Bobby Valentine: A Great Fit for Sox

From reports of beer drinking in the clubhouse to the September collapse, it was time for a change in Boston. Despite the fact that Terry Francona won 2 World Series with the team, it became quite evident that he had lost complete control of the team and chaos ensued. Ever since the announcement that Francona would not be returning, in early October, Red Sox Nation has openly wondered who would be the person to fill Francona's shoes. Well, that decision has been made and Bobby Valentine will be officially introduced as the newest manager of the Boston Red Sox on Wednesday. Personally, I am ecstatic about the hiring of Valentine and believe he will help turn things around with this team in 2012.

Yes, I understand that he has not managed in the big leagues in 9 years, which may cause worry for some, but its not like the guy has forgotten how to manage. He knows how to handle the pressures of a big market where fans live and die with every win and loss. After all, he was the manager of the Mets when they made their most recent World Series appearance in 2000 and at the height of the Mets-Yankees rivalry. Granted, Valentine had a less than perfect relationship with Steve Phillips, the GM of the Mets at the time, but that does not automatically mean he will not have a great, working relationship with Ben Cherington. The guy has been through clubhouse drama and will not accept rule breaking or insubordination. That, more than ever is what might be most important for the Red Sox, an authoritative figure who will not deal with beer drinking in the clubhouse. The Red Sox need a manager who will have the attention and respect of the players.

That is what they found themselves with the hire of Bobby Valentine. Valentine will immediately command the respect of a team that has a solid mix of veterans and young players. He will not shy away from the Boston media that will analyze his every move and will be watching him like a hawk. While it may seem like an underrated aspect, Valentine already hates the Yankees too from his days with the Mets. No matter what people say, it takes a short transition period to get a true taste of the nature of the rivalry. Someone who hates the Yankees is always welcomed with open arms in Boston and Valentine fits that description.

Those are the main reasons why Bobby Valentine, I believe will have great success as the next manager of the Boston Red Sox. He loves the spotlight and will take to the bright lights of Boston as all eyes of Red Sox Nation will be on him. His dynamic personality and laid-back style will help return the Red Sox to glory.