Bobby Valentine was given the pink slip today. The Boston Red Sox organization dismissed Valentine from his managerial service after one season. (Photo : Reuters)
Following the last place finish in the American League East this season, Bobby Valentine has been fired as manager for the Boston Red Sox.
Valentine served as the Red Sox manager for one year. The team finished the season with worst record for the franchise since 1965, with 69 wins and 93 losses.
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The last time Boston finished last in the American League East standings was in 1992.
According to MLB.com, Red Sox General Manager Ben Cherington "Our 2012 season was disappointing for many reasons. 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."
Valentine had one year left in his contract.
During a press conference, Valentine said he understood the decision.
"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."
He added, "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."
According to Cherington, it is too early to announce potential candidates to replace Valentine, but he'll be involved in the decision.
The Red Sox ended the season with a 14-2 loss against the New York Yankees. With the win, the Yankees won the division's title. The Yankees will play in their first American League Division Series of 2012 on Oct. 7 against the winner of the Baltimore Orioles vs. Texas Rangers game.
What are people on Twitter tweeting? For the most part, it is in favor of Valentine's dismissal.
Conor Dwyer: Red Sox just cleared a ton of money this year and Josh Hamilton looks upset in Texas...I'm just sayin
Austin Urkiel: The best day of the year for the Red Sox comes the day after the season. #byebyebobby #finally
Vicky B: The red sox should just be disbanded until they can behave like normal athletes and actually try #spoiledbrats
Mitch: So pumped that the Red Sox threw Bobby Valentine in the garbage!
jacob johnson: Hell yes the red sox fired bobby v finally the best move they made all season #LoyalBostonRedSoxFan
Jenn Cook: Dear Boston Red Sox, Thank you for dropping Valentine. Worst decision you ever made was to hire that blowhard. #moneyball #regret #duh
