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Much was made about Theo Epstein's return to the Red Sox organization in the Boston media with many insisting that the leadership structure would be terribly top heavy. But the young GM had been credited with having led the team to its first World Series title in 86 years so his return was welcomed by most fans with open arms.

Now, less than a month after returning, one has to note that the Sox managed to close both major position player issues and have turned towards making a run for Roger Clemens. Has Epstein been responsible?

Prior to Epstein's return, the much-rumored but never completed Coco Crisp deal had Sox fans terribly concerned. The team had lost its center fielder to the much hated Yankees and traded its starting shortstop Edgar Renteria to the National League Braves. As the winter dragged on, fans became exceedingly worried about the team's inability to find strong replacements.

Yet, within a matter of a few days, the Sox managed to complete the deal for Crisp. The Sox parted with two more prospects, third baseman Andy Marte and catcher Kelly Shoppach. That meant that the organization had parted with four of its top ten prospects in deals that brought Crisp and Pitcher Josh Beckett to Boston.

However, Boston sees the 26-year-old Crisp and 25-year-old Beckett as talented youngsters with proven major league ability. In Crisp the Sox acquired a center fielder with perhaps as much talent as the departing Johnny Damon, a player who is much younger and with a salary that allows the Sox to pursue other potential free agents.

Most importantly, Crisp cannot become a free agent until after the 2009 season. In direct comparisons for 2005, Crisp hit .300 with 16 homers, 42 doubles, 69 RBIs, a .345 OBP, and a .810 OPS (on-base percentage plus slugging). Damon, on the other hand, hit .316 with 10 homers, 35 doubles, 75 RBIs, a .366 OBP, and a .805 OPS last season.

Just as soon as the Sox closed the deal there, the team then also signed Shortstop Alex Gonzales to a one year deal at a reported $3 million. Gonzales is a slick fielding shortstop who is seen as a bit of an offensive liability. But former manger Jack McKeon insists that with Mike Lowell at third and Gonzales at short, it will take an absolute rocket of a ground ball to get through the left side of the infield next year.

Of course, both deals may have gotten done without Epstein. It is highly possible, but it is amazing that the guy comes back to work full time and things begin falling into place like dominoes set for a simple touch.

If Crisp knocks down the Fenway center field wall a la Damon and Gonzales fields his position with great dexterity and throws in a hit or two, the 2006 Red Sox could be back in the hunt for a Series title.

Imagine if that happen what fans Sox fans will be thinking about the return of Epstein to Red Sox nation.