Red Sox non-tender Sweeney, Atchison, Hill

BOSTON -- With decent organizational depth at the corner outfield spots, the Red Sox non-tendered veteran Ryan Sweeney on Friday. Acquired along with Andrew Bailey last December in a trade with Oakland, Sweeney was both injury-prone and unproductive in his brief tenure with Boston. His 2012 season ended on a note that was both embarrassing and frustrating, as he broke his hand punching a door in the clubhouse following a bad at-bat on July 30. The 27-year-old played in 63 games for the Red Sox, and had three stints on the disabled list. He hit .260 with 18 doubles, two triples, no homers and 16 RBIs. Daniel Nava and Ryan Kalish are alternatives to help supplement the outfield. The Red Sox are also on the verge of signing left fielder Jonny Gomes to a two-year, $10 million deal, and they are trying to re-sign Cody Ross. The Sox also non-tendered veteran relievers Scott Atchison and Rich Hill, but there's a chance both could return on Minor League deals that include invites to Spring Training. In fact, Hill was non-tendered last winter and wound up returning. Atchison, a righty, has been an underrated performer for the Red Sox in recent years. In 2012 he went 2-1 with a 1.58 ERA, notching 36 strikeouts. He missed 55 games because of an injured UCL in his right elbow but wound up not needing surgery. Injuries have also been a problem for left-hander Hill, a native of Milton, Mass. Hill bounced back from the Tommy John surgery he had in June 2011 but was able to pitch in only 25 games because of a strained flexor in his elbow. Hill has pitched well for the Red Sox when healthy. Sweeney, Hill and Atchison are now free agents. The Sox did tender contracts to the other 30 unsigned players, a list that includes Jacoby Ellsbury, Alfredo Aceves, Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Daniel Bard.

Red Sox tab Rodriguez as assistant hitting coach

 

BOSTON -- The Red Sox have promoted one of their most loyal and hard-working employees to the Major Leagues. Victor Rodriguez was named the team's assistant hitting coach on Friday. The 2013 season will mark Rodriguez's 19th with the organization, but first on the Major League staff. Earlier this week, the Sox selected Greg Colbrunn as their new hitting coach. The Red Sox have joined a new wave of thinking, that two hitting coaches is necessary for peak efficiency. "I think the most important thing is when you consider an assistant hitting coach is they've got to be aligned in their overall thoughts as far as hitting goes," Red Sox manager John Farrell said earlier this week. "We can't have conflicting messages to the individuals. And once that rapport is built with those two staff members, now it gives the ability to have that trust." Rodriguez was Boston's Minor League coordinator for the last six years. Before that, he was the team's Latin field coordinator for three years, and has also served several other roles in the organization over the years. The New York City native was originally signed by the Orioles in 1977 and played professionally for 19 seasons, including 17 games in the Majors

Red Sox tab Colbrunn as hitting coach

Red Sox tab Colbrunn as hitting coach

  BOSTON -- The Red Sox filled their void at hitting coach on Wednesday, hiring former Major Leaguer Greg Colbrunn, who won a World Series with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2001.

After spending six years as a hitting coach in the Yankees' farm system, Colbrunn moves to Boston, where he will be on a Major League staff for the first time. "I've had a couple opportunities in the past to move up or do something different here in Charleston, but nothing ever really sounded too good or anything until this offseason," said Colbrunn. "And then this situation came up, this opportunity came up. After going through the interview process and my wife being from Connecticut and all that, it's a great opportunity." What made Colbrunn the top choice after an extensive search? "As we've done with every position on the staff, we looked to find people that had great communication skills, that had a very solid personal experience level to tap into," said Red Sox manager John Farrell. "And the more we did our homework, it became clear that he was a strong candidate. As we went through the interview process, it became very clear that not only does he have a wealth of knowledge as far as hitting goes, but the ability to relate in that interview process -- we felt like that would certainly carry over to dealing with our hitters. "His fundamental approach to hitting is aligned with what we value. All things considered, this became a very clear choice as we went through that process." After spending the last several years working with Class A hitters, Colbrunn will work with established stars like Dustin Pedroia and David Ortiz. "With big leaguers, they've gone through that process," said Colbrunn. "They've gotten their 1,000 repetitions and they have a real good idea how to hit. A lot of it becomes more mental than it is physical." The Red Sox, even before hiring Colbrunn, said they planned on going with a system featuring two hitting coaches. That is still the case, as Farrell confirmed the club is still in the hunt for an assistant hitting coach. Victor Rodriguez, who has been in Boston's organization for years at the Minor League level, is a top candidate. "It's something that we're definitely not only interested in the concept [of] but also looking to put in place," said Farrell. "I think the most important [factor] when you consider an assistant hitting coach is they've got to be aligned in their overall thoughts as far as hitting goes. We can't have conflicting messages to the individuals. And once that rapport is built with those two staff members, now it gives the ability to have that trust." In his 13-year playing career, Colbrunn reached the postseason five times. A California native, he was selected by the Expos in the sixth round of the 1987 First-Year Player Draft. Colbrunn had a solid 992-game career for the Expos, Marlins, Twins, Braves, Rockies, D-backs and Mariners from 1992-2004, hitting .289 with 155 doubles, 12 triples, 98 homers, 422 RBIs and 337 runs. It is fair to describe Colbrunn as a big-game player, considering he produced a .344 average in 21 postseason games. Colbrunn, 46, becomes the latest addition to a coaching staff that has been overhauled since Farrell was hired as manager. Torey Lovullo was named bench coach, and Juan Nieves is the new pitching coach. Brian Butterfield was hired to be the third-base coach, with Arnie Beyeler selected as the first-base coach. Gary Tuck, the bullpen coach/catching instructor, is the one holdover from former manager Bobby Valentine's staff. Colbrunn succeeds Dave Magadan, who moved on to the Rangers after spending six seasons as Boston's hitting coach. "We're very happy, largely in part not only because of the experiences that each have individually but the people that they are," said Farrell. "I thought it was important to have characteristics that each possess. I can say, to a man, that they do -- that the players' well-being, their career, that's at the forefront of everybody's mind. It's not about the coach; it's about the player."

Stewart one of three dealt by Red Sox

Stewart's first strikeout with Boston00:00:25

8/29/12: Zach Stewart gets Mark Trumbo swinging in the first inning, tallying his first strikeout with the Red Sox

BOSTON -- Best known as one of the players the Red Sox got from the White Sox in return for Kevin Youkilis back in June, right-hander Zach Stewart was traded to the Pirates on Wednesday. The Red Sox will receive a player to be named for Stewart, whom they designated for assignment last week. In other minor moves, Boston sent infielder Danny Valencia to the Orioles in exchange for cash considerations and right-hander Sandy Rosario to the Athletics for a player to be named or cash. After stints with the Reds (Minor Leagues only), Blue Jays, White Sox and Red Sox, the 26-year-old Stewart hopes to finally live up to some of his promise in Pittsburgh. Scouts have seen potential in Stewart over the years, based on the fact he has been traded for Scott Rolen, Edwin Jackson and Youkilis in his career. Following the trade to the Red Sox, Stewart spent most of his time in Boston's organization with Triple-A Pawtucket and pitched well at that level. But the right-hander was shelled in two starts for the Red Sox, going 0-2 with a 22.24 ERA and giving up 17 hits in 5 2/3 innings. A 19th-round pick of the Twins in the 2006 Draft, Valencia was dealt in August to the Red Sox, for whom he hit .143 with one home run in 10 games. Boston claimed Rosario off waivers from the Marlins on Oct. 17 and designated him for assignment on Nov. 20. The 27-year-old posted a 1.04 ERA and had 16 saves over 25 appearances for Miami's Triple-A New Orleans squad this past season.

Red Sox name Beyeler first-base coach

Red Sox name Beyeler first-base coach

Former Minor League manager Arnie Beyeler was hired as Boston's new first-base coach. (MiLB.com)

The Red Sox promoted former Minor League manager Arnie Beyeler to the position of first-base coach for the big league club. Beyeler will embark on his 10th season in Boston's organization and his first on a Major League staff. He spent the last two seasons as skipper for Triple-A Pawtucket and became the third manager to lead the PawSox to consecutive postseason appearances. "Arnie has had a successful professional career as a player, coach and manager," Red Sox manager John Farrell said. "This allows him to bring a wealth of experience to this position." Beyeler, 48, directed the PawSox to the Governors' Cup in 2012, marking the club's first International League championship in 28 years. Before his stint at Pawtucket, he managed Double-A Portland from 2007-10 and piloted the Sea Dogs to a pair of Eastern League playoff trips. Beyeler got his first taste at managing with the Red Sox organization's Class A Lowell affiliate in 2000-01. He also served as skipper for Class A Augusta in 2002. Beyeler spent three seasons from 2003-05 managing the Rangers' Class A affiliate. He also served as hitting coach for the Padres' Double-A Mobile club in 2006. An infielder by trade, Beyeler spent six seasons in the Tigers' farm system, climbing as high as Triple-A in 1991. He joins a reconstructed coaching staff in Boston that includes a new manager in Farrell, as well as pitching coach Juan Nieves, third-base coach Brian Butterfield and bench coach Torey Lovullo.

Red Sox add six Minor Leaguers to 40-man roster

Top Prospects: Webster, BOS00:00:49

2012 MLB.com Top Prospects: Allen Webster has a good feel for pitching and all signs point to him being a productive starter

BOSTON -- In anticipation of the upcoming Rule 5 Draft, the Red Sox added six players to their 40-man roster, including right-hander Allen Webster, one of the prospects acquired from the Dodgers in the blockbuster trade back in August. The other players the Sox have protected for the Rule 5 Draft are catcher Dan Butler, outfielder Alex Hassan, right-hander Alex Wilson, catcher Christian Vazquez and knuckleballer Steven Wright. To make room for those players, Boston designated five players for assignment -- infielder Ivan De Jesus, third baseman Danny Valencia, and right-handed pitchers David Carpenter, Sandy Rosario and Zach Stewart. Stewart was the prospect the Red Sox acquired for Kevin Youkilis back in June, but he struggled mightily in two Major League starts. Webster, a sinkerballer, is someone Boston hopes can be a big part of the organization's future. Last season, he went 6-9 with a 3.86 ERA and 129 strikeouts while walking 61 over 29 appearances. Butler is known for his defense at a position the Red Sox can't afford to lose depth at within the organization. The same goes for Vazquez, who doesn't have the same experience as Butler, but is considered by some to be Boston's best defensive catcher in the Minors. It was viewed as somewhat of a surprise that the Red Sox protected Hassan, a 20th-round pick out of Duke in the 2009 First-Year Player Draft, who had some health problems late in 2012. However, he is one of the most disciplined hitters in Boston's farm system. He had a .377 on-base percentage for Triple-A Pawtucket last season while drawing 55 walks. Wilson's stock has risen since the Red Sox converted him to the bullpen. At Pawtucket in 2012, he produced 78 strikeouts in 72 2/3 innings while sitting in the mid 90s with his fastball. He could be an option in the Majors as a closer at some point. Wright, 28, was acquired by the Red Sox from the Indians for Lars Anderson last July 31. The Rule 5 Draft takes place on Dec. 6 in Nashville, Tenn. Before that, another key date on the offseason calendar awaits. By Nov. 30, the Red Sox must tender contracts to all of their unsigned players. Here is a look at Boston's updated 40-man roster: PITCHERS (23): Alfredo Aceves, Scott Atchison, Andrew Bailey, Daniel Bard, Pedro Beato, Craig Breslow, Drake Britton, Clay Buchholz, Chris Carpenter, Rubby De La Rosa, Felix Doubront, Rich Hill, John Lackey, Jon Lester, Mark Melancon, Andrew Miller, Franklin Morales, Clayton Mortensen, Stolmy Pimentel, Junichi Tazawa, Allen Webster, Alex Wilson, Steven Wright. CATCHERS (5): Dan Butler, Ryan Lavarnway, David Ross, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Christian Vazquez. INFIELDERS (7): Pedro Ciriaco, Mauro Gomez, Jose Iglesias, Will Middlebrooks, David Ortiz, Dustin Pedroia, Jerry Sands. OUTFIELDERS (5): Jacoby Ellsbury, Alex Hassan, Ryan Kalish, Daniel Nava, Ryan Sweeney.

Red Sox agree to deal with outfielder Gomes

BOSTON -- While the Red Sox haven't given up on re-signing Cody Ross, they reportedly agreed to a contract with a free-agent outfielder with similar credentials. Boston is one of several teams to negotiate with right-handed-hitting slugger Jonny Gomes in recent days, and multiple sources reported Wednesday that he agreed to a two-year, $10 million contract. It remains to be seen how much of a role the Red Sox would ask Gomes to play. What is clear is that his pull power from the right side would make him a good fit at Fenway Park, particularly against left-handed pitchers. Gomes is also noted for having a positive influence in the clubhouse, something that would make him a good fit for a Red Sox team that is trying to improve its culture. Gomes has topped 500 at-bats just once in his career, back in 2010 with the Reds. Last year, he helped the surprising Oakland Athletics reach the postseason by batting .262 with 18 homers, 47 RBIs and a .377 on-base percentage in 333 plate appearances. Over a 10-year career, Gomes, who turns 32 on Thanksgiving, is a .244 hitter with 136 homers, 411 RBIs and a .790 OPS. Gomes broke in with the Rays, where he played from 2003-08. He played for the Reds for 2 1/2 seasons before finishing the '11 season with the Washington Nationals. The Athletics signed Gomes to a one-year deal on Jan. 26, 2012.

The christmas wish of a terminally ill child in virginia

Request from the Virginia Department of Fire Programs who asked if we ould passs on this request from Sergeant Robert J. Carpentieri of the Virginia State Police. Please read the full text of the message and help if you can.

"A friend of mine that is a life-saving crew member in Bedford County emailed me a request and asked for our help within the State Police family.

There is a 6 year old boy ...
from Rustburg, Virginia that is dying of ...terminal cancer and he might not live to see Christmas. His special request is to receive Christmas cards from police officers, firefighters and EMS personnel.

I would appreciate if you could take a few minutes out of your busy schedule and grant Nathan’s wish by sending him a card.
Let’s show our support!"

Cards can be mailed to:

Nathan Norman
81 Dunivan Drive
Rustburg, Virginia 24588

__________________

A Must Watch Video

http://friendsoffirefighters.org/

update as of 11-18-2012

David Ross

The Boston Red Sox ink catcher David Ross two year deal for 6.2 mil.

NEW SUTPHEN DELIVERIES

 THIS IS SOUTHINGTON'S CT NEW SUTPHEN PUMPER  PHOTO BY JIM  LYONS

 IN THIS PIC LEFT TO RIGHT ARE JIM LYONS-FIVE STAR FIRE DREW SUTPHEN PRESIDENT OF SUTPHEN FIRE APPARATUS CHIEF HAROLD CLARK -SOUTHINGTON FD LIEUTENANT JIMMY PAUL FIREFIGHTER KEITH GLABAU FIREFIGHTER GLENN DUBE FIREFIGHTER SCOTT LEE                                                         PHOTO  BY JIM LYONS

 THIS IS FALMOUTH MAINE THIS IS THE FIRST NEW SUTPHEN PUMPER SOLD IN THE STATE OF MAINE. SUTPHEN SHIELD PUMPER 1000 GALLON WATER TANK HALE 1500 GPM PUMP 1O KW HYDRAULIC GENERATOR COMMAND LIGHT LIGHT TOWER CUMMINS ISL 450 HP ENGINE ALLISON EVS 3000 TRANSMISSION  
  PHOTO BY JIM LYONS

 THIS IS HARWINTON ,CT VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT 2011 MONARCH CUSTOM  PUMPER STAINLESS STEEL BODY 1000 GALLON WATER TANK HALE 1500 GPM PUMP INTERNAL SUCTION HOSE STORAGE CUMMINS ISM 450 HP ENGINE ALLISON 4000 TRANSMISSION   PHOTO BY JIM LYONS

THIS IS  MILFORD CT NEW SUTPHEN SL-75 QUINT AERIAL 1500 GPM HALE PUMP 4 SECTION ALUMINUM LADDER 500 GALLONS OF WATER STAINLESS BODY CUMMINS ISX 500 HP ENGINE ALLISON 4000 TRANSMISSION  PHOTO BY JIM LYONS

pic's of a mill fire in RI & several fires around East Hartford

Hi Looking for fire buff's

Hi I am currently looking for fire buffs to send in pic's and any fire news they have .

First Major Post

above is Hartford Engine 2 and engine 5

 above is old hartford tac 1 engine 9 and engine 1

 above is east hartford engine 3 in hartford on a call

 above is east hartford squad 1

 above is east hartford engine 1

 above is east hartford ladder 2 in hartford on a call

 above is east hartford engine 2

above is a seagrave towermax that did not meet east hartford requirements and then it was return  to seagrave then sold to lynnfield mass

Hartford,ct Engine 11 New sutphen

above is Hartford ,ct new sutphen for engine 11.

David Ortiz

Good News for us Redsox fan they signed David Ortiz on a two year Contract .


stay tune

for more news on fire apparatus and sports news !!

intro post

Hi  this is still an on going work  and is looking for people to give some insight on this website. Once it's up and running I will have daily updates on aera fire apparatus pic's and news on new apparatus being ordered !



Stay Tuned


Mike