Pablo Sandoval's decision expected before Thanksgiving

After drawing intense interest from several teams, free agent third baseman Pablo Sandoval reportedly has an offer in-hand from the 2013 World Series champion Boston Red Sox – one that could soon be joined by a competitive bid from the San Diego Padres and, likely, the San Francisco Giants – the team with whom Sandoval won three championships in the last five seasons.

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According to Nick Cafardo from the Boston Globe, the Red Sox’ offer is for five years and a total of $95 million – and could be in the early lead for the switch-hitting infielder’s services. Last season, Sandoval turned in yet-another dominant postseason performance, leading the Giants to a World Series win over the Kansas City Royals, batting .429/.467/.536 in the seven-game series.

"Sandoval would like to make a decision soon. He visited the Red Sox Monday and Tuesday and came away with an offer."

The Red Sox are coming off a disappointing 2014 season in which the team finished dead-last in the American League East, and adding Sandoval, as well as former staff ace Jon Lester, appear to be top priorities for general manager Ben Cherington moving forward. However, the team is certainly not alone in their pursuit of the 28-year-old.

Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reported Friday that the Padres were set to make an offer to Sandoval, who has spent his entire career with San Francisco. First-year general manager A.J. Preller is said to be mulling over dozens of potential moves, with many believing that at least one major signing of move is in the cards for the club this offseason. Jon Heyman of CBS Sports initially reported San Diego’s interest in Sandoval, who is also a target of the Toronto Blue Jays and Chicago White Sox, although those teams are involved to a lesser degree, according to reports.

"Sandoval’s agents Gustavo Vazquez and Michael Sandoval, his older brother, were believed awaiting offers Thursday night from the most interested pursuers, with some involved in talks suggesting they believe a deal could be struck with some team by Thanksgiving next week."

A return to the Bay Area should not be ruled out either, as members of Giants leadership told reporters late this week. The team’s assistant general manager, Bobby Evans, spoke to a San Francisco radio station Thursday, also saying that a decision was expected before next Thursday’s holiday.

The offers from the Giants, Red Sox and Padres are all believed to be in the five-year, $90 million range.

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Pablo Sandoval’s decision expected before Thanksgiving

By Jake Misener | Nov 22, 2014