Ponder this for a moment. A 3-4-5 combination of Big Papi, Manny Ramirez, and Gary Sheffield. Granted the Red Sox have J.D. Drew batting in the 5th spot, but he’s no Sheffield. Sheffield is probably the most feared hitter in baseball.

When interviewed before the game on Saturday before the Red Sox, Sheffield said that Boston was his first choice if the Yankees didn’t pick up his option. But the Yankees probably knowing this, picked it up then traded him to the Tigers for 3 minor leaguers. The addition of Bobby Abreu and the emergence of Melky Cabrera made Sheff expendable.

“It was something I really wanted,” Sheffield said. “I thought it was the perfect situation for me and the perfect park for me. I know how New York is. New York fans love me, but I was going to a park where I felt I could succeed. I didn’t want to let anyone know my thoughts, but I’m sure they could sense it.”

Sheffield had no problem being recognized in Boston. Unlike Alex Rodriguez or Derek Jeter, two players Red Sox fans love to hate, Sox fans never seemed to dislike Sheffield.

“I never got that sense either,” he said. “Even when I was out in public, Boston fans would say, ‘Why are you hanging out with Jeter? We hate the Yankees, but we respect you.’ And Jeter would say, ‘Man, when we go out in Boston, no one messes with Gary. Everybody’s always talking good about Gary.’ I used to wonder why, too. Maybe it’s the style of play or something else, but I always sensed the respect factor, even when I came to the plate.”

I can tell you from my standpoint, I would have welcomed Sheffield to Boston with open arms. I have always respected him and the way he plays the game. Having him in the lineup would have only made the Red Sox better. I am not saying J.D. Drew won’t but knowing that your gonna have to face Sheff after Manny would make you think a little more as a pitcher on the mound.

A very smart move by the Yankees too. I think they probably knew he was going to try and go to Boston. Would you rather face him 19 times a year or 7 times? Like the Yankees did, I’d rather face him only 7 times.