Editor's note: NESN.com is teaming up with WhatIfSports.com to crown the greatest Red Sox team of all time with the "Red Sox Showdown for the Ages." Click here for more information on the 16-team simulation tournament.
Before the "Red Sox Showdown for the Ages" can begin, the final two teams in the bracket must be filled. One of the teams up for those final two spots is the 1904 Boston Americans.
Record: 95-59 (first in American League)
Finish: First in American League(no World Series)
Manager: Jimmy Collins
Best Player: SS Freddy Parent (.291 average, six home runs, 77 RBIs, 20 stolen bases)
Best Pitcher: Cy Young (26-16, 380 IP, 1.97 ERA, 40 CG, 10 SHO)
Breakdown: Just a year after winning the World Series, this Boston Americans team was just as good. However, a disagreement between the American and National Leagues led to the cancellation of the World Series, meaning that Boston wouldn’t be able to defend its title. It was another tremendous season for the arguably the best pitcher of all time, Cy Young, who won 26 games, aided by 40 complete games in an unheard of 380-inning season.
You can click here to vote on which two teams will be added to the bracket. Voting closes on June 13, and the opening round results will then be revealed on June 20.
