Well said VA!
I don't think your post was overly optimistic, unrealistic, or pessimistic. The fact is that this board, or any Sox board, would be as boring as watching the paint dry if everyone agreed on everything. There needs to be a mix of viewpoint. When we disagree, however, we ought to try to disagree agreeably and not resort to name calling and personal attacks.
Right now, without a #4 SP, IMO there is not much reason to be optimistic for this team this year. Get a good #4 and another arm for the pen and all that changes.