Deadline bonanza

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If I've said it once, I've said it 5,000 times, the Red Sox weren't going to win a thing until they rid themselves of Matt Albers.

And thankfully, that's exactly what they did today.

By sending Albers to Arizona, the Sox eliminated one of their greatest on-field underachievers, and one of the leaders of last year's clubhouse mutiny. As a result, we can finally start the healing process. We can finally turn the page on this nightmarish year and fall back in love with the Red Sox.

Can I get an amen?

OK, fine. I'll stop. That joke was depressing anyway.

No offense to Albers, Craig Breslow, Scott Posednik and Lars Anderson, but in reality the Sox did nothing today. They did nothing to change the outcome of this season; nothing to alter the course of this franchise.

Did they try?

Maybe they did, but couldn't find a deal. Or maybe they truly believe that this team is determined enough and will be healthy enough to contend for a World Series. Or maybe we're all taking crazy pills.

Regardless of the answer, the craziness isn't going anywhere. And if Josh Beckett falls on his face tonight at Fenway, the craziness will reach levels typically reserved for mental patients and serial killers. By failingfor a second timeto unload Beckett's stench from the mound and clubhouse, the Sox are saying that they believe he still gives them the best chance to win. Tonight, Beckett can prove it, and against one of the best pitchers in baseball.

Nothing would say, "I'm still here, and I'm ready to play" like earning a win over Justin Verlander in the Tigers.

On the other side, nothing says, "Here we go again" like another subpar performance.

Especially since this time around, Matt Albers won't be there to bail Beckett and the Sox out.

Rich can be reached at rlevine@comcastsportsnet.com. Follow Rich on Twitter at http:twitter.comrich_levine

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