2008 Boston Red Sox

It won't come as a surprise to Bean Town residents that many sports pundits predict more great things for the Boston Red Sox in 2008. Can they win yet another World Series for Boston? Time will tell.

The Boston Red Sox lineup reads like an MLB All Star who's who . . . Manny Ramirez, David Ortiz, Mike Lowell, JD Drew, and then there's the pitching staff. The Red Sox combine young players (Josh Beckett, Jonathan Papelbon and Daisuke Matsuka) with important veteran leadership (Varitek, Ortz, Curt Schilling and Ramirez). The combination is a good one that recently has produced post season victories.

On paper, there is no reason why the Red Sox can't win their third World Championship in five years -- but games are only scored on paper. The Red Sox -- like all teams -- must stay healthy to have a chance. And blogger-politician-pitcher-pundit Curt Schilling will need to produce this year, both in terms of wins and innings pitched. His salary is not small. Finally, Coco Crisp has to accept his role as a role player without becoming a toxic actor to the detriment of the team.

The Red Sox lost Eric Gagne in the off-season but that doesn't seem to matter -- Jonathen Papelbon will close games when given the chance. The Red Sox did a good thing in resigning third baseman Mike Lowell, paying him $37.5 million over three years. Four other teams tried to sign Lowell this offseason but Lowell stuck with his old mates despite a lower offer from Red Sox management.

Baseball historians take note . . .Manny Ramirez started the 2008 season just ten HRs shy of 500 and 38 doubles shy of 500 doubles. Joining the 500-500 Club would be an impressive addition to an impressive Hall of Fame resume. Ramirez turned 36 in May.

Terry Francona is looking to increase his .579 winning percentage as Manager of the Boston Red Sox.
2008 Boston Red Sox