Tony Massarotti had a chat session this afternoon on the Boston Globe’s website. Here are some important notes from the hour-long discussion with the readers. I’ve added some personal comments as well.
- Mazz expects the Red Sox to try to unload Mike Lowell to Philadelphia or some other team needing a third baseman. Due to Lowell’s surgery, he can’t be moved until closer to spring training, which will hurt the team’s leverage. By that time, they might have signed Teixeria, meaning every team would know they have to trade Lowell. Just another reason I think committing $160-$200 million to him would be a huge mistake.
- The team is interested in bringing on John Smoltz for a one-year deal, but only as a starter. Mazz theorizes his role would be similiar to Curt Schilling’s 2007 role with the team
- Mazz, who has a Hall of Fame vote, thinks this is the year for Jim Rice. He mentions that he has voted for Rice every year he has been eligible. Also, when Roger Clemens becomes eligible, he will vote for him, too.
- Tony thinks Youkilis outperformed Tex in 2008, and if he has another good year in 2009, it will be tough for the Sox to keep him because he will be able to demand a ton of money. It makes more sense to sign Youk to a reasonable extension now to prevent that from happening.
You can read the entire transcript here.
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