[Misfit]

And thus, the 2005 season for the Boston Red Sox has come to a close. And let's face it, how many of us really thought this team was going to repeat? I thought they could get past Chicago but I'm not at all surprised with the way things turned out. Matt Clement having a meltdown in game was a foregone conclusion for me, though the manner in which they lost game 2 came as a surprise. I saw them losing today's game, and that bases-loaded no-out situation where they scored 0 runs was indicative of this season's team.

The offense was not the offense we had seen all season as far back as early September. Really, once Damon was injured to the point of ineffectiveness this offense started to unravel. Ortiz and Manny were the only ones hitting in September and neither Olerud or Millar could get hot again. Also having to wait until the final weekend to clinch really hurt this team as it prevented them from aligning their rotation properly. If Schilling goes in game 1 and delivers a win maybe he sets the tone for the series.

Anyways, I'm not upset with this team and I can't help but laugh at some of the fans who burried their face in their hands and wept at the end of today's game. As a region, we have received 2 superbowl championships and 1 world series in the past 2 years, we've been spoiled. The Red Sox are in their grace period and as long as they remain to be competetive I'll be happy with them.

Now the focus moves to next year. Clearly, this team needs some work. First the front-office needs to decide if they're going to bring back Damon. With no one out there to replace him, I think they should keep him though it depends on what he'll cost. If he demands a 4 year deal I might shy away if I'm the Red Sox. He's taken a beating in his time with the team and I can't see him being an effective player in 2009. The bullpen definitly needs work, and the starting rotation needs some youth as well. I think Burnett, despite his late season collapse, will be a target for this team and if they're willing to go the distance they'll get him. The Red Sox need a power pitcher in their rotation as 4 of the 5 members in it now are breaking ball pitchers, and the fifth is a question mark going into next season (Schilling). I think Wade Miller is gone and the Red Sox might try to move Arroyo to make room for Papelbon, who should be in the rotation next year. And I bet they'll be willing to listen to offers on Matt Clement, as I have him as the odd man out at this point (if they go after Burnett). Though the trio of Schilling, Wells, and Wakefield are unlikely to make it through the regular season un-injured, so a sixth starter is necessary but I bet they'll look to Jon Lester in such a situation. Delcarman and Hanson should make the opening day roster for the Red Sox, and I expect Foulke to be the closer on opening day with Hanson assuming the role if Foulke goes down or can't fulfill his duties. And if he can do it, second base should be the position Hanley Ramirez is looking to earn come March (maybe he battles it out with Pedroia in the spring).