Over the Monster

Marco Scutaro: Stopgap For Now Or Something Better?

2009-12-04T07:45:59Z

More photos » by Elise Amendola - AP

6 months ago: Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Marco Scutaro bobbles a grounder by Boston Red Sox's Jacoby Ellsbury, before throwing Ellsbury out in the second inning of a baseball game at Fenway Park in Boston on Tuesday, May 19, 2009. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

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I really hope Theo Epstein proves all of us wrong about Marco Scutaro.

The Red Sox's general manager has tried so hard to replace shortstop Nomar Garciaparra since his departure in 2004. And he's done that -- kind of. But he hasn't had anyone that has stuck.

Orlando Cabrera was a nice temporary solution in '04. Alex Gonzalez was very solid in his 2006 stint and especially in his resurrection in 2009. But there hasn't been a staple at the shortstop position since Mr. Nomar and now, with Scutaro, what are Sox fans supposed to expect?

By no means is Scutaro supposed to be that staple. Scutaro is 34 years old who is riding a reported two-year contract with a mutual option for a third. That means we could have a 36-year-old shortstop with one good year on our hands by the end of 2012.

Don't y'all jump for joy at the same time.

Theo is praying for lightning to strike twice. Theo is praying that Jose Iglesias becomes the shortstop that everyone thinks he could be. Theo is hoping that Scutaro plays all right. Nothing more. Just all right.

To put it simply, Scutaro is a stopgap. Scutaro will most likely be an average offensive shortstop while manning the position defensively to the same degree. Iglesias is the important piece here. Iglesias is the only player that's anywhere close to being Boston's "Next Nomar."

We can't really blame Theo for signing Scutaro. There weren't a lot of great options out there with a '6' penciled in next to their name in the scorecard. It would have taken a lot to acquire a shortstop via trade, and the pickings in the free agent market were about as good as buying a fresh tomato at a farmers' market in December: all of them are bruised, damaged and have their flaws, but in the end, you have to pick one.

But now he's here and we have to root for him because that's what we do. After two World Series championships and a plethora of other reasons, we just need to sit back and trust Theo. We must trust him that he has signed a capable shortstop to help lead the Sox to another World Series trophy. We must trust him that he sees something in Scutaro that maybe the rest of us do not see. We must trust Theo because, pretty much, that's our only option.

Marco, welcome to Boston. Your first task: prove us wrong. Please prove us wrong as quickly and effectively as possible.

Please.

Theo Tries Again: Marco Scutaro Signs with the Red Sox

2009-12-04T04:28:00Z

More photos » by Frank Gunn - AP

7 months ago: Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Marco Scutaro, top, leaps to catch the throw from the plate as Baltimore Orioles' Adam Jones steals second base during eighth-inning AL baseball game action in Toronto on Friday, May 1, 2009. (AP photo/The Canadian Press,Frank Gunn)

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Theo Esptein has taken another swing at filling the shortstop position for the Red Sox, signing free agent Marco Scutaro to a 2-year deal.

News came from Venezuelan paper Lider first, over an hour before other sources confirmed the move.

A type-A free agent, Scutaro's signing will require a draft pick compensation, though if the Sox sign a higher-ranked free agent such as Matt Holliday, the Jays will only receive a second round pick from the Sox instead of a first.

Scutaro is coming off a career year during which he posted a line of .282/.379/.409 while playing above average defense according to UZR.

For the Red Sox, Scutaro provides hope for some consistency at shortstop. Since the departure of Nomar Garciaparra and Orlando Cabrera, the Sox have struggled to find a replacement, with disappointing performances from Edgar Renteria and Julio Lugo. Alex Gonzalez played solid defense in 2006, and again in the last half of 2009, but was a significant hole in the lineup.

The deal is expected to be announced tommorow (Friday), likely with a mutual option for a third year.

Red Sox Bullpen Takes Another Hit With Takashi Saito's Departure

2009-12-04T00:02:08Z

More photos » by Winslow Townson - AP

7 months ago: Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Takashi Saito, right, of Japan gets the ball from catcher George Kottaras after getting the final out of the Red Sox 2-1 win over the Baltimore Orioles in a baseball game at Fenway Park in Boston Sunday, April 19, 2009. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)

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Another bullpen arm going from Boston to Atlanta.

It didn't take long for the Braves to snap up Billy Wagner. Now they've gone out and signed Red Sox backup closer Takashi Saito to a one-year, $3 million deal.

But what should the Braves expect out of the soon-to-be 40 year old?

As Theo Epstein's only "low risk, high reward" victory last season, Saito was pretty solid for the Red Sox in 2009. Maybe a little bit lucky, but a good bullpen arm nonetheless:

	W-L	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	BS	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	K	ERA	WHIP
2009 - Takashi Saito	3-3	56	0	0	0	2	2	55.2	50	16	15	6	25	52	2.43	1.35

As Red Sox fans, we've certainly seen worse out of old middle relievers. He wasn't the first arm Terry Francona would call out of the bullpen if things got sticky, but he was at least a reliable one. In my opinion, Francona did a fantastic job using Saito. He never overused him and he always pitched him in smart situations (unlike Ramon Ramirez, who seemed to be the redheaded stepchild of the bullpen).

But now he's the Braves' property. It looks like he'll be a setup man of sorts to, who else, but Billy Wagner. Saito will also see time as the team's closer, if need be. (Does it sound familiar at all? Hmm. Maybe. Should.) The folks at Talking Chop seem to like the deal, although the money may be a little pricey in their minds. According to Ken Rosenthal:

Saito terms: $3.2 million base plus $2.3 million incentives - all but $500,000 of those based on games finished - Wagner's department!

I don't think $3M is too bad of a deal considering he was set to make $6M if the Sox exercised his option. Not a bad deal for a reliever with a 2+ ERA pitching in the American League East.

A solid pickup for the Braves, but the question is how much longer can the 40-year-old Saito pitch? The age is the real question. Will he be able to rack up the hard outs?

For the Sox, it's just another puzzle piece to replace. I don't think Saito could have replicated his '09 performance. While it may have been close, Theo may not have wanted to give up $3M for it. The Sox will most certainly have to look for another bullpen arm or two to fill the vacancies of Wagner and Saito.

Your turn: did the Sox miss the boat by not re-signing Saito?

Scutaro Worked Out for Boston Scout

2009-12-03T23:41:57Z

Scutaro Worked Out for Boston Scout

It's looking more and more like this is going to happen, and if it does, it's going to be an overpay.

Seems like a big reason the Sox hadn't given him a big offer yet is because of the heel injury.

Boston Braves: Takashi Saito Signs with Atlanta

2009-12-03T20:46:40Z

More photos » by Chris O'Meara - AP

3 months ago: Boston Red Sox pitcher Takashi Saito, of Japan, delivers to the Tampa Bay Rays during the eighth inning of a baseball game Wednesday Sept. 2, 2009 in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

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Danny Knobler is reporting that Takashi Saito has signed with the Atlanta Braves.

It seems that the Braves liked the look of the Red Sox' late-season bullpen, signing first setup man Billy Wagner and now backup closer Takashi Saito.

The deal is reported to be worth $3 million, half of the cost of the option the Red Sox declined earlier in the offseason.

While Saito posted an impressive ERA of 2.43 with the Red Sox, more advanced stats suggest it was the product of good luck in a small sample size. While his strikeouts remained high--52 in 55.2 innings--he had a high FIP of 4.25 (the result of a higher walk and home run rate), and an even higher tRA of 4.40.

WEEI's Alex Speier Ranks Sox's Top Three Prospects

2009-12-03T17:28:46Z

WEEI's Alex Speier, who is hosting a chat with Rob Bradford on their website as I type this, ranked his top three Red Sox prospects (because I asked him too and he's just a darn nice guy) for everyone:

1) Kelly (as a pitcher - even though I'm not yet sold that he's a No. 1 or No. 2 until his velo picks up -- but he has that ceiling)
2) Westmoreland (limitless ceiling -- and all reports on his recovery from broken collarbone are positive)
3) Rizzo -- I give him a tiny advantage over Lars because of the defense, and I consider his ceiling higher than that of Kalish/Reddick

I said he had to say pitcher or shortstop for Kelly, because we all know he'd list him No. 1 anyway. Very interesting to see Anthony Rizzo go before Josh Reddick or Ryan Kalish. I personally voted for Josh Reddick in our top prospects poll because I like that he's MLB-ready and he has a lot of power potential. Rizzo, though, will be fantastic to watch.

marco to boston? RT @jorgearangure VZ journalist reports #redsox ask for Scutaro medicals Vía ...

2009-12-03T16:33:25Z

marco to boston? RT @jorgearangure VZ journalist reports #redsox ask for Scutaro medicals Vía @ACardenas13

Twitter / Jon Heyman: marco to boston? RT @jorge ...

Placido Polanco Seeing Interest From Red Sox

2009-12-03T01:01:53Z

More photos » by Duane Burleson - AP

Hmm. That's funny (I really want the guy on the left, not right).

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Add another name to the middle infield drama: the Red Sox have expressed interest in former Tigers second baseman Placido Polanco:

According to a Major League source, the Red Sox expressed interest in Polanco when the Tigers declined to offer him arbitration by Tuesday's midnight deadline.

In other words, if the Red Sox do decide to move Dustin Pedroia to shortstop, a move the player said he would welcome, they could sign Polanco to play second base and not have to give up any draft compensation.

Me and Polanco are homeboys (long story, don't ask), so I approve this move. OK, I really don't, but having my homeboy play second base isn't the worst thing in the world. While I am against moving Pedroia, if they had to move Pedroia, Polanco would be my No. 1 choice to play second base for the Sox.

Polanco is one of the best defensive second basemen in the league. According to the Bill James Handbook 2010, Polanco was the fourth-best run saver in the big leagues the last three years:

Second Basemen
3-Year Leaders

Chase Utley - 61
Mark Ellis - 41
Aaron Hill - 38
Placido Polanco - 29

Of course, there are more defensive statistics out there to prove Polanco is a very good second baseman, but here's just a sampling. He's also pretty good with the bat with a lifetime .303/.348/.414 line. Personally I'd like a second baseman with a better ability to get on base (Mark Bellhorn anyone?!), but I'll take it.

Take it if Adam Everett doesn't work out, of course.

Would Polanco make the Nation happy? Or is Brandon Phillips the better option, like this poll says?

Jed Hoyer Poaches Head of Scouting Jason McLeod

2009-12-03T00:43:37Z

More photos » by Lenny Ignelzi - AP

Jed Hoyer, deviously planning the destruction of the Red Sox' front office. (AP Photo/Lenny Ignelzi)

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According to a Peter Gammons tweet, the Red Sox head of scouting, Jason McLeod, is off to San Diego to join Jed Hoyer as his assistant GM.

While it's no surprise that Hoyer would take some front office talent with him when he left, the loss of McLeod is a significant one. McLeod was brought in by Theo Epstein in 2003 to help realize his $100 million player development machine. McLeod did just that, leading to some of the Sox farm system's most productive years.

Good luck in San Diego, Jason. You'll be sorely missed.

How low are the Red Sox willing to go in their search for a new shortstop? Well, according to...

2009-12-02T18:43:39Z

How low are the Red Sox willing to go in their search for a new shortstop? Well, according to Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald they've "expressed interest" in free agent Bobby Crosby.

Crosby is a recognizable name thanks to being a former first-round pick who was the AL Rookie of the Year in 2004, but in the five seasons since then he's hit just .239/.302/.366 in 2,020 plate appearances, including a measly .223/.295/.357 for the A's this year.

And unlike the similarly weak-hitting Adam Everett--who the Red Sox are also said to have contracted--Crosby is far from an elite defensive shortstop. If their interest in Crosby is for real the Red Sox have truly reached the bottom of the shortstop barrel. He hasn't been a starting-caliber player since 2005 and has barely been utility man-caliber during the past two seasons.

NBC Sports - Baseball - Circling the Bases

No, thanks. No, no, no thanks.

The Risk And Reward Behind The Braves Signing Billy Wagner

2009-12-02T18:05:23Z

More photos » by Chris O'Meara - AP

3 months ago: Boston Red Sox pitcher Billy Wagner delivers to Tampa Bay Rays' Carl Crawford during the seventh inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2009, in St. Petersburg, Fla. Wagner struck Crawford out. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

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It didn't take very long for the Atlanta Braves to find their man.

After being offered arbitration last night by the Red Sox, the Braves finalized an agreement to bring reliever Billy Wagner to their club this morning. The deal will reportedly net Wagner $7M in his one-year contract.

This is a great deal for the Braves. As we saw last season, Wagner still has one helluva an arm and I wouldn't put it past him to pitch even better in 2010. Wagner really is a freak of nature when it comes to pitching. I just wish we could have watched him for an entire season.

This, of course, means draft picks for the Red Sox:

The Sox make out here, barring a few unlikely contingencies. Upon finality of the contract, the Sox will receive the Braves’ first-round draft choice – the 20th pick in next year’s draft – and a pick in the supplemental round, which comes between the first and second rounds.

Solid. This signing alone, if you want to look at it this way, means the Sox can sign themselves a Type-A free agent and essentially even out. Matt Holliday? Marco Scutaro? Or, better yet, they re-sign Jason Bay and keep their extra draft picks instead of squandering them for a Type-A free agent.

The signing of Wagner, however, obviously brings some risk to the Atlanta team:

But there’s risk here, and this might have been as much an economic decision as a baseball one. The Braves have offered arbitration to both Rafael Soriano and Mike Gonzalez. But they have a thing about giving fat, multi-year contracts to relievers, and there’s a good chance both will get more money and more years elsewhere.

If the Braves lose both Soriano and Gonzalez, it means the 38-year-old Wagner is the man at the back of the bullpen. For Wren, this could wind up being a smart decision, both for the team and the payroll. It also could backfire. But maybe the Braves are due to have one of these risks work out.

The only risk is an injury risk, in my opinion. The guy can still chuck, so as long as he's healthy and can throw the ball, the Braves have themselves a great closer. Keep him fresh and use him sparingly -- that's what the Braves need to remember. No long save situations. Three outs and that's it. Let Wagner do what he's capable of, and you have an All-Star.

As OTM's sister site, Talking Chop, they seem to like the deal:

The $7 million salary for 2010 is essentially replacing Rafael Soriano's $7 million salary from last season. The Red Sox offered Wagner, a type-A free agent, arbitration, so the Braves stand to lose their first round pick. But by offering Soriano and Mike Gonzalez arbitration yesterday, the Braves should gain that pick back (plus some) if those two relievers, as expected, sign elsewhere.

[...]

This is a good signing by Frank Wren and company. Wagner proved he was plenty-healthy last year, and he is absolutely one of the best closers in the game. Well played, and a good upgrade (yes, upgrade) over Soriano or Gonzalez. Add to all this that Wagner hasn't made as low as $7 million since 2001, and we not only got a great closer we got him for a bargain -- pure Braves move.

Oh, and by the way, Billy Wagner's agent is named Bean Stringfellow... Bean Stringfellow.

Bean Stringfellow is a hilarious name.

Why moving Pedroia to shortstop just makes sense

2009-12-02T16:00:46Z

More photos » by Mark J. Terrill - AP

about 1 month ago: Los Angeles Angels' Howie Kendrick steals second as Boston Red Sox's second baseman Dustin Pedroia looks to the umpire in the seventh inning in Game 2 of the American League division baseball series Friday, Oct. 9, 2009 in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

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There has been an enormous amount of speculation surrounding the Red Sox's plans on how to best address the void at the shortstop position in recent days, a void that has been plaguing them since the dramatic downfall of the once iconic Red Sox, Nomar Garciaparra.

Early this off-season, much of the rumors pointed towards the seemingly inevitable signing of free agent shortstop Marco Scutaro to take over the middle infield duties alongside Dustin Pedroia. With such a shallow pool of available shortstops at the moment via free agency, Scutaro, who is coming off a career season with the Blue Jays (.282/.379/.409), has quickly become regarded as the most highly sought after player at his position this off-season. I, myself, am not buying into Scutaro being the answer that the Red Sox are searching for, and apparently I'm not alone in this thinking. Forget the fact that Scutaro, prior to 2009, was a career sub .260 hitter with a fielding percentage of .977 at the shortstop position. The fact of the matter is that the former Blue Jays shortstop, recently turning 34 years of age, had posted mediocre numbers in the seasons prior to last and appears to be yet another beneficiary of a career season entering free agency. Scutaro's 2009 numbers, in comparison to his career totals, look eerily similar to those of Julio Lugo circa 2006 in the same regard. A 2006 season that prompted the Red Sox to sign Lugo to a lucrative deal that benefited only Julio's bank statement.

Assuming that the thought of signing another Lugo-type shortstop caused Boston's front office to collectively shiver in disgust, Theo and Co. seem to be attempting to get creative in the way that they go about attacking this whole shortstop epidemic.

Enter Dustin Pedroia.

Recently, reports have surfaced suggesting that the Red Sox brass has approached the diminutive second baseman with the idea of moving him back to his collegiate position, that being shortstop. Casual baseball observers may not be familiar with the prowess displayed by Pedroia during his time manning shortstop for the Arizona State Sun Devils. After beating out Ian Kinsler for the starting spot at ASU, ultimately forcing the future Rangers' star to transfer to Missouri, Pedroia went on to accrue All-American honors at the position. After being drafted, Pedroia turned in 42 errorless games at shortstop in the minor leagues before being moved to second base to make room for Hanley Ramirez. The former rookie of the year even still takes ground balls at shortstop during the season. Pedroia himself is not only welcome to the position swap, he has actually done a bit of lobbying for the change through the media. Pedroia was quoted as telling ESPN's Peter Gammons:

"They've asked me if I think I could play shortstop, they've put it out there, and I've told them I'm all for it. I can do it. I can't wait for [Terry Francona] to call me and ask, 'Can you do it?' I can do it. I really want to do it."

Reading that particular quote is interesting to say the least. It seems as though Pedroia begins his verbal thought process restraining his eagerness to attempt the transition. However, by the end of it, Pedroia comes off sort of giddy, almost as though he wanted to end the interview on the spot and force Gammons to accompany him to the nearest baseball diamond for infield practice. The fact remains that Pedroia can accomplish such a transition, and as you just read, he'll be the first to inform you of that.

However, the benefits of a move such as this go beyond simply filling the hole at shortstop. By doing so internally with an already proven commodity (without having to reach into their pockets), this allows the Red Sox to then shift their focus on nabbing one of the available free agent second baseman, a market significantly deeper than that of the its shortstop counterpart. What this does is create more, potentially cheaper, options for the Red Sox.

Rather than being presented with a 34 year-old Marco Scutaro as the most attractive middle infield acquisition option, the Red Sox now have the choice between Orlando Hudson and Placido Polanco. Not to mention reports that the Marlins and Reds have made Dan Uggla and Brandon Phillips, respectively, available to potential suitors. For the sake of comparison, let's single out Brandon Phillips from that bunch (I choose him because to me, he is the most appealing option from the previously mentioned group of second baseman). As stated earlier, Scutaro, six years older than Phillips, experienced a career season in 2009. Phillips on the other hand, had by his standards, just a solid season a year ago. While most of Scutaro's numbers were career highs, Phillips had a season pretty consistent to that of his 2006, 2007, and 2008 campaigns. That being said, here are the statistics:

2009 Season                 BA    OBP    SLG     R        H     2B    3B    HR    RBI    SB    FPCT

Brandon Phillips         .276   .329    .447    78     161    30     5      20      98     25    .988

Marco Scutaro            .282   .379   . 409    100   162    35     1      12      60     14     .984

At first glance, you wouldn't be wrong in pointing out that these are relatively similar numbers. However, aside from having a slight edge in OBP and runs scored, Phillips is the smart play here. Not only has the younger Phillips shown more consistency the past four seasons and offers a significant advantage in the power game, he also represents a threat on the base paths, a characteristic that the Red Sox have come to hold in high regard in recent years.

The question then becomes whether the Red Sox would be better off signing Marco Scutaro or putting together a deal to acquire Brandon Phillips. Both come with their own aspects of negativity. In signing Scutaro, a Type-A free agent, the Red Sox would be forced to surrender compensatory draft selections to Toronto. While on the other hand, assuming that the Reds are shopping Phillips in an effort to cut down on salary commitments, the Red Sox will likely have to surrender a package of prospects to Cincinnatti in order to pry Phillips from the Reds.

In my opinion, the Red Sox's most intelligent move would be to, in fact, shift Pedroia to shortstop and make a move on Brandon Phillips. Phillips, assuming no restructuring would be done to his contract prior to arrival, would be under contract through 2011 commanding around $19 million during that span. If not Phillips, I'd say it's hard to argue against the general idea of at least moving Pedroia over to shortstop in an effort to expand Boston's free agent options, regardless of who they would eventually sign from that group.

If Pedroia is more than willing, and judging by his comments I think it's safe to say that he is, to make the move then I don't see any reason not to explore this option more in depth. Not only does it create more options for Boston via free agency, but it will also finally put a stop to the seemingly neverending search for a reliable and impactful starting shortstop from both an offensive and defensive standpoint. I think I speak for all Red Sox fans when I say that this would be a welcome change from what we've reluctantly grown accustomed to.

Poll

Of the players mentioned in this article, who do you want to see acquired by the Red Sox this off-season?

Who Needs Offense From A Shortstop? Not The Red Sox

2009-12-02T11:00:20Z

Ever since the demise of Nomar Garciaparra, the Boston Red Sox and us, the fans, have been wanting a shortstop that can hit the ball, field the ball and throw the ball. Is that too much to ask?

It has been hard, actually. The Sox have gone through a lot of shortstops since Nomar was traded in July of 2004 (17, actually). It's a revolving door that I know we're all sick of.

But in that shortstop, what do the Red Sox actually need?

The Red Sox have won two World Series championships since Nomar left. Those came in 2004 and 2007. Let's look at who manned the No. 6 position in those seasons:

2004    Pokey Reese - 96 games - .221/.271/.303
        Orlando Cabrera - 58 games - .294/.320/.465
2007    Julio Lugo - 147 games - .237/.294/.349

Two World Series titles, two seasons where the primary shortstop was horrible at the plate. Cabrera came in once Nomar was traded and hit well, but for the most part the shortstops have done nothing. Jack. But what they do have in common? It's not hard to see:

2004    Pokey Reese - 507.2 innings - 4.9 RF/9 - +20.2 UZR/150
    Orlando Cabrera - 491 innings - 4.1 RF/9 - +2.8 UZR/150

2007    Julio Lugo - 1,228.1 innings - 4.2 RF/9 - +4.3 UZR/150

Even Julio Lugo, as you can see, played solid defense at the shortstop position. Are we seeing a theme here?

There was nothing wrong with the Red Sox's offense in 2009. They finished third in the American League in runs (872), third in home runs (212) and second in OPS (.806). Forgetting about the Yankees and their stadium that knows no gravity, the Sox finished first and second in a few very important categories.

So do the Sox need to swing the bat better?

No. It's all about the defense, folks. The fielding of players like Jason Bay and Mike Lowell really weighed this team down. If the Sox want to improve this team, they need to look at the defense. Let's just start at the shortstop position.

I am on the Adam Everett boat. As bad of a hitter Everett is, he is one of the best defensive shortstops in baseball. That's pretty much the only reason he's staying afloat in the big leagues. But with an offense that is one of the best in baseball -- and should stay one of the best going into next year -- Everett will do what he's supposed to and field the ball well. That's all the Sox need out of their shortstop. History proves that.

Everett has a lifetime 18.3 UZR/150 at shortstop in over 6,500 innings. That's really good by all accounts. He will save runs as a shortstop while tucked away in the No. 9 spot. The Sox could afford to do this in '04 and '07, so why not now too?

As much as we want the Red Sox to outbash every single team out there, it's a tough thing to do. It's hard work to find a shortstop that can do everything. They're out there, but they're taken and locked up for a long time. For good reason, as you can see. So why not take a flier on Everett, someone we know what to expect from?

What's your take? Is Everett so bad offensively (lifetime .245/.297/.351 line) that the Sox should look elsewhere? Should offense really take priority with the uncertainty of left field or the production from Lowell at third?

Braves Sign Billy Wagner, Sox Nab 20th Pick

2009-12-02T09:08:50Z

More photos » by Chris O'Meara - AP

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Ken Rosenthal is reporting that Billy Wagner has reached a preliminary agreement to sign with the Braves.

For Sox fans, this is the end of a fairly lengthy drama involving Elias rankings, arbitration, and draft picks. At first it looked like the Sox would have to agree to forgo arbitration and give up the draft picks to finalize the Wagner trade. Then it looked like Wagner might accept arbitration if it was offered.

Things seem to have worked out well for Boston now, though, as Wagner's signing would secure the Sox the Braves' first round pick (number 20) and a supplementary pick between the first 2 rounds. The first rounder is not a sure thing, as the Sox would have to settle for a second rounder if the Braves signed a higher ranked free agent, but they have yet to be linked to any other, bigger names. Essentially, the Sox bought a few late-season innings of Wagner, and turned Chris Carter and Eddie Lora--two prospects entirely unlikely to contribute to the Sox--into first round picks. Not a bad deal.

The Red Sox have acquired quite a bit of talent thanks to compensatory picks over the last 5 years, including Jacoby Ellsbury, Clay Buchholz, Daniel Bard, Jed Lowrie, Michael Bowden, and Nick Hagadone.

Jason Bay, Billy Wagner Offered Arbitration By Red Sox

2009-12-02T00:11:10Z

More photos » by Mary Schwalm - AP

3 months ago: Newly-acquired Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Billy Wagner (13) adjusts his cap in the dugout prior to warming up for a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox at Fenway Park in Boston, Thursday, Aug. 27, 2009. (AP Photo/Mary Schwalm)

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The Red Sox will offer Jason Bay and Billy Wagner arbitration, meaning the Red Sox will receive draft picks if Bay and Wagner sign elsewhere:

Lucchino said that the actual offers may have gone out already, but regardless will be happening by the end of the night.

"I think it'll happen by the end of the day today," Lucchino said, noting that offering arbitration is consistent with the team's strategy of building through the draft.

"We love our draft picks," he said.

No surprises here. There's been talk that Wagner could accept arbitration and come back to the Red Sox, but I think the interest is too high on the reliever for him to accept it. He'll get a good deal somewhere else. Bay, on the other hand, will definitely not accept arbitration.

Dustin Pedroia May Play Shortstop In 2010

2009-12-01T16:53:32Z

More photos » by Chris Carlson - AP

about 1 month ago: Boston Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia fields a ball during practice in Anaheim, Calif., Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2009, in preparation for the team's upcoming American League division series baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

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With a thin market of available shortstops, it looks like the Red Sox may turn to their second baseman to play shortstop next year and, perhaps, into the future:

The team has asked second baseman Dustin Pedroia, who won the AL MVP Award in 2008, if he could play shortstop for the team if needed next season.

"They've asked me if I think I could play shortstop," Pedroia told ESPN's Peter Gammons. "They've put it out there and I've told them I'm all for it. I can do it. I can't wait for [Terry Francona] to call me and ask, 'can you do it?' I can do it. I really want to do it."

[...]

Francona played him some games at shortstop in spring training in 2006 and was unimpressed.
"I was 20 pounds heavier. I tried to get big and it was a disaster. I know it. It's all about quickness, agility and flexibility, and I know it," Pedroia said. "I've really worked hard on speed, agility and flexibility as well as all the strength, conditioning and endurance programs," Pedroia said. "It's really helping me. I have much more quickness and speed than I ever had. Maybe there is some question about my arm strength, but I'm working on that. I can do it. I hope it happens."

Pedroia is a great defensive second baseman and there is no doubt in my mind he'd play a great shortstop, but his numbers would most likely take a hit (UZR/150 would go down). I think this is a better option than signing Marco Scutaro, but I'd rather see the Sox sign Adam Everett to play shortstop (a great defensive shortstop, mind you) than move Pedroia. Keep Everett at short for a year or two just for his glove and then hopefully Jose Iglesias will be ready to man the position.

What say you? Would you approve a Pedroia-to-shortstop move? Do you think it's a smart idea from Theo & Crew, or just a lazy/cheap one? If this were to happen, who would play second base? I vote Mark Bellhorn (I'm kidding, of course ... or am I?).

(H/T to beantownbeamer for the FanPost)

A reminder to vote for the #3 prospect!

2009-12-01T06:12:07Z

A reminder to vote for the #3 prospect!

Things are actually close this time around between a number of different guys. Your vote could actually matter! Sorta!

A Very Brief Minor League Update -- 11/30/09

2009-12-01T06:09:45Z

Not much activity in the minors this week. BS.UF already covered Torey Lovullo's hiring to the PawSox, and I've had a busy day involving plain travel and the like, so yeah.

Columbian Winter League
Reynaldo Rodriguez: .270/.336/.396

Mexican Winter League
Robert Coello: 13 IP, 8 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 2 BB, 7 K -- 2.53 ERA, 37:18 K:BB, 1.19 WHIP
-Getting the K:BB numbers up.

Puerto Rican Winter League
Aaron Bates: 4-10, HR, 2 BB -- .278/.350/.444
Reymond Fuentes: 2-11, 2B, BB, 6 K -- .188/.278/.250
Kenneth Roque: 1-5, 3 K -- .273/.273/.273

Venezuelan Winter League
Juan Apodaca: 0-2, K -- .261/.308/.261
Yeiper Castillo: 3.2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 0 K -- 3.38 ER, 6:7 K:BB, 1.5 WHIP
Leandro Marin: .2 IP, 4 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 1 HR, 1 BB, 0 K -- 9.64 ERA, 4:2 K:BB, 2.14 WHIP

Signing Type-A's Matt Holliday And Marco Scutaro Actually Makes Sense

2009-11-30T19:20:52Z

More photos » by David Zalubowski - AP

2 months ago: St. Louis Cardinals' Matt Holliday grounds out against the Colorado Rockies in the first inning of a baseball game on Friday, Sept. 25, 2009, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Browse more photos »

Who knows how it really works, but if the Red Sox sign both Matt Holliday and Marco Scutaro, the Sox could actually end up with better draft picks in the end:

Under baseball's warped draft-pick compensation system, a high-revenue team that exchanges one Type A free agent for another actually nets an extra pick — a supplemental choice between the first and second rounds.

Oh, but this gets better.

If the Sox lose Bay and sign both Holliday and free-agent shortstop Marco Scutaro, they not only will receive the same number of selections, but also might end up in better draft positions.

Signing Holliday would cost the Sox their first-round pick. Signing Scutaro, a lower-ranking free agent, would cost them their second-round selection.

But, if the Sox lose Bay after offering him salary arbitration, they will gain two picks — a likely first-rounder and the sandwich pick.

I don't think Scutaro is much of a player, but if the Sox go this route and actually bring in better draft picks, that is pretty great. I'll stand by my original thoughts and say I want Jason Bay back in Boston, but this isn't a bad way to end up either. Personally, I'd take Bay and a shortstop like, say, Stephen Drew in a trade than signing Holliday and Scutaro. But that's just me. We'll see what Theo decides.

11/30 - Dumb Stuff

2009-11-30T10:00:17Z

Possibly the last Filter for a few days - FanPosts get lots of discussion if anyone wants to talk about a few links in the meantime (like who is offered arbitration before tomorrow's deadline). Anyways, let's hit the links!

Apparently, journalists like to make their own stories (SHOCKING).

@clarkspencer

There is no truth to the rumor that the #Marlins are in trade talks with the #Red Sox -- or anyone else -- for shortstop Hanley Ramirez.

Oh, and this should have been our number one hint as to why this was a non-story. But, since it came up...

Red Sox Reportedly Eyeing Hanley Ramirez - Bleacher Report

The package would have to be pretty overwhelming, and would presumably deplete their farm, but if they could somehow get the Marlins to take Kelly, Bowden, Westmoreland, and another prospect not named Reddick, Bard, or Buchholz, I would pull the trigger.

So, basically, this guy only like prospects that have reached the majors. I understand putting Bowden below Buch and Reddick, since he's been struggling of late, but below Bard? I think I'd put Kelly and Manifest Destiny above at least Bard, probably Reddick as well.

More Bleacher Report laughs later; first, some other stories.

Free Agents: Saito, Nishi, Kobayashi - NPB Tracker

Since I can't translate very well, I'll go with the English news; Saito could be lost as well, it appears. Thoughts?

Theo May Get Burned on Saito Too - Fenway West

Nevermind, first comment says it for me. Next topic.

Commissioner plans to step down after 2012 -- chicagotribune.com

GET OUTTA HERE, BUD. So... anyone want to revisit the Bush idea from last year? (Disclaimer: That FanPost probably makes me look really stupid. Enjoy it if you want to find it.)

History Unblurred: The 10 Best Starting Pitchers from the 2000s - Bleacher Report

Interesting methodology. Any issues with the rankings?

Elias Numbers For Type As - MLBTradeRumors.com

With an excellent explanation as well.

More links after the jump, including some projections, complaints, and an opportunity.

Early Offensive Projections for the Boston Red Sox - Sox Tea Party

If Hermida is the starting LF, we don't deserve to make the playoffs.

Division of commerce - BostonHerald.com

Interesting to see that the Sox don't agree with the Blue Jays about trading within the division being not such a bad thing. Although I doubt anyone is crazy about it.

Top baserunners of 2009 - THT

This is a look at baserunning runs, excluding stolen base attempts.

We really don't play small ball at all, do we?

All-Aughts Team of the Decade SP4: Jon Lester - Fire Brand of the American League

Adam Foster: Interview with Sox prospect Ryan Kalish - Fire Brand of the American League

Scutaro's top two: Sox and Dodgers - Extra Bases

Some Awards Don't Show Up In The Boxscore - A Red Sox Fan From Pinstripe Territory

MLBTR Seeks Comment Moderators - MLBTradeRumors.com

If anyone's interested - it'd be a good way to better the reputation of Sox fans.

Falling to the Bottom of the Filter

The Boston Red Sox Will Be Lucky To Get A .500 Record In 2010 - Bleacher Report

Please further note that all of this will come true and I will be laughing at the end of next year.

Can't... stop... laughing... Absolutely NO explanation of how he arrived at his numbers, just a declaration of their undeniable validity.

Doc Halladay Would Look Great in Fenway - Bleacher Report

And... cue the WINZ.

Links, comments, boredom rants, etc. We need something to discuss besides the usual stuff.