Has Ventura told any relievers who it is?
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- Robin Ventura
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If the Sox surprise everybody and contend for a wild-card spot, Ventura's minimalism will be considered brilliant. But if they lose 90 games, Ventura's reservedness will create more frustration than he shows.
Before his official return to a major league dugout for the first time since retiring in 2004, Ventura wondered how he would adjust to the speed of the game as a manager. I don't think he meant Sox hitters approaching at-bats as if they were double-parked.
The Sox struck out 13 times in a game that lasted only 2 hours, 23 minutes. Their strikeout total broke the Rangers opening day opponent's record set in 1991 with Ryan also on hand — striking out nine instead of sitting in the owner's box next to former President George W. Bush.
"You're just trying to think ahead, but that was a quick game,'' Ventura said.
With 161 left, players took Ventura's don't worry-be happy perspective out the clubhouse door.
"Really, it's not important to us,'' Gordon Beckham said. "We started out great last year (2-0) and struggled so …''
Indeed, it's a new Sox season. Just listen.
dhaugh@tribune.com
Twitter @DavidHaugh