Things have cooled considerably since the GM meetings. Although the Sox have finally settled on a GM, or uh, two, with maybe the door open for Theo? Moving on...
Sox sign journeyman backup catcher Ken Huckaby to a minor league deal. He's planning on moving near Wake's home in Florida before spring training to get an early start on his upcoming "every 5th day" of duty. Best known for his collision at 3rd with Jeter. Wouldn't be surprised to see another guy in camp - namely Shoppach if they don't trade him.
Manny - Latest is another 3 team deal including Mets & Rangers. Sox would get Beltran (poor 2005, injury question), reliever Juan Dominguez (just avg), and CF Laynce Nix (.240, 6HR, 32RBI). Not the worst deal, but nothing that gets you too excited. No worries, because the Rangers have apparently stalled this one...
Damon - The Yanks have finally started interest (phone call by Torre), and now he reportedly is meeting with the Dodgers who are said to have a small chance of signing him. Not sure how much of either is strong interest. Sox really need to sign him, especially if they want to resemble anything close to the offense they've had the last 2 seasons. His agent Boras will drag things on - last year Beltran signed on Jan 9th - which may be too late for options if they lose out. Backup plan is Mariners CF Jeremy Reed - .245, 3HR, 45RBI, but Sox will have to sacrifice players (Clement?) in a trade to get him. He is supposedly a rising star only at 24, but straight up for Clement is too steep...
Shortstop - Ideal situation would be Tejada, but in preliminary discussions, the O's were asking for a pitcher & pitching prospect in addition to Manny. Dream on boys. But Sox may be willing to pay cash to get it done. Backup plan looks to be former Marlins SS Alex Gonzalez - .264, 4HR, 45RBI with 16 errors in the field.
Wells - Not a lot of activity as teams are reluctant to give up much in return for a durable 15 game winner. In a time when pitching is so scarce (see Free Agent deals so far) its puzzling that no one has stepped up. Sox are asking for bullpen help in return. In a recent interview, even Francona thinks he will be traded. He also added that if Wells goes, they won't move another starter...
Clemens - Remains a long shot at best. Sox confirmed contact and sources close to Clemens said he was very happy about interest from Boston. Yanks have also jumped in and made contact. Wouldn't be shocked to see him retire, or even return to Houston on may 1st. The extra month of rest may prevent his body breaking down in Sept. You'll probably see more activity in January...
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