Red Sox, Yankees Still the Talk of the Baseball World

by abournenesn

Dec 9, 2009

Red Sox, Yankees Still the Talk of the Baseball World The Yankees made a big splash at the winter meetings on Tuesday to prove again that the elite competition in the game still resides in the AL East.

The Red Sox have made their fair share of minor moves this offseason, but have yet to ink one of the best available names. That could all change soon.

Are you excited that Peter Gammons is joining the NESN team?
— John, Walpole, Mass.


Yes, I have always enjoyed Peter’s work and his warmth personally.

When I first started at NESN, I was known by very few, because I had spent 10 years announcing in the minors. Peter was one of the first to welcome me to the big leagues, and he explained that he had followed my path through the minors and heard my work in Pawtucket from his house in the Cape.

I have never seen someone work harder at his craft and have more connections in the game. You watch him from afar, and he is in the clubhouse, on the field, and constantly talking to players, coaches, and all involved in MLB. He has always been a great writer but became a very good television analyst in his time at ESPN.

We are very fortunate to have him aboard at NESN.


Why do you think there has been so little player movement/action at the winter meetings?
— Paul, Saugus, Mass.


It is reminiscent to last offseason and the state of our current economy. There will be some who will accuse the owners of collusion, but in reality, it is a patient methodical approach to not overspend.

Last offseason was like no other. The big fish went and middle guys waited forever. Ask Bobby Abreu. Then, the lower-tier guys scrambled and most ended up with one-year deals or a minor league invite. Ask Kevin Millar.

I think this year will be no different, and it’s an overall weaker free-agent class. Over time, the winter meetings have become more about laying the groundwork for deals than actually making a big signing.

A lot can happen between now and next October, but with the Red Sox’ current roster, would they make the playoffs in 2010?
— Chris, Burlington, Mass.


Yes, I believe they would. This team is deep, but needs to get deeper to truly go deep in the postseason. Obviously, this is not the finished product, and as for the reason I mentioned in my previous answer, it may be awhile before you see your actual roster in place.

The Yankees are still king at the moment. The signing of Curtis Granderson is huge and makes them better. He was always fun to watch at Comerica Park. I always felt like he was going to triple anytime he stepped to the plate. I think, even now, it is still all about the Red Sox and Yankees, and that is without some major pieces to be filled for the Red Sox.  


Where do you think Jason Bay will sign?
— Rachael, Falmouth, Mass.


During the season and for much of this offseason, I thought somewhere other than Boston. I am not thinking that anymore. When they could not get the deal done in spring, and then basically stopped negotiating around the All-Star break, it just seemed that Jason heading to true free agency was not a good thing for the Red Sox.

That said, I think they are closer now numbers-wise than in the past, and I think the Red Sox’ desire to bring him back is greater. He can play here on the stage of Boston under pressure. Anyone else is a guessing game and a risk. His demeanor and clubhouse respect go a long way, not to mention his consistent numbers. We know what are getting in Jason Bay. So long answer, but I think Boston.


What are your thoughts on the Red Sox signing Marco Scutaro?
— Frank, Newton, Mass.

First, let me say I have always made no secret about my allegiance to Alex Gonzalez. I was disappointed when he left after 2006, and I am disappointed again after 2009. However, I am a Marco Scutaro fan and have been since I first saw him as a member of the Buffalo Bisons on his way up.

From afar, it has always amazed me that wherever he ended up, he was pegged to be a utility player, but because of injuries, he always seemed to play every day and make the most of his abilities and opportunities. This was true in Oakland. And last year in Toronto, having the chance to play every day brought him to a new level and helped him get a new contract in Boston. I am looking forward to watching him, especially in the Red Sox lineup.

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