Red Sox Worked Out Bobby Abreu In Venezuela

AP Photo

No, it's not April Fool's Day. It's New Year's Eve. Or, more accurately—America Falling Off The Fiscal Cliff Day. In any event, word comes today that the Red Sox—trolling the dregs of baseball—have worked out Bobby Abreu in Venezuela to potentially play first base. WEEI.com reports that sources in Venezuela broke the story about the Carmine Hose seriously considering the 38-year old former Yankee. Looks like the Red Sox are pretty desperate about the health issues associated with Mike "What Is Hip?" Napoli. Folks, we can't make this stuff up.

Are Sox Back In The Mix For Giancarlo Stanton?

Franchise Changer On The Move?

Back on November 26th, we reported that multiple sources were stating that the Red Sox were one of many teams talking to the Marlins about Giancarlo Stanton. As the holiday season rolled on, and as the Marlins denied any desire to shop Stanton, the rumors died down. Now, like a bad Brad Penny, they are back. Several reports are again suggesting that—despite the hollow denials from South Beach—the Fish are at least "listening" to offers for their disgruntled 23-year old star. If that truly is the case, then the Red Sox have to be in on those discussions—likely offering a choice of their top "Killer Bee" prospects (Bogaerts, Bradley, Barnes) and maybe even Jacoby Ellsbury. Who knows? Maybe BenCher will be tempted to climb down from Mount Discipline and make a franchise-changing deal for Stanton.

Farrell To Joel Hanrahan: 'Don't Walk This Way'

'Don't Walk This Way!'

One of the nagging doubts about new Red Sox closer Joel Hanrahan is the disturbing rise in his walk rate between 2011 and 2012—more than doubling from 6% to 14%. Hanrahan points to a brace he had to wear on an injured ankle as the reason for the jump in free passes, and insists it won't be a problem going forward. Even with the higher walk rate, he still collected 36 saves with a 2.72 ERA. Nevertheless, new Red Sox manager John Farrell and new pitching coach Juan Nieves have already spoken to Hanrahan about dealing with the issue. This was something the Red Sox were fully aware of going in, and they seem to be addressing it with the proper amount of concern—even at this early stage.

LaRoche Talking To Sox, Nats And Other Teams

Charlie Riedel / AP

According to multiple sources, free agent first-baseman Adam LaRoche is a pretty chatty guy—or at least his agents are. For the entire off-season he's been discussing a return to the Washington Nationals—but they have so far refused to offer him his desired 3-year contract term. The Red Sox have always showed interest, even before they signed Mike "What is Hip?" Napoli. The Red Sox then re-started their talks with LaRoche as soon as their Napoli concerns deepened. Now, it seems that even more teams are in the mix, although Boston still seems the most likely alternative team if the Nats don't cave on years. Of course, this could be a negotiating ploy on behalf of LaRoche's agents. The question remains, however, if the NOG is willing to dole out three-year contracts to the likes of Victorino and Napoli—why not also to the guy who—last year—smacked 33 HRs, 100 RBIs, and won the Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards for first base?

FN Contest Winner Is Sox Blogger From Ukraine

We talk all the time about how the Red Sox have a world-wide following. FenwayNation alone routinely attracts visitors from over 100 countries. Today's Trivia Contest is another reminder of how truly global our "Red Sox Thing" really is. The contest winner was Vitaly Vinar of Ukraine. I asked Vitaly if it was OK for us to share his story of how he became a Red Sox fan. He agreed. Here is his story:

"I was a common guy in Ukraine who didn't know anything about baseball, but baseball always fascinated me. I don't know why, but that's true. I loved to read Stephen King's books, and when I read "The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon", I bought video game "MVP Baseball 2005" and that's how I learned the simple rules of baseball. Of course, I was playing for the Red Sox, but I still didn't know much about baseball. Then, in 2007 I bought the book "Faithful" by King and O'Nan, and that's when I started to follow baseball. The Red Sox won their second World Series, I finally got speedy and cheap Internet in my home, and my love to baseball started. Later I found torrent trackers and was able to watch some baseball games. In 2010, I started my own Red Sox blog. In 2011, I subscribed to MLB.TV and from that time I watched most games live, even though most of them start at 2 AM here (7:10 PM ET = 2:10 AM our time). My blog is growing and now I post not only some game recaps, as early, I make analysis of every transaction and all important news. Sometimes I write historical articles and now I'm working on 2nd number of my Red Sox journal . To follow Red Sox that close, I read many Red Sox and MLB-related sites. As for my favourite players - I adore Pedro Martinez (his biography was my first article in my journal) and Nomar. Now, I like Pedey and Daniel Nava (for his unbelievable story), but my really favourite player is Pedro. I loved Ichiro, even if he didn't played for the Sox, and was very sad when he was traded to Yankees. Also I cried when Johnny Pesky passed - he was a great person, even if he was guilty in Enos Slaughter's deciding run in 1946 WS. My favourite moment? Of course, the Sox 2004 playoff run, I watch the highlights from it every time. I love to watch Pedro's gems - 1999 All-Star game, 17K game vs. Yankees and so on. And Nava's first pitch granny against Joe Blanton which I was able to see live, not in replays."

Amazing. This is why we love this team—all over the world.

FN Trivia: Win A 6-DVD Set Of Sox Games

WE HAVE A WINNER! THANKS FOR PLAYING!
CORRECT ANSWER: Yaz off Dick Tidrow in 1972

THE WINNER IS: VITALY VINAR OF UKRAINE

For a chance to win a 6-set DVD from A&E that features the 'Essential Games at Fenway Park', be the first to answer the following question correctly:

Q. Name the only Red Sox player ever to hit a home run off the "retired numbers" facade in right field.

Be the first (based on timestamp) to send your answer via email to: fenwaynation@comcast.net

Baseball America's Top 50 Twitter Accounts

Now that we've arrived at the official "Nothing Happening With The Red Sox Day 2012", we thought it might be useful to share some practical information about how best to keep track of all things baseball via Twitter. Baseball America has put together a helpful list of the Top 50 Baseball Twitter Accounts—and, alas, @FenwayNation is not one of them. Hey, Baseball America isn't perfect. Anyway, congratulations to Alex Speier of WEEI.com and the legendary Peter Gammons for making the prestigious list. We highly recommend following these elite 50 to keep abreast of the ever-changing world of baseball. You can access the list—in alphabetical order—HERE.

Pedroia: Jose Iglesias Upset With Drew Signing

Miffed At Drew Signing

In an interview on WEEI's Hot Stove show, Dustin Pedroia revealed that Jose Iglesias was upset at the news of the Red Sox signing Stephen Drew to a one-year deal. Pedroia tried to console the young shortstop by recounting his experiences in 2006—when he was sent back to AAA after the big club signed Mark Loretta to play second base. Pedroia also stated that he was looking forward to playing with Drew—who was a college contemporary of the Muddy Chicken. We think it's a good sign that Iglesias is miffed at the Drew signing—it could serve as extra motivation to figure out his offensive struggles and more quickly be of value to the Sox.

Carlton Fisk Pleads Guilty To Illinois DUI

Carlton Fisk, who turned 65 on Wednesday, plead guilty to a DUI charge in Illinois. Fisk fell asleep behind the wheel two months ago in his truck and was discovered by police with an open bottle of vodka. The Hall Of Famer was sentenced to one-year of court supervision and $1,250 in court costs.

REPORT: Other Teams Now In On Mike Napoli

Other Suitors?

According to a report by WEEI.com's Rob Bradford, at least one other team besides the Red Sox is now negotiating with free agent Mike Napoli. The December 3rd preliminary agreement between Boston and Napoli has been on hold due to a previously unknown hip issue. In the meantime, the Red Sox are pursuing other first base options—most notably Adam LaRoche.

REPORT: Red Sox Talking To Adam LaRoche

Back In A Boston Uniform?

According to a new report by Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, the Red Sox are now actively turning their attention to Adam LaRoche. As Mike Napoli's hip saga drags on, it's become increasingly clear that Boston needs a first base option they can count on. According to Rosenthal, the talks are involve both two- and three-year deals. This could be a negotiating ploy on the part of the NOG—forcing Napoli to accept reduced terms. Hopefully, it's a real pursuit and Boston simply walks away from what was always a flawed deal with Napoli. LaRoche would cost the Red Sox their second round draft pick (the first round pick is protected because they stunk so badly last year—finishing in the bottom ten in all of MLB). Original reporting by Jen Royle.

Still Nothing New On The Mike Napoli Front

Stop us if you've heard this before: Another day, another paucity of information on the Great Mike Napoli Hip Mystery. Today, assistant general manager Brian O'Halloran said the following: “I can’t comment on that specifically. Nothing new from what Ben said the last time".  Gee, no kidding? And Generalissmo Francisco Franco (see pic) is still dead. Don't bother staying tuned.

Red Sox Make Stephen Drew Signing Official

By Ben Margot, AP

Boxing Day is becoming a dig deal for the Red Sox. On the same day that they made the Joel Hanrahan deal official, they also announced that they have have signed Stephen Drew to a one-year, $9.5 million deal. Drew will likely be the Opening Day starter for Boston at shortstop, and will wear the same #7 uniform number as his older brother, J.D. Drew. The 29-year old Drew is a .265 lifetime hitter, with a .978 career fielding percentage at shortstop.

REPORT: Farrell Told Hanrahan That He'll Close

Our New Closer

According to multiple reports, Red Sox manager John Farrell has already told new acquisition Joel Hanrahan that he—and not former closer Andrew Bailey—will close for the team in 2013. This, of course, raises the question of what the Sox will do with Bailey—who was traded for Josh Reddick before the start of last season. It's unclear whether Bailey will be slotted in behind Hanrahan as an eight inning option—since a slew of alternatives already exist for that role (e.g., Koji Uehara, Daniel Bard, Alfredo Aceves, Franklin Morales). Stay tuned!

Hanrahan Deal Final; Brock Holt Also To Hub

Holt (L), Hanrahan (R)

The deal bringing Joel Hanrahan to the Red Sox is now complete. Boston is sending four expendable players to Pittsburgh—Mark Melancon, Jerry Sands, Stolmy Pimentel and Ivan DeJesus. In addition to Pittsburgh's two-time All-Star closer, the Red Sox also get infielder Brock Holt—a second baseman and shortstop who has consistently hit well in the minors. Holt has hit .317 in four minor league seasons in the Pirates system. His brief time in majors last September resulted in a .292 average. Hanrahan has collected 96 saves in parts of six seasons—36 last year for the Bucs.

POLL: Last Place Leads As Top Sox Story Of '12

Voting in our latest FenwayNation Poll shows that the team finishing in last place (32%) is viewed as the top Red Sox story of 2012. The Great Punto Trade (28%) places second, while the Kevin Youkilis Trade (13%) is ranked in third place. Bobby Valentine's firing (12%) is ranked next followed by the debut of Will Middlebrooks (5%) and the Valentine hiring (5%). The failure to convert Daniel Bard from a reliever to a starter is next (1%) along with Jacoby Ellsbury getting injured (1%) and Andrew Bailey getting injured (1%). You can still vote in the poll HERE.

FenwayNation POLL: Top Red Sox Story Of 2012

Top Red Sox Story Of 2012
Which ONE of the following was the top Sox story of 2012?	Sox finish last Valentine hired Valentine fired Punto trade Bard can't start Middlebrooks debut Youk traded Papi hurt Ellsbury hurt Bailey hurt
	Current Results

Carlton Fisk Becomes A Senior Citizen Today

The Moment

It's truly hard to believe, but Red Sox hero Carlton Fisk turns 65 years old today. For those of us who are of a certain "vintage", his Game 6 extra-inning home run in the 1975 World Series will always be our lasting Red Sox memory before the 2004 and 2007 championship wins. That iconic moment helped revitalize baseball in hearts of America, and it almost didn't matter that we ended up losing Game 7. As Fisk himself has said, "We won the Series, 3 games to 4." Fisk, of course, went on to play more seasons in the Windy City (13) than in Boston (11), but he never again returned to the World Series. He will always be frozen in time waving the ball fair for the Red Sox. Happy birthday, Pudge.

Scouts & Execs POLL: Sox To Finish Last Again

Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports conducted an informal poll of 20 baseball scouts and executives on the changing landscape of the American League East. None of the respondents were affiliated with any of the five AL East teams. The results were fascinating. The Red Sox were the only team to not receive a single first place vote—and they got six last place votes. The Jays—with their two blockbuster deals in tow—are the favorites to win the division. As Morosi himself points out: "...how many roster spots are the Red Sox clearly better than the Blue Jays? First base, with Mike Napoli (assuming his deal is completed). Second base, with Dustin Pedroia. Center field, with Jacoby Ellsbury. And that’s about it. The Blue Jays have the better rotation, not to mention a deeper bullpen." 'Nuff ced.

No Napoli Under The Red Sox Tree This Morning

Well, it's Christmas morning. And when little Benny Cherington runs down the stairs, heart a-flutter, to see what Santa has brought him, Mike Napoli will not be under his Yawkey Way Tree. Way back on December 10th—before the Mayan Apocalypse hit—Napoli was announced as our first baseman of the near future (3 years, $39 million). Then, that bothersome physical had to be administered. Given the history of the Red Sox Medical Team, you had to wonder how good that was going to go. Anyway, a heretofore unknown hip condition presented itself in the MRIs. Then, the Cone Of Silence descended on the front office at Fenway—not a substantive word has come from anyone since. Speculation, of course, is rampant—this is the Red Sox after all. But, as—one by one—first base alternatives have fallen by the wayside, a little panic seems to setting in. Adam LaRoche? Michael Morse? Mauro Gomez? Garrett Jones? LaRoche, Morse, Gomez, & Jones. Sounds like a crooked law firm. But, one of them is likely to be your 2013 Carmine Hose first-baseman. Not Mike Napoli.

Former Major Leaguer Ryan Freel Dead At 36

Doug Kapustin, Baltimore Sun

Ryan Freel, who spent most of his MLB career with the Cincinnati Reds, was found dead Saturday of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was just 36 years old. Freel had suffered multiple head injuries and concussions due—in part—to his daredevil style of play. In the 2009 Patriots Day game at Fenway Park, while playing for the Baltimore Orioles, he suffered a serious head injury in a pick-off play at second base. Freel's former Reds Teammate, and former Red Sox player, Sean Casey, tweeted the following: "RIP Ryan Freel!! Great teammate, great guy,n loved his family! Such a sad day today with his passing!Awful news!Prayers are with his family!"

Former Sox Closer Ugueth Urbina Out Of Prison

Ugi Behind Bars

For two years (2000-2001), Ugueth Urtain Urbina ("Triple U") was the closer of the Boston Red Sox. The fiery Venezuelan compiled 49 saves in 80 innings of work for the Carmine Hose—bringing a nasty fastball to the table. Unfortunately, he also brought a nasty machete to the table—and was convicted of attempted murder of some farm workers on his land down in Hugo Chavez's 'Workers Paradise'. After serving seven years of a fourteen-year sentence, Ugi is out of prison. Hey, he's only 39 and probably would come a lot cheaper than Joel Hanrahan. Just sayin'.

POLL: Plurality Want Adam LaRoche At 1B

Early voting in our latest FenwayNation Poll suggests that a plurality of readers (44%) would favor Adam LaRoche as the first baseman of the 2013 Carmine Hose, followed by Mike Napoli at 24%, 6% for Michael Morse and 5% for Mauro Gomez. Interestingly, 22% also choose "someone else", which could be a reflection of the rumors about Pittsburgh's Garrett Jones coming to Boston in the Joel Hanrahan trade. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

Garrett Jones To Hub In Joel Hanrahan Deal?

Lake Fong—Post-Gazette

Speculation is mounting that the additional player coming back to Boston in the Joel Hanrahan trade might be first baseman/outfielder Garret Jones (pic). While the overall deal has been put on the back-burner until after Christmas, the other pieces are pretty much in place. Boston will send Jerry Sands (who came in the Punto deal) and Stolmy Pimentel (who still has a huge upside) to the Bucs—and likely another player if Jones is included in the deal (Mark Melancon?). The inclusion of Jones would make a lot of sense for the Red Sox, since their first base situation has been thrown into a tizzy by the chance that Mike Napoli's bum hip might nix that deal. The 31-year old, left-hand hitting Jones has a career .259 average over parts of five seasons. He has shown interesting power numbers—cranking out 27 home runs just last year. He averages about 25 HRs per year—so, think Brian Daubach if you're looking for a comparative. Stay tuned!

FenwayNation POLL: Who's On First?

Who's On First?
Who's your choice to play 1B for the Red Sox in 2013?	Mike Napoli Adam LaRoche Michael Morse Mauro Gomez Someone Else
	Current Results

Swisher Inks With Tribe; LaRoche & Nats Close

Your New 1B Mauro Gomez?

If the Mike Napoli deal falls through, the Red Sox will have very few first base options. Nick Swisher (thankfully) signed today with the Cleveland Indians and reports suggest that Adam LaRoche and the Nationals are getting closer to a deal. So, about the only in-house alternative for Boston would be Mauro Gomez—while a LaRoche signing would free up Michael Morse for a trade with Washington. None of these are good alternatives in our view and leave Boston with a potential huge hole in the infield and lineup.

Sox 'Weren't Willing' To Meet Cody Ross' Terms

Will Be "Cheerful" In Phoenix

Apparently, the Red Sox were not willing to meet the contract demands of new Arizona Diamondback Cody Ross. The popular outfielder claims that he was not trying to "break the bank", but the Red Sox still refused to sign a player who was—arguably—the most consistent and productive of their lost 2012 season. Ross has since signed with the D'Backs on a relatively modest three-year, $26 million deal. Said Ross, “I don’t know what happened but we could never agree on terms. They thought I’d come back no matter what because they thought I loved playing there. And I did. Who wouldn’t love playing at Fenway Park? I just wanted a fair deal. I told them what I wanted. I wasn’t trying to break the bank. They weren’t willing to do it.” Reportedly, the Red Sox would not go beyond a two-year deal. So, the "cheerful" Cody Ross is long gone.

Napoli's Hip Could Squirrel Deal With Red Sox

Jim Rogash/Getty Images

The main reason the Red Sox and Mike Napoli have not finalized a deal is a question about the catcher/first baseman/DH's hip. On Monday, it will be three weeks since a reported deal had been struck. But, still no Napoli. Reports have centered on a previously unknown hip condition that could sink any deal. The Seattle Mariners have already backed off their pursuit of Napoli because of concerns over the hip. The Red Sox had been trying to insert protective language into the contract—similar to what they did for John Lackey and J.D. Drew—but the team may be backing off from even that level of protection. If the deal falls through, look for the Red Sox to go after still-unsigned Adam LaRoche or (heaven forbid) Nick Swisher.

Sox Get Joel Hanrahan For Sands & Pimentel

AP Photo

The Red Sox acquired Pirates closer Joel Hanrahan in a trade with Pittsburgh for two prospects—Jerry Sands and Stolmy Pimentel. While earlier speculation had Jose Iglesias in the package, he is still—apparently—a Red Sox. There may be more players going west. Stay tuned.

Cody Ross Will Now Be 'Cheerful' In Phoenix

Joy R. Absalon-US PRESSWIRE

Well, it was just a matter of time. Yet another player who had proven successful in Boston was, inexplicably, not to the liking of the NOG. So, Cody Ross is gone—signed by the Arizona Diamondbacks to a three-year deal worth $26 million. Ross, famously called "cheerful" in an email sent by Red Sox CEO Larry Lucchino, will now be laughing all the way to Chase (Bank) Field. Ross hit .267 in his one year with the Sox, clouting 22 home runs and 81 RBIs.

Pirates Targeting Jose Iglesias In Hanrahan Deal

Soon To Be A Buc?

A report by USA Today's John Perrotto indicates that the Pittsburgh Pirates are asking the Red Sox for defensive shortstop whiz Jose Iglesias in a deal for closer Joel Hanrahan. The Red Sox—who reportedly prize Xander Bogaerts over Igleisas—can afford to deal from strength from the shortstop position to get Hanrahan. Moreover, with the recent addition of Stephen Drew they have even more protection going into 2013. The Pirates actually have a record of prying away Red Sox middle infielders with good success. Three years after they got Freddy Sanchez from the Red Sox (for Brandon Lyon and Jeff Suppan), he won the National League batting title. This is a deal that should get done—a quality closer for a guy whose offense Boston has never felt confident about. You can vote on whether you support or oppose this deal HERE.

Bill James Sees 2013 Red Sox As Powerhouse

ESPNBoston.com graphic

Last time we checked, Bill James was still an employee of your Boston Red Sox. In fact, Larry Lucchino had pledged to give him more influence this year than in the recent past. So, what do you know, James' new 2013 Bill James Handbook portrays this year's Red Sox as virtual world beaters. First of all, get ready for a Fenway version of the Bash Brothers. Mike Napoli (assuming he actually joins the team) will clout 29 HRs, David Ortiz 32, and Will Middlebrooks 29. Even platooners Jonny Gomes and Ryan Kalish will get 16 and 10, respectively. And, in case you were impressed by last year's Detroit Tigers rotation, never fear! The members of the vaunted Red Sox rotation will all best Motown's 2012 staff ERA—even John Lackey will log a respectable 4.05 earned run average. Far be it from us to imply that there's a little logrolling going on here. But, please, to expect this cast of thirtysomething platooners to perform like this seems a little silly. Maybe we'll be proven wrong in October. If so, we will admit it and be the happiest members of The Nation.

DAY 18: Still No Mike Napoli In Sox Stocking

Christmas is almost here and one of the biggest, shiniest gifts under the Red Sox tree—Mike Napoli—remains unsigned. Now, as the impasse over Napoli's ailing hip approaches three weeks, it's seriously hampering the team's planning (just 45 days before the equipment truck leaves for Fort Myers). Reports persist that Napoli's hip issues caused both Texas and Seattle to pass on signing the catcher/first baseman/DH. The Red Sox‚ inexplicably, still feel the injury is not that severe and are just looking to reduce the terms of the proposed contract (initially agreed to at the Boston standard of 3 years and $39 million). Our view is the Red Sox should cut Napoli loose and sign Adam LaRoche—even if they have to lose their second-round pick.

POLL FINAL: Damon Hurts More Than The Babe

After a series of wild back-and-forth swings, the final results to our latest FenwayNation Poll show that Johnny Damon narrowly outpolled Babe Ruth as the most hurtful Red Sox defection to the Evil Empire. As the chart shows, Damon garnered 33.8% of the votes—barely edging out the Bambino with 33.1%. Kevin Youkilis rose in the final stages of polling, finishing third at 14.5%. Wade Boggs (9.7%) and Roger Clemens (9.0%) brought up the rear.

Andover's Hanigan Among MLB's Best Catchers

Andover's Ryan Hanigan

Cincinnati Reds catcher Ryan Hanigan graduated from Andover (MA) High School back in 1999. He was a three-year varsity starter at Andover and was an Eastern Massachusetts All-Star in his senior year. After college, he worked his way through the Reds minor league system, making his debut in The Show on September 9, 2007. He came up to the bigs for good in 2008—ironically after current Red Sox catcher David Ross was designated for assignment by the Reds. No less an authority than FanGraphs has said that Hanigan "might be the most underrated catcher in baseball". He has a career .275 batting average over six seasons and gets on base at a .370 clip. Defensively, he's thrown out an astounding 48% of runners. He's also one of the smartest catcher in the game, as evidenced by this wide-ranging interview on FanGraphs by Cambridge-based David Laurila. Enjoy.

Sox Battling Dodgers For Bucs Closer Hanrahan

Closer To A Closer?

Multiple reports suggest that—despite having a healthy Andrew Bailey this year—the Red Sox are going after a trade that would net them Pirates closer Joel Hanrahan. The Dodgers are also in on Hanrahan—and could likely offer better starting pitching options than Boston. However, the breadth of prospects the Sox could send to the Iron City (including starters) might be more appealing to the Bucs. Hanrahan is one of the best kept secrets in baseball, posting back-to-back 35+ save years in 2011 and 2012. He pitched 59 2/3 innings last year and gave up only 40 hits, while saving 36 games for a mediocre Pirate team. His walks went up dramatically between 2011 and 2012 (from 16 to 36), but his strikeout-to-walk ratio is still decent (1.86:1).

Red Sox Officially Introduce Ryan Dempster

The Red Sox officially introduced their newest starting pitcher at Fenway today, as Ryan Dempster donned the uniform number forty-six. Dempster was signed to a two-year, $26.5 million deal, and the Sox hope he will have a better American League experience in Boston than he did in Arlington, Texas. Said Dempster: "I'm well aware the AL East is a very tough division, but at the same time, every team in baseball is a tough team to pitch against. If you go out there and make your pitches and execute, it doesn't matter where you're pitching or who you're pitching against, you're going to have success." Dempster is definitely an "innings-eater", having logged at least 200 innings (with 30 or more starts) seven times in his career.

Texas Rangers Luring Cody Ross To Arlington

Mark L. Baer/US Presswire

Talk about your 'mystery teams'. Heretofore, the Texas Rangers were not seen as suitors of the departed (and cheerful) Cody Ross. However, multiple reports suggest that Ranger manager Ron Washington and GM John Daniels were wining and dining Ross yesterday. So, while the Red Sox continue to feign interest in Ross—ironically as Texas did with Josh Hamilton—the right-fielder is almost certainly outta town. I guess the 'Three-Year $13 Million Rule' doesn't apply to guys who've proven that they can perform in Boston.

Boston Not A Planned Stop On Swisher Tour '12

AP Photo/Bill Kostroun

Well, at least we've got some good news before Christmas. Multiple reports suggest that Fenway Park will not be a destination of the Great Nick Swisher Tour Of 2012. Yesterday, Tito and the Tribe laid out the red carpet on Lake Erie to lure the 'Bronx Buffoon' to the 'Mistake On The Lake'. If they don't succeed in that daunting task, it's rumored that the Dodgers are putting the 'For Sale' sign on Andre Ethier in order to free up right field for Swisher. Fine. There are also rumors that Swisher is the prime fallback (along with Adam LaRoche) should the Mike Napoli deal fall through. No matter what happens on all these other fronts, let's just hope Swisher steers clear of Yawkey Way.

Uehara Will Wear Number Nineteen For Red Sox

No Chicken For You!

New Boston relief pitcher Koji Uehara officially became a member of the Red Sox today. Arguably one of the two best signings of the off-season (Stephen Drew being the other), Uehara can bring some real punch to the end of the Red Sox 'pen. The 37-year old righty has a career ERA of 2.89 over four seasons—with more than 45 fewer hits than innings pitched. And, to add insult to fried chicken, Uehara will wear Josh Beckett's number 19. Love it.

Hot Stove Cool Music Charity Events On 1/11-12

Theo Epstein's Foundation To Be Named Later will again present two premier charity events in January. On the 11th, the 2013 Hot Stove Cool Music Baseball Roundtable will discuss "Changing The Clubhouse Culture". The panel includes Epstein, Peter Gammons, Red Sox manager John Farrell, Red Sox GM Ben Cherington, Orioles manager Buck Showalter, Red Sox Asst. GM Mike Hazen. Then, on the 12th, the Hot Stove Cool Music Concert, which is held on a biannual basis in the Summer and Winter. This version will feature Tanya Donelly, Parkington Sisters, Christian McNeill & Sea Monsters, The Chad Hollister Band, Bill Janovitz, Kay Hanley and Robin Lane. Mike O"Malley will emcee the event. You can get tickets to both events HERE.

Red Sox Fell Under Luxury Tax Threshold In '12

And you thought the 2012 season was a disaster. Silly you! It's time for a celebration! The Red Sox fell under the luxury tax threshold in 2012! Thank goodness the guys with the green eye-shades on Yawkey Way did their job—because the Sox were just $47,177 under the $178 million ceiling. Now that's counting paperclips. I feel so much better that the NOG met their fiduciary responsibilities so that they could save money. All the more resources to overpay thrirtysomething platoon players!

Ethier On Trading Block; Are Sox Interested?

Best Buds Re-United?

Those wacky LA Dodgers are at it again. After swearing that Andre Ethier was not available, word is that Magic Johnson & Co. are willing to unload the 31-year old outfielder and his mammoth contract. Ethier is signed through 2017 and is still owed $85 million. But, Dustin Pedroia is best buddies with Ethier from their Arizona State days, and the organization has always liked Ethier's play. Might they consider a swap if the Dodgers eat a big chunk of that $85 million? Ethier would make sense if Jacoby Ellsbury is moved this off-season. Shane Victorino could move to center and Ethier could play right. Or, if Jacoby stays put (at least through the trading deadline), Ethier would be a huge upgrade over a Jonny Gomes/Ryan Kalish platoon. Also, he's got local some connections, having played for the Keene (NH) Swamp Bats of the New England Collegiate Baseball League in 2001.

Haverhill's Carlos Pena Signs With AL's Astros

Exclusive FenwayNation Photo

Former Northeastern Husky and Red Sox first baseman Carlos Pena will stay in the American League in 2013. Pena signed a one-year, $2.9 million contract with the Houston Astros of the American League West. He can make an extra $1.4 million in incentives as well. Last year, on his second stint with the Rays, he only hit .197 with 19 home runs. Let's hope the Haverhill native does well this year—in all his non-Red Sox match-ups.

Damon Catches 'The Bambino' In Empire Poll

Well, we told you this poll was volatile! Johnny Damon has surged from far back to tie Babe Ruth as the Empire defection that hurts the most. As the chart shows, Damon now garners 32.7% of the vote, exactly matching the percentage of George Herman Ruth. Kevin Youkilis is still in third place pulling 15.0%, and Wade Boggs finishes fourth at 10.2%. Roger Clemens still pulls up as the caboose with 9.4%. You can still vote in the poll HERE.

Kendrys Morales Another Sox First Base Option

Danny Moloshok—AP

As the Mike Napoli deal gets closer and closer to total implosion, most pundits have been pointing to either Adam LaRoche or Nick Swisher as alternatives. But, another possibility could actually result in the Red Sox acquiring someone under 30. Think of it! Kendrys Morales is the 29-year old Angels first baseman who is highly expendable given the recent moves by the Halos. It's been reported that "several" other AL teams were already in on Morales—back when it appeared the Red Sox were set at first base with Napoli. If the Red Sox become another interested team, the Angles can look for even more value in return for Morales—who hit .273 with 22 HRs last year.

Red Sox Looking To Re-Negotiate Napoli Deal

Hitting A Snag?

According to multiple sources, the Red Sox are in the process of re-negotiating the deal they had reached with Mike Napoli—due to health concerns that cropped up during his physical. Reportedly, Boston is seeking to reduce the number of years, but maintain the average annual value of the contract. According to these sources, Napoli would be allowed to pull out of the deal rather than re-negotiate. In this eventuality, the Red Sox would likely pivot to the still-available Adam LaRoche as a first-base option—or, heaven forbid, Nick Swisher. Stay tuned!

Hallowed 'Truck Day' Is Just Seven Weeks Away

Just 49 Days Away

In just about seven weeks, that first true sign of Spring—Truck Day—arrives in Boston. Then begins the equipment truck's Magical Mystery Tour that will be the Red Sox 2013 campaign. So, with about 49 days left, do you feel comfortable with the roster as it stands now? Are you OK with a left-field platoon of Jonny (yes, that's how he spells it—get used to it) Gomes and Ryan Kalish? Are you down with Shane Victorino as your everyday right-fielder? Can you live with Mike Napoli picking low throws in the dirt at first base (assuming he passes his physical and can play more than his career-maximum 140 games)? So, tell us, when that big rig pulls out of the Yawkey Way snow banks and heads for the Mass Pike, what will your mood be?

R.A. Dickey To Blue Jays Deal Is Completed

Alex Trautwig—Getty Images

NL Cy Young winner R.A. Dickey is moving north of the border is an agreement with Toronto on a contract extension.  The deal is for two years and $25 million. The Blue Jays have now completed their transformation from perennial AL East doormats to likely division favorites. With a rotation of Josh Johnson, Mark Buehrle, R.A. Dickey, Rickey Romero and Brandon Morrow, they are as good as any in the division. With the additions of Jose Reyes, Emilio Bonifacio and John Buck, they can afford to offer top prospects like catcher Travis E. d'Arnaud. As we've stated before, the Jays are clearly going for it now, while the Red Sox seem content to gamble on thritysomething role players in 2013.

Sox Sign SS Stephen Drew To One-Year Deal

Tony Gutierrez—AP

You might say the Red Sox "drew" a line in the sand for shortstop prospect Jose Iglesias. As if to reinforce their earlier statements that Iglesias can only "compete" for the SS job, Boston signed free-agent Stephen Drew to a one-year, $9 million deal. Drew, the younger brother of former Boston right-fielder J.D. Drew, is coming off a mixed 2012 season which saw him hit just .223 between Arizona and Oakland after recovering from a 2011 broken ankle. He did hit .250 in 39 games for the A's, but hit only .211 in the ALDS against the Tigers. Drew has historically been a solid defensive player as well—possessing above-average range and a solid arm. This is a good insurance move by BenCher—he couldn't have gone into the season with too big a question mark at short. This move at least gives us some protection up the middle.