More Pre-Game Notes- Johnson Reacts to Trade

Here are some remarks from PawSox Manager Ron Johnson in reaction to today’s Red Sox trade of Brandon Moss to the Pirates…

“It’s a business, you realize it is, but it’s a fraternity. It could turn out to be a great opportunity for Brandon and Craig (Hansen). The biggest thing is hopefully we rectified the problems we have at the Major Leagues.”

“I’m excited for Mossie. The bad part, obviously, is that you develop a lot of personal feelings for this kid. Everybody loves him, and we’ll be rooting for him…because he’s in the National League”

One awkward aspect about the trade was that players in the clubhouse and the media knew about the trade, while Moss was out in the field during batting practice. Johnson summoned Moss at around 4:45pm so he could take part in a conference call with Red Sox staff alerting him of the trade.

Many players in the clubhouse congratulated Moss on the news. A few also added some good-natured ribbing…

In other off-the-field news, Johnson said that Joe Thurston could play tonight if needed, but he will be given one more night off to recover from fouling a pitch off his foot in the game Monday in Toledo.

Check in for updates from the game on the field throughout the night.