By Fitzgerald Cecilio

Boston, MA

The Boston Red Sox suffered through a miserable season, and first-year manager Bobby Valentine paid the price for it with his job.

The skipper was dismissed one day after the BoSox capped a 69-93 campaign, good for last-place in the AL East. It marked the first time the two-time recent World Series' champs finished last in the division since 1992.

Valentine, the ex-ESPN analyst who had previous success with the Mets and in Japan, also didn't help his own cause by taking on players through the media.

"I understand this decision," Valentine said. "This year in Boston has been an incredible experience for me, but I am as disappointed in the results as are ownership and the great fans of Red Sox Nation. It was a privilege to be part of the 100 year anniversary of Fenway Park and an honor to be in uniform with such great players and coaches. My best to the organization ... I'm sure next year will be a turnaround year."

The Red Sox will try to regain their recent winning ways without Valentine, however.

"Our 2012 season was disappointing for many reasons," said Executive Vice-President/General Manager Ben Cherington, who made the announcement and will lead the search for his replacement. "No single issue is the reason, and no single individual is to blame. We've been making personnel changes since August, and we will continue to do so as we build a contending club. With an historic number of injuries, Bobby was dealt a difficult hand. He did the best he could under seriously adverse circumstances, and I am thankful to him."

 

 

No Love for Bobby Valentine: Red Sox Dump Manager