I really don't think its a motivation issue for AV. He might look like he doesn't care, but I think that is just him. He has to know that if he doesn't pick it up, he's a non tender candidate and looking at a cheap 1 year deal, or maybe even milb if he really keeps sucking. I am sure its eating him up inside.
I really think a month or so in Charlotte makes a ton of sense for AV. From a roster construction standpoint, Pham can replace AV. Sheets plays 1B. AV can play 1B daily in AAA - its currently being played by a catcher. It also will give the Sox another year of control of AV, which gives them more flexibility with him moving forward. But being arb eligible already, he's making $3.25M this year - so he's going to have to show some life for that extra year to even matter.