Wakefield's position with this year's club is also up in the air. In fact, manager Terry Francona himself may not know quite yet when or how he'll use the veteran knuckleballer.
Regardless of how the right-hander is used, it's certainly something worth keeping an eye on as the season gets under way this week in Texas.
What is Tim Wakefield’s role heading into the season?
–Phil, Pittsburgh
It's been an interesting spring in that regard. The thought that Wakefield may not make the team has crept its way into some people’s minds. In listening to Terry Francona, it sounds like it will be a challenge as to when to use him. I think it will be for multiple innings and that he will get some spot starts here and there. I guess the question is — does he fit in the mix when the Sox have a lead or not? This will be very hard for Wake if he is simply used in a mop-up role or in appearances when the team is losing. Another issue that comes from using him out of the pen is who will catch him? This will be interesting.
Are you surprised by the cuts made?
–Jake, Bangor, Maine
Not especially. I think the addition of Bobby Jenks and Dan Wheeler really changed the way the bullpen was going to look in a hurry. Scott Atchison had options which really worked against him in the end. That said, I fully expect Atchison to be back this season and be a big part of the big club. It seems we make so much of the Opening Day roster and then a week later your team looks different already. I think the decision to send down Andrew Miller as a starter is intriguing. The Hideki Okajima decision is not as surprising, as Dennys Reyes had a pretty strong spring and owns a good track record. Plus, Oki struggled last summer and this spring.
What are your fondest Opening Day memories?
–Lisa, Northampton, Mass.
I get this question a lot and my answer has never changed. Opening Day 2005, when I was emceeing the ring ceremony on the field at Fenway Park, is my favorite Opening Day memory. The wounded soldiers delivering the rings and the Boston Pops and James Taylor made it incredibly special. That event stands on its own and really was surreal. The celebration in St. Louis after the sweep was great, but celebrating the memory at Fenway Park with the fans was amazing.
Can you remember another season when the anticipation was off the charts like it is for this season?
–Jared, Stowe, Vt.
Not in my 10 previous seasons. It really started with all moves this offseason. As soon as Adrian Gonzalez and Carl Crawford were added, it just took off. I was amazed that they got both, and then to add Jenks and Wheeler to solidify the pen raised the excitement even more. I think the way last year ended with all the injuries and no postseason also plays into the excitement level and anticipation for this season.
Most are picking the Red Sox and Phillies for the World Series. Do you agree?
–Marie, Pawtucket, R.I.
I do, but health will play a part as it always does — I think we all found that out in 2010. A few injuries can change the entire complexion of a club. In some cases, you cannot battle the loss of key pieces to the team you designed. I think the Phillies are already having some issues to deal with in regard to the injury to Chase Utley. In the end, the Phils and Sox are my picks as well.
