The Plot Thickens

The secondary story of the day (I'll get to the primary story momentarily) surrounds the hype which was Curt Schilling's "bloody" sock -- back in the 2004 ALCS.

During the 5th inning of last night's Baltimore-based telecast, well renowned broadcaster Gary Thorne insinuated that said sock was not actually bloody -- but, indeed, paint!

"The great story we were talking about the other night was that famous red stocking that he wore when they finally won, the blood on his stocking," Thorne told broadcast partner and Hall of Fame pitcher Jim Palmer.

"Nah," Thorne said. "It was painted. Doug Mirabelli confessed up to it after. It was all for PR.

In between innings, Boston-based writer Gordon Edes marched up to the Baltimore booth to further inquire about what he had just heard. At this point, Thorne continued to stress what Mirabelli supposedly told him a few years ago.

...whether this is true or not, I can't say. However, I really hope what Thorne maintains is truth. Schilling is one of the most loathsome athletes I have ever watched -- EVERYTHING he does is for PR. No?? So, the Sox sign Dice-K...and, in turn, Matsuzaka immediately becomes the headliner - and Schilling becomes an afterthought. So, what does Schilling do?? What every normal athlete would do...starts a blog! Are you kidding me?? Simply put, this guy can't stand not being the story.

Lastly, why would Thorne make this up? What incentive does he have? He's already very respected within the industry...this could only come back to bite him in the a$$. Also, if you recall correctly...this incident has been questioned in the past -- by a published GQ article and by another Baltimore-based writer.

If true, I'm sure Mirabelli made this comment while with the Padres -- when he assumed he would never again play for Boston. Hmmmm...very interesting.