The 1990 Red Sox finished first in the American League East and were quickly dispatched in the playoffs by the Oakland Athletics – an all too familiar happening for Boston. The following season the Red Sox finished second and missed the playoffs. The reason was a simple lack of pitching as Roger Clemens with 18 wins was the only starter in double digits. The opportunity presented itself via free agency and Boston signed Frank Viola to a three-year and a $15 Million contract.
Viola was known as “Sweet Music” which was a play on his name and his pitching talents.