One more idiot Less than two months after Red Sox players declared themselves“idiots” during the team's late-season run, the Sox made their first major acquistion of the offseason by signing veteran lefthander David Wells. Asked if he had any reluctance signing a player who has been known to rock the boat, GM Theo Epstein replied:“What, we don't have guys like that already”？ Off to see the world After electing to return to the Sox last season in a reserve role, outfielder Gabe Kapler left the team to sign a one-year deal worth an estimated ＄3 million with the Yomiuri Giants in Japan. Said Kapler of his decison:“It's a learning experience. This will allow me to take the road less traveled.” That'll cost you In the spring of 2003, Nomar Garciaparra rejected a contract extension worth ＄60 million over four years, from 2005-2008. In December, Garciaparra avoided arbitration by agreeing to one-year deal with Chicago Cubs worth a guaranteed ＄8 million. Wonder Twins In the middle of the batting order last season, out-fielder Manny Ramirez and DH David Ortiz batted a combined .304 with 84 home runs and 269 RBIs. They also struck out 257 times and stole two bases, both by Ramirez. Ortiz led Ramirez in triples, 3-0. What a waste Following the 2003 season, the red sox signed troubled pitcher Byung-Hyun Kim to a two-year, ＄10 million contract. Kim pitched just 17.1 inning for the Sox in 2004 and will likely be traded before Opening Day. He is due ＄6 million in 2005. Better to be lucky than good After pitching coach Dave Wallace expressed concerns in spring training about the lack of pitching depth at Triple-A, Red Sox starters Curt Schilling, Pedro Martinez, Derek Lowe, Tim Wakefield and Bronson Arroyo did not miss a single start last season, going a combined 73-46 in 993.2 innings. Now that's clutch Including the postseason, closer Keith Foulke finished his first season with the Red Sox 6-3 with 35 saves and a 1.95 ERA. Foulke allowed just one run in 14 postseason innings covering 11 appearances, during which the Red Sox went 9-2. Overall, including the postseason, the Red Sox were 68-15 in Foulke's 83 outings, including 35-4 in his last 39. --

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