Pitchers and catchers!

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Less than four months since writing their most historic and cherished chapter in team history, the defending World Series champion Red Sox took their first official step of 2005 on Thursday, when pitchers and catchers reported to Spring Training.

For once, Red Sox players will not spend the spring being bombarded by questions about breaking a mythical curse. That is a thought that will make the warm sun of Florida even more soothing than usual over the next six weeks.

"Coming back to Spring Training as defending world champions is very exciting," said veteran knuckleballer Tim Wakefield, who is embarking on his 11th season with the Red Sox. "I'm excited to get back to work. Even though the offseason was short, I'm happy to be back."

read the rest of Ian Browne's article here...