Beckett won’t restructure contract; okay with Santana signing

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The Boston Herald interviewed the Red Sox’s Josh Beckett yesterday and inquired about his feelings should the Red Sox acquire Johan Santana. Trading for Santana, of course, would require Boston to sign Santana to an extension; reportedly, Santana is looking for $20-$25 million a year.

Beckett, meanwhile, has three years left on his current contract worth $32 million, a bargain for a pitcher of his talent and post-season success. According the interview, Beckett said “it doesn’t matter” how much his teammates or other pitchers in the league are making. He stated he would not ask for his contract to be restructured or extended should Santana be brought on to the team.
It showed his humility and confidence at the same time when Beckett said “I make plenty of money. I’m still starting Opening Day, though.” That is what makes Josh Beckett a special pitcher; the money doesn’t matter, the moment does. Starting Opening Day for the Red Sox is a gesture that he is the best pitcher on the team, a far stronger gesture in Beckett’s eyes than the amount of zeros on a paycheck.
It is admirable to see that attitude in today’s sports world where respect is too often demanded by bigger contracts. Remember, too, when his current deal runs out he will be only 30 years old and with a couple more years like 2007, he will have teams falling over themselves to sign him to a deal that may dwarf the extension Santana receives, whoever signs him.
Rounding out the interview, Beckett noted he could never be a GM because he would make emotional decisions, and he would hate to lose Jon Lester in the deal for Santana. He said he is not for or against the trade, he trusts the front office of the organization will make whatever moves are necessary to help the team win.
This was a great interview; if you want to read more insight to the Red Sox players during this unpredictable offseason, The Transaction Guy posted a link to an interview of Jacoby Ellsbury by the Providence Journal.