Bobby Valentine Denies Rift with Red Sox General Manager Ben Cherington

Boston, Ma. – Boston Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine went on the offensive against the Boston media today trying to show there was no rift between himself and general manager Ben Cherington. He didn’t succeed.

Valentine went after the boston Globe for writing a column suggesting the rift due to disagreements over the treatment of shortstop Jose Iglesias and righthander Daniel Bard.

Valentine told reporters before Monday’s Red Sox exhibition game,

“I think it’s lazy journalism. That’s what I think. I think it’s an easy story to write. It has no validity. Absolutely none.”

CSNNewEngland.com reported last week that Valentine wants Iglesias to start at shortstop over Mike Aviles, while Cherington wants Iglesias to begin the season at Class AAA. Also, Valentine was critical of Bard after his most recent spring training start. Bard is struggling to convert from reliever to starter; his move to the rotation was a key part of Cherington’s offseason plans.

Valentine told reporters Monday that he and Cherington communicate regularly.Valentine also said he is guarded with his opinions of different players but welcomes feedback form all staff and management.

Valentine said,

“The way Ben’s done the (roster) cut meetings, he’s gone around (the room) with me last, and anybody can say anything they want. In between cut meetings, I try to pick brains. I think I have a better idea of what the coaches think about the players than what they know about my ideas. I like the opinions. I want the opinions. And so does Ben.”

The Boston media seems to be waiting to catch Bobby Valentine in a tangle with Boston management due to his dramatic style.