Tito's Tirade: A retrospective

During these tough times we must search for the small things in life to bring us pleasure.

That's why even as our Sox stumble through its worst streatch of the season, we as a Nation can find joy in some of the simplest things that take place on the field: another brilliant catch by Coco Crisp; Kevin Youkilis popping blood vessels while chugging around the bases for a triple; or our mild-mannered manager going all Tom Sizemore on an unsuspecting umpire.

Last night Tito provided miles & miles of smiles for weary Sox fans with his 8th inning meltdown on home plate umpire Dan Iassogna.

Francona was miffed about a few perceived blown calls on the night by Dandy Dan, including a check swing strike three that nearly caused Big Papi to bump Iassogna in the sixth inning, but the waist high breaker that he called for a third strike on Dustin Pedroia sent Tito into full-blown Piniella mode.

Luckily I grabbed some screen shots to capture the merry moment. They are in chronological order, and I apologize for the quality- I was not able to watch the game in HD (friggin Extra Innings!)

Tito came out spitting mad from the start...

But after a mild introduction...

...the gum was tossed...

...and Tito got ramped up to the point where...

...he tried to swallow Iassogna whole.

He then muttered something like "FINE" under his breath..

...noted the fact that Iassogna's mom is a horticulturalist

... and then the two kissed and made up!

From the bottom of the Nation's heart, Tito, we just want to say thanks.

Thanks for providing some entertainment during this seriously un-entertaining time. Thanks for attempting to light a fire under this sparkless team.

And most of all thanks for knowing how to argue like a true baseball man, not a glorified rodeo clown like Piniella.

Keep up the good work, Tito.I hope your tirade translates into a win today.

Go Sox!