They own the city: Growing up, I thought I’d never see two things: The end of the Cold War and a Sox World Series championship. I’ve seen both. ... Manny, Pedro, Curt, Johnny, Lowe, Papi. Take your pick. They’re all playoff MVPs. But here’s my nomination: Keith Foulke. The stats: “He had the ball in his hand every game of the series and posted a win and a 1.80 ERA. Foulke went 1-0 with three saves and a 0.64 ERA in 11 appearances in the postseason, allowing only one run on seven hits in 14 innings, while striking out 19 batters.” ... Repeat: Striking out 19 in 14
innings. Can you ask for more from a reliever? ... Compare the Sox’ newfound emphasis in the past year on pitching to Edgar Renteria’s lament about the Card’s lack of hitting. ...

You know Boston is happy when: The garbage men outside your window are merrily and loudly collecting your garbage, ‘Go Sox! ... Awesome! ... Good morning!’ and residents are leaning out the windows and merrily and loudly returning the greetings. ... I can’t wait to walk to work. ... Yesterday, I really did feel like I was on laughing gas. This morning, just pure, crisp happiness.



Dynasty? Moneyball time: John Henry: “We don’t do this as a hobby.” ...   ¶ 7:12 AM