Are you surprised by the lack of storylines coming out of spring training?
–Chad, Milford, Conn.
Not really. I think when you have your team put together in January and come to spring training with very few jobs available, the competition level just isn't there. There does, however, seem to be competition for left-handed relief jobs. Still, there have been a couple of notable events. The Josh Beckett accident made headlines, and this weekend, Jon Lester was scratched due to the flu but threw a simulated game on Monday. He is back on track and scheduled to pitch Friday. Those stories ended up not being stories, and that's a good thing.
Will Kevin Youkilis move to first this season at any point or are those days over?
–Mary Margaret, Bangor, Maine
I think they are over. He has always wanted to just have one position and be the best that he can in that role. He proved that he could win a Gold Glove at first base, but now he can go back to focusing on his natural position. Also, don't forget that the Red Sox have a very good utility man to spell Adrian Gonzalez at first base in Jed Lowrie. The need for Youk to move back and forth is just not the same as it was in the past. Still, Kevin is willing to do whatever is best for the team, and that has even included appearing in the outfield if need be.
What are your thoughts on the strength of schedule for the Sox in 2011?
–Bryant, Philadelphia
Well, it is always tough in the AL East, and this year may be the toughest it has been top to bottom in a while. Eighteen meetings with each rival just is what it is. The one thing that jumps out to me is that we only go west twice. Last year, there were three visits because of interleague play, and that can wear on you. Also, the schedule within interleague play is favorable, as it features some of the weaker NL Central squads. That said, you still have to deal with the Phillies, who somehow have become one of Boston's natural rivals. Still, I do think that the schedule overall is easier than last year's. Having fewer 4 a.m. arrivals is always a good thing.
It seems Terry Francona always gives you a shot every chance he gets. What is your relationship with him?
–Andre, Boston
Great, even though he does love doing that. If you spend time around Terry, you know he loves to do that to everybody. It always amazes me how much free time he must have in the offseason. Every time I am on TV in the winter months, I will get at least one text or voicemail ripping my suit, my tie, or what I said from him. I was doing Game 5 of the ALDS in Tampa last year, and in the seventh inning, I found a text from him asking for me to keep talking during the broadcast because he was almost asleep.
He is the best manager I have ever been around, and he knows how to deal with everything thrown at him as well as all the personalities on the team and in the media. It is not by mistake that he is widely heralded for his accomplishments.
That said, I wish he would get off my suits.
