drksd4848 - this is great stuff - to hear all of this history as you are telling it is great. Even though I'm a lifelong fan of The Bombers, I tip my cap to you. I love hearing good historical facts and the tidbits that most folks don't know or have long forgotten. I agree with you - and I'll broaden it out a bit - I tend to think it is an affliction that has had a very pronounced impact on professional sports in general. The games aren't what they once were. Neither are the venues. And, as you said, the fan base(s) (plural because, again, I think this has had major impact across the board - literally all teams, all sports.) Look at the NFL - what a three-ring circus that has become, both on and off the field. The NBA and NHL aren't all that far behind. It really feels like the 'purity' that once was a huge part of professional sports has long since flown off into that sweet night. It's all about money - marketing - branding. The game takes a back seat. Tradition takes a back seat. And how many know these kinds of wonderful stories and details about a venue or a team?
Just two cents worth on the topic.
BTW - if you happen to have more stories about the history of Fenway (and the Red Sox) - I for one would be more than happy to hear them. These stories are what the game was built on. Would love to hear more of them.
