Is Coco Crisp up to the task of replacing Johnny Damon?
To continue our theme of relentless optimism . . . yes, in every single way. Crisp has the name and the game to replace Damon not only on the field, but in fans’ hearts. He’s articulate and engaging – his Sports Final interview with Ch. 4’s Dan Roche was one of the most insightful I’ve seen in some time – and his on-field style is remarkably similar to his predecessor’s: he plays with tireless hustle and absolutely no fear, features fleet feet and surprising pop, and like Damon when he arrived in Boston, is coming to town just in time for his prime. He may not sell as many pink t-shirts or fake beards as Damon, but Crisp will be every bit his equal between the lines. I can’t wait for Fenway to fall for him.