Lots of interesting changes in the off-season including the managerial change for my Red Sox. Taking over is the ever-entertaining Bobby Valentine. The only thought that runs through my head is what disguise will he assume when he's ejected from a game?
I don't expect the Red Sox to do well this season. The Yankees are the Yankees but... Tampa Bay will be tough - some writers are saying they have the best starting rotation in the AL East. Still, predictions are that calling for the Sox to contend. I'm a realist so this is one where I will be pleasantly surprised if they do indeed make it - still can't erase the memory of the nightmare double-feature of Sept. 28, 2011 (and still, I wasn't that surprised).
But it was great baseball/theatre!
A few new things for 2012:
- Expanded post-season with two wildcard teams; the respective division winners will get a bye as the two wildcards play a single-elimination game to decide who moves on.
- The Florida Marlins are now the Miami Marlins in brand new Marlins Park and they have a new look - the jury (read: my eyes) is still out.
- Jonathan Papelbon is closing for the Phillies - I'm okay with that one.
- The American League will now feature two prolific sluggers in Albert Pujols with the Los Angeles Angels and Prince Fielder with the Detroit Tigers - that should drive attendance and fear.
- The Los Angeles Dodgers have new ownership - I still think they should be moved back to Brooklyn and how awesome would that be?
- A new five-year labor agreement - pretty straightforward if you care to read it.
And close to my heart, Fenway Park turns 100 years old. I mean, that's pretty cool that Fenway's still around. Hell, Yankee Stadium was euthanized at 85! So the oldest ballparks?
- Fenway Park, Boston - 1912
- Wrigley Field, Chicago - 1914
- Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles - 1962
- Angels Stadium, Anaheim and Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, Oakland - 1966
- Kauffmann Stadium, Kansas City - 1973
Also at 100 years old? The sinking of the Titanic.
Just thought you should know.
