With escalators inoperative after the opening ceremony of SoxFest on Friday, security ushered fans to a nearby stairwell and had them exit in groups of about 30, leading to gridlock and grumbling in the hallway.
It was a fitting image for a franchise that has been stuck in neutral for years, promising a contender every offseason only to play out the string by September.
This year promises to be different as the Sox have pushed their rebuild while offering a realistic outlook on the season ahead. Contending while rebuilding isn't doable.
"It's tough to serve two masters," general manager Rick Hahn said.