Showalter: I Was Misquoted

Buck Showalter says his remarks about Theo Epstein and Derek Jeter (to be published in the April issue of Men's Journal) were taken out of context:

I didn't really say it in that (context). I was talking to a guy, like most people, just joking around whatever, here it is, what are you going to do? I can't even remember how or when or if, but I think if it was said about, you know, in context with the Yankees and Red Sox, OK, you've got your answer.

Maybe it is envy or something on my part. But obviously, you all know what I think of Derek and the success the Red Sox have had. ... sometimes there are sour grapes on our part, I understand that. A little envy.

Epstein has not commented on Showalter's remarks, but Terry Francona did yesterday:

For the record, I think Theo's really smart — whether he has a high payroll or not. His choice of managers is smart.

Michael Silverman, Herald:

I thought Buck Showalter was smarter than this. ... I think he hoped his barbs would serve as bulletin-board material for his team. Something to stir his once-placid roster into a seething band of go-getters, ready to begin a million-mile march right in step with, and exactly one step behind, their skipper, who fears no AL East foe, no massive payroll, no icons. Nobody, no how. ... That's just a guess on my part, though. Most likely, Showalter's master plan is beyond my comprehension skills.