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October 28, 2007
BY STEVEN KRASNER
Journal Sports Writer
DENVER -- The Red Sox are a bit more home-grown in the World Series this year than they were in 2004.
At the top of their order, for instance, they have a pair of rookies, center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury and second baseman Dustin Pedroia. Jonathan Papelbon closes, first baseman Kevin Youkilis has been a mainstay all year and Jon Lester started last night in Game Four.
While they have blossomed in the big leagues, manager Terry Francona heaped praise on the Red Sox’ scouting and development departments for their efforts in stocking the big-league team.
''I’m sure there are a lot of people in our player development (department) who are pretty proud right now, as they should be,'' said Francona. ''We’re the ones who get to stand up here and talk about the young kids, but the player development people, the ones that spend all the time with them, they’ve done a great job.''
And being more of a home-grown product is important to the Sox, said Francona.
''I think there’s a lot of pride in that,'' said Francona. ''Any time you talk with (general manager) Theo (Epstein) he’ll bring that up right away.
''Our owners give us a lot of money to go out and spend and get good players. But having guys come through your system is a great way to do it. And when they’re able to come and contribute, and not just contribute but be pivotal players, it’s a huge source of pride.''
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