Star Power
A star leading the team and that star is obvious with newly retired David Ortiz. Can Ortiz handle the in-game situations? With his level of experience that is not, nor should be an issue. A good bench coach is always at your managerial elbow to give advice. Just make sure it isn’t Manny Ramirez.
Ortiz knows pitching since he had spent his entire Boston career wreaking havoc on the opposition hurlers. Ortiz was mostly a designated hitter, so he does have an excessive amount of bench observational time. Toss in the fact Ortiz played for several managers who should have a bit of insight into what works and what doesn’t.
The personality of Ortiz is dominating and that could – like with both Farrell and Terry Francona – shield players by acting as an insulator from the vociferous Boston media. Media is part of the job description and Ortiz knows how to play that tune exceptionally well.
Being a star and a successful manager does not necessarily go hand in hand. Most simply do not succeed. Ted Williams won a Manager of the Year Award and got both bored with the position and frustrated with the players. Ortiz – despite his passion for the game – could suffer the same.
The chances of Ortiz taking over are quite slim, but there is even a slimmer option and that is the return of “Old School” – a player –manager.