AFTERSHOCK

As I said, it’s just starting to sink in now that the Bo Sox won the World Series. I know I should enjoy this moment, for generations have been waiting for so long to say "The Sox are World Champions", but I want more. I’m a New England Patriots fan too, so the need for more winning, the need for more glory, sort of just carried on from the Pats to the Sox situation. But how real is the possibility of another championship? Possible, but so difficult at the same time. It’s going to be a tough winter for Theo Epstein. The Red Sox GM has much work to do to please the Red Sox nation during this off-season.

MLB has 65 players filed for free-agency since the World Series end, and more pending. The Red Sox have 17 players among the more than 200 potential free agents. Among the players for the Sox could be Pedro Martinez, Derek Lowe, Jason Varitek, and Orlando Cabrera. Carlos Beltran is currently a free-agent, but don’t get too excited Sox Nation, a player as high caliber as Beltran will either be scooped up by the Evil Empire, or re-signed by the Astros. Beltran had this to say about the situation, reporting to AP Sports writer Ronald Blum: "I experienced being on a team where they don't do anything to help the ballclub," Beltran said. "One of my priorities if I stay with this ballclub will be keeping the young guys ... our young players have potential to be real good." So it sounds like if the ‘Stros keep there young and talented team intact, the Houston fans can look forward to another spectacular year from Beltran. If I was Theo Epstein, I would definately re-sign Orlando Cabrera, and Pedro Martinez. Although Pedro wasn’t performing up to speed in September of the season, and gave the emphamic "Yankees are my daddy" quote, he was classic Pedro all through the post season. I would definately re-sign Cabrera, because after he finally adjusted to playing in Boston and in the A.L., he hit 6 home runs, and knocked in 31 runs. Cabrera also had a .294 BA, and a .320 OBP. In the post season, Cabrera was Mr. Clutch, batting .288, with 9 runs, 17 hits, 11 RBIs, and a .377 OBP; not to knock Ortiz, Damon, or Manny. So those are some impressive numbers and worth the big bucks. As for the rest of the Sox’ situations, here is what various news and media sources have to say:

"Still, the early guess is the Red Sox will let Derek Lowe walk and keep free-agents-to-be Martinez and Jason Varitek."
-- Bergen Record
"The Mets have been discussing the viability of acquiring World Series MVP Manny Ramirez as the antidote to their offensive woes. But if they can't work out a deal with the Red Sox -- and Ramirez's Series heroics are a serious setback to their chances -- the Mets might consider Sammy Sosa instead."
-- Newsday
As for the present time, Red Sox nation, let’s savor every bit of the World Championship. I just can’t wait for the day next season at the Sox home opener when the World Series Champions banner is unveiled in front of the weeping eyes of the Yankees. THIS WAS THE YEAR!

Sources:
www.mlb.com
www.espn.com
www.si.com