A Fuji Holiday

A couple months ago now, Fuji wrote a post saying he was looking to complete the relic set from 2019 Topps Holiday. I can't say that I blame him. The Topps Holiday brand has turned into a fun set, and the relic design certainly expanded on that. So, while I didn't buy a ton of that product, I checked out his wantlist.

Luckily, not only did I have a card he needed, but it was a Yankees card! I always welcome the chance to get Yankees cards as far as possible from me. Fuji offered a card in exchange, and we were ready. 

Unfortunately, upon double checking, Fuji realized that he didn't actually need the card I have. Being a stand-up guy, though, he offered to send along the card he promised me anyway. Which card was it? I'm glad you asked.

See? I told you they were fun. I especially like how the game used piece is from a red jersey. Not only is it slightly rarer for the Sox to wear those jerseys, but it definitely fits the Holiday theme better. It's like a giant holly berry. (Come to think of it, with Pedroia doing nothing lately other than collect his albatross mistake of a contract, I wonder when he last wore a red jersey.)

I plan on sending Fuji back a return package anyway. Hopefully that won't violate his recent reduction in trade package mailings. After all, this would just even things up, right?

Thanks for the card Fuji!

2019 Topps Series 2 Blaster!

OK, so it's not quite a Topps Update box. But, it's a little bit newer than some others. Been meaning to post this one for a bit, so glad I'm finally getting the chance.

And hoping you still care...if you ever did.

Yup. It's actually a Series 2 box. Couple decent ballplayers on the cover.

Seven pacs, plus the one special patch card pack. Let's start with that one.

OK. So, decent player. But, is there anyone out there with an Honus Wagner player collection that this sort of card would appeal to? Especially since, as you may have noticed, this isn't a regular old patch card. This is a special foil numbered version. So, an Honus Wagner super-collector? Let's check out the back of this one.

 Yeah. Ok. 36/150. Maybe I can think of someone who might like that numbering.

Starting with the real packs, we get another middle infielder without much range these days. I wonder what kind of offer the Sox could make him so that he would retire. Some sort of personal services contract in order to get him out of the luxury tax calculation? Nice picture though. I wonder when they could have gotten that shot.

High fives. Low fives. Number five. I sense a theme in this pack.

Bregman must be looking for his sign before he takes his cuts.

This card is much better than the annoying Aaron Judge versions. Almost makes it worth going to Wal-Mart. I said "almost".

I like the "Franchise Feats" idea for a card set celebrating 150 years of baseball. Gives a decent excuse to add more star players into the set. I, of course, live the Benintendi card. That picture belongs in ever sports room in New England.

Not sure I need another Bob Feller reprint card. Let me rephrase that. I know I don't.

Nor do I particularly need a Rickey Henderson reprint/throwback. It's one thing to see new players on old designs. It's another to see them on designs we've already seen them on. Not sure I see the purpose. 

But, overall, a couple decent Red Sox cards in the box...including an insert. Not exactly something to write home about. But, it's not like it's a premium box. 

How did your boxes go?

Was Dustin Pedroia Any Good?

With the recent news that Dustin Pedroia is taking a break from his rehabbing, and questioning whether he'd ever play again, I thought it would be a good time to look through my scorebooks and see how Pedroia performed while I was keeping score. Was he the little spark plug superstar people seem to get no he is? Only one way to find out.

Here are his stats!

They may be hard to read, but they're a pretty solid “meh”.

It looks like I saw Pedroia come to the plate almost 200 times while I was keeping score. He reached base in 32% of those appearances.

Projected over an entire season, he would have ended with a .260-7-51 stat line while slashing .320/.365/.685. Not exactly the stuff of legends.

It's also a significant step down from his career averages. So, it's safe to say that I didn't see Pedroia at his best. It's interesting, though, because I saw him for a good chunk of time, throughout his career. You would think that I'd get a good cross section. But, alas, I got a weak hitting middle infielder.

That's too bad.

How was Pedroia while you were in the park?

It Feels Good to be Right!

I mean, I'm sure you knew that. And I certainly would have assumed it to be the case. And it's certainly been true every other

time it's happened. But, it's still nice to have it proven again. Being right feels good.

Because, I was right about the Red Sox. Again. The season wasn't doomed. They didn't dig themselves an impossible hole that they'd never escape. They calculated a plan, stuck to it, and are now seeing the rewards. Other people may have been screaming and yelling a month ago when they were 6-12 and already 6.5 games back in the East. Some saw tragic flaws in their starting rotation that may never be fixed.

Of course, we here in Section 36 saw the plan. I believed Cora when he pointed to mid-May as a turnaround point. He was willing to punt on the first month of the season again, in order to have a stronger finish.

Once again, I'm a little surprised that fans aren't more patient with the Sox when they're following a model of success proven by the Patriots. The Red Sox basically started their season in a 28-3 hole. But, like the Patriots in Super Bowl LI they have the better conditioning down the stretch. They are going to be facing teams who tried their hardest in April, and are a month more beaten down than the Sox.

Advantage Boston.

Now, of course, the Sox aren't all the way back. They're still in third place, 3 games back. But a three game lead on May 14 is nothing. That can go away in a weekend. The Sox have gotten the first White touchdown. They're on their way...just like we thought.

I was also shown to be right about Dustin Pedroia, on a comment I made five years ago. When the Sox signed him to his terrible contract, I said it would come back to bite them. I said he'd try to come back from injuries too soon, and miss even more time because of it. I said it'd take a miracle for him to be worth even his reduced contract value in 2018-9.

And? Here we are. Pedroia tried to come back from an injury too soon this season. Cost the team a couple games, then went back on the IL. Still tried to do too much, and had to be shut down yet again. This is not going to go well for the Sox. If only they had listened  to me all those years ago.

I guess I'll just have to comfort myself with the knowledge that I was right.

Again.

Laura Aramini Visits Section 36!

Section 36 has another visitor! Laura Aramini is a recruiter, a Red Sox fan, and a rookie member of the New England Patriots

Photo by Dwight Darian

Cheerleaders! I'm flattered that she was willing to take some time out of her busy schedule to talk to us about those topics, and a few more. I know you'll love reading what she had to say.

So, let’s see what happens when Laura Aramini visits Section 36!

You are currently working as a healthcare recruiter. How did you get into that field?
After college, I needed a full time job and I fell into recruiting. I have always loved learning about people and helping others so I thought recruiting would entail both of those passions.

You were recently the choreographer for the Danceworks Boston production of “7 Years”. What was that experience like?
It was great to create a piece from scratch and have my vision come to life onstage.  I was able to experiment ideas on my group of dancers and play around with dynamics, formations, and patterns. The song was filled with emotion and I wanted to make the

audience feel something while watching the dance.  "7 Years" was the closing piece of the show so I was determined to create a dance that resonated with the audience. My goal was to make the audience cry, and that goal was accomplished!

What made you decide to try out to be a New England Patriots Cheerleader?
The Patriots Cheerleaders encompass all qualities that I value. I have looked up to the team as intelligent leaders who are kind,

genuine, and talented. I have always wanted to be part of that so I knew I needed to audition. Also, the fact that the Cheerleaders are so involved in the community and have the ability to make such a positive impact in people's lives was very appealing to me. Most of all, who wouldn't want to dance/cheer for the best team in the NFL?!!  Auditioning to be an NEPC was hands down the best decision I have ever made.

How did you celebrate making the squad?
Making the squad was the best day of my entire life!  My family and I actually had tickets to a musical that night so that ended up being my celebration!

Photo by
Justin Hammond

What are you most looking forward to during your rookie season?
I am excited for every single part of this season. Dancing on the field, promotional events, making a difference in the community, meeting fans, bonding with the team, and meeting so many inspiring and accomplished individuals are just a few.  I'm excited to learn from the veterans and continue to improve as a dancer and brand ambassador. I have already learned so much throughout the audition process and the practices so far. I'm excited to challenge and push myself every day to improve in all aspects of this position.

What is your personal fitness routine?
I like to switch up my fitness routine! I love hitting the gym, taking extra dance classes, and taking various fitness classes. Recently,

Photo by
James Jin

when working out on my own I've been doing a lot of cardio and weights.

Who is your favorite current Red Sox player? Why?
My favorite Red Sox player would have to be Dustin Pedroia because he's been such a staple of the team!

Is there a feature or activity at Fenway park that you'd especially like to experience?
I would love to sit on the Green Monster with my Dad and brother!

What were you doing when the Red Sox won the 2018 World Series?
When the Red Sox won the 2018 World Series I was with my family and we were all watching the game together. We are a big, loud Italian family so the excitement level in the moment was just unreal!


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I can imagine things got pretty loud!

As always, I want to thank Laura for visiting with us. It was great hearing everything she had to say! It's always fun to combine two New England championship sports teams in one interview like this too.

As a way to follow along with Laura, I suggest you visit her New England Patriots Cheerleaders bio page. It's full of great information and pictures. It's a great way to follow her journey through the season, and hopefully the Super Bowl!

Thanks again for the visit Laura, and Go Pats!

Ok. This May Actually Be a Problem

When Alex Cora interviewed for the Red Sox managerial job, it's been reported that he was asked about the challenge of a veteran player who no longer played well enough to to justify his accustomed playing time. His response was something along the lines of not letting it be a problem by being up front and honest with the player. The ownership apparently admitted they weren't fond of that answer, thinking it a little naive. Then, during the season Cora suggested releasing Hanley Ramirez, who no longer deserved his playing time. People used that as proof that Cora was right. He simply wouldn't let it be a problem. But, eliminating a problem is different than dealing with a problem.

Why does that matter?

Because I don't think the Red Sox would release Dustin Pedroia.

But, there he was yesterday clogging up a spot in the batting order he didn't deserve. And, how did he repay that gratitude? He grounded into a rally killing double play. Then the next time? He hit a rally killing grounder to end the inning. After that? Yet another out. Then, after going 0-3 this far, Cora still let him bat for himself in an important ninth inning. Disgraceful.

Maybe you could argue that this falls into the Red Sox process of treating April like extended Spring Training. That they didn't really care who won the game, and they just wanted Pedroia to get as many at-bats as possible as soon as possible. But, once Pedroia reached base, why not pinch run for him? I mean, Pedroia isn't a great base runner on two good knees. Why have him in there to push it even further? It doesn't make any sense.

I mean, all the other "problems" people have been pointing to will fix themselves. The starters will, I promise, remember how to pitch. They didn't all forget at once. Trust the process. The offense has actually been hitting pretty well already. There's no reason to expect that to stop. There have been some defensive miscues that won't happen again. The only potential issue is another "It's not me, it's them" season from Pedroia. That one doesn't seem to be able to be fixed. That one keeps coming around.

After one game, it sure looks like Pedroia’s calling the shots. And if the most selfish player in quite some time is the one calling the shots, that's a bad sign for the Red Sox.

One that could doom another season.

Having Heritage Hangover?

What can I say. My Target seems to be incredibly pokey when it comes to bringing out the new stock. It took forever to bring out the 2019 Topps flagship. And, of course, it's been fully stocked since then. Likewise, it was in no hurry to put 2019 Heritage on the shelves. But, I was finally able to grab a blaster today. Does anyone still care what I got in the packs? Either way, here we go!

The first Red Sox in the box has to share his card with two Astros. How is that fair? 

The first solo Red Sox card is this beauty of EdRo posing in front of his hedge. I'm expecting big things from EdRo this year, so it's nice to see the look of determination on his face.

Of course, we all know what the backs look like. We've been looking at them since 1970. But, since the Sale card listed the other league leaders on the back, this is the first Red Sox back in the box. The cartoon is nice. Although, winning the pitcher of the year for the Red Sox in 2015 isn't exactly the same as winning the Cy Young. Wonder who finished second.

For obvious reasons, I was excited about the World Series subset in this year's set. Naturally, the only card I pulled celebrates the only World Series game the Red Sox lost.

The last pack was apparently a Red Sox hot pack. First came these two cards of two more Sox players posing in front of the hedge. Wonder if we'll see Pedroia at 2nd base much for the Sox this year.

The pack also included these two cards, bringing the total to four Red Sox cards in the last pack. If I was excited about the World Series subset, I didn't actually know this subset existed. A set celebrating the ALCS championship is definitely OK in my book. 

Other then the Red Sox, this was the best card out of the box. Of course, with the 36,000 different variations in Heritage, it took me a while to figure out this was in here. With Harper's monster contract in Philadelphia, this card will soon find a home in The Phillies Room. No idea if Jim can speak french. 

So, that was my box.

Is it better than yours?

Erika Farrell Visits Section 36!

Section 36 has a new visitor! Erika Farrell is a talented singer, a Red Sox fan, and the current Miss New Haven County. I was

thrilled that she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more. I hope you enjoy what she had to say!

So, lets see what happens when Erika Farrell visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss New Haven County crown?

I celebrated winning like anyone in the United States celebrates— with food! I was so thankful to have my family and friends there supporting me every step of the way. We all went out to dinner after the pageant, and that is when it had truly set in that I had won. 

What portion of the upcoming Miss Connecticut competition are you most nervous about?

It is hard to say what I am most nervous for. I have a lot of excited energy towards the upcoming Miss Connecticut competition. I felt overwhelmingly calm at Miss New Haven County, that I can just hope to have that same feeling during all portions of the competition in June. 

Is there a specific goal you’d like to accomplish during your time as Miss New Haven County?

My biggest goal as Miss New Haven County is to grow my social impact. In just one short week of being crowned I have already had the opportunity to be featured in multiple media outlets, newspapers, and on television. I can only continue to go up from here! Turning your pain into power can be a hard concept to adapt at first, but by the end of my year I plan for it to become a household term across Connecticut. With my help, people will be able to always find a positive outlet through their darkest of times. 

How did you select your platform “Pain into Power”?

In 2014 I was diagnosed with three chronic illnesses that completely changed my world. That first year after diagnosis was a pivotal time for me, and helped me realize that this all happened to me for a specific reason. I have come to find that my life purpose is to help others by sharing my journey with chronic illness, and including all of the amazing things I am still accomplishing despite my constant battle. “Turn Your Pain into Power” has become my motto and I really believe it is something we should all try to live by. 

What is your favorite part about performing your talent on stage?

I have been performing on stage since I was three years old in my

first dance recital. The arts are something that I grew up with and hold very close to my heart. I feel that I best express myself through singing, which will be my talent at Miss Connecticut! My favorite part is just being in the moment and leaving it all on that stage. I have grown so much as a performer through the years and my love for performing continues to grow with that. 

What is your favorite holiday?

My absolute favorite holiday is Christmas. Anyone who knows me knows that I have a countdown going all year long. I start decorating October 1st. Christmas music and movies don’t have to be enjoyed just in December. I know I’m not the only one who feels this way since Christmas in July exists on the Hallmark channel (second best time of the year). 

Who is your favorite current Red Sox player? Why?

My favorite player is Dustin Pedroia. My dad is a diehard Yankee’s fan and even he loves him! He is just an all around great player. It is too bad he spent most of last season injured. I am hoping he makes a great comeback this season. Maybe I can give him a few pointers on turning his pain into power. 

Is there a feature or activity at Fenway Park that you'd especially like to experience?

I would love to get the chance to participate in the Run to Home Base race. It would be such an amazing experience to be able to cross the finish line at home plate, while raising funds for our nation’s veterans.

What were you doing when the Red Sox won the 2018 World Series?

Unfortunately, working in the hospital doesn’t allow the greatest schedule flexibility. When the Red Sox won, I was at work. Thankfully we have a lounge in the back so I kept stopping by to keep an eye on the score and get updates. 

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I'm glad she was able to follow along!

As usual, I want to thank to Erika for doing this interview. I'm also glad that she sent along so many great pictures of her special night. Pictures add so much to the interview.  I also definitely want to wish her the best of luck as she competes for the Miss Connecticut crown this summer. It would be so much fun to have another former visitor wear that crown.

As Erika continues her time as Miss New Haven County, I encourage you to follow her on her official Miss New Haven County Facebook page. It’ll be worth your time! 

Thanks again Erika, and good luck!

Allie Curtis Visits Section 36!

Photo by Jason Michalski Phtography

Section 36 has another visitor! Allie Curtis is a public speaker, a Red Sox fan, and the current Miss Rhode Island Earth! I'm so glad she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more. She is the first Miss Earth state titleholder to visit with us, and I couldn't be more excited. I'm sure you'll love reading what she had to say!

So, let’s see what happens when Allie Curtis visits Section 36!

What made you decide to compete for the Elite Miss Earth USA crown?

It’s no surprise - I love competing. I know I am getting to the end of my competition days, so I figured I would get one (or maybe two) last pageants in! I have admired the Miss Earth USA program and I value their emphasis on environmental advocacy. It was a natural fit. Even better, I get to compete alongside one of my best friends, Lorna Rose, who is representing the Northeast!

You previously served as Miss Rhode Island 2015. What is your favorite memory from that year?

Photo by
K. Garcia Productions

It is difficult to pinpoint just one memory from my time as Miss Rhode Island - so many components of that year were pivotal in setting me up for where I am today. If I had to pick, these are my two favorite highlights - I spent my Valentine’s Day at Camp Hoffman, a Girl Scout campsite, with local Girl Scouts. They were so engaged and excited to have me there, I had the time of my life hanging out with them and it was an honor to speak with them. I also was honored at Running Start’s Young Women to Watch Awards. I met Madeleine Albright, and saw Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard speak. It was remarkable to share the stage with influential women who have all inspired me in different capacities.

As a competitor in multiple pageants over the years, what have you learned about yourself from competing?

I love the community and opportunities pageants have given me, so I have really enjoyed being involved in a handful of different

Photo by
K. Garcia Productions

pageant organizations. I continue to gain new experiences and growth from competing which is largely why I have stayed involved as a competitor. Pageants have supported me in my advocacy outreach, but also have been critical to supporting me in my education and career.

You make frequent appearances on the public speaking tour. What topics do you most like speaking about? Why?

To date, I have given two TEDxTalks: “Leading Ladies: Why Representation Matters” and “Daring Daily: The Power of Practicing Courage” - these are my two favorite topics to speak about. Speaking women’s leadership has always been important to

Photo by
K. Garcia Productions

me - it is critical that we show girls they are capable of and needed to be in spaces where they have been historically underrepresented. Moreover, for many years, my favorite quote has been “Do one thing each day that scares you” by Eleanor Roosevelt. I encourage others to live by these words as we pursue our deepest goals and live to our fullest potential by recognizing our own fear, and channeling it into positive energy.

Last year, you enlisted in the Rhode Island National Guard. What led to that decision?

I have always deeply valued service. I started thinking about

joining during my senior year of college and after I spent a semester in D.C., I realized one of the single most fulfilling ways I could satisfy my call to service would be joining the guard.  I am coming up on the two year anniversary of my enlistment, and I can truly say it has been the most challenging and rewarding two years of my life. I now serve in the guard full time, and I am thankful for the opportunities and experiences I have had thus far. I look forward to the future of my Army career, and to those who think it may be for them, I say “GO FOR IT!”

What is your personal fitness routine?

Photo by
K. Garcia Promotions

In the past year, running has become a major part of my fitness routine. I never would have expected that I would take to the sport of running as I have, but I am completely in love with it. I am getting ready to run my first half marathon in March and I am very excited! Needless to say, my fitness routine has been heavily centered on building my endurance and preparing for longer and faster runs!

As Miss Rhode Island, you got to throw out the first pitch at a Pawtucket Red Sox game. What was that experience like?

I was so nervous! I had always wanted to throw out a first pitch (still have the dream of doing it at an MLB game one day!) Definitely wasn’t my most graceful moment as Miss Rhode Island, but it was awesome. I was able to enjoy a nice evening at McCoy with my friends and family, definitely a classic Rhode Island memory from the PawSox I will always cherish. They will be missed!

Who is your favorite current Red Sox player? Why?

Photo by
Daniel Gagnon Photography

Definitely Dustin Pedroia - I love that he and his wife have taken great initiative with “Pedroia’s Platoon” to support veterans and military families

If you had an extra ticket to watch the Red Sox in Fenway, who would you bring?

I would bring my dad! Some of my favorite memories from my childhood were my dad taking me to see the San Francisco Giants and the Oakland A’s. We have yet to get to a game at Fenway together, so that would be special!

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That sounds like a wonderful time!

As always, I want to give huge thanks to Allie for doing this interview, and for letting me use all the great pictures along with it (Special thanks to K. Garcia Productions). I also want to wish her the best of luck as she competes for the Miss Earth crown. It would be amazing to have a former visitor take home that crown.

As Allie continues her time as Miss Rhode Island Earth, I suggest you check out her official Miss Rhode Island Earth Facebook page and Instagram account. It’ll be well worth your time! You should also follow Allie on her personal Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram. That way you won't miss a thing!

Thanks again Allie, and good luck!