after the facts

From the Impossible Dream of 1967, to the heart-wrenching 1975 World Series, to the tragic one-game playoff with the New York Yankees in 1978, the Boston Red Sox certainly have tormented their fans.

In fact, the devotion of the Fenway faithful was last rewarded with a world title in 1918. This year, the followers of the American League East Champion Sox are laying their hearts on the line again for the Carmine Hose, hoping against hope for another title.

So when the Bosox head to the Series next week, here are a few facts to keep you one base ahead of the game:

. Last time Red Sox won a World Series: 1918 over Chicago (4-2).

. Last time Red Sox were in playoffs: 1975 (def. A's, 3-0).

. First Boston A.L. team: 1901 (2nd place).

. Success of last five A.L. East division winners: 1985, Toronto, lost in playoffs; 1984, Detroit, won World Series; 1983, Baltimore, won World Series; 1982, Milwaukee, lost in World Series; 1981, New York, lost in World Series.

. Color of Red Sox hat in last World Series appearance: red, with blue "B".

. Last three Red Sox World Series appearances: 1975, lost to Reds in seven games; 1967, lost to Cardinals in seven games; 1946, lost to Cardinals in seven games.

. Last Red Sox 24-game winner: Mel Parnell, 25-7 in 1949.

. Last Red Sox player to win MVP award: Jim Rice in 1978.

. Last Red Sox player to win Cy Young award: Jim Lonborg in 1967.

. Last Red Sox player to win Rookie of Year award: Fred Lynn in 1975.