Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here... highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
Even though free-agent outfielder Cody Ross is reportedly seeking a three-year contract, if the Boston Red Sox
were to offer him slightly less -- say, in the range of two years and
$16 million -- it could be a deal that works best for both sides.
Ross, 31, proved to be a quality asset to the Red Sox both on and
off the field in 2012. He has said he would like to return to Boston.
Red Sox GM Ben Cherington has admitted as much and both sides have been
talking since the end of last season.
If he wants to re-sign with Boston, then now is the time. With the core group the Red Sox have in place, including a new manager in John Farrell, Boston could be positioned to compete in the AL East in 2013 and beyond.
ESPN - Sox should sign Cody Ross
There's no news, or really anything of value in Joe McDonald's article above. It's more or less a plea to Boston and Ross, stating that the two should just put this silly offseason behind them and come to terms.
And I tend to agree with McDonald. Ross was clearly a good fit with this team, and this city. While he's no Ted Williams, he had more than a few shining moments and the fanbase thoroughly got behind him. It was a smart signing for both Cody and the club. Everybody benefited. I see no reason we need to terminate this relationship.
But there's one part of McDonald's argument I completely disagree with. I would be astonished if Cody Ross signed somewhere for $16 million over two years. Not on the heels of the Torii Hunter signing. As Scott pointed out, Hunter's deal knocked Cody's pricetag two or three levels higher. You can argue whether Hunter, at 37, is a better player than Cody. But he's certainly not $10 million better.
If you want to bridge that gap without writing a blank check, you're going to need to add at least one more year onto that deal. Then you have to ask yourself whether you want to be locked in for three more years of Cody Ross. The answer to that, for the Red Sox, probably depends on the Ellsbury situation.
It's times like this when I start to realize just how complex Cherington's job can be.
Rest of the links:
WEEI - Sox didn't pursue Melky Cabrera | Sox plan more hitting coach interviews | Globe - Another black mark on the 2012 Red Sox | CSNNE - Peter Guber talks Boston, sports ownership & failure
