MLB

“How are the Red Sox any better than the Yankees?” It’s a question I hear often when I walk the streets of Cleveland dressed in Boston paraphernalia.

Most of my fellow Indians fans see the two big-market clubs as equally evil; as long as they both buy our players and beat us in the playoffs, it doesn’t matter who is worse.

Knowing that trying to convert my peers to dual fandom would be futile, I usually respond by explaining to my questioner why the Red Sox are the lesser of two evils.

This is the second in my new series in which I will name what I feel are the top ten players in each MLB franchise's history.

Despite a slow start as a franchise, the Rays finally seem to be heading in the right direction, as years of drafting at the top of the draft have led to a bevy of talented young players.

I have included the players stats during their time with the team, as well as where those stats rank all-time for within the franchise.

I look forward to hearing where you the reader would differ in your top ten, and I welcome your comments.

Amidst the Monday news of the Red Sox signing pitcher John Lackey and outfielder Mike Cameron came a truth that far too many are just sweeping off to the side like it doesn't matter—Jason Bay will not return to Boston next season.

While Theo and the gang may be ready to just move on quickly, I'm not fully prepared to drive Bay to the airport just yet. Bear with me for a minute, throw on some Pearl Jam (his at-bat band of choice), and grab some tissues if you start getting emotional. We'll get through this together.

Preface: Cliff Lee was undeniably awesome in most of his starts for the Phillies in 2009. 

Unfortunately, the Phillies are not owned by Comcast Spectacor and do not have an endless revenue stream.  Phillies fans must also realize that Ruben Amaro, Jr. would like to keep his job past 2010.  So, while the fans would like to sell out for 2010, RAJ must maintain the health of the franchise while still improving the current model.  He has done that this week, if all reports are indeed true. 

Let's get some housecleaning out of the way first. 

Despite all of the whining and complaining from the vocal minority this off-season, the Mets are doing all the right things.

They have already made two major upgrades at shortstop and center field.

Jose Reyes and Carlos Beltran are much better players than Alex Cora and Angel Pagan.

For those that just want to look at the Mets record last year and ignore the fact that we had injuries to three of our four best offensive players, let me remind you that the Mets entered June seven games over .500 at 28-21 and just a half game out of first.

The Boston Red Sox have the lead, so to speak in the American League East.

With the signing of pitcher John Lackey and aging outfielder Mike Cameron, the Red Sox sent two strong messages. First, they intend to field the toughest rotation in the American League, and they are willing to sacrifice some serious offense to do it.

As it stands right now, Boston's lineup pales in comparison to that of a certain Bronx rival. Gone are the days where Manny and Big Papi lurked in the middle of the order, terrifying opposing pitchers. With the departure of Jason Bay a near certainty, the Sox lack even one true power hitter.

There are a few things to like about Aroldis Chapman, the pitcher who defected from Cuba and is looking for an MLB team to pitch for.

First, he thumbed his nose at Fidel Castro and all those whiny, Castro-loving celebrities like Jack Nicholson and Oliver Stone by defecting. (Granted, his reason for defecting may stem from the prospect of millions of American dollars rather than a thirst for political freedom).

So, how long do you think it'll take management to capitalize on this golden opportunity?  Crosby night.  Of course you'd see a couple thousand No. 87 Sidney Crosby jerseys in the stands, but what's the chance you'll see a BOBBY Crosby jersey in the stands?  Not likely. What are the chances Crosby wears the No. 87 with the Pirates?  Again, not likely.