Leave Tito out of it

With the story coming out that the Red Sox will be banning beer in the clubhouse - ESPN went to its shiny new toy in baseball commentary - Terry Francona.

"I don't think it's a surprise that they put this in effect, or the fact they announced it," Francona said of the alcohol ban. "It's probably more of a PR move just because, you know, the Red Sox (took) such a beating at the end of the year."

Fair enough, Tito. But that last sentence will be the one srutinized. Especially by Francona's current employer - ESPN.

I can see the headlines already.

"Players say they wish Francona was still manager."

"Bobby Valentine loses control in clubhouse."

The Red Sox this season have the oppourunity to provide the network with enough potential story lines to fill the time between the Tim Tebow and Jeremy Lin pieces.

Bobby Valentine knows first hand how being a commentator for ESPN works. Saying, “Remember, you’re getting paid over there [ESPN] for saying stuff."

As much as Bobby may say that he understands the process the Red Sox are still his team and if ESPN trots Francona out all year to comment on the state of the Sox then this will become a huge point of contention for both guys.

If ESPN wants some questions answered about the Red Sox they should go to Peter Gammons, not Francona. It's too close to Terry's heart and the wounds of last season are still very fresh.

On the other side - Valentine has to get a reign on this clubhouse. The last thing Bobby needs is the former manager - who until the end of last season had enormous support from his players - giving personal opinions about Valentine's team.

Leave Terry to the game analysis and VIP section at Shrine. More importantly - give Bobby a chance to manage this team the way he wants.