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DETROIT — Next year is finally here and Boston Red Sox fans can put last September's epic collapse firmly in the rear-view mirror. Much has changed in Beantown, and Stamford native Bobby Valentine is at the forefront of those changes.
How will the Boston Red Sox do in 2012?
View ResultsHow will the Boston Red Sox do in 2012?
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Win the World Series
5% -
Win the American League Pennant
5% -
Win the American League East
0% -
Win one of the Wild Card spots
45% -
Miss the playoffs
45%
The Sox begin their 2012 campaign and inaugural season under Bobby V on the road in Detroit. The first pitch is scheduled for 1:05 p.m. Thursday with Jon Lester matching up against reigning Cy Young and MVP award winner Justin Verlander.
After losing out on a postseason berth on the final day of the season, the Red Sox had one of the most tumultuous off-seasons in recent memory. Manager Terry Francona was fired after eight years. General Manager Theo Epstein, architect of Boston's first World Series win in 86 years, split for the Chicago Cubs.
Boston has to deal with a major hurdle even before season begins — new closer Andrew Bailey will be out until after the All-Star break with a thumb injury. Alfredo Aceves will close games in his absence. The Red Sox also added set-up man Mark Melancon and outfielder Cody Ross.
Vote in our Red Sox preseason poll below! Also check out our Yankees and Mets polls.
Comments (2)
Is this the first installment in a series about baseball teams within a 150-mile radius? When can we expect Mr. Gendron’s thoughts on the Philadelphia Phillies?
I don't believe this...A NY publication reporting on the Red Sox? This is blasphemy. Screw the Sox.