Tito Says No

By now you've probably heard that Terry Francona has rejected the Red Sox invitation to appear at their 100th anniversary game later this month. While many feel like this may be a case of sour grapes or a disgruntled former employee, he's actually making the right decision.

It pains me to say that it was time for Francona to leave Boston after what happened last September. Someone had to take the fall, and unfortunately the axe landed on his head. But he will be the first to tell you that it was time to go, that's not the issue. The issue is how he was portrayed by the ownership after they parted ways. Why should he accept an invitation from the people who attacked his character and essentially placed all the blame on him for the team's collapse? I know I wouldn't.

While it would be great if he did attend, as I truly believe he would get the loudest cheers of anyone, it's completely understandable that he's decided not to. Francona is arguably the greatest manager in Red Sox history. Like Mike Wilbon said, he guided them to their first World Series in like 400 years. It would be absolutely amazing if during the pre-game ceremony, when there is an appropriate time, the entire Red Sox Nation who faithfully fill Fenway starts chanting, "Tito, Tito, Tito!!!"

Francona tried to take the high road on his way out of Boston, it was the ownership who sucker-punched him. There was no reason to go after him personally. By inviting him, and for what it's worth expecting him to show up, Lucchino, Werner, and Henry seem to think it's all water under the bridge. While I'm the first one to say don't dwell on the past, it's easy to say that as an outsider. Think about it, if you got fired from a job you loved, and the boss publicly trashed you, then invited you to a party a few months later, would you show up? Probably not. Francona absolutely deserves to be there that day, but I don't blame him one bit for skipping it. Tito knows Red Sox Nation still loves him, and will always have a place for him in their hearts. He doesn't need to do the ownership any favors, he's did more than enough in his 8 years as manager.

UPDATE-Here is a link to a story from ESPNBoston.com in which Francona actually says he regrets some of the things he said about the team. Seriously, talk about taking the high road. Good for you Tito, the Nation misses you.

Follow me on Twitter- @TwittinSports