1999-2002 were some memorable years in Red Sox history. Although not very competitive, the ‘99-’02 years did bring quite a few fan favorites to Red Sox Nation. Manny Ramirez was signed during the tenure, Pedro Martinez was dominating, Nomar was raking, it was also the prime time days of Lou Merloni (who, by the way, does a terrific job with Tom Caron in the NESN studios). But there was one man that many Sox fans grew to admire, he was a 27-year-old rookie from Illinois. I’m speaking of a man named Brian Daubach.

Daubach, drafted by the New York Mets and later signed as a free agent by the Red Sox, was undoubtedly one of those guys Sox fans always pulled for. Along with Trot Nixon, Daubach was coined a “Dirt Dog” for his work effort and blue-collared style of play, always hard-nosed. He was a streaky hitter, but he never kept his head down, worked hard, and never complained about his time in the minor league system. As a hitter, he did provide some solid pop.

In each year from ‘99-’02 the first baseman reached the 20 HR plateau with 70+ RBI’s while only averaging close to 128 games a year. Not bad numbers by any means.

I’m talking about the fan favorite because it was announced yesterday that he will be the hitting coach for the Nashua Pride, a Can-Am minor league baseball affiliate out of Nashua, NH. This move will prove to be quite valuable to the Pride. Daubach brings leadership, tenacity, experience, and a World Series ring to boot (he did receive a ring for the ‘04 championship).

It’s great to see a former Red Sox Dirt Dog as a hitting coach for the Pride. Brian loved Boston just as much as Boston loved him. We wish Brian and the Nashua Pride the best of luck this season, hopefully they can come home with another CanAm Championship.

*On a side note, Olympic skier Bode Miller and Patriots offensive lineman Matt Light will be joining the team July 18th. Bode will be playing the outfield and Light will coach 1st base.*

Check out the Nashua Pride at www.nashuapride.com.