It’s been a while since there’s been some Red Sox news posted on the site, mainly because I had been laying low the past few days relaxing, recharging the batteries for a happy and successful 2008.
Former Red Sox pitcher Matt Clement has a new home in St. Louis as the Cardinals signed him to a 1 year deal that is worth a guaranteed $1.5 million.
Clement will receive $1.25 million in 2008 and the chance to earn $5.25 million more in bonuses based on innings pitched. The Cardinals have an $8.75 million option for 2009 with a $250,000 buyout. The option would increase to $9 million and the buyout $500,000 if Clement reaches 160 innings this season; $9.5 million and $1 million for 180 innings; $10 million and $1.5 million for 200 innings and $11 million and $2 million if Clement finishes in the top five in 2008 Cy Young Award balloting.
According to Peter Gammons, Manny Ramirez has turned into a workout whore this offseason.
Manny rented a house in the Phoenix area and has become a maniacal workout warrior in Tempe Arizona at the Athletes’ Performance Institute (API). From what I’ve heard from people at API, Manny is getting himself into phenomenal shape. And having watched those workouts, I can tell you, they are extremely difficult.
It doesn’t appear that Kevin Youkilis will be getting a long-term deal from the Red Sox anytime soon, at least according to his agent Joe Bick.
“At this point we haven’t had a conversation with the Red Sox about that (a long-term deal),” said Bick from his Cincinnati office. “That’s their call at this point. There’s nothing we can do to force any long-term deal at this point so we’re just assuming we’re going year-to-year.”
“We’re thrilled with the contributions he’s made there. Kevin is extremely happy playing for the Red Sox. Hopefully, we can get something done,” Bick said.
I would think the Red Sox would want him to take a hometown discount to do a long-term deal while he is still under the Red Sox control for the next three years. He isn’t eligible to become a free agent until the 2011 season. It’s a smart thing to do for the Red Sox although I expect Youk’s to be asking for about $5-6 million in arbitration. Remember one thing though, the Red Sox under the reign of Theo have never gone to arbitration. They have usually signed the player to a 1-yr contract before going to arbitration.
Bobby Kielty’s future with the Red Sox is still up in the air with Johan Santana still not being traded. With Coco Crisp still on the roster, the Red Sox don’t have room for an extra outfielder right now. That could all change if Coco is moved in the near future. Kielty has also told teams that he is willing to give up switch hitting if that’s what they want.
If you get a chance, Maureen Mullen has a good article about Dave Magadan and his adjustments to living in the Boston area.
