Tieing Up the Loose Ends
By The Yawkey Way Philosopher
Ever seen a deer in headlights?
That stunned look is unforgettable and despite it coming from a small forest mammal, we can all relate to the feeling of being completely overwhelmed by a
singular event.
Case in point, I'm still in stunned deer mode after the curse was broken and 86 years of miserable futility all came to a glorious end in St. Louis. I've been riding the wave of euphoric joy ever since Keith Foulke underhanded the ball to first base and a team of grown men dog piled in true boyish fashion. It's been amazing, the whole thing overwhelming, needless to say, Christmas morning can't shake a stick at the Red Sox.
Through the cloud of joy and revelry comes the unstoppable reality that it is time to look forward and ready ourselves for the 2005 campaign. It will be a year unlike any other in along time for Red Sox Nation. In fact, it is safe to say we can now retire three well used battles cries for at least awhile:
1. "Why Not Us?"
This is easy because it was us!
2. "This is Our Year."
Technically this could be used, but now that we've finally had out year, let the Cubs have this one.
3. "Reverse the Curse"
I'm not much for the curse thing, but if there was one, it's gone! Once again, give this to the Cubs.
In addition to requiring new and improved battle cries, there will be new faces on the 2005 roster. There is next to no chance that Pedro, Varitek, D-Lowe and Orlando Cabrera will all be back. Personally, I'd bring back Varitek and Cabrera for sure, Lowe if you can afford it, and tell Pedro thanks for everything, we'll see you in pinstripes in April. There are some good buys out there and I think the World Series win validates the ability of Theo Epstein to lead this club into the future. Let the boy wonder work and I've little doubt we will continue to be pleased.
I think we would all love to bring the 2004 team back in one piece, but the realities of modern baseball will prevent that from occurring. Revel in the victory
and enjoy the winter because its only three months till pitchers and catchers report.
