a roster that matters. Instead, it is the contributions that these names make. There is no benefit to stocking your roster with homegrown players who do not make a difference to your place in the standings. As long as the Sox continue to fill key roles on the roster with guys who emerge from the farm system like Youkilis, Pedroia, Ellsbury, Lester and Papelbon, they will have the flexibility to take risks with free agent signings and trade acquisitions to fill areas that cannot be adequately staffed from within.

Not every top prospect realizes his potential in the majors. And there are some minor leaguers who exceed expectations in the bigs - like Youkilis and Pedroia. There are times when it makes sense to deal prospects, as long as a difference-making veteran who is near or in his prime is acquired. The Josh Beckett trade is one example. The deal to get V-Mart is another (as long as they sign him to an extension since it will sting to see him walk following this season after surrendering Justin Masterson, Nick Hagadone and Bryan Price to the Indians). Since Adrian Gonzalez is such a unique player with his run production at the plate and defense at first base, it makes sense (to a degree) to trading a key pitcher (like Buchholz or Kelly), an outfielder like Ellsbury and a couple top prospects because Gonzalez is just about to enter his prime years.

When you have a productive minor league system, you can adequately fill roster spots inexpensively, and acquire difference makers with your trading chips. Committing resources to signing high-ceiling draft picks and international free agents instead of heavily relying on high-priced major league free agents is the recipe that the Red Sox follow under Epstein. The team's long-term success is dependent on maintaining that philosophy.

Who says a back-of-the-rotation starter is not important?

Officially, pitchers and catchers report to Ft. Myers on Thursday, but for many Red Sox prospects and major leaguers, spring training has already started. That's an encouraging sign for those of us in the snow-covered Northeast and Midwest.

Today's column features a grab bag of Red Sox and baseball news:

Cuban right-hander set to sign with the Sox?

According to Red Sox president Larry Lucchino, via WEEI.com, the Red Sox are close to a deal with Cuban right-hander Yuniesky Maya. The 28-year-old Maya, who defected from the Cuban national team last September, was regarded as the team's top starting pitcher. He is projected as a back-of-the-rotation starter in the majors.

Funny how many baseball fans lose interest when they hear their team is about to add a "back-of-the-rotation" starter. Doesn't every team need one or two? We all know the key to winning a World Series is depth and talent in the rotation. The Red Sox are blessed with both. It would be ideal if Boston opens the regular season with a rotation of Lester, Beckett, Lackey, Matsuzaka and Buchholz with Wakefield serving as the long man and spot starter. They also have Michael Bowden and Junichi Tazawa as palatable spot starters a short drive away at Triple-A Pawtucket.

Some baseball scouts believe that Bowden and Tazawa will have successful major league careers as back of the rotation starters. If the Sox add Maya to the mix, that gives the Sox added depth. With Lester, Lackey, Matsuzaka and Buchholz in the rotation for the long term, phenom Casey Kelly on the fast track to the majors, and very promising arms like Stolmy Pimentel and Roman Mendez in the organization, the Sox are loaded with top of the rotation caliber starters. It doesn't hurt to have Bowdens, Tazawas, Mayas and Felix Doubronts in the system. After all, they will not be counted upon to carry a rotation. They will just be asked to complement the rotation.

Keep Lowell, don't trade him

Mike Lowell is a true professional. Though he wants to start at third base somewhere - and though he is still productive enough to be in someone's starting lineup - that will not happen this season in Boston, at least not if Adrian Beltre, David Ortiz and Kevin Youkilis are healthy.

Chances are, if Lowell proves that his surgically repaired hip and thumb are healthy, Theo Epstein will deal the popular third baseman before opening day, even though the team will have to pay most of the veteran's $12 million salary. I'm hopeful that the Sox keep Lowell and use him at third base, first base and DH. Keep him as insurance, in case an injury arises to one of the aforementioned players.

Lowell will work out at first base during spring training. Whether or not he adapts to learning that position remains to be seen, but the bottom line is that Lowell is still adequate on defense (despite his reduced range), and he is a clutch hitter. I am a believer in Jed Lowrie, whose wrist is apparently healthy and who can play every infield position. Lowrie will give the Sox a productive and versatile utility player if he makes the opening day roster, but the Sox would look even more appealing with Lowell as the backup corner infielder, Bill Hall as a utility player who can play every position but pitcher and catcher, Jeremy Hermida (who I think will be the team's most pleasant surprise) and Jason Varitek composing the bench.

Odds and ends:

• In a recent post, I offered my opinion that the Red Sox should sign Victor Martinez to an extension and use him as the primary DH and part-time catcher and backup first baseman in 2011 and beyond. V-Mart recently told the Boston Herald that he wants to remain with the Red Sox and will only negotiate an extension during spring training and not the regular season. Ideally, the Sox will sign V-Mart and Josh Beckett to extensions before opening day. Beckett's contract situation, of course, depends on whether he will accept a three-year extension, a five-year deal with injury safeguards similar to John Lackey's deal or a straight five-year contract similar to A.J. Burnett's deal. If Beckett wants a contract that mirrors Burnett's package from the Yankees, then he will not be back with the Sox.
• Because of the team's exceptional starting rotation and strong defense, the Red Sox are in prime position to win the World Series in 2010. Though Lester, Beckett and Lackey headline the rotation, I think Dice-K will be the team's most valuable starting pitcher. And though he will not have a starting spot in the outfield, Jeremy Hermida will make a significant contribution to the Red Sox offense. Acquiring Hermida for two minor leaguers who were not top prospects did not make headlines in the off-season, but it was one of Epstein's best decisions.

Hermida has shown glimpses of why he was a first round draft pick of the Marlins and emerged as the team's top-rated prospect, yet he has not fully realized his potential. Remember, he is still just 26, he is a strong defensive corner outfielder and he has pop in his bat. Playing for the Red Sox, a team that draws sellouts every game at home and most nights on the road, tends to invigorate a guy who is accustomed to playing in mostly empty stadiums for the Marlins.

The contracts of Beckett and Martinez loom as spring training nears for the Red Sox

It's Truck Day Eve in Red Sox Nation, and though the team's roster is mostly set (aside from determining where Tim Wakefield fits and who will occupy the last spot in the bullpen), there are question marks surrounding the Sox heading into spring training. The two main questions involve Josh Beckett and Victor Martinez, both of whom are entering the final year of their respective contracts.

Based on Theo Epstein's move to emphasize run prevention via pitching and defense, it would seem like the organization should sign V-Mart to an extension. After all, now that Jason Bay is no longer here, it appears that Martinez will be the team's most potent all-around hitter (along with Kevin Youkilis), one they seemingly cannot afford to lose. Yet Martinez isn't known for his defensive prowess behind the plate. He is adequate, but not spectacular, and he has trouble throwing out runners.

With David Ortiz also entering the last year of his contract, it would seem like a logical move to retain Martinez, use him as the primary DH in 2011 and beyond, and also give him time as a backup catcher and backup first baseman. This move would be contingent on top catching prospect Luis Exposito becoming major league ready by 2011 (when he could split time behind the plate with Martinez) or Epstein acquiring a catcher through free agency or a trade.

Martinez will suffice behind the plate in 2010, but for the long term, a better defensive catcher makes more sense. Exposito is above average behind the plate and at the plate, but as we know there are no guarantees that a top prospect will realize his potential at the major league level. Joe Mauer appears to be destined for a long-term deal with his hometown Twins - which is a move that will be good for baseball. Unless Epstein can pry someone like Brian McCann away from the Braves, Boston's best hope for a catcher who can throw out baserunners is Exposito, or Mark Wagner (who will open the 2010 season at Pawtucket and is near major league ready).

It would seem that signing Martinez would be a wise move, as long as the Sox have another viable option behind the plate. I wrote multiple times last year that the Sox will be better off when they have a DH who can also play a position since it offers Terry Francona more flexibility. Martinez as the primary DH and a backup first baseman and catcher will be more valuable to the team than when he is the full-time catcher.

As for Beckett, there are few stronger advocates across the blogosophere for the right-hander than me, but since he will be 30 in May, Epstein is justified if he offers a three-year, $60 million extension instead of a lofty five-year deal. Of course, if Beckett agrees to a contract similar to John Lackey's deal, which protects the Sox in case of injury, giving Beckett five years makes sense.

It will not devastate the Sox rotation if Beckett does not return in 2011. Jon Lester is the anchor, Lackey will be around for four more years after this season, Daisuke Matsuzaka is in prime shape and ready to regain respect (and he is still under 30) and Clay Buchholz appears to be ready to show he is a top of the rotation starter. Add Casey Kelly, Boston's top piching prospect who has been compared to Zack Greinke, and Boston has envied starting pitching depth.

Of course, proven results often make us more comfortable than potential, and the bottom line is that Beckett is THE guy you want on the mound in a post-season game, as long as he is healthy. Will Beckett accept a three-year, $60 million extension, or will he require a five-year deal? If the latter is true, chances are this will be Beckett's last season with the Sox.

A look at Boston's 20 non-roster spring training invitees

This is a time of anticipation. The Super Bowl is over, and Truck Day is nearing. This Friday, the truck containing equipment for Red Sox spring training will depart from Fenway Park en route for Ft. Myers. Pitchers and catchers report on Feb. 18. Though another snowstorm is on the way, spring training is around the corner, as is the promise of warmer weather, sunshine, the pop of a fast ball meeting the catcher's mitt and the crack of a line drive rocketing off a bat.

Another sign that baseball is about to begin is the announcement of the list of non-roster players invited to spring training by the Red Sox. This year's list contains veterans (some will be cut while others will start the season at Triple-A Pawtucket) and prospects who have a chance to help the Red Sox either this season or next year.

The list of pitchers includes:

• Randor Bierd - Bierd is the reliever Boston acquired last year from Baltimore for David Pauley. The 25-year-old right-hander has major league experience (4.91 ERA in 29 games in 2008 for the Orioles, which had to keep him on the major league roster because he was a Rule V draftee), and last season was his first in Triple-A (4.55 ERA, 1.45 WHIP in 26 games at Pawtucket). The Sox are high on Bierd and believe he can help as a reliever and a spot starter. He is ticketed for Pawtucket.
• Fernando Cabrera - The 28-year-old righty was exceptional at Pawtucket in 2009 (1.71 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 22 saves, 43 games) but he was roughed up in a brief stint with the Sox (8.44 ERA in six games). He will likely join Bierd at Pawtucket.
• Brian Shouse - Shouse pitched for Tampa Bay last season, recording a 1-1 record, a 4.50 ERA and a 1.36 WHIP, and allowing 31 hits in 28 innings. Now 41, Shouse actually pitched in seven games for the Red Sox back in 1998 when he had a 5.63 ERA and allowed five runs and nine hits in eight innings. A left-handed specialist, Shouse has limited lefty hitters to a .213 average over the course of his major league career. Shouse will compete with prospect Dustin Richardson for the second left-handed spot in the bullpen.
• Kris Johnson - The Red Sox have a deeper and more talented farm system than the Yankees, but they made a mistake when they drafted Johnson ahead of Joba Chamberlain in 2006. The left-handed Johnson is 25 now and no longer considered a top prospect. He was pounded at Pawtucket last season (6.35 ERA in 22 starts).
• Casey Kelly - If San Diego opts to trade Adrian Gonzalez to Boston before the July trade deadline, either Kelly or Buchholz will be required to get the deal done. With top first base prospects like Lars Anderson and Anthony Rizzo in the Red Sox system, Theo Epstein might be best served keeping Buchholz and the 20-year-old Kelly, a right-handed starter who is on the fast track to the majors. Just think of a Red Sox rotation with Lester, Buchholz, Dice-K and Kelly a couple years down the road when Lackey and Beckett are gone. Kelly is the real deal. He features exceptional command and control of a low 90s fast ball, a dazzling 12-to-6 curve ball and an effective change-up. Boston's first round pick out of high school in 2008 will open the season at Double-A Portland andhas a chance to earn a mid-season promotion to Pawtucket.
• Adam Mills - There is a chance this seventh round pick out of UNC-Charlotte in 2007 will make his major league debut in 2010. He is not spectacular, but Mills has an arsenal of four pitches he throws with pinpoint command. Mills has pitched well in every minor league stop and will open the 2010 season in Pawtucket's rotation. His major league future could be as a reliever.
• Kyle Weiland - A third round pick out of Notre Dame in 2008, the 23-year-old Weiland isn't well known in Red Sox Nation like Kelly, Stolmy Pimentel, Michael Bowden, Junichi Tazawa and Felix Doubront, but he is an intriguing prospect. The right-hander posted a 3.46 ERA and allowed 119 hits in 132.2 innings at advanced Single-A Salem last season. He will open the 2010 campaign at Portland.
• Edwin Moreno - The 29-year-old right-hander made 19 appearances out of the Padres bullpen in 2009, posting a 4.84 ERA and a ghastly 1.93 WHIP. The Venezuelan will likely serve as depth in the Pawtucket bullpen.
• Joe Nelson - Along with Shouse, Nelson has the best chance of this group to make the Red Sox out of spring training. You might remember the right-handed from Tampa Bay, where he recorded a 4.02 ERA in 42 games (40.1 innings, 32 hits). Nelson had a 2.00 ERA in 59 appearances with the Marlins in 2008. Last season, he limited hitters to a .138 average with the bases empty, but with runners on, hitters raked him to the tune of a .317 average. In his career, he has held hitters to a .195 average with no runners on base and a .261 average with runners on. Nelson had a cup of coffee with the Red Sox in 2004. If he is healthy, he has chance to contribute to the Red Sox bullpen this season.
• Jorge Sosa - In 2005 with the Braves, Sosa was 13-3 with a 2.55 ERA in 44 games, including 20 starts. He has not matched that success, but the Dominican righty has posted decent minor league numbers and would provide insurance at Pawtucket.

The list of position players include:

• Luis Exposito, catcher - Mark Wagner and Tim Federowicz are Boston catching prospects who are known for their defense and game-calling abilities. The 23-year-old Exposito is respected for his defense, his leadership and his bat. And, like Iglesias, Exposito looked impressive in the Arizona Fall League. Two years ago, the Sox did not have highly regarded catching prospects. Now they have three, and Exposito appears to be the team's catcher of the future.
• Gustavo Molina, catcher - No relation to baseball's catching Molina brothers, the 27-year-old Molina is much like Kevin Cash - all defense, no bat. He will compete for a spot with Pawtucket, which will likely also feature catching prospect Mark Wagner and veteran minor leaguer Dusty Brown.
• Lars Anderson, first base - One of Boston's top prospects, Anderson did have a disappointing 2009 season. He was expected to potentially make his major league debut. Instead, at Double-A Portland, he hit .233 with nine home runs and 51 RBI in 447 at-bats. Anderson, a left-handed hitter who is still just 22, has a high ceiling with his power potential, needs to cut down on strikeouts and plays proficient defense at first base. As baseball writers and baseball fans, we are too quick to dismiss a top prospect just because he has a bad year. I'm not making that mistake with Anderson, who will eventually force the Sox to move Kevin Youkilis to third base.
• Yamaico Navarro, shortstop and third base - Navarro was recently considered Boston's top shortstop prospect until the team signed Cuban free agent Iglesias. The 22-year-old Navarro is still highly regarded and, like Jed Lowrie, can play multiple infield positions. He will likely open the season at Double-A Portland.
• Angel Sanchez, shortstop - The 26-year-old minor league veteran was a wise free agent signing. He is an exceptional defensive shortstop and also proficiently plays second base and third base. Sanchez gives the Sox utility player insurance at Pawtucket. He had a cup of coffee with the Royals in 2006 and hit .305 in 449 at-bats with Triple-A Las Vegas (Toronto) last season.
• Gil Velazquez, infielder - Essentially, Sanchez is an upgraded version of Velazquez, who had brief stints with the Red Sox the last two seasons. Velazquez is versatile - he can play every infield and outfield position - but he is a light hitter.
• Zach Daeges - Daeges missed most of last season with a severe ankle injury, but he is healthy and ready to continue to ascent to the Red Sox. Not known for his defense - he is an average outfielder at best - the 26-year-old Daeges is a line drive hitter who has the type of plate discipline Theo Epstein covets. Daeges had a breakout 2008 season at Double-A Portland (.307 average, .412 OBP, six home runs, 63 RBI).
• Ryan Kalish - The Sox are well-stocked with promising outfield prospects, and as mentioned earlier in this column, Kalish is one of the best in the system. He started last season at advanced Single-A Salem and earned a promotion to Portland, wher ehe hit .271 with 13 home runs, 56 RBI and 14 stolen bases in 391 at-bats. An above average defensive outfielder, he can play center field and right field. Kalish is ticketed for Portland to open the 2010 season but will likely see time at Pawtucket.
• Che-Hsuan Lin - Lin, a 21-year-old outfielder who was signed out of Taiwan, is the organization's top defensive outfielder and has a strong and accurate arm. He also boasts tremendous speed. He is slated to start the 2010 season in Double-A Portland's outfield. Center field is his primary position. If not for the presence of Josh Reddick, Kalish and Ryan Westmoreland in the Red Sox system, Lin would be more known in Red Sox Nation.
• Darnell McDonald - Now 31, McDonald was a first round pick of the Orioles in 1997. Though he has not lived up to expectations, the athletic McDonald is proficient in the outfield and hit .267 with two home runs and 10 RBI in 105 at-bats for the Reds in 2009 after hitting .314 with nine home runs and 40 RBI in 280 at-bats at Triple-A Louisville.

Nine Rules for Dating a Red Sox Fan

Brimming with the giddiness that only a new relationship brings, you are a woman who has met an interesting guy. This one has potential, you surmise. Nice guy. Decent looking (at least he has his hair and his teeth, so that's a plus). Engaging sense of humor. His idea of a dinner date does not involve the value menu at Mickey D's or the Grand Slam at Denny's. Early on - likely on the first date - he utters five words (or six if he doesn't use a contraction). "I'm (or I am) a Red Sox fan."

Chances are, the admission caused you no reason for alarm. Perhaps you're a Red Sox fan, too, and he immediately whisked you away to the nearest wedding chapel (unlikely). Or, maybe you are a Yankees fan, and your admission created an uproar in the restaurant that was worthy of a movie scene (also unlikely, since if you are a Yankees fan, you would not have gotten another date). Probably, you're not a baseball fan at all, and maybe you even didn't realize the Red Sox are a baseball team. "Really," you might have said. "I'm sorry, I don't follow hockey."

If the latter is true, or some variation (for example, if you don't follow baseball or you do and have a casual allegiance to a perennial loser, like the Reds or the Royals), your new relationship has a chance to blossom into the fairy tale that you have long imagined - as long as you enter the baseball season prepared. Remember, knowledge is power, and without knowledge in this case, your relationship with that Red Sox fan is doomed for failure.

As a card-carrying member of Red Sox Nation who lives and breathes Red Sox baseball (and, yes, I am not exagerating when I say card-carrying member. Many of us actually belong to a group called Red Sox Nation and carry membership cards in our wallets), I am here to serve as your coach to ensure that, once baseball season begins, your new relationship does not end. If you envision a long-term contract with that new guy in your life, follow these "Nine Rules for Dating a Red Sox Fan."

1. Recognize and understand the situation in which you are about to enter. Sure, all is well right now. You met your guy in December or January - in the heart of baseball's off-season. Yet spring training is around the corner. And Opening Day is April 4, when the Red Sox host the Yankees (the relevance of this rivalry on your relationship will be addressed in a forthcoming rule).

Baseball is a game. Red Sox baseball is a passion - a lifestyle. It's one thing to date a Pirates fan or a Reds fan - or even a Cubs fan. Those teams are usually out of the pennant race by June, and even when the Cubs are a contender, most of their fans flock to Wrigley Field to drink and socialize, not to watch baseball. Dating a Red Sox fan is a radically intense experience. Sure, Red Sox fans love to drink beer and talk, but our attention is dramatically focused on the diamond. And when we're not at the ballpark, our eyes are magnetized by the game on TV or the cell phone, or our ears are affixed to Joe Castiglione's calls on the radio. Sometimes we are simultaneously focused on all three. And for a Red Sox 101 tidbit, Joe Castiglione is the Red Sox legendary play-by-play radio broadcaster. Trust me, life with your Red Sox fan in the off-season is MUCH different than your world once spring training arrives.

2. You will get a taste of the madness on Truck Day. In Red Sox Nation, Groundhog Day is not THE sign that spring is inching closer. Truck Day is our Groundhog Day. Only in Red Sox Nation is the moment when the moving truck that carries the team's spring training gear departs from Fenway Park en route for the spring training home in Ft. Myers, Fla. Fans gather to watch the beloved event - toasting to a safe journey with Sam Adams Boston Lager - and a Red Sox dignitary serves as the Grand Marshal. This year's Truck Day is Feb. 12. If you really want to impress the Red Sox fan in your life, treat Truck Day as you would expect him to shower you with affectionate gifts on Valentine's Day.

3. Spring Training is your prelude to the regular season. Baseball players use spring training to slowly but surely work themselves in baseball shape and a baseball frame-of-mind. You should do the same. During spring training, our minds wander to the Nation's current events - such as whether or not Theo Epstein will eventually trade a package of prospects centered around Casey Kelly and Ryan Westmoreland for Adrian Gonzalez, if Tim Wakefield should be part of the rotation or serve as the long man and spot starter, and will Jason Varitek hit above .200 and throw out a baserunner. Remember these dates - February 18 (pitchers and catchers report to spring training), February 20 (first Red Sox spring training workout), March 3 (first spring training games, albeit against college teams; split squad games against Northeastern University and Boston College) and March 4 (the major league spring training season debut versus the Minnesota Twins). You can make the most of your spring training by religiously following the next two rules. 

4. Learn the players and officials who compose the Red Sox. So you didn't get the aforementioned reference to Theo Epstein and the other names? Here's a remedy that will allow you to intelligently converse with your Red Sox fan. Buy a dry erase board, have him draw a diamond and write the Red Sox lineup (along with the team's pitching rotation), and memorize it by placing it by your bed so it is the last thing you see before you go to sleep and the first thing you read when you awaken. Here's a start:

Red Sox Projected 2010 Starting Lineup

1. Jacoby Ellsbury, LF
2. Dustin Pedroia, 2B
3. Kevin Youkilis, 1B
4. Victor Martinez, C
5. David Ortiz, DH
6. Adrian Beltre, 3B
7. J.D. Drew, RF
8. Mike Cameron, CF
9. Marco Scutaro, SS

Red Sox 2010 Starting Rotation

1. Jon Lester
2. Josh Beckett
3. John Lackey
4. Daisuke Matsuzaka
5. Clay Buchholz

By the way, Theo Epstein is the general manager and Terry Francona is the manager.

For extra credit, you can learn about the team's top prospects. The Red Sox are blessed with one of the game's best minor league systems, and many of the team's top stars are homegrown. You'll become familiar with the names Jonathan Papelbon, Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis, Jon Lester, Jacoby Ellsbury, and Daniel Bard). You will earn bonus points if you can tell your Red Sox fan why you think that Theo Epstein should hang onto Casey Kelly (who is being compared to Zack Greinke) and Ryan Westmoreland (a five-tool player). And if you know the five tools (no, THAT tool is not among them), that's even more impressive.

5. Watch Fever Pitch - study it, memorize it and appreciate it. Typically, I would not recommend a romantic comedy. After all, it is a violation of the Man Book of Rules (which include staring straight ahead and not talking when you are at a urinal in a public bathroom and avoiding the wearing of pastels at all costs). In this case, Fever Pitch is acceptable because its' treasure trove of Red Sox history and valuable information on how to successful date a Red Sox fan outweigh the fact that it is indeed a chick flick.

By watching Fever Pitch, you will learn about the psyche of a Red Sox fan - why we were how we are. You will learn the meaning behind the phrases "Bucky "F*&&#&!!ng" Dent," "Bill "F!!!!!!!!%!!!ng" Buckner," Aaron "F!#&!!*!ng" Boone," and New York "F!!&&%!$$$$$$$ng" Yankees." You will learn about the team's rich history, and how the Red Sox for years were very good but not good enough, suffering indescribable heartbreak along the way until that magical 2004 season, when the Curse of the Bambino finally ended. No, I will not explain the Curse of the Bambino. Watch the movie!

6. Know thy enemy. There is really just one thing you need to know about the New York Yankees. They are baseball's version of Satan. The Yankees, their players and their fans represent everything that is evil and repulsive in professional sports. Under no circumstances is it socially acceptable for you to wear or own any item adorned with the Yankees logo - unless it is Yankees toilet paper or a t-shirt that features "A-Rod Wears Lip Gloss" or "Jeter Drinks Wine Coolers."

A brief tutorial. The Red Sox were one of the game's most dominant teams in the early 20th century, winning five World Series titles (1903, 1912, 1915, 1916 and 1918), but their fortunes changed after the 1919 season when owner Harry Frazee sold Babe Ruth to the Yankees for money to finance a Broadway play. Ruth became baseball's all-time home run leader (until Hank Aaron broke his record in 1974) and the Yankees emerged as a powerhouse while the Red Sox slumbered through several unforgettable seasons. The Curse of the Bambino was born. OK, so I divulged the Curse of the Bambino.

Why was it a curse, you ask? Well, for decades, the Red Sox suffered heartbreak after heartbreak, many of which were inflicted by the Yankees. Simply put, the Sox were good, but not good enough, often finishing second behind the Yankees. Then there was 1978, when the Sox coughed up a large lead in the American League East, fell behind in the last week and rallied to force a one-game playoff at Fenway Park. The hearts of New England were shattered when a light-hitting shortstop named Bucky Dent hit what would be the game-winning home run off Mike Torrez, who ironically pitched for the Yankees the previous year.

Fast forward to 2003. The Red Sox were apparently heading to the World Series when they held a 5-2 lead over the Yankees in the eighth inning of Game Seven in the American League Championship Series. Pedro Martinez had pitched a gem, but he was tiring and Mike Timlin was ready in the bullpen (the same Timlin who had not allowed a hit in the post-season). Manager Grady Little decided to stick with Pedro, who served up a double to Jeter and a base hit to Bernie Williams. Out trotted Little again, and once more he chose to stick with Martinez instead of opting for a fresh reliever in the pen. The rest is painful and bitter Red Sox history. Martinez surrendered back-to-back doubles that tied the game and sent it into extra innings. Then, in the bottom of the 11th inning, Aaron Boone blasted Tim Wakefield's first pitch over the left field wall, sending the Yankees to the World Series and the Red Sox to another post-season disappointment.

I must admit that I shed tears when Boone circled the bases. And a year later, when the Red Sox staged the greatest comeback in the history of professional sports by rallying from a 3-0 ALCS deficit against the Yankees and winning Game Seven at Yankee Stadium, I was overcome by tears of joy, and that feeling was replicated a short time later when the Sox won their first World Series (sweeping the St. Louis Cardinals) since 1918. Most men who are Red Sox fans will admit that they cried when the Sox won it all in 2004. That was the lone time that the saying "There's no cryin' in baseball" was not valid.

Another "must" to learn. You will find that most Yankees fans are really not true fans at all. When their team is winning, they will jump in your face boisterously touting the 27 World Series titles, yet when the first sign of a losing streak arises, they burrow their heads deep into their holes not to resurface until two consecutive wins have been secured.

As Red Sox fans, we are prone to unusual behavior during a winning streak and a losing skid. We are a bit superstitious - for example, we may or may not sit in a certain spot on the couch during a rally or destroy a certain shirt in the midst of a losing streak - yet we will demonstrate the same certifiable commitment to the Sox regardless of their place in the standings.

7. Never - and I mean, never - expect your Red Sox fan to take you on a date when the Sox are playing the Yankees (unless the date involves watching the game). The evening started beautifully. Dinner at a nice steakhouse. Pleasant ambience. Good conversation. This was about two years ago, and I was dating a woman who did not understand, but nonetheless tolerated, my addiction to Red Sox baseball.

The steakhouse was divided into two sections - a dining room and a bar area. I selected a table in the bar area, where a television screen was conveniently located over the side of the table where my date was sitting. I didn't tell her that the Red Sox and Yankees were playing. In fact, I think I deserve credit for taking her out for a classy dinner when "the rivalry" game was on TV.

The arrangement was ideal. I could have a conversation with my date, and at the same time monitor the TV screen. Perhaps my plan would have worked better if the Red Sox had been playing someone else - like the Orioles or Royals - but this was the Red Sox and Yankees. How could I devote my full attention to my girlfriend across the table when a crucial mid-season game was broadcast on the TV above her left shoulder?

I must say that I admirably attempted to focus on the topic of conversation, which probably had something to do with some issue at her office or some disagreement with a girlfriend. It was two years ago, so I can't remember. I do recall that the Red Sox won that game, though. It was in the late innings, and Kevin Youkilis delivered a base hit to lift the Sox ahead. "Yes!" I exclaimed. "I know!" she responded, apparently thinking I was addressing her latest story. Soon, though, she caught my eyes staring at the TV screen and knew that my response was related to the game.

"Have you listened to a word I have said," she asked. "And why didn't you tell me that the Red Sox and Yankees were playing?"

8. Be prepared for your Red Sox fan's home decor and wardrobe. Unlike Jimmy Fallon's character in Fever Pitch, my wardrobe does consist of something  beyond Red Sox apparel. After all, I am a die-hard Steelers fan, too. During the season, there is a likelihood your Red Sox fan will wear at least one piece of Red Sox apparel each day, not including a hat and, well.......

To match the wardrobe in the closer, chances are your Red Sox fan's home is covered in Red Sox memorabilia, artwork, signs, photos and other artifacts. Surely, I am not the only one, am I?

Some of you who follow me on Facebook as well as Sox and Pinstripes might remember the college friend with whom I reconnected on Facebook last summer. She was a Bengals fan, and we met to watch a football game one afternoon when I was back in town. We hit it off, and the next thing you know I am flying back and forth between Florida and Ohio for several weeks.

Some of you might have wondered what happened? How did the magical whirlwind reach an abrupt halt? Well, one evening at dinner, I pulled out my wallet and showed her photos of my Red Sox room that doubles as my home office. She excused herself (apparently heading for the ladies room), fled and I have not seen or heard from her since.

9. Know the mindset of your Red Sox fan from February to October (or, at least, April to October). Several of my friends are convinced that I need a woman who is equally passionate about the Red Sox. To that I say, "Nah, I have many other interests. She doesn't have to be a Red Sox fan, or even like baseball, as long as she does not like the Yankees and can tolerate my Red Sox addiction."

Part of this tolerance is related to understanding my mindset during baseball season. I find it difficult to pull my attention away from the Red Sox. I have media credentials to some games, and watch others via my MLB Extra Innings package at home, or with friends at a sports bar or in person at Fenway Park or another ballpark.

Last year, I met a group of friends at a wine bar in Orlando. During the evening, I struck up a conversation with a beautiful and friendly woman who was not aware that my cell phone was showing the Red Sox-Orioles game. I found it challenging to simultaneously focus on the conversation and the cell phone screen that would flash every time the screen would refresh on 30-second intervals. I had to know, will Clay Buchholz continue shutting down the Orioles? Will the Red Sox offense score enough runs? Are the Yankees losing?

There is a reason why so many male Red Sox fans are divorced or single and have never been married. The search for a woman who will accept the psyche and lifestyle of a feverish Red Sox fanatic is long and harrowing. As a woman, you could do worse than dating one of us. You could be stuck with a Yankees fan.