Top Boston Red Sox Blog Posts of the Week – April 16, 2011
Reviewing the Books. MLB Trade Rumors captures the Red Sox long-term contract commitments through 2018 (last year of the Adrian Gonzalez deal). Boston frees up $40+ million after this season, with contracts from J.D. Drew, Mike Cameron, David Ortiz, Jonathan Papelbon, Tim Wakefield and Jason Varitek each expiring.
Gonzalez Numbers Add Up. Baseball Think Factory ran the numbers on the Gonzalez contract and his projections through 2018, and determined the deal is about right (a “mild overpay”). Dan Szymborski sees Gonzalez producing $124 – $136 million in value for a $154 million deal. (ESPN Insider subscription required) ESPN’s David Schoenfield also looks at the deal and pronounces it a win for the Red Sox – especially compared to the Phillies-Ryan Howard contract. While we are talking contacts, Fire Brand of the American League examines the question: Is Carl Crawford a $20 million a year player? Their verdict: Yes, Crawford is among the MLB’s elite players.
Sox Contract Philosophy. GM Theo Epstein says the Gonzalez contract does not represent a change in team philosophy. It is: “Find value, maintain discipline and build a diversified roster with young players and the right veterans.”
Down on the Farm. Sox Prospects looks at Alex Wilson, who is off to a good start in AA Portland. A starter in the minors (so far, 2-0, 2.45 ERA). I see him as a Red Sox reliever – in a Dan Wheeler/Bobby Jenks role, perhaps as soon as 2012.
What are your top Boston Red Sox blog posts picks for the week?
