“Whenever we get to that plateau, with the pitching coach I’ll hopefully have by my side soon, and all the members of the staff and front office, we’ll have to make a determination after that 18- to 20-inning mark as to where he will be during the season.
“I told him to prepare to be a starter and if that, in fact, does not happen, to be ready and willing to be our closer.’’
Manager’s corner
Jon Lester met Valentine for the first time.
“It was pretty cool to meet him,’’ Lester said. “Talked to him just a little bit and, obviously, we didn’t get into too deep of a conversation in five minutes. It was great to meet him and I’m excited for the new era.’’
Lester had kind words for Valentine’s predecessor, Terry Francona.
“Obviously, I’m sad to see Tito go,’’ Lester said. “He was a big part of my career, big part of my life coming up through this system. I was sad to see him go, but, like I said, I’m excited for the new era and we’ll see what we can do in the coming years.’’
Pujols reaction
Sox president Larry Lucchino shared his reaction to Albert Pujols signing a $254 million deal with the Angels.
“Really? Is this really happening? Again?’’ Lucchino said, referring to the Rangers signing Alex Rodriguez to a $200 million contract, one that financially hamstrung the club for years. “The last time it happened, it didn’t necessarily work out that well.
“My secondary reaction was, ‘My goodness, we have a new big-time rival in our league.’ ’’
Lester was impressed with the Angels signing Pujols and pitcher C.J. Wilson to a deal worth $77.5 million.
“The Angels did a good job - you’ve got to tip your hat to them,’’ said Lester. “They went out and wanted those two guys and they got them. It obviously makes their team that much better. Luckily, they’re in another division and we don’t have to face them too many times.’’
Varitek lauded
