Say it ain’t so! On Wednesday, we asked the lunchtime crowd at and around Gipper’s Sports Grill in Auburn: What’s your reaction to Red Sox center fielder Johnny Damon signing with the Yankees?



“I was pretty shocked at first, but it’s all right. Steinbrenner can waste some more money. I’d just as soon have Gabe Kapler in center field. Damon said he was getting his hometown discount, and he didn’t want it.”

– Brad Hammond, Sabattus

“It’s not a good thing for the Red Sox. It’s almost like a typical Yankees’ move. The Red Sox player wants more money, the Yankees go right after him, offer him a great contract, off they go. I think it’s going to hurt the Red Sox. He was a very popular player.”

– Jay Novella, Auburn

“Obviously, I’m upset about it. I don’t want to see any of those guys wear pinstripes that are our favorites in the Red Sox organization. Unfortunately it’s all about money these days. He’s going to be tough to replace as a leadoff hitter. He’s certainly got rock star status, but I don’t think he was that great.”

– Russell Morgan, Exeter

“I think it’s too bad he left the team. It’s a lack of loyalty. It’s all about money today. There’s no role models left. It’s too bad. I think the Yankees wanted to say to the Red Sox: We’re coming after you.'”

– Randy Gray, Turner

“For $3 million (more per year), that’s not worth it. He should stay. I’m disappointed he’s going.”

– Shannon Halliday, Lewiston

“I’m on the money thing. I think he did it for the money and I’m upset. Take an example of someone like Tom Brady for the Patriots, who took less money to be a winner. Damon did it for the money. Dirty.”

– Darrel Speed, Arundel

“This is brewing up a lot of the old hate and discontent. Those of us who remember (Luis) Tiant going to the Yankees, and (Roger) Clemens and now Damon. I think they just want to aggravate us.”

– Ken Miller, Yarmouth

“I’m more concerned with who the Red Sox will get to replace him. With many players there’s no loyalty. The fact that Johnny did it isn’t surprising because so many others have done it.”

– Tom Waterman, North Yarmouth