Red Sox Rumors: Roy Oswalt, Jacoby Ellsbury and Free Agent Targets
By Editorial Staff
Our latest Boston Red Sox rumor roundup includes news on starting pitcher Roy Oswalt, Jacoby Ellsbury’s extension talks, arbitration and potential free agent options.
Now that the New York Yankees have solidified their starting rotation, eyes have turned to Fenway to see how the Red Sox will respond. Though Boston is reportedly seeking low-cost arms, Jon Paul Morosi of Fox Sports tweeted yesterday that the Red Sox are keeping an open dialogue with right-handed starter Roy Oswalt.
As the free agent market continues to play out and with Oswalt remaining available, the veteran’s asking price has reportedly dropped over the past week. Nick Carfado of the Boston Globe was told by a source that Oswalt may now be seeking a one-year deal in the $9 million range, while others have said the 34-year-old could potentially be had for less.
Beyond Oswalt, Carfado notes that the Red Sox reportedly maintain interest in free agent pitchers Vicente Padilla and Chad Qualls as well as outfielder Ryan Spilborghs.
A day after it was reported that the Red Sox were talking contract with designated hitter David Ortiz, Boston reportedly reached a one-year agreement with catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia. The Red Sox and Saltalamacchia were able to avoid arbitration, and Boston’s backstop is set to make $2.5 million in 2012.
This appears to be the same bridge the Red Sox will ultimately cross with center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury, as Carfado reports that it appears unlikely Boston will reach an extension with the Gold Glover before Tuesday’s arbitration deadline.
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You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.