Farrell's Official!
Well, after just 16 days, it's official. Former Sox pitching coach John Farrell is the new Sox manager. The deal, which included compensation from the Sox to Toronto in the form of last year's shortstop, Aviles, is for a three year deal, with an option year for the 2016 season. In contrast to Bobby Vee, who never should have been hired by the Hose, Farrell is very familiar with all parts of the Sox organization, as well as most of the players, both in Boston and at the higher minor league levels. He is already close to the Sox GM, Cherrington, as well. Does this automatically mean the Sox will return to collecting post-season hardware? Nothing is automatic in the AL East, but one thing is certain. With Farrell at the helm, the team as a whole will perform much better and they'll be in the race all the way through the season. The post-season is not out of the question, although much will depend on who fills the lineup and how well the Sox fill out their deficiencies at the player level from last year.
John, welcome back and the best of luck!