Nationals hiring Paul Toboni shocks Red Sox, forces major GM strategy rethink!
Nationals’ Hiring of Paul Toboni Sends Shockwaves Through Red Sox Organization
The Washington Nationals’ recent decision to hire Paul Toboni as their president of baseball operations has stirred significant concern within the Boston Red Sox. This move not only alters the landscape of the Nationals but also forces a reevaluation of the Red Sox’s future strategies.
A Rising Star Leaves Boston
At just 35 years old, Paul Toboni has quickly ascended to one of the most respected positions within the Red Sox organization. His extensive experience and proven track record made him an appealing candidate for the Nationals, who are eager to revamp their struggling franchise. Though the Red Sox had intended to promote him to general manager, the Nationals presented an offer that was too enticing to refuse. According to reports, Toboni was on the verge of a deal that would have solidified his role within the Red Sox hierarchy, protecting him from rival teams looking to poach their talent.
The potential promotion would have placed Toboni in a powerful position, supporting Craig Breslow, who serves as the Red Sox’s president of baseball operations. Instead, he will now take on a role comparable to Breslow’s in Washington, marking a significant shift for both franchises.
Toboni’s Background and Impact
Previously serving as the assistant general manager in Boston, Toboni played a crucial role in shaping the team’s draft strategy and player development. His expertise in these areas will be vital for the Nationals as they aim to break a streak of six consecutive losing seasons. Having joined the Red Sox as an intern a decade ago, Toboni’s journey has been marked by dedication and a deep understanding of the organization. His collegiate background, featuring a stint with the California Golden Bears during their 2011 College World Series run, underscores his lifelong commitment to baseball.
In his new role, Toboni is tasked with immediate challenges that could define the Nationals’ trajectory. He must find a new manager to replace the recently dismissed Davey Martinez, who was let go along with former president of baseball operations Mike Rizzo. Miguel Cairo, who served as interim manager, is a candidate, but the decision remains uncertain.
Decisions Ahead for the Nationals
Another critical decision for Toboni will involve determining which members of Rizzo’s staff to retain. Interim general manager Mike DeBartolo is particularly notable; he has been with the Nationals since 2012 and played a pivotal role in the team’s successful draft strategies and trades. During his introductory press conference, Toboni revealed that he had already received numerous calls advocating for DeBartolo’s retention, highlighting the respect he commands within the industry.
As the Nationals look to rebuild, the arrival of Toboni signifies a fresh start, while simultaneously leaving the Red Sox to reconsider their future plans. The impact of this hire will resonate beyond just the immediate operational changes, potentially altering the competitive dynamics of the league.
Cubs' Matthew Boyd Joins Dubious List In Historic Meltdown vs Brewers In NLDS Game 1
The Chicago Cubs handed left-hander Matthew Boyd the ball against the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 1 of the National League Division Series and it did not go well.
Boyd was absolutely slammed by the Brewers, who took a 1-0 lead in the series, which has an off day before Game 2 on Monday. He allowed four hits, six runs — only two of which were earned — with a walk and a strikeout. He threw 30 pitches, 21 of which were strikes, before he was pulled for Michael Soroka.
This came after the Cubs took a 1-0 lead on first baseman Michael Busch’s solo leadoff home run. The Cubs were up 2-1 with one out when Sal Frelick grounded to Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner. He whiffed the ground ball on a short hop, and it allowed a run to score. The official scorer deemed the remaining four runs of the inning to be unearned. Hoerner could have gotten Frelick out at first base and the next hitter, Caleb Durbin struck out.
Boyd had some bad luck. But it was also one of the shortest starts in Cubs postseason history.
Matthew Boyd Suffers Historic Cubs Fate
Per CBS Sports, Boyd’s 0.2 innings was the fourth-shortest start in Cubs postseason history, and the shortest start since 1935. That was Charlie Root, who was unable to get an out when the Cubs faced the Detroit Tigers in the 1935 World Series. He allowed four runs before he was pulled.
He shares the record with Hank Borowy, who also failed to record an out in his start in the 1945 World Series against the Detroit Tigers. While Root’s start was in Game 2, Borowy’s start was in Game 7. Borowy allowed three runs.
The only other pitcher ahead of Boyd is Guy Bush, who allowed one run and recorded one out when he started for Chicago in the 1932 World Series against the New York Yankees.
Boyd does share one distinction above the others. His six runs allowed while recording just two outs is the most runs allowed of the four pitchers.
Boyd was starting on three days’ rest, and the Cubs did not have Cade Horton available for the series due to injury. He made his first All-Star game in 2025 as he went a career-best 14-8 with a 3.21 ERA in 31 games. He struck out 154 and walked 42 in 179.2 innings as he became a surprising No. 2 starter alongside fellow left-hander Shota Imanaga.
