Red Sox Rumors: Jason Bartlett, David Ortiz and Edwin Jackson

Most of the talk surrounding the Boston Red Sox of late has involved starting pitchers Roy Oswalt and Edwin Jackson.  It was reported yesterday that the Red Sox have a one-year offer for Jackson on the table.  In other Sox news, it appears that Boston and slugger David Ortiz are likely heading for an arbitration hearing.  Also, there are rumors floating that the Red Sox could target shortstop Jason Bartlett this spring.

Yesterday Nick Carfado of the Boston Globe reported that the Red Sox have extended Edwin Jackson a one-year offer in the $5-6 million range.

It was also reported that Jackson and his agent Scott Boras are leaning toward a short-term deal this winter in hopes of landing a more substantial contract next offseason.  This development should help the Red Sox chances of signing Jackson, though it doesn’t seem like their initial offer will be enough to bring in the right-hander.

The Red Sox are also talking contract with veteran designated hitter David Ortiz.  Jon Paul Morosiof FOX Sports is reporting that talks remain “far apart”, making a salary arbitration hearing “increasingly likely”.  The Red Sox posted a figure of $12.65 million while Ortiz and his agent countered with $16.5.  If sides are unable to reach an agreement, a hearing would likely take place in mid-February.

Finally, Jayson Stark of ESPN has gotten a rumor started in which the Red Sox could turn their attention to San Diego Padres shortstop Jason Bartlett this spring.  Start believes that, if Boston is unsatisfied with their shortstop options this spring, they could look to deal for Bartlett, who the Padres have been shopping all offseason.

This seems to be a fit, but Bartlett’s contract has and will continue to make any trade difficult.  Though he only managed an OPS of .615 last season, Bartlett is set to make $5.5 million in 2012.  The 32-year-old’s current deal also includes a $5.5 million option that is likely to vest if he is a regular starter.

Stark noted that the Red Sox have been telling teams that if they are to add an infielder this winter, it’s likely to be someone that makes less than Bartlett.

For more on the Red Sox, be sure to check out BoSox Injection.

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