Tito Re-upped

Good news for Sox fans and Sox players alike: Terry Francona, Sox Skipper, has signed a 2 year extension as manager of the Boston Red Sox, meaning he will remain in charge through the 2008 campaign.
The extension is well deserved for Tito, who brought the Sox their first World Championship in 86 years in his first year as manager in the unforgettable 2004 season, and won 95 games a year ago leading the Red Sox to the playoffs.

Francona was in line for a big raise. Tito signed a deal before the 2004 season that was for $1.65 million over three years. At that time, he was on the lower end of what most Major League managers make (Joe Torre $5.5 million per season, Dusty Baker $4.5), and very far behind Bill Belichick (for obvious reasons) and 1/10, yes, one-tenth, of what Doc Rivers will make for coaching the Celtics, and they probably won't even make the playoffs.

When asked about his new contract, Francona stated he was "very pleased and very appreciative for a lot of reasons." Here's assuming (and hoping) that the "appreciation" equals some substantial dollars. Tito, you earned every penny, and Bostonists everywhere are grateful, happy, and excited to have you on board for another 3 seasons.

Some random ex-Sox news... Johnny Damon has shoulder tendonitis and will not be able to throw for a week or two (cough.. Coco... cough). Oh, and remember old friend Pedro Martinez? Well, Petey's toe still hurty hurty, and there is now talk of him going under the knife which could sideline him for a substantial part of the 2006 season. The front office looks smarter and smarter every day here in Boston, don't they?

Image is actually of Papa Tito Francona, from who Terry presumably got his nick. Bostonist is amazed by the striking resemblence - throw a warm up on that man and we'd swear he's the guy popping out of the dugout from time to time.