Red Sox fire Bobby Valentine

This picture sums up the entire 2012 season for Boston.

The Red Sox have officially fired manager Bobby Valentine. GM Ben Cherington will immediately search for a replacement.

"This year's win-loss record reflects a season of agony," said Red Sox President/CEO Larry Lucchino in a press release. "It begs for changes, some of which have already transpired. More will come. We are determined to fix that which is broken and return the Red Sox to the level of success we have experienced over the past decade."

Valentine has had an interesting season to say the least, getting in trouble with his players, especially Kevin Youkilis. He led his squad to a 69-93 record this year, and is under contract through next season for $2.5 million, and the team will still have to pay him that money.

Analysis: We ALL had to see this one coming. The Red Sox have had a horrible season, and when a team plays poorly they look directly at their manager for answers. I can't tell you that all of this was Valentine's fault, but his outspoken attitude certainly didn't help at all. Anyway look for Valentine to go back to ESPN or something like that. I definitely can't see him getting another managerial job. As for the Red Sox, I doubt that they will be willing to bring back Terry Francona, so it will be interesting to see who they decide to make their manager.