Theo's back!

The man who would be king has strolled back into his kingdom and declared that he is returning to his rightful place on the throne. Yes that's right boys and girls, before Neil H posts with gushing praise and endless Sabrina style 'Whoo hoo's' I'll bring you the news that he will be crowing about for a good while yet (he told me just as I was going to bed and now I have to blog, blimin' typical).

Theo Epstein has returned to the Boston Red Sox. Principal Owner John Henry, Chairman Tom Werner, President/CEO Larry Lucchino and Epstein issued the following joint statement:

'As you know, we have spoken frequently during the last 10 weeks. We have engaged in healthy, spirited debates about what it will take over the long-term for the Red Sox to remain a great organization and, in fact, become a more effective organization in philosophy, approaches and ideals. Ironically, Theo's departure has brought us closer together in many respects, and, thanks to these conversations, we now enjoy the bonds of a shared vision for the organization's future that did not exist on October 31. With this vision in place, Theo will return to the Red Sox in a full-time baseball operations capacity, details of which will be announced next week.'

So whilst it hasn't been confirmed as to what his new role will be, reading between the lines then it is clear that he'll get to call the shots whether he is officially the GM or not. However this situation isn't always good, look at the New York Yankees where Brian Cashman was always second guessed by those above him causing him to nearly leave the franchise after last season, before beguaranteedteed the freedom to do things his way.

Still, I have a funny feeling that the whole of Red Sox nation are now ready and waiting for the 2006 season with renewed hope and beyond that expectations. This is on paper seemingly a good move for Boston and the feel good factor is going to be clear for all to see but is it the right move to bring in an old GM when you have two guys already sharing that role?

It will be interesting to see how this all shakes out when the details are known next week. Now over to you Neil, oh wait he's already posted and not one Sabrina reference in sight, I'm disappointed in you Mr Hay!