Welcome to our first report from the farm! To kick it off, Ted's Army was on location at McCoy Stadium in Pawtucket for Media Day 2010. Almost all players were in attendance along with dozens of reporters from the area. The weather could not have been better and the field was in the best condition that I have seen in a while.
The Pawtucket Red Sox just finished installing a brand-spanking new video screen (pictured right center) replacing a smaller "diamond vision" screen installed in 1997. It is the only one of its kind in all of the minor league venues. They also installed a much smaller panoramic video screen in right below the pitch speed sign that will keep fans updated with Red Sox scores and highlights.
After admiring the looks and updates of the stadium, I caught up with a familiar face, Alan Embree.
Q: What are the details of your contract with the Red Sox?
AE: "Well they have until the 15th, so I have the option to opt out or they do something with me..."
Q: Why did you decide to come back and sign with Boston?
AE: "Past history. It's my final year. I'd like to finish up here."
After the jump, more interviews and pictures from McCoy...
Then we got some time with outfielder Josh Reddick as he talked about how he felt starting the season in Pawtucket
"I am happy playing where ever, or somewhere else. I am happy playing this game..."
"...playing an hour away from Boston is always a good thing too..."
Finally new manager Torey Lovullo talked about what we can expect from the Pawsox this season
"The make up of the team is going to be a bunch of savvy skilled, high IQ baseball players. We are going to go out there and compete every night. We are going to develop young players hoping the major league staff gets their hands on the right guys. Its going to be a fun and exciting year."
I like this guy as a manager for this team. He is young and energetic and knows his stuff. He connects with his players and looks as if he can make these guys great.
Whenever anyone gets a chance, check these guys out. $11 for a box seat and $7 for general admission, you can't go wrong and there is not a bad seat in the house.
We will have complete coverage of the Pawsox all season long and have post game locker room coverage for Daisuke's start in Pawtucket on Saturday.
All photos ©TedsArmy.com
