Atchison, Hill & Sweeney Non-Tendered By Sox

Scott Atchison, Ryan Sweeney and Rich Hill are all now free agents after the Red Sox did not tender them contracts today. Atchison's 1.58 ERA last year was one of the highlights of the bullpen, while Sweeney played in only 63 games due to injury. Hill, a native of Massachusetts, returned from Tommy John surgery and was also brilliant out of the 'pen.

David Carpenter, We Hardly Knew 'Ye

Getty Images

Oh, the humanity! 'The Throw-In Guy We Got In The John Farrell Trade' (as he will forever be known), David Carpenter, was scooped up by the Atlanta Braves off waivers today. Darn! Before we even had a chance to experience his 8.07 ERA! No fair! Carpenter was designated for assignment ten days ago by the Carmine Hose, and, sadly, won't be jogging out of the home bullpen at Fenway in 2013.

Roger Clemens Is 10 To 1 To Make Hall Of Fame

Roger's Finest Hour

In this continuing bad economy, there's now a chance to make some dough: bet on old friend Roger Clemens! According to the betting site Bovada, the following proposition is going off today at 10:1—Will either Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens or Sammy Sosa be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame as a first time candidate? So, finally, after enduring the Texas Turncoat's indiscretions (not the least of which was playing for the Evil Ones), you can at least make back a buck or two off him. Of course, all of us at FenwayNation discourage betting on baseball-related stuff—unless you happen to be in Vegas.

MLB Likely To Enhance Drug-Testing In 2013

When the head of the players' union comes out in favor of expanded drug testing in major league baseball, you can bet something will actually happen. Union chief Michael Weiner announced that we should expect announcements on the new drug testing guidelines soon. Rumors have swirled around in-season testing for HGH (better known as APJ or AndyPettitteJuice). In addition, there is talk of more sophisticated tests for all PEDs. Both of these proposed new regimes are long overdue.

Big Papi: Red Sox Need To Add Some 'Thunder'

Papi's Got A Brand New Nag

David Ortiz, appearing on WEEI's Hot Stove Show last night, stated that the Red Sox lineup needs some additional "thunder". Sad Big Papi:

“It’s not a surprise for anyone that follows the Red Sox that we need some thunder in that lineup. The problem is that there isn’t too many out there. That’s one thing. I’m pretty sure everybody needs to be a little patient. We have the winter meetings right now coming up and a lot of decisions get made right after the winter meetings, so hopefully they come out with some decisions."

Indeed, let's hope so. Ortiz also strongly argued for the re-signing of outfielder Cody Ross, who clouted 22 HRs for the Carmine Hose in 2012.

An Appeal To Help FN's Co-Founder Ric Glaub

Ric Glaub

Ric Glaub, the co-founder of FenwayNation, has suffered a massive stroke. Ric has lived in Tashkent, Uzbekistan for the past several years, but has always maintained his love of the Red Sox from that distant land. You may recall Ric's numerous articles over the years, and his on-going role as International Editor of the site. Ric was recently transferred out of intensive care in a Tashkent hospital, but the stroke has paralyzed the right side of his body and he is unable to communicate—although he is conscious. His daughter has started an Internet site to collect funds to help with Ric's medical expenses—which are daunting. Ric's critical treatment is costing more than $100 a day—which is seriously depleting his personal finances. Any small donation you can make to help defray these costs would be greatly appreciated. You can make secure contributions (with funds going directly to Ric and his wife), by clicking HERE. Please do all you can. Thank you.

Ernie Paicopolos
Editor-In-Chief

Sox Shifting Focus From Napoli To LaRoche

J. Newton—Washington Post

According to a report by CBSSports' Jon Heyman, the Red Sox have moved on from Mike Napoli and his demand for a four-year contract and have pivoted to free agent Adam LaRoche—who is believed to be seeking only a three-year deal. In our view, LaRoche is a better option irrespective of the contract length issues. Last year, LaRoche hit .271, with 33 HRs and 100 RBIs at age 32.

Red Sox Have RP Mike Adams On Their Radar

AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez

According to a report by ESPN's Jim Bowden, the Red Sox are among a few teams interested in the services of free-agent relief pitcher Mike Adams. His current Rangers team, the White Sox and the Angels are the other teams involved. The 34-year old Adams was 5-3 with a 3.27 ERA in 2012 for the Rangers. He owns a career ERA of 2.28 and has given up 86 fewer hits than innings pitched in eight big league seasons. Interestingly, the bullpen is one of the few areas where the Red Sox are fairly strong, yet they are showing interest in multiple relievers this off-season.

Red Sox Among Three Teams In On Dempster

Rick Yeatts, Getty Images

According to a report by Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, the Red Sox are among three teams expressing interest in free-agent right-handed starter Ryan Dempster. The other two suitors are the Brewers and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Orange County California United States Of America Planet Earth Milky Way Galaxy. Reportedly, the 35-year old Dempster is seeking a three-year deal. Dempster is a dead-even .500 pitcher over 15 seasons (124-124) with a career ERA of 4.33.

Red Sox May Have Interest In SF's Brian Wilson

 'Londonderry Loon' To Fenway?

According to a report by Scott Lauber of the Boston Herald, sources are claiming that the Red Sox may have interest in eccentric closer Brian Wilson. Alternatively known as "The Beard", "The Londonderry Loon" (he grew up in NH), or the "Winchester Wacko" (he was born in that Mass. town), the arbitration-eligible Wilson could be available on Sunday if the Giants don't tender him a contract. Wilson missed all but two games of the 2012 World Championship season for the Giants (Tommy John surgery), but was a revelation in their 2010 run to the top. In 2011, the 30-year old had 36 saves (down from his league-leading 48 in 2010), with a 3.11 ERA. His addition would certainly hearken back to the "idiot" culture of 2004.

Lucchino: Concerned Over Years, Not Dollars

AP Photo

Red Sox President and CEO Larry Lucchino appeared on WEEI's Dennis and Callahan Morning Show this morning and hinted that the team is more concerned with the length of potential free agent contracts than dollar amounts. This would play into the the popular notion that the team might overwhelm a player like—say—Josh Hamilton with a one- or two-year deal for—say—$30 million a year. When directly confronted with that generic scenario (no specific player or dollar amount), Lucchino said the following: "In certain situations it may be a way to attract someone." Hmm.

The Importance Of This Year's HOF Balloting

by Mark Lawrence, Down Under Editor

Sydney, Australia. There is bound to be a significant degree of spirited debate going on in regard to this year's Hall of Fame voting, and pretty sure much of it will revolve around three of the most controversial figures of the Game's modern era: Bonds, Sosa and Clemens.

The voting members of the Baseball Writers' Association of America have some difficult decisions before them this year. And, your humble correspondent will also have some tough choices, as well—as a member of the Internet Baseball Writers' Association of America (IBWAA), I will also be asked to cast my vote and it's a responsibility neither association takes lightly. After all, this is the National Baseball Hall of Fame we're talking about—not Irving's Wax Museum and Souvenir Stand. And, while I'm just a simple country sportswriter (well, Australia is a simple country), I take this responsibility just as seriously as those guys who get paid to write.

Red Sox Send Danny Valencia To O's For Money

Man, once BenCher starts making big trades, he can't stop! After dealing away Zach Stewart earlier today, the Red Sox GM sent 3B Danny Valencia to the Orioles for cash (unfortunately, not Norm or Kevin). Valencia was acquired from the Twins last August for the immortal Jeremias Pineda. Who knows what other blockbusters will come down the pike later today? Stay tuned.

Red Sox Name Greg Colbrunn As Hitting Coach

New Sox Hitting Coach

The Red Sox finalized their coaching staff today by naming Greg Colbrunn as their major league hitting coach. Hopefully, the Red Sox will resist the trendy "assistant hitting coach" canard (as has been rumored) and just rely on the well-qualified Colbrunn. The 43-year old Colbrunn was a hitting coach in the Yankees organization and played 13 seasons in the bigs—compiling a .289 career average.

Schilling, Clemens, Wells HOF Ballot 1st-Timers

A total of eight players with Red Sox connections will appear on the 2013 Hall Of Fame ballot—six for the first time. Leading the pack of first-timers are: World Series hero Curt Schilling, alleged PED-tainted Roger Clemens, and free-spirit David Wells. Other Boston-affiliated players include former Red Sox prospect Jeff Bagwell (who garnered 56% support last year), and former Sox closer Lee Smith (who picked up 50.6% support in 2012). Also appearing on the ballot (released today by the Baseball Writers' Association of America) were: former Sox second-baseman Todd Walker, former reliever Mike Stanton, and former starter Aaron Sele.

Red Sox Trade Zach Stewart To Bucs For PTBNL

AP Photo/Patrick Semansky

Another piece of the Kevin Youkilis trade has been sent out of town. Zach Stewart, the ever-so-promising right-handed pitcher, was shipped to Pittsburgh for the immortal "Player To Be Named Later". Stewart never came close to hitting his potential with Toronto, the White Sox or Boston. His career ERA stands at 6.82 through 103 innings. For the Red Sox in 2012, he was a memorable 0-2 with a 22.24 ERA. So, essentially, with the earlier departure of Brent Lillibridge, the Red Sox are left with nothing for dumping Youk.

POLL: Six In Ten Favor 'Triumvirate' Signings

Early results to our latest FenwayNation Poll indicate that more than six in ten readers favor the idea of signing all three of the following free agents: Nick Swisher, Mike Napoli and Cody Ross. As the chart shows, 60.4% favor the idea, while 39.6% oppose it. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

Sox Grand Plan: Sign Every Thirty-Something

According to a report by CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman, the "Grand Master Discipline Plan" being cooked up by Ben Cherington is to sign Mike Napoli, Nick Swisher and Cody Ross.  Supposedly, Swisher and Napoli would share first base duties—with Napoli catching as well. Ross would go back to right field. Apparently, a Gomes/Swisher/Kalish platoon would come into play in left field. How Boston accommodates the other three catchers on the roster (Salty, Lavarnway and Ross) without a trade of one or more of them is a mystery. By the way, the average Opening Day 2013 age of the Napoli/Swisher/Ross triumvirate is 31.66 years. Is this any way to build a ball club that can contend now and in the future?

Red Sox Repeatedly Told Mauer Is Not Available

Pioneer Press: Richard Marshall

According to Hall of Fame writer Peter Gammons, the Red Sox were told multiple times over the last few months that Joe Mauer would not be available in a trade. Speculation has swirled around the possibility of the Twins trading their All-Star catcher, but, at least according to Gammons, the door was definitively slammed in Boston's face. The Red Sox already have three catchers on their roster—and that's before a rumored acquisition of C/DH/1B Mike Napoli. If there is some sort of Master Discipline Plan somewhere in the bowels of Yawkey Way, we sure would like to see it!

Red Sox May Have Best Shot At Cody Ross

Photo by Jared Wickerham

According to a report by ESPN's Buster Olney, friends of the player say that Boston may have the edge in negotiations with Cody Ross. Reportedly, Ross is seeking a three-year deal, and tells people he enjoyed his one-year stint in the Hub. Ross clearly showed he can thrive in the sometimes mercurial Boston market—particularly in a year that was otherwise a disaster. These same friends, however, caution that no new talks have occurred in "the last few days".

MLPA Founder Marvin Miller Dies At Age 95

Marvin Miller (1917-2012)

Love him or hate him, you have to acknowledge that baseball players union founder Marvin Miller was a transcendent figure in modern sports. Miller died today in New York at the age of 95 after a battle with liver cancer. Every ballplayer that has enjoyed multi-millionaire status owes his good fortune to Miller. Although he precipitated strikes that besmirched the sport in the short term, his pioneering of free agency helped solidify baseball as an on-going major economic force. For good or ill, due to Miller's efforts, real control of major league baseball now resides with the players. But don't pine for the owners, the sport's valuation went from $50 million in 1967 to $7.5 billion today. Truth be told, both labor and management are in Miller's debt. The final honor that should be bestowed on him is enshrinement in the Hall Of Fame.

MLB Is Looking For A Few Good Red Sox Fans

Major League Baseball is starting its recruitment phase for next year's highly popular MLB Fan Cave—and they want some Red Sox fans to apply. In the first two Fan Cave seasons, no Red Sox fans have been part of the marathon event in which participants watch every single MLB game during the season from the comfort of the MLB Cave in New York City. In addition to the non-stop game viewing, you also get to meet players (both Papi and Salty have visited in past), celebrities and musicians. On top of it all, you become nationally famous! MLB is now looking for Sox fan applicants to be "Cave Dwellers" in 2013. If you feel you're enough of a baseball fanatic to endure 24-7 baseball for six months, by all means apply! You can start the process HERE.

Gomes Behind A's Playoff Share To Charity

Gomes After Winning AL West

According the Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle, new Red Sox outfielder Jonny Gomes was the inspiration for the A's donating a full playoff share to a Bay Area charity. Gomes—recently awarded the "Good Guy" award by the San Francisco chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America—is known for his good works off the field wherever he has played. It's always a good thing to bring players to town that exhibit this type of dedication to the community. Good going, Jonny!

Could Jon Lester Be Dealt For Youthful Power?

Hosmer With Sox Fan

UPDATE: Sox Shoot Down Lester Rumors
There are strong suggestions that the Kansas City Royals want to deal some of their young talent for another top-of-rotation starter (after already getting Ervin Santana). They are said to be interested in either Jon Lester of the Red Sox or James Shields of the Rays. The Royals have patiently been building a youthful powerhouse of talent and may have to give up some of it to get what they need on the mound. A Lester deal could bring back first baseman Eric Hosmer—filling a gaping hole on the Carmine Hose. Hosmer is just 23 years old and has hit 19 and 14 home runs in his first two years. Last year, however, his average dipped all the way down to .232. He did finish third in Rookie of the Year voting in 2011. If the Royals don't want to deal their MLB-proven players, they may offer consensus "best guy in the minors" Wil Myers. The 21-year old Myers hit .304 at AAA Omaha last year and clouted 34 home runs. In any event, don't be shocked by a move as surprising as this by BenCher and the Red Sox at the Winter Meetings next week.

Brentz Is On AZ Fall League Top Prospect Team

The only Red Sox prospect to make the 22-man Arizona Fall League's Top Prospects Team is OF/DH Bryce Brentz. In 17 games with the Surprise Saguaros, Brentz hit .297 with a .366 OBP. He hit 2 HRs and had 11 RBIs with 2 SB. Brentz is one of the prized "Killer Bs" in the Red Sox system and is destined to roam the outfield in the not too distant future at Fenway. Unless, of course, he is dealt over the Winter. Or at the All-Star break. Or next Winter.

Ft. Myers Mayor: We Should've Let Sox Move On

Apparently, all that 'lovey-dovey' stuff between the Red Sox and Lee County may have been a little premature. The Mayor of Fort Myers, Randy Henderson, recently stated the following:

“It would have been smarter to let the Red Sox move on. I would debate that we wouldn’t be any worse off, in fact, I think we would be better off.”

Wow. Apparently the decision to build the sleek new JetBlue Park for the Red Sox put a little bigger dent in the public treasury than expected. That critical decision set in motion a chain reaction that will cost the county an estimated $436 million over the next 32 years. Apparently, the combination of JetBlue costs, the costs for the still vacant (yet perfectly serviceable) City of Palms Park and the added commitments to the Twins stadium is really socking it to Lee County taxpayers. Maybe the Red Sox should have waited until the City Of Palms Park Centennial before building a whole new ballpark. Hmm.

Giancarlo Stanton On Radar Of Multiple Teams

Thomas Campbell/US Presswire

Multiple sources (first documented by Nick Cafardo of the Globe) are now reporting that several teams are asking the Miami Marlins about young superstar Giancarlo Stanton. And, the Red Sox are one of teams in the mix. Stanton—who just turned 23 this month—has compiled back-to-back 30+ HR years. This, despite—due to injury—never playing more than 150 games in any one of his three big league years. The Marlins would require a major prospect haul to move Stanton—who is one of the true difference makers in baseball. Dropping Stanton in the middle of the Red Sox lineup—along with David Ortiz and Will Middlebrooks—would instantly transform them into a fearsome offensive force. But, would Middlebrooks be part of the price to get Giancarlo? If not, would a partial swarm of the the Killer Bs  (Xander Bogaerts; Jackie Bradley, Jr.; Bryce Brentz; Matt Barnes) suffice? It's all speculation at this point—with the Phillies, Evil Ones, Orioles and Cubbies also in pursuit. Stay tuned!

Counsell Pulls Out Of Hitting Coach Sweeps

'Counsell'-ed To Pull Out?

According to multiple reports, Craig Counsell has pulled out of the running for Red Sox Hitting Coach. Counsell interviewed with the team last Monday, but has withdrawn his candidacy for unknown reasons. One reason might be—and this is pure speculation—the rumored desire of the Red Sox to have co-hitting coaches. This trendy new approach is frowned upon by many traditionalists in the game. The other reason might be the perception that the team is headed for Bridge Year Four—shying away from moves that could propel them back into contention. Rumors persist that—despite his friendship with David Oritz—that is the reason Torii Hunter chose Destriot over Boston. Another day, and more "Indecisive Discipline".

Remembering José Tartabull's Amazing '67 Play

Jose Tartabull

On Tuesday of this week, José Tartabull will celebrate his 74th birthday. Those of us old enough to recall the true start of Red Sox Nation back in 1967 will always crack a wry smile whenever we hear his name. Why? Because Tartabull made what could be—arguably—the biggest play that season to cement the pennant for Boston. On August 27, 1967 at old Comiskey Park in Chicago, Tartabull (playing right field) nailed Ken Berry at home plate in the 9th inning to secure a 4-3 Boston win. The would-be sacrifice fly off the bat of Duane Josephson could have tied the game. Elston Howard—who had formerly worn the dreaded pinstripes—made the decisive tag with a textbook block of home. It wasn't the greatest throw in the world, but it did the trick and helped propel the Carmine Hose to their first pennant in 21 years. The pennant-winning margin? One solitary game. José played just three seasons with the Red Sox, hitting just .255 with no home runs. And in the subsequent World Series against the Cardinals, he batted just .154 in 13 at-bats. But he will forever be remembered for that amazing play in the first game of a twin-bill in Chicago. Thanks, José. And Happy Birthday.

POLL FINAL: Solid Majority Want Josh Hamilton

We left our latest FenwayNation Poll up through the holiday weekend, and pretty much got the same result as our initial indications: Red Sox fans want Josh Hamilton. As the chart shows, 62.4% want the team to sign Hamilton—as the biggest impact bat on the free agent market. On the flip side, 37.6% say we shouldn't go there—since his temperament is not suited to the rough and tumble of Beantown. As we continue to observe the absurdist play, "Waiting For Ben's Dough", the people are speaking. Loudly.

John Henry Meets With Napoli Over Weekend

The 'Iroquois/Albatross' At Sail

Now that Liverpool is safely planted in 11th place in the English Premier League (having won 3 whole games out of 13), John Henry apparently needs a new binky. As the Globe's Nick Cafardo reports, the former Forbes List Billionaire has been fixated on obtaining Mike Napoli since last September. To confirm this obsession, Henry (along with BenCher and John Farrell) met with the free agent 1B/DH/C over the long holiday weekend in Boston. We can't confirm it, but can't you just imagine the Red Sox principal owner wooing Napoli on his yacht "The Iroquois"—rumored to be re-named "The Commodities Trading Albatross"? A lovely sight!

Globe's Cafardo To Sox: Get Hamilton Or Mauer!

Big Ticket Options For Sox

In a refreshing departure from the normally conservative orientation of Boston's mainstream sports media, the Globe's Nick Cafardo is urging the Red Sox to make a "big splash" by getting either Josh Hamilton (via free agency) or Joe Mauer (via trade). In his signature Sunday baseball column, Cafardo acknowledges that 'The Nation' is—at best—tepid on the moves made so far by BenCher. He is right. Whether it's Hamilton, Mauer or another blockbuster deal that turns this team back into a contender, something big needs to get done. But, given the state of the roster on November 26, 2012—we need a lot more than just a big bat. For example: an impact starter to insert in the middle of the rotation (e.g., Anibal Sanchez), a credible solution at first base (not  Napoli/Swisher/Loney/Pena), a solid, younger outfield option (e.g., Justin Upton not Swisher/Gomes) and some kind of solution to the shortstop conundrum. As Cafardo points out, since Nomar departed in mid-2004, the following players have manned the position: Cabrera, Renteria, Gonzalez, Lowrie, Lugo, Green, Scutaro, Iglesias and Aviles. If BenCher has no confidence in Iglesias' ability to hit, then move on until Xander Bogaerts is ready. But, make the decision! Prudence and discipline should not result in gridlock and indecision.

Red Sox Wining And Dining Napoli On Weekend

Enjoying The Swan Boats?

Despite the fact that they don't want to sign him to a four-year deal, the Red Sox are wooing free-agent Mike Napoli this weekend by showing him the sights around Boston. It's still a little puzzling that BenCher is so obsessed with Napoli, whose numbers in 2012 were a sharp drop-off from his career year of 2011. Sure, he has a Fenway swing, and has always done well at America's Most Cramped Ballpark. But is Mike Napoli really someone we want to watch wind down his talent on a four-year deal? This is prudence? This is discipline? Not from where we sit. Let hope he flies out of Logan on Monday a disgruntled free agent.

Free Agents Front-Loading To Avoid 2013 Taxes

You think politics and sports don't intersect? Wrong, Form 1040 breath! Players and agents are demanding front-loaded contracts to avoid what will inevitably be higher taxes in 2013. On Jan. 1, the Medicare tax goes up to 2.35% under the Affordable Care Act. Moreover, given the election results, the Bush tax cuts are likely to expire on December 31st. This would move the highest tax rates to near 40%. Scott Boras has estimated that a $10 million player in Florida would see his annual tax liability shoot up from $3.45 to $4.09 million. Wonder where Taxachusetts falls on a potential free agent's wish list?

Red Sox Refusing To Give Napoli Fourth Year

Another Over-30 To Boston?

A report by ESPN's Jim Bowden claims that free agent 1B/DH/C Mike Napoli is holding out for a four-year deal in his negotiations with the Red Sox. In our view, this is a "disciplined" position by BenCher and the Sox—Napoli does not deserve a four-year term with his age and history. The 31-year old played in only 108 games last year—and has never played in more than 140 over his seven-year career. And, his career .259/.356/.507/.863 splits are not exactly awe-inspiring. Napoli is negotiating off of one decent year (2011), when he hit over .300 and produced at a high level (Geek translation: 5.6 WAR). But even then, he only played in 113 games with 369 at-bats. The Red Sox should hold off on giving this guy anything more than three years.

REPORT: Nick Swisher Being Eyed By Red Sox

US Presswire

One of the most unlikable of all the Pinstriped Posers—Nick Swisher—is being targeted by the Red Sox. The outfielder, who turns 32 on Sunday, brings with him a career .256 batting average over nine seasons. His career OBP is .361. He has spent the last four years with the Evil Ones. What is really troubling is Swisher's post-season record—not that we're getting close to the playoffs with the team we've assembled so far this off-season. Anyway, the SwishMeister posts a pathetic .169 batting average in what Bill Parcells would call "tournament" games, with an anemic .283 OBP. Suffice it to say he's more like Missed October than Mr. October. How about his temperament—is it suited to Boston? Listen to his whining after he heard some grief from the faithful at The Concrete Bunker On 161st Street and you decide:

“Sometimes I’m a sensitive guy. Some of the things people say, they get under your skin a little bit. I’m one of those guys that you give me a hug and I’ll run through a brick wall for you."

Oh, great. I don't know about you, but I never liked the guy.

REPORT: Sox Close To Deal With Jonny Gomes

Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images

UPDATE: Gomes Gets 2YRs, $10M

According to a report by the Herald's Scott Lauber, the Red Sox are close to signing outfielder Jonny Gomes to a two-year deal. This may be a back-up plan to re-signing Cody Ross. If so, it is a woeful substitute. Gomes, who turns 32 tomorrow, is a career .244 hitter over 10 seasons in the bigs. His career .334 OBP is underwhelming as well—although last year he posted an on-base percentage of .377 (in 99 games for the AL West Champion Oakland A's). This just doesn't seem like the quality, "disciplined" signing we need to get competitive in the AL East.

Six In Ten Want Sox To Go After Josh Hamilton

Early voting in our latest FenwayNation Poll shows that about six in ten readers (61.9%) want the Red Sox to pursue free-agent Josh Hamilton, while just under four in ten (38.1%) take the opposing view. The reasons we attached to the positions cited—on the positive side—that he's "the biggest impact player" available; and—on the negative side—that Hamilton's temperament is "not suited to Boston". You can still vote in the poll HERE.

POLL: Should The Sox Pursue Josh Hamilton?

If POLL Not Visible, Click HERE

Kuroda Re-Signs With Evil Ones For $15M

Kuroda (MLB.com Photo)

Hiroki Kuroda—the best starter for the Pinstriped Posers in 2012—has re-signed with the Empire for one year and $15 million. There had been speculation that Kuroda might return to his native Japan, but apparently the lure of spending lovely summer nights in the Bronx was just too much to pass up. Meantime, the existential drama, "Waiting For Ben's Dough" continues to play to sellout crowds on Yawkey Way.

Red Sox Finalize 40-Man Roster For 2013 Season

A Roster-Farian's Delight—The Top 40

On the last day they could do so, the Red Sox finalized their 40-man roster by adding six players. The additions were Allen Webster, Alex Wilson, Steven Wright, Dan Butler, Christian Vazquez, and Alex Hassan. Five players were dropped and designated for assignment. They were: Ivan De Jesus, Danny Valencia, David Carpenter, Sandy Rosario and Zach Stewart. These released players (and others who have been left unprotected) are now eligible for the notorious Rule 5 Draft, which happens on December 6th this year.

What's The Fascination With Stephen Drew?

Ed Szczepanski-US PRESSWIRE

On the 37th birthday of his big brother J.D., we find out that the Red Sox have interest in free agent shortstop Stephen Drew. Multiple reports suggest that the younger Drew—who hit a robust .223 last year in Arizona and Oakland—is also being pursued by the AL Champion Tigers and the Pinstriped Posers. Three other clubs may also have interest. It looks like the Red Sox are not yet fully convinced that defensive whiz Jose Iglesias is up to the task of assuming the full-time shortstop role.

BenCher: Red Sox Still Talking To Cody Ross

The 'Cheerful' Ross (FN Photo)

In an interview with the Globe's Peter Abraham, Red Sox GM Ben Cherington stated that the team is still talking to free agent outfielder Cody Ross. BenCher's exact words were:

“We continue to talk. There’s really no other update then to say the door is open. We’re also talking to other guys and I presume he is talking to other teams. Those things have a way of starting to move once one of the dominos [SIC] falls."

The problem is if Ross is one of the falling dominoes (we presume BenCher wasn't talking about pizza franchise units), then Boston is left holding the proverbial bag—filled with lesser outfield options.

Sox Talking To Lance Berkman For 1B/OF Roles

J. Meric/Getty Images

Here's a rumor that you can pretty much take to the bank—since the player told the media the Red Sox are talking to him. Lance Berkman told the Houston Chronicle that Boston, Philadelphia, Tampa and Houston were all seeking his services for 2013. The 36-year old Berkman can play first base and the corner outfield positions, but he has been riddled with injuries over the last four years. His high career OBP is attractive to the Geek Squad on Yawkey Way, but it's hard to see how this is anything but a stop-gap solution—and a pretty bad one at that.

Shocker: Sox Play Twins Lots In Spring Training

It Can't Come Soon Enough!

The Red Sox released their 2013 Spring Training schedule today and, of their 35 games against MLB clubs, eight of them are against the Minnesota Twins (22.8%). So, if you show up for a game next year, the chances are almost one in four that you'll be watching the Sox play the pride of the AA New Britain Rock Cats. Boston will open with their obligatory games against NU and BC, then follow-up with contests against the usual suspects. One change is a World Baseball Classic exhibition on March 5th against Team Puerto Rico at jetBlue Park. Come on down!

Red Sox Deliver Thanksgiving Cheer This Week

The "NOG"

If you follow FenwayNation at all, you know that we are not exactly shy about criticizing the NOG (New Ownership Group) on a whole range of issues. But, when the owners do something positive, we try to highlight that as well. Just such a case is the team's initiative to distribute 1,200 Thanksgiving turkeys this week to twelve food banks in the area. The effort falls under the team's “100 Acts of Kindness” program to celebrate the centennial year of Fenway Park. Kudos to the NOG!

Counsell & Colbrunn New Hitting Coach Options

Counsell's Unique Stance

According to a report by WEEI.com's Alex Speier, the Red Sox will be interviewing two additional candidates this week for their vacant hitting coach position. Craig Counsell and Greg Colbrunn will interview during Turkey Week—with the club still not decided on whether they want a dual-hitting coach model or the normal single coach approach. Is this rocket science? Does BenCher have some sort of fear of commitment issue? Let's get the ball rolling on this—and maybe also some actual players to coach.

Sox Targeting Tribe's Asdrubal Cabrera At SS

Chuck Crow/The Plain Dealer

Multiple reports suggest that the Red Sox and Indians are talking about a deal that would send Cleveland shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera to Boston. However, Arizona is also looking at Cabrera and have more players that interest the Indians (starter, first baseman, outfielder). In fact, those areas are precisely the areas the Red Sox have to fill, not give up. Cabrera is an interesting player, having hit .270 with 16 HRs and 68 RBIs last year. He's a mixed bag on defense, flashy at times, but not all that consistent. He has, however, made the All-Star team the last three years.

New Rumors That John Henry Is In Selling Mood

Boston Herald Photo by Matt Stone

Despite repeated denials by Red Sox principal owner John Henry, rumors continue to persist that he is about to sell all or part of his financial interest in the Boston Red Sox. The latest round of rumblings suggest that new events have added to the likelihood of Henry pulling out. Specifically, the closing down of Henry's investment firm and the alleged huge financial claims by twenty plaintiffs against a former Red Sox clubhouse chief. While Henry and his ownership group were not around when the alleged sexual abuses took place (1960s-1991), they might be potentially on the hook for around $100 million in claims. So, the argument goes, Henry's investment losses, huge commitments to Boston and Liverpool sports franchises, and the looming legal issues, will force him to divest of at least some of his equity position in the Red Sox. Again, Henry and the Red Sox have denied all of this repeatedly.

Red Sox Suffer First Ever Shutout In MVP Voting

Waiting For Ben's Dough

As pointed out by the Globe's Peter Abraham, for the first time ever, no Red Sox player received a single vote in the AL MVP balloting. That's a history that stretches back to 1911—when the award was initiated. There are a lot of hideous moments during the Lost Year between September 2011 and September 2012, but this could be the most telling. But, yet, all of us in the Nation are still waiting for a significant off-season move in the on-going saga, "Waiting For Ben's Dough".

Toronto 'Blue Pays' Shell Out For Melky Cabrera

All The "Rage" (Getty Images)

Man, once those Canadians get up a head of steam, it's hard to stop them. Toronto continued their Hunt For Blue October by laying out even more Queen Elizabeths on a two-year deal for Melky Cabrera. Reportedly, the deal gives Cabrera $16 million to play left field for the Jays and add to their formidable lineup. We're glad that BenCher did not get tempted by the JuiceMan—whose inflated 2011-2012 numbers are clearly due to his performance enhancement activity. Nevertheless, further strengthening of an AL East team places more pressure on the Sox GM to get something done here in Beantown.