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Boston Dirt Dogs Home

Boston Globe: Sox-Yanks pitching matchups > Sox do it again > Wake Comments were doctored > Robinson's legacy set in stone >  Thumbs

Boston Herald: 'Tek good in pinch > Heckuva first game > Cora corralled > Schilling offers a far-from-Curt response > Chamberlain to miss Sox

ProJo: Varitek's 9th inning homer fuels comeback > Ailing Cora could be put on the DL > Schilling insists: I won't play for Yankees > Wrapup

Hartford Courant: Farnsworth comes up big in Yankees win > ESPN settles with Reynolds > Phillies beat Astros > Tigers rally past Twins

It's Red Sox vs. YankeeZZZzzzzz: Rivalry's Buzz Takes a Beating
38Pitches: 'Umm, no.' | Wilbur: Space Shot | Yankee Swap
Video: Big Papi Explains Reason for Hitting Woes

Feb 28, 2006:

Foulke Injection

Boston Red Sox pitcher Keith Foulke stretches his leg as baseball spring training workouts began for pitchers and catchers Sunday, Feb. 19, 2006, in Fort Myers, Fla.

(2.19.06 / AP Photo)

Cantankerous Closer Getting Injections in Knees

Extra Bases in Fort Myers:
Foulke Being Held Back Due to Injections

Update: No Truth to the Rumor That Foulke's Injections Consist of Barbecue Sauce from Birmingham Alabama's 'Happy Day' Restaurant


Extra Bases: Schill 'Felt Great' | Photo Gallery: Tuesday's Workout

Schilling: Cheaters Ahead of Testers
Survey: Many Manny Questions
Cereal Killer: Cookie Monster Pours it On Coco

Waltham Library Dumps Damon | Mass. Youth Team Dumps Sox Name


No Talk and No Action

Frank Galasso Illustration

(Boston Dirt Dogs / Frank Galasso, cartoonist)

Should the Sox Throw Out the Baby with the Bath Water?

"It's highly unlikely that Wells would retire if he weren't dealt to a team closer to his San Diego-area home. However, the fact that Wells didn't stretch with his teammates during the Sox' first spring workout and didn't partake in Photo Day would suggest that he has made little effort to make himself a part of the team.

"No?

'''What I can say,' Clifton said, 'is David has always been a popular teammate, because his teammates know he's the ultimate gamer every fifth day. I think David's plan is to focus on getting ready for the season.'"

"Translation: Even when he wants to be dealt, Wells is going to get ready at his own pace." -- 2.28, Chris Snow, Globe Notebook


Feb 27, 2006:

The Generics

The Generics

(I, Robot Photo)

Are the New Sox Devoid of Personality?

"That carefree attitude -- it's gone. And it's a shame." -- Johnny Damon, Idiot
(The End of the Idiocy, Jayson Stark, ESPN.com)

Eric Wilbur: A Born Identity


Rocket Launcher

Koby crushed dad's first pitch, a trademark fastball, over the left-field fence

(AP Photos)

Koby Takes the Old Man Deep, And Gets Buzzed Back
(Will Werner Add It to the Recruitment Video to Keep the Price Down?)


Feb 24, 2006:

Favorite Sun

Frank Galasso Illustration

(Boston Dirt Dogs / Frank Galasso, cartoonist)

Baseball's Back ... Opening Day Just Over a Month Away

"If you live for baseball, the first full squad spring workout is just about the best day of the season. It means that box scores -- one of the four basic food groups for seamheads around the world -- will soon be part of your morning breakfast again." -- 02.24.06, Dan Shaughnessy

Friends and Enemies: Out With the Old ... | ... In With the New


Feb 23, 2006:

Opening Stretch

workout.jpg

(Globe Staff Photo / Barry Chin)

Gallery: Photos from Thursday's first full-squad workout


Curious George

steinbrenner.jpg

(AP Photo, Feb. 16)

"We're going to win it this year. We're going after it." -- George Steinbrenner, 02.22.06

Bizarre Boss Makes His Presence Felt in Tampa

"This year he's been everywhere. Yesterday, he showed up in the coaches' room as the players were finishing their workouts, then lingered in the hallway outside [Joe] Torre's office and then decided to come in and sit on a couch while Torre did his daily media session.

"As the manager talked, Steinbrenner fiddled with a paper clip and peered curiously at each reporter who asked a question. He also seemed interested in playing the role of class cut-up; at one point, Torre was asked about how Damon nearly came to the Bronx during the same winter that his good friend and former A's teammate Jason Giambi signed his seven-year, $120 million contract with the Yanks.

"'(Giambi) took all of the money so we couldn't do anything,' Torre joked, only to have Steinbrenner pipe up, 'You got some, didn't you?' as everyone laughed and Torre responded, 'Thank you sir.'

"At another point, Torre was asked if he had been able to sit down and have an extended chat with [Johnny] Damon yet.

"'I haven't had a chance sit down and really to talk to anybody," Torre began. "I've talked to ...'

"'Me!' Steinbrenner piped up.

"'Yeah, Mr. Steinbrenner,' Torre continued with another chuckle. 'That's always nerve-wracking.'

"The entire scene was bizarre, and long-time Yankee observers struggled to recall a similar incident. Although Steinbrenner and Torre have had an up-and-down relationship, their heart-to-heart this winter (which preceded Torre's announcement that he was going to return to manage again this season) has apparently made a difference.

"Quite simply, The Boss just seems happier. He can still get riled up - he doesn't like the World Baseball Classic and he reiterated his displeasure with it yesterday - but he hasn't been nearly as curt as in previous springs and seems to enjoy just hanging around the clubhouse." -- Sam Borden, New York Daily News, 02.23.06

Eric Wilbur: By George, a pledge


Feb 22, 2006:

Manny's a Class Act

Final exams this week

(BDD Photo Illustration / Meir Weinberg)

The Real Reason Why Manny Needs More Time Away from the Team: Final Exams This Week with His Personal Trainer

"...Manny Ramirez, far from being honest and forthright, has long since stopped caring about the Red Sox, if he ever cared about them at all. He has never wanted to be here, he still wants to be traded, and he seems to take personal delight in tweaking management whenever possible."

"So they [Theo Epstein and Terry Francona] sit there at the picnic table, or in the conference room, or in the dugout — wherever the cameras are set up — and they lie. They lie for Manny Ramirez, sitting at home watching it all get replayed on 'SportsCenter' and laughing so hard that his milk starts coming out of his nose."

"Until or unless the Red Sox trade this overgrown child, the (tee hee, chuckle chuckle) Manny Moments will continue. More injuries, more sick relatives. I see jury duty coming around the corner, followed by a draft notice. Having already earned his American citizenship, Manny’s next trick will be to miss a Blue Jays series while procuring his Canadian citizenship.

"And, always, the fans will laugh it all off because Manny smiles a lot and rolls his eyes as he’s ducking into the Green Monster to pee.

"But nobody laughs harder than Manny Ramirez, who sees the Red Sox and their fans as suckers." -- 2.22.06, Steve Buckley, Boston Herald (subscription only)


"Disgruntled Boston slugger Manny Ramirez was so eager to be traded to the Angels this winter that he called former Red Sox teammate Orlando Cabrera, now the Angel shortstop, for a scouting report not on the coaching staff or clubhouse culture but on the Southern California media."

"'He asked me in particular about you guys,' said Cabrera, who helped the Red Sox win the 2004 World Series. 'A lot of [the problems] he has in Boston are about a lack of privacy. He's bothered by the media all the time."

"'I told him [Anaheim] is a normal city. When you try to compare the media in any city to the media in Boston, nothing is the same. It's crazy over there. The only thing close to that is New York.'" -- 2.22.06, Los Angeles Times

Bradford: Beware the Ides of Manny


Silver Lining

Way to go Lindsey

(Sports Illustrated Photo, Jacobellis / BDD Photo, Stratton / Tom Haley)

Stratton Welcomes Back the Showboating,
Endorsement Protecting Hot Dogette

"Then there’s Lyndsey (sic) Jacobellis, the snowboard-cross queen who blew a gold showboating for the crowd and then took a tumble within sight of the finish line. In one of several differing explanations she gave for the mishap, Ms. Jacobellis said she was just trying to show her enthusiasm for boarding. Perhaps she can convince the world and her sponsors that a silver medal is just as much fun and worth just as much as a gold.

"Given efforts like this it’s not difficult to see why, for many Americans, the Olympics are not something to get too excited about.

"Given the apparent lack of intensity by some of the competitors and the 'who cares?' attitude by some, it’s almost as if the Olympics are more 'about me' and 'having fun' than about giving it your all for the red, white and blue." -- 2.21.06, The Mountain Mail


Feb 21, 2006:

And the Beat Goes On

Frank Galasso Illustration

(Boston Dirt Dogs / Frank Galasso, cartoonist)

Manny Rules!

Manny Rules

(Globe File Photo / Jim Davis)

More Special Treatment for Ramirez;
Manny Being Missing Until March 1

The $20 Million Man Loves to Turn the Page...
But Won't Get On the Same One As His Teammates

The Late Show Starring Manny Ramirez
Eric Wilbur: Mystery Manny

Is Manny Out of the WBC?

"Players who will be participating in the World Baseball Classic are scheduled to report to their WBC teams on March 2. Ramirez is currently on the Dominican Republic’s provisional roster, but it should not be considered a lock that he is going to play in the Classic. In fact, there is a strong likelihood that Manny won’t be on the Dominicans’ final roster when it is announced." -- 2.21.06, Gordon Edes, Extra Bases Blog

Tito Being Tito

Tito Being Tito

(BDD Photo Illustration )

(Or Is It Pinocchio Being Pinocchio?)

"It [telephone conversation with Manny] made me feel very good about where we're going, that's why I'm OK with this." -- 2.21.06, Red Sox Manager Terry Francona


Feb 20, 2006:

Curt Gowdy, Legend -- Graphic Design by Carl

(BDD Illustration / Graphic Design by Carl)

Red Sox Broadcasting Legend Curt Gowdy Dies

Curt Gowdy

(L-R Mel Parnell, Ned Martin, Curt Gowdy / Boston Globe File Photo)

Former 'Voice of the Red Sox' Passed Away in Florida
2004: His Voice Echoes Through the Years
From the Blohards: "Hi Neighbor, Have a Gansett"

Frank Galasso Illustration

(Boston Dirt Dogs / Frank Galasso, cartoonist)


That's Just Keith Being Keith

"I'm not a baseball fan. I actually find baseball kind of boring." -- Clear as Foulke

Tito Gets a Taste of What Players Went Through


Feb 19, 2006:

Is Manny Skating Off to Turin?

Manny the speedskater

(BDD Photo Illustration)

Will Our Model Citizen Be Going for the Gold?

"Asked the boss this morning to alert our convoy of writers in Turin to keep their eyes peeled for a certain Dominican-born cleanup hitter. David Ortiz, in camp today, says he hasn't talked to his fellow countryman in a few weeks. But, at the time, Ortiz said Manny Ramirez claimed to be headed to Italy for a vacation beginning tomorrow.

"'I talked to Manny a few weeks ago and he was going to Italy tomorrow,' Ortiz said with a hearty laugh. 'He said he was going there. He probably was just [kidding]. He's not going to be here on Tuesday. How you going to be there Monday, the day before [you come here]? Is it going to be roundtrip, the same day?'" -- 2.19.06, Chris Snow, Extra Bases blog


Feb 18, 2006:

Let's Play Bald!

Red Sox infielder Kevin Youkilis threw during informal workouts in Fort Myers today. At left is non-roster invitee, outfielder Dustan Mohr.

(AP Photo)

Will Pitching and Defense Be Enough to Win?

"'Pitching and defense, that's the whole name of the game,' new first baseman Kevin Youkilis said. 'If somebody throws a shutout, all you need is one run to win a ball game. Plain and simple.'"

"'The game of baseball is not how many runs you can put up. It can 2-1, it could be 20-1, it doesn't matter,' Youkilis said. 'That's the whole key, for us to pitch well, play defense and score the runs when we need to score the runs.'" -- 2.18.06, Sox open camp with improved pitching and defense


Feb 17, 2006:

Say Hello to Coco

New center fielder Coco Crisp makes his entrance from the team clubhouse

(Boston Globe Staff Photo / Barry Chin)

"I'm a good person. I go out there and like to have fun and clown around with the fans and everybody and just be myself. I'm a grounded person, so just go out there and have fun with everybody." -- Coco Crisp, Red Sox Center Fielder

Eric Wilbur: Springing Guesses


Holy Cow!

Curt 2005 vs. 2006

(AP Photo -- 2.17.06, Boston Globe Photo/Jim Davis -- 2.17.05)

What's the Skinny On Schilling?


Working Class Dog

Trot Nixon is in camp

(AP Photo)

Is Trot's Hard Work Leading to Injury?

"Same old Nixon: still working hard, and doing so at a point in his career where it’s OK to hardly work. But while the guy could surely be applauded for this old-timey work ethic, it does raise an interesting question: Are Red Sox fans going to see yet another season in which their favorite Dirt Dog works so hard that, in the end, he breaks down?

"Wouldn’t Nixon — and, by extension, the Red Sox — be better off if he acquainted himself with the fine science of tugging on the manager’s shirt now and then and asking for a day off?

“'I would love to do that, but it’s not the kind of person I am,' he said. 'I’m not trying to sound brash or cocky, but I think a lot of what’s happened may just be a product of the way I’ve played my entire career. I overlooked certain things that were going on with my body. But there are two different kind of players — players that are smart, and do it that way, take the time off, and they may not play on days when they should. I guess I’m kind of the reverse of that.'” -- 2.17.06, Steve Buckley, Boston Herald (subscription required)


Reunited

Grady and Nomie

(AP Photo)

Grady and Nomie Finally Back Together

Reunited and it feels so good
Reunited 'cause we understood
There's one perfect fit
And, buddy, this one is it
We both are so excited
'Cause we're reunited, hey, hey

Leaving Sox Crushed Nomie

"'"It was something new every time I turned around that season,' Garciaparra said. 'Ultimately, you don't have the energy to keep defending yourself, but at this point I don't want to rehash it. I've moved on and they've moved on.'"

"Was there any relief when finally traded?

"'Not at all,' Garciaparra said. 'I cried. I was crushed. The city and the fans meant that much to me, and they still do. I played for those fans, my teammates, the history of that franchise. It was hard to take the way it went down, but the thing I'm proudest of from my time in Boston is that we raised more than $1 million for charity and there is still a playground that has my name on it.'" -- Ross Newhan, Los Angeles Times

Ozzie Calls Out Garciaparra

'''I hate hypocrites: He's [Alex Rodriguez] full of [expletive],' Guillen told Sports Illustrated. 'The Dominican team doesn't need [him]. It's the same with [Nomar] Garciaparra playing for Mexico. Garciaparra only knows Cancun because he went to visit.''' -- Ozzie Guillen on A-Rod, Nomar, and the WBC

That's A Little Much Grady

"What happened at Yankee Stadium 854 days ago has long been a memory for Little.

"'I don't think it'll ever be totally forgotten,' Little said. 'If you spent any time in New England, I think you'd realize that.'"

"'Pedro is one of the players in that clubhouse who realized I made about two million decisions in that two-year period I was there,' Little said. 'That one, like every other decision I made, I've got to wait for the results to see if it was a good or bad decision.'

"That snippet of sarcasm is as close as Little, 55, gets to sounding bitter about becoming Boston's speed bag. Usually, he is dispensing one-liners. When asked why he chose No. 9, Little said, 'It's a number I wanted to wear in Boston, but they wouldn't let me wear it for some reason.'"

"'I love Grady,' [Pedro] Martínez, now a Met, said Thursday in Port St. Lucie, Fla. 'I thought what happened to him was unfair. But that ownership group wanted him out of there.'

"[Derek] Lowe said he was surprised by how much abuse Little received and hinted that Little's options in the game were limited.

"'Without getting too in depth,' Lowe said, 'there were guys that probably didn't want to go out there and pitch the eighth.'

"Martínez said: 'I was tired. They knew I was tired. But Grady didn't have the faith in the bullpen that he wanted to have.'" -- 2.17.06, Jack Curry, New York Times

New 'Do for Pedro

New York Mets starting pitcher Pedro Martinez throws at the Mets spring training complex on pitchers and catchers reporting day, in Port St. Lucie, Fla., Wednesday Feb. 16, 2006.

(AP Photo)

Year Two of His Big Contract: Is Petey Healthy?

"While the Mets' Pedro donna was sparing in his comments about his iffy right big toe -- five words: 'It's all right ... coming along' -- Mets people are taking positive vibes from his attitude and demeanor, which is downright giddy.

"But really, what choice do they have? Without Martinez, they stand about as much chance as a Port St. Lucie trailer in a Category 5 hurricane." -- 2.17.06, John Heyman, Newsday


Feb 15, 2006:

Hey Tedy Bruschi and Curt Schilling, the Steelers Won the Super Bowl and the White Sox Won the World Series.
What Are You Going to Do Now?

New England Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi and Boston Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2006.

(AP Photo/Walt Disney World Company, Garth Vaughan)

(They're Going to Disney World Anyway)

Wilbur: Spotty Forecast for AL East
Francona Eager After Eventful Offseason

Shocker: Foulke Won't Talk to Reporters Until Sunday


It's Rufus by a Head

Best of Show Winner Rufus

(Getty Images Photo / Steve Chernin)

Terrier Steals the Show at Westminster,
Beating Out Golden, Dalmatian in Nailbiter

"The classic profile of a colored bull terrier," judge James Reynolds praised.

"The tan-and-white canine was the first of his breed to win at the nation's most prestigious show. He was picked over a popular golden retriever, a Rottweiler handled by a former Florida State linebacker, a prize pug and a spirited Dalmatian.

"Rufus' handler, Kathy Kirk, said she was 'ready to pass out' from the pressure on the green carpet at Madison Square Garden. Her nearly 6-year-old dog that she playfully calls 'Puppyhead' took it all in stride.

"He stacked in style -- holding his pose for the judge -- and wagged his tail when he won. Later, he'll "hucklebuck" -- that's how Kirk describes how he jumps up and bangs his behind into a door." -- 2.15.06 AP, Rufus the bull terrier -- America's top dog

Gallery: Pups on Parade


Feb 14, 2006:

Happy Valentin's Day

A most excellent choice of sport coat

(BDD Photo -- Love the Sport Coat John)

Romance Between Red Sox and Nation?

"Valentine's Day is one of the unofficial holidays of Red Sox Nation, right up there with Opening Day and October 27. It's no surprise that this year, it occurs a day after the team's equipment truck left Fenway Park for Fort Myers and spring training. For the relationship between the Red Sox and their fans resembles a romance.

"This isn't the superficial, saccharine-sweet kind of romance that Valentine's Day currently celebrates. For that, go to New York. No support is more skin-deep than the pinstriped passion for the Yankees..."

"The Red Sox succeed in attracting and keeping fans because their relationship, like all good romances, evolves and stays fresh. New Englanders never know how their team will surprise them, from winning a four-team pennant race on the last day of the regular season to losing a game when a ball dribbles past an infielder's ankles to dropping the first three games of a championship series -- and ultimately prevailing." -- 2.14.06, Rich Tornio, The Daily Item

Extra Bases: RemDawg Off to Red Sox Hall


Year of the Dog?

Trot Nixon

(AP File Photo)

Confident Nixon Appreciates What Sox Have Going for Them

'''I'm going to go out there until my body shuts down,' said Nixon, who will turn 32 on the day of the Sox' home opener (April 11). 'I love this business and I love it in Boston. But I only have control over what I can do in the field. I don't have control over what they want to do.'" -- 02.14.06, Gordon Edes, Boston Globe

From Rock Star to Movie Star

Coco in Boston

(BDD Photo Illustration / Joseph Ditre)

Coco a Go-Go

"Not surprisingly, Cleveland fans took to the hustling Crisp. He cut a rap song, 'We Got That Thing,' which he wrote for an album featuring big league players (and Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith) called 'Oh Say Can You Sing.' Record producer Schorr was impressed. 'Zero hint of ego, laid-back and soft-spoken,' he wrote of Crisp, who performed the song at MLB's party at the All-Star Game. He and godbrother Marcus came up with a reality dating show they call 'A Bucket and a Tank of Gas.' The gimmick is that a well-heeled guy pretends to be broke; he's given a beat-up car -- the bucket -- and very little else to try to impress a young woman on a date. At the end of the show, his real identity is revealed -- they used actor Rashaan Nall in the pilot -- but if the woman had earlier expressed no interest in pursuing the relationship, then it was the guy's call if he'd see her again.

"Crisp had tried some acting himself as a child, but it never got serious. 'I'd go on auditions and only read the cue cards,' he said. 'That's it. Never put any emotion in it.'

"He plays the game with considerably more flair, which is why he expects Red Sox fans will eventually be won over.

'''They're going to do what they're going to do,' he said. 'I'm going to go out there and have fun, crash into a couple of walls. If they enjoy it, they do. If they don't, they'll say, 'Hey, don't hurt yourself.'

'''I'm going to go out there and play the best I do. If they enjoy watching me play, then that's good.'

'''If not, I'll tell them to watch Manny. He's going to hit a home run.'" -- 02.12.06, Gordon Edes, Boston Globe

Speaking of Center Fielders:
Damon Not All Glitz and Glamour


Feb 13, 2006:

South Park

Truck pulls out

(Boston Globe Photo / Bill Greene)

The Red Sox equipment truck left from Fenway Park today, bound for the team's spring training facility in Fort Myers, Fla.

Photo Gallery: Red Sox Equipment Truck Leaves for Florida


It's Truck Day

TD_BDD_truck.jpg
BDD_TD_bats.jpg

(2.13.06: Boston.com Photos / Steve Silva)

The Wheels Are In Motion This Afternoon

Extra Bases: Today's the Day
Eric Wilbur: Truckin'


Feb 11, 2006:

Ask Not What the Nation Can Do For Roger;
Ask What Roger Can Do for the Nation

Roger's locker following the last game of the 1995 season.

(October 7, 1995: Boston Globe Staff Photo / John Tlumacki)

Let's Do This

"But with the Red Sox now bidding against the Yankees, Rangers and Astros, the price tag for Clemens very well could soar over $20 million for one year. If so, there would be an enormous incongruity to a Clemens deal for the Red Sox, something which, on its face, reflects a lack of planning."

"Whatever the rationale, however, signing Clemens would be a good move for Boston, for 2006 and beyond his days as an active player. There will be a lot of debate about what hat Clemens should wear into the Hall of Fame, and there is no doubt that when you think of Clemens, you associate him the most with the Red Sox. They should have a relationship with the guy, even if it's not an exclusive arrangement." -- 2.10.06, Buster Olney, ESPN blog (subscription)

"It'll probably cost more than $15 million to get the Rocket to end his career with the Sox, a small price to pay for the man who led baseball with a 1.87 ERA last season and won 13 games for an Astros team that didn't score many runs.

"It's a lot of money, but it’s not your money or my money. That said, money is the least expensive commodity in baseball. To get an impact player, the Sox wouldn't have to trade established players or prospects to get a top-flight pitcher.

"In the interest of full disclosure, I have a vested interest here. I want Clemens pitching for the Sox every fifth day. I want to feel that buzz coming in for the pre-game show, that intensity that revolves around the Rocket whenever he pitches.

"I want Clemens back." -- 2.9.06, Tom Caron, TC's Mailbag


Feb 10, 2006:

Now That's a Rocket

A performer takes part in the opening ceremony of the Torino 2006 Winter Olympic Games in Turin, Italy, February 10, 2006.

(Reuters Photo)

Why Can't We Get Players Like That?
Let the Games Begin


Roger and Me

Curt and Roger

(Reuters Photo, 2001)

Rocket Fueled Schilling's Success

"I think Roger was the first step, and a huge step for me. I was working out in the offseason in 1991 in the Astrodome and Roger was in the weight room working out. And I was kinda going through the motions of getting my time in, whatever I had to do and Gene Coleman the strength coach came over and said Roger wanted to talk to me. And I knew Roger, from being in the Red Sox organization before that, and being the pitcher that he was, and so I said great. So one thing I like to talk about is pitching. I thought that's what we were going to do. So I went over there and he proceeded to chew my ass off for about an hour and a half. And, I had lost my father three years before that, and I had not really had that guy in my life that said 'listen, you know what? you need to sit down and shut up and listen. This is how it's going to work. This is what you need to do and when he got done.' And instead of walking away like a lot of people and saying 'what does he know?' my first thought was here's a guy who's won a bunch of Cy Youngs. Just spent an hour and a half of his day, and actually gave a crap about me, and OK I need to start addressing some issues. And I didn't turn it around that day, there was a process, but I think it started that day, and that was the biggest step." -- 2.24.04, Curt Schilling

Fenway's Friendly for Roger

"While it might be coincidence, Al Nipper will become the interim pitching coach as Dave Wallace recovers from a serious hip infection that might render him unable to coach during spring training. Nipper is one of Clemens's closest friends. Clemens also has other friends on the Red Sox, including John Flaherty, Tim Wakefield, and Curt Schilling. And Josh Beckett idolizes Clemens." -- 2.10, Nick Cafardo, Boston Globe


Feb 9, 2006:

Truth in Advertising?

Damon, Truth in Advertising

(BDD Photo Illustration / Dan Proto)

Eric Wilbur: Empty Tribute



Feb 8, 2006:

Johnny Be Thankful

More...


Feb 7, 2006:

Video Players

Roger and Me

(AP Photo/BDD Illustration)

Lights, Camera, Action

Former Boston Red Sox general manager Dan Duquette, center in jacket, performs with the other cast members of "Come Home Roger" at Tom Werner's house on Monday night.

On the Cutting Room Floor ...

Traitor

(Boston Globe Staff Photo / Jim Davis)

Not All Corners of Red Sox Nation Will Make the Final Cut

Wilbur: Retro Rocket Push
Survey: Is Roger Worth It?


The Come Back Kid

Roger Clemens, Roger Clemens

(Boston Globe File Photo / Paul Benoit) )

Here We Go Again.
Roger That.

Report: Sox Hope to Bring Back Clemens with Video

"...the Red Sox as we speak are preparing to make a serious offer to one Roger Clemens, who will turn 44 in August. According to sources, the Sox’ pitch will include a slick video presentation that features a number of Red Sox fans imploring the Rocket to finish his career where it began. " -- 2.7, Gerry Callahan, Boston Herald (subscription)

Making Roger's Return a Reality Isn't Rocket Science

The Real Cy Young Award is Still Up for Grabs
Red Sox Career Wins:
Cy Young -- 192
Roger Clemens -- 192

He's Still the Same Old Roger

Roger Clemens, Roger Clemens

(AP File Photos)

Clemens Still Has Ties to Astros
Extra Bases: 12/16/05 -- Rocket Fuels Rumors


Feb 6, 2006:


Feb 5, 2006:

Going, Going, Gonzo

Alex Gonzalez goes deep for the win

(AP Photos)

That's Your Shortstop

Red Sox shortstop Alex Gonzalez, playing for Venezuela, celebrates after hitting the winning two-run home run against Dominican Republic during their Caribbean Series game at Jose Bernardo Perez stadium in Valencia, Venezuela on Saturday. Venezuela won the game, 11-9.


The Hole Shebang

BDD Holes Filled

(BDD Photo Illustration / Pete Stasiowski and Meir Weinberg)

It's a Level Playing Field Again
Beckett Avoids Arbitration


Feb 3, 2006:

Curb Your Enthusiasm

CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM -- HBO Series -- Pictured, from left, Jeff Garlin, Larry David and Cheryl Hines.

(HBO Photo / Eric Lee)

It's Official: Alex Gonzalez Signs with the Red Sox

Speaking of Shortstops... err First Basemen: Nomar Bails Out of WBC


Don't Cry for Me Johnny Damon!

The Crying Game

(BDD Photo Illustration)

Damon Breaks Silence After Leaving Sox
Audio: Johnny with David Lee Roth - Part 1, Part 2
"'My kids had a hard time dealing with it,' he said. 'I kinda told them [I was leaving the Red Sox]
and they cried, and I cried with them. And I said, 'Hey, this team really just did not want me
as much as I wanted them.'" -- Former Red Sox Center Fielder Johnny Damon

Sox Still Pretending to Trade Manny


Steel Curt

CS_7.jpg

(Fox Sports Video Image)

A Two-Minute Drill with Schill

With the Patriots missing out on the Super Bowl for just the second time in the last five seasons, most fans with New England ties are simply rooting for a "good game" between the Seahawks and Steelers on Sunday.

That's not the case for Red Sox ace Curt Schilling.

Schilling is a dyed-in-the-wool Pittsburgh Steelers fan. And it's not because quarterback Ben Roethlisberger just had a big season.

Schilling's father was from Pennsylvania and spent his life in the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division. "My father was born and raised in Somerset, Pa. I was raised a Steeler and Pirate fan," Schilling said.

He owns throwback jerseys bearing the names Lambert, Greene, Bradshaw, Harris, Swann, and Stallworth, and will tell you everything you wanted to know -- and then some -- about Pirates greats Willie Stargell and Dave Parker.

With that in mind, we asked Schilling to answer a few questions about Steelers history and Sunday's Super Bowl.

Q: Which of these is the best Steeler performance in Super Bowl history?

-- Franco Harris rushing for 158 yards in Super Bowl IX
-- Lynn Swann's 161 receiving yards in Super Bowl X
-- Terry Bradshaw's 4 TDs and 318 yards passing in Super Bowl XIII


Curt Schilling: Bradshaw, greatest Super Bowl quarterback ever!

Q: Would you take Joe Greene or L.C. Greenwood?

CS: Mean Joe every day and twice on Sunday!

Q: Jack Lambert or Jack Ham?


CS: Ham was a stud, no nonsense stud. Lambert was a kick your teeth in every down linebacker, the 1970s version of Dick Butkus, only meaner.

Q: Chuck Knoll or Bill Cowher?

CS: Noll until Cowher wins one :)

Q: Franco Harris or Rocky Blier?

CS: Rocky Blier. Veteran of the armed forces, quiet do your job and don't care who notices. Franco was quiet as well but I loved Blier.

Q: Worst Steeler QB: Bubby Brister, Neil O'Donnell or Kordell Stewart?

CS: Does it matter? The worst Steeler is still better than the best Cowboy.

Q: Favorite moment in Steelers history?

CS: Swann's catch vs. Dallas, where he is dropping to the ground, his knee lands on the defensive back's chest, and he still catches the ball.

Q: Could Bill Cowher's style be effective as a baseball manager?

CS: In this day and age? No way. But he would adapt, because he understands that it's about winning over everything.

Polamalu hairQ: How many Terrible Towels do you own?

CS: None now, over 50 in my life.

Q: If you were Jerome Bettis and you won on Sunday, would you hang it up?

CS: No idea. I don't know how his body feels.

Q: Best hair: Johnny Damon or Troy Polamalu?

CS: Polamalu in a landslide :)

Q: Any predictions on Sunday's game? Score?

CS: As long as the Steelers score one more point than the Seahawks I don't give a crap.


Feb 2, 2006:

Let the Games Begin

Alex Cora and Julian Tavarez

(AP Photo)

Alex Cora signs autographs as he arrives with the rest of the Puerto Rican team for the Caribbean Series in Valencia, Venezuela yesterday. Dominican Republic's Julian Tavarez speaks with a migration officer upon his arrival. Four teams representing the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Venezuela begin play in the annual series today.

Yes, Another Johnny Update:
Damon, Boss Slated to Make First Contact Today

"We're just going to talk, kick back and crack some jokes... It's great to be on his side,
so now we can talk about the Yankee way." -- Johnny Damon

Wilbur: Johnny Big Appleseed
Damon and Steinbrenner Get Together


Feb 1, 2006:



Johnny Cash Gets Some New Wheels

Johnny Damon's Ferrari

(AP/Puma Photo)

Johnny Damon, the new center fielder for the New York Yankees, poses by his Ferrari F430 Spider today in New York. The car is a gift from Puma, presented to Damon for signing on for another four year sponsorship.

The Pinstriped Piper

Boston Dirt Dogs

(BDD Photo Illustration)

Johnny Wants to Take Manny, Papi to the Bronx

"Damon praised his former Red Sox teammate Manny Ramirez for his exceptional ability and for urging the Red Sox to sign David Ortiz. He also stumped for Ramirez to defect to the Bronx.

"'Manny really wants out of Boston, just so he can relax and chill,' Damon told Kay. 'If he played for the Mets, he probably wouldn't be able to chill much. But I think the Yankees would be a perfect fit for him, as well as for David Ortiz.'" -- 2.1.06, Tyler Kepner, New York Times

"Everything feels right about being a Yankee, about the tradition, about my new teammates. It feels pretty special." -- Johnny Damon, New York Yankees CF


Let's Get Physical

Alex Gonzalez -- BDD

(BDD Photo Illustration / Joseph Ditre)

Alex Gonzalez is in Boston;
Will Have Physical Today

Pending the outcome of a physical he is scheduled to undergo this morning after flying here yesterday from his native Venezuela, Alex Gonzalez is poised to replace Edgar Renteria as shortstop for the Red Sox. ... The Sox are expected to announce Gonzalez's signing after his physical. His agent, Eric Goldschmidt, confirmed yesterday that the player agreed to a one-year deal for $3 million, with standard contract bonuses for awards. The Orioles, Goldschmidt said, actually offered more money, with the idea that if they didn't trade shortstop Miguel Tejada, Gonzalez would play third base, with Melvin Mora shifting to the outfield. But Gonzalez preferred to remain at short and sign with the Sox. -- 02.01.06, Gordon Edes, Boston Globe

What Part of "Two-Year Contract" Didn't David Wells Understand
When He Signed On to Play for an East Coast Team for Two Years?



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Frank Galasso Litho


Rally Against Cancer
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Dana Farber license plate


Hot Stove, Cool Music

Get the CD. Support Paul and Theo Epstein's Foundation to be Named Later.


The Gabe Kapler Foundation


The “Curt’s Pitch for ALS” program is a joint effort by Curt and Shonda Schilling and The ALS Association Mass Chapter to strike out Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

Curt’s Pitch Goes Global!


Run for SHADE!

For the fourth consecutive year, SHADE Foundation of America will be represented at the Boston Marathon by a team raising funds for SHADE. SHADE is currently seeking marathon runners to join the team . For more information on running with Shonda Schilling on SHADE’s team or sponsoring runners, please visit SHADE's marathon page here. The SHADE Foundation thanks Red Sox Nation for joining in their fight to save future generations from melanoma.


Get a Danny O Fenway Litho, as Seen in the Cooperstown Catalog

Danny O


Why Not Us?
Chasing Steinbrenner
One Day at Fenway


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