Just a small point - virtually all the key players on the 2004 Red Sox came either in FA or trade. Youkilis, Nixon and Nomar were the only truly homegrown players of note, and they only got 248, 167, and 169 PAs, respectively. I actually think the almost complete lack of homegrown players one of the really interesting things about that team. It's kind of astounding.
Not to say that teams shouldn't strive to develop awesome homegrown players, though. I'm not sure it's really possible to build a team like the 2004 team anymore.
Not to say that teams shouldn't strive to develop awesome homegrown players, though. I'm not sure it's really possible to build a team like the 2004 team anymore.