I haven’t come across a more thorough critique of the Red Sox’s managed decline than Dan Secatore’s recent piece, where he argues that the team doesn’t require John Henry and Tom Werner, despite their quarter-century of success. If you haven’t read it, I recommend doing so. Continuing in a similar style, tone, and substance, it’s apparent that the organization has become both thrifty and complacent, presuming they’ve earned this attitude. It’s suggested that they think they’ve purchased not only your loyalty, patience, but most importantly, the unwavering support of your wallet, a sentiment challenged by the author.
Dan questions if John Henry, as suggested, has been the best owner in American professional sports since taking over. While acknowledging the achieved results, he highlights that the process hasn’t always been smooth, coherent, and has at times been turbulent and reactive. The difference is drawn with Robert Kraft, who, before the Tom Brady breakup, refrained from publicly interfering in Bill Belichick’s affairs. On the contrary, Henry seems to have struggled to refrain, finally disappearing altogether at a crucial time. Importantly, it’s argued that Kraft’s commitment to fielding a winning team contrasts with Henry’s apparent lack of interest.
The author notes Henry’s avoidance of discussing the matter, delegating the responsibility to Tom Werner and Sam Kennedy, portraying a lack of transparency. Craig Breslow, seemingly a mere functionary for now, is described as sounding overwhelmed, possibly constrained by internal limits. Breslow is portrayed as an everyman inside the organization, conveying a sense of concern for what he observes: a leadership in total denial, having detrimentally impacted the team over the past five years while fans grow increasingly dissatisfied.
The critique traces back to the start of the Bloom era, with the Mookie Betts trade signaling a change in direction. The promised magic seeds have yet to yield significant results. The organization, according to the author, lives in a fairy tale they brought to life, specifically targeting the beanstalk. The Winter Weekend event, introducing three minor leaguers as potential saviors, is criticized for being cringeworthy and undignified.
Referencing Ken Rosenthal’s criticism on a recent TV appearance, the piece argues that the Red Sox’s approach lacks effort and isn’t in line with reality. Specific instances, like the reluctance to sign Jordan Montgomery, are cited to support this claim. The article concludes by emphasizing the disconnect between the team’s self-perception and the reality reflected on the field, warning of the long-lasting impact of this approach.
